Discovering Costa Rica in January-February

Going to Costa Rica in January or February?

Here, we give you all the information and our best tips for enjoying Costa Rica in January-February.

First of all, these are very popular months for many North Americans, but also for many Europeans. It’s the period when prices are the most expensive after Christmas and Holy Week.
We call this the high season, because the climate is mild throughout most of the country. It’s the height of the dry season, with virtually no risk of rain.
It’s worth pointing out, however, that this may not be the best season for you, depending on what you want to discover. This period is ideal for those who come to enjoy the beach. But if you’re more interested in observing animals, then July or August are better.

However, there are a few differences depending on climatic influences. Here’s an overview of the climate in January and February, depending on the region.

January-February by region in detail

The Caribbean

Temperatures in the Caribbean hardly vary throughout the year. As for rain, it’s present all year round in the form of showers that vary in intensity depending on the month, but are very pleasant on cooler nights. The best months are February, March, September and October, known here as the “Carribean summer”, when it rains practically everywhere except here.

Central Valley

In January and February, the capital shines with the highest temperatures, but it’s also the season of the trade winds, the cold northerly winds. Daytime temperatures range from 71 to 79 degrees. An ideal time to visit the Poás and Irazu volcanoes, as the craters are clear thanks to these almost permanent winds.

Arenal and Tenorio

These regions are influenced by the Caribbean, which gives them a similar climate, but with less rainfall.
Temperatures range from 75 to 82 degrees Celsius, with high temperatures due to the humidity.

Guanacaste and Nicoya Peninsula

It’s the driest and hottest region in the country. It’s also the most densely populated in terms of tourism. The chance of rain is virtually non-existent. The landscapes are arid, the rivers have dried up and the waterfalls have dried up. Daytime temperatures can reach 95 degrees. This is the ideal time to enjoy a seaside holiday.

Central Pacific

Like Guanacaste, this is the perfect time to enjoy the beach. Rain is extremely rare during January and February, and temperatures oscillate between 79 and 90 degrees.

South Pacific, Golfo Dulce and Osa Peninsula

This is undoubtedly THE dry period in this region of southern Costa Rica. Showers are not out of the question, and temperatures hover around 86 degrees.

Cordillera Central, Dota

This is undoubtedly the best time to discover this magnificent region, because of the rather mild climate, but not for observing the Quetzal, which prefers a cooler, more humid climate. Daytime temperatures can sometimes reach 77 degrees, and at night it barely drops above 54 degrees.

Here are the best tours we’ve put together for you to discover Costa Rica in January and February:

In conclusion, to discover Costa Rica in January-February is to be sure of ideal weather, very warm temperatures and a calm sea with temperatures approaching 82/86 degrees.
It’s important to remember that you need to book well in advance, as the choice of accommodation dwindles from October onwards. Ecolodges and hotels on the beach are all the rage.
On the other hand, if you’ve come to see the flora and fauna, this is not the best time of year, as many animals prefer milder weather and, above all, love the rain, which is a source of life.