Let’s be honest, a trip to Costa Rica will be epic at any time of the year, but spring is particularly good for discovering this Central American slice of paradise. March enjoys some of the country’s driest and warmest weather, April is still temperate, and May falls during Costa Rica’s shoulder season, which is another great time to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica in spring (and we really think you should), read on for some of our favourite experiences…
- Explore Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast
- Spot Flora and Fauna in the Central Pacific
- Tour the Capital and Coffee Plantations in Central Costa Rica
- Go Wild on the North Pacific Coast
- Discover Creole Culture in Cahuita
Explore Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast
If it’s glorious nature you’re after on your trip to Costa Rica in spring, head to the Caribbean Coast. During our springtime, the stunning Tortuguero National Park, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean side, enjoys temperatures around 32°C. Although visitors may not see the park’s famous turtles, this is a good time to spot a range of wildlife from sleepy sloths and beautiful butterflies to spoonbills, iguanas and poison dart frogs. If you fancy getting in on the action too, Costa Rica's Caribbean coast is renowned for its world-class waves. Have a go at beginners classes or watch the pros tackle Salsa Brava, considered to be the biggest break in all of Costa Rica.
Spot Flora and Fauna in the Central Pacific
Manuel Antonio, on the Central Pacific Coast, is the perfect place to discover at the end of the dry season. In March, the average rainfall here is about 55mm (so quite low) and the average temperature is a toasty 34°C. Make the most of the pleasant temperatures by embarking on a thrilling jungle tour to meet the diverse cast of wildlife species including colourful toucans and acrobatic monkeys. You may also want to explore the coral reefs, and in April the turtles start to nest on the beaches along the Pacific Coast, a fantastic sight.
Tour the Capital and Coffee Plantations in Central Costa Rica
Temperatures in the Central Valley are very pleasant in spring (averaging 26°C in March). San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital, has world-class museums, parks, theatres and historic buildings which are well worth exploring on a guided tour with an expert local guide. And there are volcanoes, green hills and coffee plantations on the city’s doorstep too. The rainfall increases from an average of 52mm in April, to 240mm in May, but it isn’t constant, and the heaviest downpours can often be avoided.
Go Wild on the North Pacific Coast
Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula are also good in March, April and May, with sunshine penetrating through intermittent rain. This region of the North Pacific Coast boasts volcanoes, forests, wild rivers and more. National Parks include Santa Rosa – one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica – and Palo Verde, which is a dream for nature lovers, with mangroves, savannah and wetlands which are home to crocodiles, snakes and sharks.
Discover Creole Culture in Cahuita
On the Caribbean Coast, a visit to the laid-back village of Cahuita is an invitation to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant Creole culture. This is a great place to stop if you just want to relax on a slice of stunning coastline, or to discover somewhere more off the beaten track.
Spring Events and Festivals
Costa Rica in spring is all about local and national festivals and you’re likely to run into at least one during your visit. Here are some of the highlights:
- Día del Boyero (‘Oxcart Drivers’ Day’) takes place in San Antonio de Escazú on the second Sunday in March and sees colourfully painted oxcarts parade through the suburb of San José, and local priests bless the oxen.
- 19th March: Dia de San José (‘San José Day’) – the patron saint of Costa Rica’s capital city is honoured and special masses are held.
- Semana Santa (‘Holy Week’) – Easter celebrations commence and religious processions take place in cities and towns throughout the country. The official holiday falls on the Thursday and Friday before Easter Sunday.
- 11th April: Dia de Juan Santamaría (‘Juan Santamaria Day’) – Costa Rica’s national hero is celebrated with parades, concerts and dances.
- 17th May: Carrera de San Juan (‘San Juan Day’) – the country’s biggest marathon runs through the mountains, from the outskirts of Cartago to the suburbs of San José.