When to Go

High Season: Mid-December to April

The sunniest, driest season in most of the country occurs from mid-December through April, with Christmas and Easter bracketing the busiest tourist season. March and April get downright sweltering in lowland areas, with temperatures in the arid North Pacific, Costa Rica's hottest region, frequently exceeding 33°C (90°F).

Low Season: May to mid-December

In a stroke of marketing genius, Costa Rica promotes the rainy season as the "green season," touting lush vegetation, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Afternoon showers kick in by May and last through November most everywhere, with a brief drier season in June and July. Rain or not, North American and European summer vacations do increase the influx of visitors from June through August. Rains become more prolonged and heavy in September and October.

Shoulder Season: May, mid-November to mid-December

The transition periods between rainy and dry seasons and back again make a marvelous time to visit Costa Rica. Visitor numbers are smaller and the threat of rain does exist but is minimal.