Guanacaste is a tropical destination in Costa Rica featuring incredible landscapes and a remarkable array of things to do. Thanks to its climate, it offers something completely different at different times of year. The wet season is between May and October, so heavy rainfall can be expected during this time, as well as lush green jungle. December through April is the dry season, when you can expect virtually no rainfall or none at all, along with arid terrain and generally less green scenery. The Guanacaste Costa Rica weather varies so much, it can make a difference on when you visit.
The rainy and cloudy conditions near Arenal Volcano contribute to the majestic greenery you’ll witness at the hanging bridges park.
The question that you have to ask then becomes, “What type of weather do you prefer?” The high season tends to be during the dry season from Thanksgiving to Easter, so flights outside these dates can also be cheaper. You should also bear in mind that there are lots of activities for you to enjoy whichever time of year you choose. The temperature ranges from 75°F to 80°F all year round, so you won’t have to worry about getting cold!
Guanacaste Costa Rica Weather During Dry Season
A friendly crocodile taking in the sun at Palo Verde National Park.
If you decide to visit in the dry season, we highly recommend you explore Palo Verde and Liberia. Take a sightseeing tour and explore the wilderness in the 15 natural habitats of Palo Verde National Park. After a fun boat ride you’ll see evergreen forests and swamps that are home to a wide variety of different bird and animal species. Later on, you’ll be taken on a trip around Liberia, with its colonial architecture and whitewashed houses.
If you visit during the wet season, you can enjoy gushing rivers, slightly cooler temperatures, and generally less people. While there’s a slight risk of rain ruining your plans, in reality it tends to rain at the same time every day, so it’s still really easy to plan out your days.
Rainy Weather Is Part of the Fun in Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano is a beauty to behold, even if the weather is cloudy and rainy.
One of the popular activities you can take at this time is a visit to Arenal Volcano. This tour will take you exploring the rainforest that surrounds the volcano after a boat trip across the largest lake in Costa Rica. Admire the lush scenery from thrilling hanging bridges, and unwind at the end of the day in a hot spring.
Here, thanks to the humidity of the rainforest, it really doesn’t matter if the Guanacaste Costa Rica weather is rainy. This just makes it even more green and magical! Afterwards, you can savor a gourmet dinner looking out on the volcano, and make the most of an incredible day!
If it rains at Sensoria, that’s just fine. You’ll be provided ponchos during your hike to take in amazing sights.
Another tour to check out is Sensoria the Land of Senses. This excursion takes you to the rainforest by Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and the surrounding mountains. With a limit of 50 people a day, the flora and fauna here are virtually untouched. You almost want it to rain here, as the sight of the trees glistening with water can be absolutely breathtaking. Complete with beautiful trails and magnificent waterfalls that are especially impressive during the rainy season, this is a fabulous place to visit.
What’s the Best Season to Visit Costa Rica? Any Season!
In conclusion, there’s really no bad time to visit the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. Whether you decide to visit from December to April during the dry season, or from May to October for the rainy season, you’ll always have something to do.
Though the best times to visit are at the beginning of the season, either from May to July or from early November to December. This way, you can get closest to the best of both worlds from the Guanacaste Costa Rica weather. Don’t pass up the chance to visit this incredible place!
