Climate
In common with its tropical neighbours, Costa Rica enjoys two principal climatic seasons - dry, and wet (‘green’). However, what makes Costa Rican weather so different from other Central American countries is the prevalence of microclimates - owing to the greatly varying altitudes - which render the weather somewhat difficult to predict.
The graphs below show that the dry season lasts from December to April, considered the best time to visit for a beach holiday. The Caribbean coast (Puerto Limón) remains wet all year round. Travelling outside school holidays in the rainy season (from May to Mid November), means that destinations are less crowded and hotel rates are cheaper (but not transatlantic airfares).
Generally speaking, temperatures (mid-to-high 20s oC) and humidity are high on the coasts but the higher altitude locations inland are cooler and less humid. Rainfall varies dramatically according to topography but usually falls in intense bursts of a couple of hours. Rains are heaviest in September and October, so travelling then can be dispiriting. The active Arenal Volcano - one of Costa Rica’s main tourist attractions, tends to be clouded over for around 80% of the year, though this can make for some spectacular photographs. Ironically, it’s often cloudier there in the Jan-Feb dry season than it is in the late wet season (Aug-Oct).
Below are two graphs, one shows average 24-hour temperature for San Jose, Puerto Limón (Caribbean Coast) and London for comparison, and the other shows average rainfall for San José, Puerto Limón, Monteverde (Pacific side at 1700m asl) Nicoya (Pacific side, sea level approx) and London.
Average 24-hour Temperature (in oC)
Average Rainfall (in mm)
Festivals and Holidays
The principal holidays of the Christian calendar are celebrated with enthusiasm in Costa Rica, especially over Christmas, New Year and Easter. Otherwise, local fiestas involve colourful processions, costumes, marching bands and even horse-racing and bull-fighting.
May Day around Puerto Limón entails dancing and cricket matches. In July, the Fiesta de La Virgen del Mar is celebrated in Punta Arenas and Playa del Coco with many festivities including a regatta and boat parade.
Currency
The local currency is the Colón. Current exchange rates are available via the OANDA currency converter. It’s not advisable to try to acquire Latin American currency before travelling, if a currency is available in high street banks or exchange outlets the exchange rate is usually very poor. You can change US dollar cash or travellers checks locally and obtain cash advances via ATMs in most towns and cities. We’d advise that you tell your bank you intend to use your card abroad before you set off.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date information on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries should consult their embassy before travel.
Vaccinations
We recommend that you always check with your own travel clinic or health professional before you travel, for advice specific to your requirements. The NHS Fit For Travel website contains for up-to-date health advice and lists the common vaccinations for travellers to Costa Rica.