Costa Rica

When to go

Almost ideal year-round, the climate is a moderate 72 degrees in the highlands, while the lowlands and coastal areas range from the low 70's to the high 90's. Evenings in San Jose are free of humid heat, and beaches are cooled by ocean breezes. Rainy season occurs from the end of May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in October. The Atlantic or Caribbean side is driest from February through April, with a short "summer" in June and July, and the wettest months from November through January. However, you should be prepared for rain at any time during the year in this part of the country. The Pacific side and central parts of the country are driest from January through March.

A lot of people have a misconception of the "rainy season", imagining that it's "monsoon like" and that it never stops raining. Nothing could be further from the truth. You can normally be assured of sunny mornings followed by some rain in the afternoons and evenings, and even plenty of days without rain. The Caribbean experiences a "short summer" during this time, and the weather can be quite pleasant.

Average highs are between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit and average lows between 72-75 degrees.

See also:

• Costa Rica - When to go: Climate charts