Climate & Packing
Costa Rica is a small country with extraordinary climatic diversity — from sun-baked Pacific beaches to perpetually misty cloud forests to humid Caribbean lowlands. Understanding the seasons and regional patterns will help you pack right and plan better.
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
For most first-time visitors, December through April (dry season) offers the most reliable weather across the Pacific side, Guanacaste, and the Central Valley. Roads are easier, wildlife is concentrated near water sources, and outdoor activities have fewer weather interruptions. However, this period is also more crowded and expensive, especially around Christmas, New Year, and Easter (Semana Santa). The "green season" (May–November) offers lower prices, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists — with the trade-off of regular afternoon rain showers. The Caribbean coast has a different pattern entirely and can be a good escape during the Pacific's dry season.
The Two Seasons
Dry Season (Verano)
December – April
- Sunny days, minimal rain (especially January–March)
- Best conditions for Pacific beaches and Guanacaste
- Peak tourist season — more crowded and more expensive
- Book accommodation well in advance, especially for Semana Santa
- Guanacaste can be extremely hot and dry (35°C+) by March–April
- Forests become drier and vegetation more sparse in heavily affected areas
Rainy / Green Season (Invierno)
May – November
- Afternoon rain showers — mornings are often clear and beautiful
- Landscapes are spectacularly green and lush
- Lower hotel rates and fewer tourists
- Waterfalls and rivers are at their most impressive
- September and October are the wettest months overall
- The "veranillo" (little dry season) often brings a dry spell in late July/early August
The 'Green Season' Reframe
Tour operators increasingly use the term "green season" instead of rainy season — and for good reason. Rain falls primarily in the afternoon, leaving mornings free for outdoor activities. Prices drop 20–40%, crowds thin dramatically, and the rainforest is at its most alive. Many experienced travelers consider it the better time to visit.
Regional Climate Variation
Costa Rica's topography creates dramatically different microclimates within short distances. The Pacific and Caribbean sides are separated by mountain ranges that block and reshape weather systems.
Central Valley (San José area)
Temperature: 20–26°C year-round — often called "eternal spring."
Pattern: Mild, with light rain year-round. The rainy season brings more frequent afternoon showers but the temperature stays comfortable. Rarely too hot or too cold.
Best time: Any time — climate is the most stable in the country.
Pacific Coast (Nicoya, Guanacaste)
Temperature: 28–35°C+, hottest March–April.
Pattern: Dramatic contrast between seasons. Dry season (Dec–Apr) is intensely dry and sunny. Rainy season brings heavy downpours but clear mornings.
Best time: December–April for beach holidays. Guanacaste has the most pronounced dry season in the country.
Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero)
Temperature: 25–32°C, humid year-round.
Pattern: Opposite of the Pacific — the Caribbean does not have a true dry season. Wettest months are October–November and July. Relatively drier February–September. Rain can come any day of the year.
Best time: February–April or September–October for drier conditions; note this is when the Pacific is wet or dry respectively.
Arenal and Northern Lowlands
Temperature: 22–30°C depending on elevation.
Pattern: Frequently cloudy and rainy year-round. Arenal Volcano is famously hidden in clouds most days — patience is required for clear views.
Best time: February and March offer the highest probability of clear volcano views. Expect rain any time of year.
Monteverde and Cloud Forests
Temperature: 15–22°C — noticeably cool and often misty. Bring a warm layer.
Pattern: Cloud forest means mist and humidity are the norm regardless of season. The rainy season brings heavier rain; the dry season has clearer mornings.
Best time: December–April for the most comfortable walking conditions, though the forest is magical year-round.
Southern Zone (Osa, Uvita, Dominical)
Temperature: 25–33°C, extremely humid.
Pattern: One of the wettest regions on Earth — the Osa Peninsula receives 5,000–8,000 mm of rain per year. Even the dry season brings periodic rain. Rivers flood quickly and roads can become impassable.
Best time: December–April, but expect some rain even then. September–October brings near-constant heavy rain.
Best Time to Visit by Region
| Region | Best Months | What to Expect | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Valley / San José | Year-round | Spring-like temperatures, light rain in wet season | No strong reason to avoid any month |
| Guanacaste / Nicoya | December – April | Sunny, dry, beaches at their best; very hot by March | September–October (heaviest rains) |
| Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Jacó) | December – April | Dry and sunny; green season mornings still pleasant | September–October |
| Caribbean Coast | February – April, Sept – Oct | Relatively drier; good for wildlife and beaches | October–November (peak rain) |
| Arenal / Fortuna | February – March | Best chance of clear volcano views; still some cloud cover | Year-round clouds possible; no guarantee |
| Monteverde / Cloud Forest | December – April | Drier mornings; comfortable for hiking | September–October (very wet and windy) |
| Southern Zone (Osa, Uvita) | December – April | Least rainy period; roads more passable | September–October (extreme rain, flooding) |
| Tortuguero | July – October (turtles), Feb – Apr | Turtle nesting July–Oct; relatively drier Feb–Apr | No strong reason to avoid if you want turtles |
Rainy Season Driving Hazards
During the rainy season — especially September and October — roads throughout Costa Rica can become flooded, washed out, or blocked by landslides. River crossings (vados) that appear passable can flood rapidly. 4WD vehicles with high clearance are strongly recommended for rural areas. Never attempt to cross a flooded road on foot or in a standard vehicle. Check road conditions before departing for remote areas.
