The weather in Costa Rica is characterised by a tropical and subtropical climate. Costa Rica is divided in half by an alpine spine through the middle of the country. The Pacific side has dry forests, while the Caribbean side has wet, humid rainforests. As with the country’s natural regions, the year is divided into two seasons: rainy and dry.
The rainy season lasts from May to November. Expect plenty of rain, especially when a hurricane is occurring elsewhere in the Caribbean. The most popular weather season in Costa Rica is the dry season, which lasts from December to April.
Throughout both seasons, there isn’t much variation in coastal temperatures, with most days being somewhere between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). The mountainous areas in the country’s centre are significantly colder than this because of their high altitude.
Unlike many other Caribbean countries, Costa Rica isn’t at a high risk of experiencing hurricanes. Earthquakes and volcanic activity are among the most pressing environmental hazards and, while rare, have resulted in fatalities in the past. Expats should therefore ensure they are up to date and well informed about the risks of natural disasters in Costa Rica.