Costa Rica in December

The good weather is back in Costa Rica again this month with the dry season starting from December, although you can still expect the occasional shower in the rainforest, Monteverde cloudforest and on the Caribbean coast in particular. Visit towards the beginning of the month, before the main holiday season, and you can escape the worst of the crowds too.

It’s a perfect time to visit Costa Rica if you’re looking to get outdoors and see as much as possible of both coasts. The sun is shining on the beaches of the Pacific Coast, where northern humpback whales are returning to the area around Costa Ballena, as well as some migrating along the Caribbean coast too. The surf beaches are also at their best, with some great conditions for all levels on each coast, including Puerto Viejo and Montezuma

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to scenery and wildlife as well. Team beach and rainforest at popular Manuel Antonio, or head to the less explored Corcovado National Park for snorkelling and a chance to explore the jungle. Look for some of Costa Rica’s fabulous birdlife in San Gerardo de Dota or head to northern Costa Rica and Boca Tapada, where expert guides will show you corners of the country that few visitors see.

Or head out for a more active adventure, whether that’s to Arenal volcano, into the Talamanca mountains, trekking Cerro Chirripo or discovering the volcanoes of Turrialba

Festivals: There are a string of festivals during December in the weeks around Christmas, including Festival de la Luz mid-month in San Jose, with brightly lit floats, light displays and fireworks, before the San Jose Carnival from December 27.

You can also see the Tope Nacional horse parade on December 26, a celebration of Costa Rican culture and tradition, with thousands of horses and riders taking part.

And the year ends with Fiesta de los Negritos in Boruca for four days from December 30, celebrating local culture, with costumed dancing, traditional music and lots of food.

Best for: Exploring the whole country, beaches, whale-watching, wildlife spotting, trekking and hiking

 

Or perhaps you’re thinking of travelling on another month..?

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