Best Time to Visit San Jose

Jan

January is a fantastic time to visit San Jose. With average highs of 78°F and lows of 61°F, and only 19mm of rain, the weather is nearly perfect. Crowds are moderate as the country enjoys its 'summer' season.

• Palmares Fiestas
• Costa Rica's Summer Festival

Feb

February continues the dry and pleasant weather with similar temperatures to January (highs of 79°F, lows of 60°F) and minimal rain (18mm). It's still peak season, so expect moderate crowds.

• Envision Festival (near Uvita)
• San Jose Mardi Gras

Mar

March sees a slight increase in rainfall to 51mm, but temperatures remain warm and comfortable (highs of 81°F, lows of 61°F). The weather is still generally dry, making it a good time to visit before the heavy rains begin. Crowds are starting to thin out slightly.

• Día del Boyero (Oxcart Driver's Day) in San Antonio de Escazu
• International Arts Festival (FAF)

Apr

April marks a transition to the rainy season, with a significant jump to 153mm of rain. Temperatures are warm (highs of 80°F, lows of 62°F). While still enjoyable, be prepared for afternoon showers, especially later in the month. Holy Week can bring large local crowds and some closures.

• Easter (Semana Santa)
• Juan Santamaría Day

May

May is firmly in the rainy season, with a considerable 315mm of rain. Highs are around 79°F and lows are 62°F. You'll experience daily afternoon downpours, but mornings can still be sunny. This is the beginning of the green season, and prices often drop as crowds thin out.

• Labor Day

Jun

June is one of the wettest months, with a substantial 457mm of rain. Temperatures are milder (highs of 76°F, lows of 62°F). Expect consistent afternoon rains, which can often be heavy. This is considered low season, so you'll find fewer tourists and better deals on accommodation and tours.

Jul

July continues the rainy season, bringing 333mm of rain, though slightly less than June. Temperatures remain mild (highs of 77°F, lows of 63°F). You'll still encounter regular afternoon showers, but there can be a 'mini-dry season' or 'veranillo' during this month with some prolonged sunny spells. Crowds are still low.

• Anexion del Partido de Nicoya

Aug

August is another very wet month, with 446mm of rainfall, and average temperatures of 77°F high and 62°F low. Expect daily, often heavy, afternoon rains. This is a great time for lush landscapes and roaring waterfalls, but be prepared for wet conditions.

• Mother's Day (Día de la Madre)

Sep

September is notoriously the wettest month in San Jose, boasting a staggering 459mm of rain. Highs are around 77°F with lows of 61°F. It's truly the heart of the green season, meaning vibrant nature but also very frequent and heavy downpours. Crowds are at their absolute lowest.

• Independence Day

Oct

October is right behind September as one of the rainiest months, with the highest rainfall at 528mm. Temperatures are similar, with highs of 76°F and lows of 61°F. This is generally considered the least favorable time to visit for dry weather, but if you love lush greenery and don't mind getting wet, it's incredibly beautiful. Prices are at their lowest.

• Columbus Day (Día de las Culturas)

Nov

November sees a significant decrease in rainfall to 338mm as the dry season approaches. Temperatures are pleasant (highs of 75°F, lows of 62°F). While still wet, the rains become less frequent and intense, particularly towards the end of the month. Crowds start to pick up slightly as the peak season begins to loom.

• All Souls' Day

Dec

December marks the return of the dry season, with a pleasant 70mm of rain. Temperatures are ideal (highs of 76°F, lows of 61°F). The weather is beautiful, but this is peak tourist season, especially around the holidays. Expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book well in advance!

• Christmas (Navidad)
• Festival de la Luz
• Carnaval and Fiestas de Zapote