Climate, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The climate of Guanacaste basically depends on wind patterns, temperature and rainfall. An example of this is the climate of the basin in the Gulf of Nicoya, which is determined by the influence of trade winds and westerly winds. The dry season is from October to May, due to the trade of winds that occur mostly out of this area, while preventing moisture from reaching the Pacific. The drought is more severe in the lower parts of the basin. The highlands have a moisture-deficit period which comprises approximately 35 days in the plains, and in coastal areas about 70-150 days.

The climate of Guanacaste is highly seasonal.

From mid-November to April the climate is typically dry with some exceptions, and the heat is fairly consistent. Then, from May to mid-November, Guanacaste experiences a wet season and rains can last from a few hours to a few days, albeit most of the time even during the rainy season the mornings tend to be clear or partly cloudy, with rains in the afternoon.

The warmer drier climate makes tropical dry forests the province´s default vegetation type with one exception, the highland portion located in the Guanacaste Cordillera and the northern half of the Tilarán Cordillera which give rise to lush cloud forests.

The diversity in Costa Rica’s weather is primarily due to the various elevations at which different parts of the country are located. For example, Guanacaste has a dry arid climate as it sits on the lowlands.

The perfect time to visit Guanacaste is dependent on the visitor´s tastes. For example if you prefer a drier climate you might go in December or January, however there are more visitors this time of year, so you might consider going in May, with less visitors, more travel deals, and generally good weather in terms of level of rain which can often be minimal. That being said, regardless of when you visit, be it the dry season or during the wet season, both provide spectacular advantages, as the dry season is replete with sunshine, while the wet season brings the trees into bloom with an auspicious array of colors and fragrances.

Best time to visit Guanacaste

As discussed above, generally the best time assuming you prefer sunshine to rain, and not all of us do, is from December to April, as this is typically the dry season, although exceptions can occur, especially in this region. Keep in mind that tourism is heavy this time of year, and Easter week (known locally as Semana Santa) can attract local tourists as well, meaning that it might be more difficult to secure more competitive prices and many of the attractions such as canopy or zip line tours.

An alternative is to visit during the wet season, which can often be drier than expected, although this can be hit and miss. Albeit, Guanacaste is known for enjoying sunny and warmer days on a near year-round basis, with occasional rains in the afternoon during the wet season. That being said, you might consider some of the so called wet months such as May or September when there are less visitors and generally better deals to be had. Tourism during this time of year can still provide for a great experience, especially the more eco-touristy attractions. Rivers run higher and even the dry-forests of Guanacaste turn green and lush. However, during the rainy season roads get muddy and rivers start to swell, making travel throughout the country a more challenging experience, so take care, and just stay up to date on the local area reports and you will be fine. So get ready to pack your bags and enjoy.

Climate of Guanacaste

Guanacaste climate effect