Thinking about visiting Costa Rica in January? You’ve picked a great time! January is smack-dab in the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season, which means lots of sunshine and perfect weather for exploring.
This guide will give you the full scoop on what to expect from the Costa Rica weather in January, including regional differences, the best things to do, and some important things to keep in mind as you plan your trip.
What’s the weather like in Costa Rica in January?
If you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway in January, Costa Rica is calling your name! January falls squarely within Costa Rica’s dry season, also known as “verano” or summer. That generally means you can expect mostly sunny days, low humidity, and very little rain in many parts of the country. Sounds like a dream, right?
These ideal conditions make January a great time to explore Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, and mountains. Whether you’re looking to surf, hike, or simply relax, January offers a fantastic climate for it all.
However, it’s important to remember that Costa Rica boasts diverse microclimates. While January is generally dry, weather patterns can vary depending on the region. The Pacific coast tends to be drier and hotter, while the Caribbean coast may experience more rainfall. And if you’re heading to higher elevations, like the Central Valley or mountainous areas, be prepared for cooler temperatures.
Temperatures in January
Costa Rica is known for its consistently warm, tropical temperatures, but you might find that the temperature varies depending on where you are in the country.
Pacific Coast
If you’re on the Pacific Coast, get ready for warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 69°F to 91°F (21°C to 33°C). It’s prime time for swimming, sunbathing, and all the other beach activities you can think of.
Central Valley (San José)
In the Central Valley, you can expect milder temperatures, averaging around 59°F to 73°F (15°C to 23°C). It’s perfect for exploring the city of San José and the surrounding areas.
Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean Coast offers warm temperatures, generally ranging from 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C). However, keep in mind that rainfall here can be more variable than on the Pacific coast.
Rainfall Patterns in January
If you’re headed to Costa Rica in January, here’s what you can expect in terms of rainfall.
Pacific Coast and Central Valley
These regions are typically dry in January. The northern Pacific coast averages between 1.2 and 2 inches (30-50 mm) of rain, while the Central Valley gets slightly more, around 1.2 to 2.8 inches (30 to 70 mm).
Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean coast tends to be wetter than other areas of Costa Rica. You can expect between 5.9 and 7.9 inches (150-200 mm) of rain during the month. The northern Caribbean coast is often the rainiest part of the country.
Potential for “Aguaceros”
Even during the dry season, you might encounter brief, intense rainstorms known as “aguaceros.” These downpours are usually short and shouldn’t disrupt your travel plans too much.
Papagayo Winds
If you’re planning a trip to the northwest Pacific coast, be aware of the Papagayo winds. These strong gusts are common in January. They can hit speeds of 50mph, with gusts exceeding 100mph.
While the Papagayo winds can be dangerous for boaters, they create ideal conditions for surfing and windsurfing.
January holidays and festivals
January is a great time to visit Costa Rica, not only for the stellar weather, but also because it’s packed with holidays and festivals.
New Year’s Celebrations
Like most places, Costa Rica recognizes January 1 as a national holiday and a day for celebration.
Fiestas Palmares
If you’re looking for a huge party, check out Fiestas Palmares, a massive festival in Palmares, Alajuela. This festival draws more than a million visitors, which is about a fifth of Costa Rica’s total population.
Other local festivals
Smaller, but still notable, festivals are Fiestas de Alajuelita and Fiestas de Santa Cruz.
Copa de Café
Tennis fans may want to check out the Copa de Café, an international tennis event held during the first week in January.
Cultural immersion
Wherever you go in Costa Rica during January, you’ll have opportunities to meet the locals and enjoy the country’s traditional celebrations.
What to do in Costa Rica in January
January is perfect for beaches, outdoor adventures, and sportfishing!
Consider visiting:
- Pacific Coast beaches like Tamarindo, Jaco, and Manuel Antonio
- Arenal Volcano
- Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Palo Verde National Park (especially if you enjoy birdwatching)
Popular activities include surfing, zip-lining, catamaran tours, and exploring the volcanoes.
Wrapping Up
With its pleasant weather and many activities, Costa Rica is a great place to be in January. Just be prepared to share the experience with lots of other travelers and pay more for flights and hotels, especially in the first week of January. If you’re planning a trip, booking ahead is a must!