If you’re visiting Costa Rica in January, you’ve picked a great time! January is one of the best months in the country, especially if you love the outdoors. This is a time of great weather, happy vibes, and plenty of activities. Let’s dive in and learn more about what Costa Rica is like in January. This article is written collaboratively by a regular visitor and a local, put together to give you the essentials of what you can expect from spending January in the country.
What is Costa Rica in January like?
Season
Costa Rica in January is part of the dry season, which locals call “verano,” meaning summer in Spanish. The dry season runs from December through April, and during this time, the weather is warm and sunny. January is when many tourists come to Costa Rica to enjoy the great weather. For example, if you are European, January in Costa Rica is equal to August in Europe (peak summer).
Since Costa Rica has a tropical climate, the four seasons such as winter, summer, fall, spring, do not exist. Instead, Costa Rica has two main seasons – the dry season and the rainy season (called “invierno,” or winter). During the rainy season, which runs from May to November, it rains heavily in many parts of the country. But in January, you don’t have to worry about that because it’s usually sunny and clear. This makes it a great time to enjoy beaches, hiking, and other outdoor activities without gearing up for wet conditions.
However, due to the geography of Costa Rica, even in January, you will find some rainy parts in the country, specifically in the Caribbean side.
Weather
The weather in Costa Rica in January is generally warm and sunny, especially on the Pacific coast where the majority of the country’s most famous beaches are located. What to expect in terms of heat? That depends on your location.
- Pacific Coast: In regions like Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, January is hot and dry, perfect for those looking to get a tan. Temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C) during the day – that is what the apps will tell you. The real feel can display 95°F – 104°F (35°C – 40°C). It’s a great time to visit popular beach towns like Tamarindo or Playa Hermosa.
- Central Valley (San José): In the capital city of San José and surrounding areas, the temperature is cooler, around 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The Central Valley tends to have a pleasant climate year-round, but January is especially comfortable because there is minimal rain. If you are in San José and go for a couple of days to Manuel Antonio or Jaco for example, you will feel a drastic difference in climate. Even though the country is relatively small, the climate varies a lot depending on location.
- Caribbean Coast: While the Pacific coast is sunny and dry, the Caribbean side, including areas like Puerto Viejo, may still experience some rain. However, it’s usually much less compared to the rainy season. The Caribbean side is more humid, and the temperatures can be slightly warmer than the rest of the country, ranging from 80°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C).
- Mountainous areas: If you head into the mountains, like Monteverde or the Arenal Volcano region, it will be cooler, especially at night. Daytime temperatures in these higher elevations can range from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C), and at night it can drop to the 50s°F (10-15°C).
Popular things to do in January
With great weather comes many exciting things to do. Below are some of the most popular things you can do in Costa Rica during this month.
1. Visit the Beaches
Because of the try and sunny weather, there are many excellent beaches to explore both on the Pacific and the Caribbean side of the country.
- Pacific Coast Beaches: Some of the best beaches in the country are located on the Pacific side in places such as Guanacaste. For surfing, Tamarindo is a good option, while Playa Conchal has a different vibe with the white sand and clear water. For families who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, Playa Samara is a better fit.
- Caribbean Coast Beaches: The beaches here are more remote and usually less crowded. Puerto Viejo is the most popular place due to its laid-back vibe and good surf spots. There are other nearby beaches such as Punta Uva and Cahuita which are great for swimming and snorkeling.
January is a prime month for beach activities. The ocean temperatures are also warm, and you can stay in the water for hours, literally.
2. Explore National Parks and Wildlife
Since Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse areas in the World, and January is a great time to visit national parks and wildlife reserves. The dry season makes the hiking trails easier to navigate and animals more visible
- Manuel Antonio National Park: This park is one of the most famous national parks in the country. It is easy to understand why, with beautiful beaches, trails and lots of wildlife. It is possible to see monkeys, exotic birds, sloths and anything in between.
- Tortuguero National Park: Known as the Amazon of Costa Rica, this park has rainforests and a veriety of wildlife. Although January is not turtle nesting season (which is July – October), you can still expect to come across animals like crocodiles and caimans.
- Corcovado National Park: One of the most biologically intense places on Earth, Corvocado National Park is home to jaguars, tapirs and scarlet macaws. It is one of the more wild and remote areas in Costa Rica, perfectly fitting for adventure enthusiasts.
3. Adventure Activities
January in Costa Rica means that you can try all sorts of outdoor activities without worrying about mud or rainy conditions. This makes a great time for adventurous activities such as:
- Zip-lining: Slide through the rainforest and take in the views and sounds of the surroundings. Zip-lining is perhaps experienced the best in Monteverde, with many canopy tours available.
- White-water rafting: Luckily Costa Rica has several rivers which allow for rafting. Pacuare River is a popular spot for rafting, with rapids and with excellent scenery. January is a particularly good time for rafting because the water levels are just right after the rainy season.
4. Enjoy the Festivals
January in Costa Rica is also associated with a time of celebration. The country has many local festivals where you can experience the culture, food, and music.
- Fiestas de Palmares: An hour from San José is the Town of Palmares. It is here where one of the biggest January festivals is held. This festival lasts for 2 weeks and is full of parades, Concerts, bullfighting (different than the Spanish version) and obviously a lot of food and dancing. It is a fantastic way to meet locals and take part of the Costa Rican culture
- Santa Cruz Fiestas: In Guanacaste you can take part in Santa Cruz Fiestas. This event features traditional activities such as folk music, rodeos and local dances. It is a place to see the cowboy (sabanero) culture of Costa Rica
5. Visit Volcanoes and Hot Springs
Visiting one of the many volcanoes is a must while you are in the country. Some of the most famous volcanoes are located in areas where you can enjoy hot springs. Combine the two and you have got yourself a great January activity.
- Arenal Volcano: Arenal is no longer active but offers a stunning sight with its iconic cone shape. The surrounding area has many natural hot springs where both locals and tourists like to relax in the mineral-rich waters to round up the day.
- Rincón de la Vieja Volcano: Unlike Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja is an active volcano that has trails leading to mud pools, waterfalls and hot springs. It is located in Guanacaste
6. Go hiking in Costa Rica
January is the best time to hit the trails. Popular hiking spots include Arenal Volcano where you can walk around the base of the volcano. In Monteverde, the cloud forest reserve has great hiking trails for seeing animals living in the mist high-altitude environment. Rio Celeste hike is an easier option, with a beautiful waterfall view
Conclusion
January in Costa Rica is a prime month. Do not believe that everything is crowded just because it is peak high season. This is the month when you see Costa Rica from its best and most authentic side while also taking part of the wildlife naturally embedded into daily life. January is very much an outdoor season, so renting a car and going to various spots, both popular and more remote spots, is highly recommended. There is something for everyone. If you have any particular question, want any recommendations or local advice, contact us on Instagram and we respond within 24 hours.
