Costa Rica Weather & Seasons: Complete 2026 Guide

Written by VIVO Expeditions Editorial Team

The Two Seasons: Dry vs. Green (Rainy)

Costa Rica has two seasons rather than four: • Dry season (Verano): mid-December to late April. Sunny days, low humidity in the Pacific, peak tourist season, higher prices. • Green / rainy season (Invierno): May to mid-November. Mornings usually clear, afternoon thunderstorms, lush landscapes, fewer tourists, better wildlife sightings, and 20–40% lower hotel rates. September and October are the wettest months on the Pacific side but, paradoxically, the driest and sunniest on the Caribbean coast — a key planning insight most guides miss.

Average Temperatures by Elevation

Temperature in Costa Rica is dictated by elevation, not by season: • Coastal lowlands (0–500 m): 26–32 °C day, 22–25 °C night • Central Valley (San José, Alajuela, 1,000–1,500 m): 22–26 °C day, 14–18 °C night • Arenal & San Carlos foothills (500–700 m): 24–28 °C day, 18–21 °C night • Cloud forests (Monteverde, 1,500–1,800 m): 16–22 °C day, 10–14 °C night • High mountains (Cerro de la Muerte, Chirripó, 2,500–3,800 m): 5–18 °C day, can reach 0 °C at night UV index is extreme year-round — SPF 50+ sunscreen is non-negotiable, even on cloudy days.

Best Time to Visit by Region

• Guanacaste & Nicoya Peninsula: December–April (dry, sunny beaches) • Arenal & La Fortuna: February–April for clearest volcano views; May–November for green landscapes and waterfalls • Monteverde Cloud Forest: January–April (less mist, easier hiking) • Caribbean (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero): February–April and September–October • Osa Peninsula & South Pacific: December–April; May–July for whale watching • Manuel Antonio (Quepos): December–April for beach weather; year-round for wildlife

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What to Pack for Costa Rica (Universal List)

Regardless of region, every Costa Rica suitcase needs: • Quick-dry shirts and trekking pants (cotton stays wet) • Lightweight rain jacket (even in dry season at higher elevations) • Closed hiking shoes + sandals/water shoes • Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses • Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ and DEET-free repellent • Refillable water bottle (tap water is safe almost everywhere) • Headlamp for night walks • Small daypack with rain cover • Binoculars (8x42 ideal) for wildlife • Universal power adapter (Costa Rica uses Type A/B, 120 V)

Health & Safety Climate Notes

The tropical climate brings a few practical considerations: • Mosquitoes: worst at dawn/dusk near water. Use repellent with picaridin or DEET. • Sun exposure: the equatorial sun burns in 15–20 minutes — reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. • Rip currents: Pacific beaches (Jacó, Tamarindo, Dominical) have strong currents. Swim only at lifeguarded sections. • Hydration: humid heat dehydrates fast. Drink 3–4 L of water per day on tour days. • Altitude: Cerro de la Muerte and Chirripó can cause altitude headaches — ascend slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between dry season and green season in Costa Rica?

Dry season (mid-December to April) brings sunny days and higher prices, while green season (May-November) offers lush landscapes, more wildlife activity, and lower rates.

Do I need to worry about rain if I visit in green season?

Mornings are usually clear with afternoon showers, so most outdoor activities still work well if scheduled early in the day.

Which region has the best weather if it's raining elsewhere?

The Caribbean coast often stays dry in September-October when the Pacific side is at its wettest — a useful backup plan.

How do I plan a multi-region Costa Rica itinerary around the weather?

Our local team builds custom itineraries that match the weather to your travel dates — message us with your dates and regions of interest.