Seasonal Wonders in Costa Rica: A Guide from Freddy

One of the things I love most about being a tour guide is watching how Costa Rica changes with the seasons. Even though we’re a tropical country and don’t have four traditional seasons like other places, the changes in weather, light, and life throughout the year are just as powerful—and sometimes even more magical.

I’ve been guiding for over 12 years, and no matter how often I visit an attraction, the experience is always different depending on the time of year. Whether you're hiking with me through the rainforest on one of my favorite tours or spotting wildlife on the riverboat, what you see, hear, and feel is always shaped by the season.

Let me walk you through how the year flows here in Costa Rica—especially in the areas where I guide tours most often, like the Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste, La Fortuna near Arenal, and even down toward Manuel Antonio. These are all regions I know well and love most, and I’d love to help you discover what makes each time of year so special.

Costa Rica’s Two Seasons with MANY Microclimates

Here in Costa Rica, we generally divide the year into two seasons:

• Dry Season (Verano): December to April

• Rainy Season (Invierno): May to November

But depending on where you are in the country, the timing and intensity of those seasons can change a lot. That’s because of our many microclimates, caused by things like elevation, ocean winds, and mountain ranges. It can be raining on one side of a volcano and sunny on the other. Even the street, for that matter!

For example:

• Guanacaste tends to be much drier overall, especially near the beaches.

• La Fortuna stays lush and green most of the year thanks to more consistent rainfall.

• Manuel Antonio has its rhythm with a short dry season but vibrant, active forests year-round.

Because of this, no matter when you come, there’s always somewhere beautiful to explore and something new to discover.

Dry Season (December to April): Sunshine & Volcano Views

This is the time most travelers aim for—sunny skies, warm beach days, and great hiking weather. You’ll get epic sunsets at this time, and if you’re into long beach days, this is for sure a time you’ll enjoy. Keep in mind that in areas like Guanacaste it can get more dusty and even brown, so if you’re planning on the wetter jungle experience, I’ll need to plan an outing away from the coast, more inland and to higher elevations during your travels.

Guanacaste & the Papagayo Peninsula

• Expect lots of sun, dry forest landscapes, and golden fields.

• Wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot.

• Great time for ATV adventures, cave tours, and my La Leona Waterfall Tour.

• Excellent visibility on the coast for snorkeling—Playa Ocotal is a favorite.

La Fortuna & Arenal

• Clear skies often reveal the majestic Arenal Volcano in full glory.

• Fantastic time for hanging bridges tours, horseback rides, and volcano hikes.

• Comfortable weather for longer adventures like the Arenal Combo Tour.

Manuel Antonio

• The best time to enjoy the beaches and hike the trails is without much rain.

• Wildlife is active early in the day—sloths, monkeys, and iguanas are easier to spot.

Rainy Season (May to November): Green Magic & Waterfalls

Don’t let the name fool you—this is one of my favorite times of year. It usually rains in the afternoons or evenings, leaving the mornings perfect for tours. The landscapes turn lush and vibrant, the rivers run full, and everything feels alive. Beach days are still possible, but you’ll want to plan those adventures for the mornings. The rainy afternoons are a great time for taking in more cultural elements, food, and live music are always a treat, and it’s never really cool or gloomy during a Costa Rican rainfall. We have exciting lightning storms with very few dangerous tropical storms, which typically land further north of us. So many people prefer to skip the busy crowds of the dry season and enjoy the variety green season offers. 

Guanacaste

• Everything greens up—forests, hills, even the roadside!

• Rio Celeste is especially vibrant, and the waterfalls are spectacular.

• Perfect time for the Rainforest Tour, Rainforest Volcano Tour, or a hot springs and mud bath experience.

La Fortuna

• The rain feeds the rainforest, and it feels like a true jungle adventure.

• Frogs, birds, and insects are more active—great for nature lovers and photographers.

• If you like wildlife, my Rainforest Night Tour becomes extra special this time of year!

Manuel Antonio

• While there's more rain, it’s still warm and beautiful.

• The forest gets incredibly green and full of life, perfect for walking tours or quiet beach mornings.

When to See Certain Wildlife

Throughout the year, wildlife changes, too! Some general tips:

• Sloths: easier to spot in drier weather when trees lose some leaves.

• Toucans and parrots: active during transitional seasons like April and May.

• Frogs: especially vocal and visible at night during the rainy season (yes, I offer awesome night tours!)

• Howler monkeys can be heard year-round, but are more visible in dry forests.

• Sea turtles: nesting peaks on certain beaches between July and October (I can organize bespoke tours to these areas!)

A Year-Round Guide by Month

Here’s a quick overview to help you plan:

• January–March: Best for volcano hikes, snorkeling, and spotting sloths.

• April–May: Start of green season; incredible colors and quieter trails.

• June–August: Amazing rainforest time; great for ziplining, night tours, and waterfalls.

• September–October: Heaviest rains but also dramatic jungle scenery—ideal for those who don’t mind a little mud!

• November–December: Fresh, green landscapes and fewer crowds. Great time to visit before the peak holiday season.

No matter when you come to Costa Rica, there’s something special waiting for you. I’ve been guiding in these regions for years, and what keeps me passionate is how no two days are ever the same. A sunny morning in Guanacaste, a misty afternoon in the rainforest, the calls of monkeys, or the glow of a frog under moonlight—every moment is different.

If you're not sure when to visit or what tours are best for the season, I’d be happy to help you plan. Whether you want to explore waterfalls, hike volcanic trails, soak in hot springs, or discover wildlife by boat or on foot, I’ll make sure your experience is full of magic.

Let’s explore Costa Rica together, season by season.

Certified Local Guide & Owner of Freddy Costa Rican Tours 🌐 www.freddycostaricantours.com