Costa Rica is a fascinating little country in Central America: very safe and easy to get around because of its size, offering a fabulous diversity of wildlife, ecosystems, and stunning landscapes, and some of the friendliest local people you are likely to meet.
The lack of risk of hurricanes and the very low risk of malaria in almost all areas also makes it the perfect place to head to for family holidays and honeymoons most of the year, staying in some truly delightful small, hidden but luxurious rainforest lodges and beach retreats.
The question that often arises with regard to Costa Rica is ‘when is the best time to travel there?’ However, the question is not as clear cut as some people may think. Whilst the country does have two distinct rainy and dry seasons which may automatically influence your decision, there are other factors to consider. And of course, it is worth remembering that most of the country is covered by either mountain cloud forest or rainforest, and so expect some rain at most times of the year. There are also many different microclimates despite the small size of this country so it is worth considering where exactly you want to go, for example, the Pacific or Caribbean coast.
Costa Rica offers a plethora of fascinating wildlife from white-faced capuchin and titi monkeys to vividly coloured toucans and scarlet macaws, as well as a rich diversity of marine life. Some of its truly spectacular highlights may very well influence when you choose to go. Turtles nest on the Caribbean Coast from June to September, the later month in particular being a short respite
from the green season rains in a ‘little summer’, and the lodges themselves are quieter and better value. Similarly, there is the unique phenomenon of two humpback whale migrations (from northern and southern cooler waters) to the southern Pacific Coast around Osa Peninsula. In particular, the Golfo Dulce plays host to these magnificent creatures who come here to calve their young from December to March, and again from June to October.
If it has stunning beaches, great surf, and dry sunny days you are after, then head to the northern Pacific Coast, the driest part of Costa Rica generally, and home to its most beautiful beaches. There are still some beautiful quiet stretches of the coast away from larger resorts for your own ocean paradise that I can recommend, as well as private villas or private yacht charters to explore the islands and mangroves of this delightful coastline. Birdwatchers or those interested in active adventures are likely to head into the mountainous interior to spot the resplendent quetzal or take exhilarating white-water rafting trips which are dependent on water levels at different times of the year.
I know Costa Rica extremely well and am delighted when others ask me to design their own personal tailor made holiday to Costa Rica with them. I advise on my favorite hidden rainforest and beach retreats away from the few busy resorts, where to spot the most incredible wildlife in the dense mangroves and misty mountains, how to meet some of the country’s traditional communities, and when to go to suit your own particular preferences. These are all important points that you should consider whilst planning your own trip to Costa Rica!