January is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica. Sure, it's peak season and busy, but only because this is one of the best months to visit.
To start with, the weather in Costa Rica in January is perfect. This is the dry season and the sun is shining. Hit the beaches, go snorkelling or scuba diving, or hike the volcanoes and national parks.
Fiesta season is in full swing in January too, so it's a great time to make the most of the vibrant Costa Rican culture. There are various parties and festivals across the country to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do and the best places to go in Costa Rica in January on luxury tours of Costa Rica.
The weather is beautiful in January because this is verano, or summer. This might seem a little confusing because Costa Rica is north of the equator, but the seasons don't work quite the same as ours. Costa Rica has distinct wet and dry seasons, and they refer to the dry season as summer.
There's almost zero chance of rain, and the daytime temperature of Costa Rica in January can reach up to thirty-five degrees Celsius.
If you want to escape the heat, then head further north or into the central region, where things can be much cooler, especially at higher altitude. If it's going to rain anywhere, it will be along the Caribbean coast, but even this is a rare occurrence.
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Fiestas are some of the best things to do in Costa Rica in January, and the calendar is packed with them.
Start the month, and the year, in style by celebrating New Year's Day in Costa Rica. The capital, San Jose, is always a great place to party and to bring in 1 January.
In the north-west, travel to Santa Cruz where the Black Christ of Esquipulas is celebrated with singing, dancing and plenty of food, in a famous fiesta that can last for days.
But for many party people, the best place to visit in Costa Rica in January is Palmares. There, you can join the festivities at the two-week-long fiesta that's famed across the country. There are parades, fireworks, singing, dancing, and endless eating and drinking.
In January, there's a lot to see and even more to do in Costa Rica, and you'll quite literally be spoilt for choice.
A trip to the beach is high on many visitors' lists of the top things to do in Costa Rica in January. Make use of the hot weather by sunbathing and cooling off in the warm water. You can also try surfing, with great weather making this the best time for beginners. The Pacific coast is a favourite in January.
It's hot, but it's also dry, so head inland to see the superb rainforests and volcanoes. A huge percentage of Costa Rican land is protected, so strap on the hiking boots and walk the trails in search of wildlife and adventure. Hike the Arenal Volcano, or explore the rainforests of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, among much more.
As a friendly, family-run business, we are always delighted to hear from you and glad to offer our honest and impartial advice. We'll take the time to talk through the different options, offer our expert insight and carefully put together a tailored itinerary that's perfect for you.
And if you're not yet sure whether January is the right month for your Costa Rica holiday, try our month-by-month comparison tool. See how each month compares in terms of costs, crowds, weather and wildlife.
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The temperature of Costa Rica in January is balmy, both in the water and out. In fact, it's an ideal time to take a dip.
Those planning a trip to Costa Rica in January can expect to enjoy sea temperatures within the following ranges:
These are perfect for surfing, scuba diving or just plain paddling.
The sea in January is safer than at other times of the year, too.
With warm seas and calm conditions, swimming and other water sports are some of the best things to do in Costa Rica in January.
When you're booking Costa Rica holidays, January is an expensive month to choose. It's peak season, and high demand pushes up prices relative to the rest of the year.
If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica in January, you can expect to pay more for flights, accommodation and activities. However, there are some ways you can keep costs down.
Visiting Costa Rica in January may cost more, but you get to enjoy the country at its most pleasant and exciting time of year.
When you travel to Costa Rica in January, you get to see this paradise in its prime.
For action-packed Costa Rica holidays, January is hard to beat.
If you're searching for sunny weather in January, Costa Rica has got you covered. While much of the Northern Hemisphere suffers from the winter blues, the temperature in Costa Rica in December and January is like stepping back into summer.
When you're packing for a trip to Costa Rica in January, temperature is no concern. You can leave your warm layers at home and expect pleasant, stable temperatures countrywide.
For guaranteed warm weather in January, Costa Rica is the place to be.
The beginning of the year marks the beginning of the dry season, which means the weather is mostly sunny.
The Central and Pacific regions see almost no rain at all, but the Caribbean coastline still gets occasional showers.
January is a great time to visit. The weather in Costa Rica in January is fabulous, and there's plenty to see and do for all types of travellers.
The dry, sunny weather is ideal for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts, while those looking to sample the local food and culture can find various festivals taking place.
Be sure to book early, though. January is peak season, and the best places to go in Costa Rica in January can get booked up fast.
With clear seas and calm weather, January is a good time to get out on the water for some whale watching.
Northern-hemisphere humpback whales migrate through Costa Rican waters from late December until April. They're fewer in number than the Southern humpbacks that migrate between July and November, but you're still in with a good chance of seeing some.
With thoughtful planning, your chances of seeing some whales in January are good. However, tour operators can't guarantee sightings.