See the Transportation section for driving guidance, road conditions, and rental car recommendations.
Packing Guide
Costa Rica's diversity means packing requires some planning. Lightweight breathable clothing works for the coast; an extra layer is essential for highlands and cloud forests. A rain jacket is non-negotiable year-round.
Clothing
- Core: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics — synthetic or merino wool. Cotton stays wet and heavy.
- Layers: A light fleece or zip-up for Central Valley evenings, Monteverde, and highland areas (15–18°C at night).
- Rain jacket: Essential year-round, not just in rainy season. Packable and waterproof, not merely water-resistant.
- Beach: Swimwear, cover-ups, light linen shirts.
- City: Smart casual — collared shirts, lightweight pants or skirts. Avoid beach attire in towns.
- Church/formal: Covered shoulders and knees for church visits.
Footwear
- Sandals/flip flops: Essential for beaches, pools, and casual wear.
- Sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes: For city, light trails, and ruins. Waterproof if hiking in wet season.
- Rubber boots (botas de hule): Required for Osa Peninsula, Tortuguero, and muddy jungle trails. Available cheaply at any hardware store in Costa Rica — no need to pack them.
- Water shoes: Useful for river crossings, rocky beaches, and waterfall hikes.
Electronics
- Plug adapter: Not needed — Costa Rica uses standard US two-prong Type A plugs (110–120V).
- Surge protector: Recommended — power fluctuations and surges do occur, especially in rural areas and during storms.
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag: Strongly recommended — rain, boat trips, beaches, and rivers all threaten electronics.
- Portable power bank: Useful for long travel days and remote areas.
- Camera: Wildlife photography opportunities are exceptional — a zoom lens and rain cover are worth considering.
Health and Hygiene
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Required in marine protected areas; better for the environment everywhere. SPF 50+ recommended.
- Insect repellent: DEET-based repellent is most effective against mosquitoes (dengue, Zika, chikungunya risk in lowlands). Apply in evenings especially.
- Prescription medications: Bring an adequate supply plus extras. Some medications are available in Costa Rica but may require a local prescription.
- Hand sanitizer: Useful for rural areas and outdoor adventures where handwashing facilities are limited.
- Basic first aid: Blister pads, antiseptic, antidiarrheal, antihistamine for insect bites.
Adventure and Outdoor Gear
- Daypack (20–30L): For day hikes, beach days, and city exploring.
- Headlamp: Essential for jungle lodges, power outages, and pre-dawn wildlife tours.
- Quick-dry towel: Microfiber towels pack small and dry fast — useful at the beach and in budget lodges.
- Reusable water bottle: Tap water is safe — bring a durable bottle and refill it. Reduces plastic waste.
- Binoculars: Worth bringing if interested in birdwatching — Costa Rica has 900+ bird species.
- Dry bags: Protect valuables on boat tours, white-water rafting, and river crossings.
Documents and Travel Admin
- Printed passport copies: Keep copies separate from your original in case of loss or theft.
- Insurance documents: Both printed and digital — travel health insurance is strongly recommended.
- Hotel/accommodation confirmations: Immigration may ask for proof of where you are staying.
- Onward travel proof: Costa Rica may require proof of onward/return travel at immigration — have your return ticket or onward booking accessible.
- Cash (USD and colones): ATMs are available but not always reliable in remote areas. Carry some cash as backup.
Packing by Trip Type
| Trip Type | Essential Extras | Leave Behind |
|---|---|---|
| Beach holiday (Guanacaste, Pacific) | Reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, water shoes, dry bag, light cover-up for town | Heavy clothing, formal attire |
| Jungle / Wildlife trek (Osa, Tortuguero) | DEET repellent, rubber boots, waterproof everything, headlamp, binoculars | Fashion items, anything that cannot get wet or muddy |
| City stay (San José, Escazú) | Smart casual clothes, umbrella or packable rain jacket, crossbody anti-theft bag | Full hiking gear, rubber boots |
| Highland / Volcano (Monteverde, Poás, Irazú) | Warm fleece or jacket, waterproof jacket, sturdy waterproof shoes, layers | Sandals as primary footwear, very light clothing only |
| Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo) | Rain jacket (always), water shoes, strong insect repellent, quick-dry everything | Expectation of consistent sunshine |
| Surf trip (Santa Teresa, Nosara, Pavones) | Rash guard (long-sleeve for sun), board shorts/bikinis, surf wax, reef-safe sunscreen | Dress shoes, formal clothing |
What to Buy in Costa Rica Instead of Packing
Some items are cheaper and more practical to buy locally rather than pack: rubber boots (botas de hule — about $10 USD at any ferretería/hardware store), cheap rain ponchos, sunscreen, insect repellent, basic medications, and reusable grocery bags. Specialty outdoor gear and quality sunscreen are more expensive in Costa Rica than in the US or Europe — bring those from home.