The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December through April. This "high season" offers the most consistent sunshine and the easiest access to the country's diverse national parks, making it ideal for hiking, zip-lining, and beach-hopping. In 2026, January and February are particularly popular for travelers escaping northern winters, as the weather is bright and humidity is manageable. However, if you are looking to save money or avoid crowds, the "Green Season" (May to June and November) is an excellent alternative; during these months, the landscape is incredibly lush and vibrant, and while it rains more frequently, the showers are often brief afternoon bursts. For wildlife enthusiasts, September and October are the best months for turtle nesting on the Caribbean coast, though these are the wettest months on the Pacific side. In 2026, many "digital nomads" and savvy travelers are also choosing the "veranillo" (little summer) in late July, which often brings a two-week window of unexpectedly dry weather amidst the rainy season, offering a perfect balance of lower prices and great conditions.