You may think we’re biased, but it’s always a good time to visit Costa Rica! Our tropical climate is here to welcome you year-round and our stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for all your adventures.
But if you’re searching for an answer to the question, “When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?”, we understand that you may want something a little more detailed! In this blog, we provide exactly that.
As leaders in canyoning and waterfall experiences from Jaco and a wider range of exciting Jaco adventure activities, the weather plays an important role in our daily lives. As such, we’re perfectly placed to provide this guide to the conditions you can expect in Costa Rica throughout the year.
Let’s get started then! And if you have questions for the Costa Rica Waterfall Tours team at any point, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
January to April in Costa Rica: Dry Season Delight
Welcome to the radiant heart of the dry season! From January to April, Costa Rica bathes in sunlight, creating the perfect canvas for tropical adventures. With clear skies and minimal rainfall, this period is ideal for exploring the lush rainforests, basking on pristine beaches, and discovering the hidden treasures of Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems.
While the weather is at its most stable in this period, tropical showers still fall from time to time. But these tend to be short and sharp, and it’s never cold rain. In fact, it’s usually refreshing.
Unsurprisingly, this is the peak season as people flock from all over the world to enjoy the near-perfect conditions and all the best things to do in Costa Rica for outdoor lovers!
Average Temperatures
- January — 80.6°F (27°C)
- February — 81.5°F (27.5°C)
- March — 83.3°F (28.5°C)
- April — 84.2°F (29°C)
May to June in Costa Rica: The Transition Season
As May approaches, the transition between the dry and rainy seasons begins. This is the official start of the ‘green season’. But while the amount of rainfall does increase, there is still plenty of warm sunshine to enjoy, especially in the Northern Pacific, Caribbean Coast, and Central Valley areas.
The weather may be more unpredictable, but this period has the welcome charm of fewer crowds and vibrant green landscapes. May to June is an excellent time to witness the changing hues of the flora, creating a picturesque backdrop for your Costa Rican adventures.
And best of all, the more frequent precipitation increases the flows in waterfalls and rivers, which is excellent news for our canyoning and waterfall experiences from Jaco! If you plan to surf in Costa Rica, increasing swells make the best surfing beaches a must-visit!
Average Temperatures
- May — 83.3°F (28.5°C)
- June — 81.5°F (27.5°C)
July to August in Costa Rica: The Green Splendor of the Rainy Season
By July, we’re into the thick of the rainy season in Costa Rica, although the peak rainfall doesn’t come until October. But all that water just means beautiful, lush greenery. The rainforest comes to life, teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. July to August is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking the authentic beauty of Costa Rica.
This time of year coincides with schools’ summer vacations, so there’s an uptick in families visiting. And, of course, there are still countless experiences to enjoy. If you’re planning a family vacation and want to learn more about culinary options here, read our Guide to Typical Costa Rican Food when you have finished here.
At Costa Rica Waterfall Tours, we embrace the rainy season with open arms as it offers thrilling rainforest adventures. Trails are adorned with tropical blooms and the waterfalls cascade in their full glory, fueled by the abundant rain. Our expert guides ensure a safe and exhilarating experience, showcasing the untamed spirit of the rainforest.
Average Temperatures
- July — 82.5°F (28°C)
- August — 82.5°F (28°C)
September to October in Costa Rica: The Rainy Season’s Final Flourish
As we mentioned above, October sees Costa Rica’s peak annual rainfall. The average for the month is around 125mm, and September sees around 85mm. It’s no surprise that this is the low season here in Costa Rica, but not everyone is deterred. The rain and warm temperatures create unique conditions in which to explore — it just pays to be prepared!
You may have already noticed a pattern — the more it rains, the stronger the flow of the waterfalls! As the rainy season reaches its final flourish, the waterfalls around Jaco and beyond are at their powerful, beautiful best.
For a truly unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping experience, consider our Explorer Tour from Jaco and Canyoning Tour from Jaco!
Average Temperatures
- September — 81.5°F (27.5°C)
- October — 79.7°F (26.5°C)
November to December in Costa Rica: The Tranquil Closing Act
As the year draws to a close, November to December marks the tail end of the rainy season. The weather stabilizes, creating a serene atmosphere that beckons travelers seeking a more peaceful experience. However, in November the rain is still difficult to predict, so expect some downpours until the end of the month.
As you can see from the average temperatures below, November is the “coldest” month of the year, but it’s still warm, comfortable, and ideal for adventures.
This is the shoulder season between the low visitor numbers of September and October and the start of the peak season in January, so you have plenty of scope for quiet exploration. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our picks for the best hikes in Costa Rica.
Average Temperatures
- November — 79.7°F (26.5°C)
- December — 80.6°F (27°C)
Don’t Miss Out on Our Jaco Adventure Tours!
So, when is the best time to travel to Costa Rica? That’s now for you to decide! But no matter what time of year you visit, you can count on Costa Rica Waterfall Tours for all your canyoning and waterfall experiences from Jaco and thrilling Jaco adventure activities.
Simply browse our range and find the perfect fit for you! And please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions for us.
