What Is The Weather Like In Costa Rica?
Costa Rica's varies from place to place, from micro-climates to macro-climates, and from the rainy season to the dry season. Essentially, weather in Costa Rica is dependent on where you are and what time of the year it is.
Even so, Costa Rican weather can offer unexpected surprises. The temperature in Costa Rica is closely related to the elevation. The low lying Pacific Coast is generally very hot and dry; however, during the rainy season, it is common to have rain in the afternoon, and occasionally a cloudy, humid day.
Video: Weather in Costa Rica
In contrast, the Caribbean climate zone, which includes Tortuguero, Arenal, Puerto Viejo and Sarapiqui, is warm and humid nearly year-round and has less rigid rainy and dry seasons.
The Central Highlands, which border Costa Rica's Central Valley, is characterized by cooler temperatures and a variety of elevations (from about 3,000-5,000 ft above sea level). For more information about regional weather in Costa Rica, check out our page on weather.
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Costa Rica Weather
Costa Rica is a tropical country with two distinct seasons—dry and wet. However, within these seasons and in different parts of the country there is lots of variation. The Guanacaste region is the driest, while the highlands are generally colder and misty. The Caribbean coast has unpredictable (and usually wetter) weather, and the Pacific coast can be hot year-round.
Caribbean Coast
Costa Rica's Caribbean province of Limon runs 125 miles (200 km), from the northern Nicaraguan border to the southern border with Panama. Exotic nature reserves, such as the famous Tortuguero National Park, beckon adventurous travelers, while alluring southern beaches allow visitors to relax in an easy Caribbean vibe. With a mesh of Tico and Afro-Caribbean culture, Limon Province displays a unique side of Costa Rica.
Central Highlands
As one winds up the coffee-shrouded slopes of Costa Rica's Central Highlands, the dramatic climb gives way to spectacular views. If the mountainous peaks are not shrouded in enchanting cloud, it is even possible to simultaneously view the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Amid its mountainous terrain, the region contains a number of fascinating destinations. In the northwestern area, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve stands as pillar of conservation biology and nature travel.
Central Pacific
The Central Pacific Region of Costa Rica is a narrow strip of coastal land that stretches from north of Jaco to south of Manuel Antonio. Sandy beaches and protected wildlife are two primary draws to this area. The magnificent beaches, flanked by spectacular cliffs, create an awe-inspiring landscape; and with its combination of ocean panorama and lush tropical vegetation, Costa Rica?s Central Pacific has scenery unlike any other.
Central Valley
Smack-dab in the middle of the nation, the Central Valley contains the heart and soul of Costa Rica. About 70 percent of the country's population inhabits this region, which includes the bustling metropolis of San Jose, incorporated suburbs, and prominent surrounding towns such as Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago. The San Juantamaria Airport (SJO) in Alajuela is the country's largest international airport, and the region's central location serves as an ideal take-off point for destinations throughout the country.
Horquetas de Sarapiqui
Horquetas de Sarapiquí is in the northern lowlands of Cantón de Sarapiquí, which is one of the largest territories in Costa Rica. There is a lot of agriculture in this area, and you’ll pass by fields of maize, cacao, and citrus fruit.
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
The charming and welcoming town of La Fortuna is a perfect getaway for families, couples, and friends. The only requisite is that you love outdoor adventure! So if you can’t wait to spend your vacation in the fresh air, biking, kayaking, hiking, and more, then discover why the Arenal region is just what you need. Best of all, you can enjoy luxe accommodations that boast volcanic views, and pamper yourself with a luxurious soak in a hot spring. Nature is waiting for you, and she’s easy to find when you book your Arenal adventure with Anywhere.
Puerto Viejo
Known for its laidback attitude and famous for it's surfing, Puerto Viejo beckons visitors to come experience Costa Rica’s eccentric side. The village’s cultural influences are interesting to be sure: a mix of Afro-Caribbean, Bribri Indian, tico and hippyesque counterculture, this small port town is an anthropological study in itself. A mere 11 miles (18 km) from Cahuita, Puerto Viejo is accessible via Highway 36 or by simply walking south, along the beach.
Tortuguero
The Caribbean Coast is home to the beautiful town of Tortuguero and it's National Park. This sun drenched zone with its sparsely spaced coastal villages offers a completely laid back and relaxed atmosphere. The culture is vastly different on this coast compared to the rest of the country with its prominent Afro-Caribbean influence notable as well in the delicious cuisine found here.
