Costa Rica Weather in March

March is considered one of the best times to visit Costa Rica as it falls in the dry season. The average temperature in Costa Rica during March is around 82°F (28°C) in coastal areas and 72°F (22°C) in higher elevations. The weather in Costa Rica in March will be sunny and hot, although it can vary by region.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in March?

In Costa Rica, March is generally considered to be part of the dry season, also known as the "summer" season. The weather during this time tends to be hot and sunny in most regions, with minimal rainfall.

You can expect warm temperatures throughout the country, typically ranging from 70°F to 90°F (20°C to 30°C). Rainfall is relatively low in most parts of Costa Rica during March, but there can still be some regional variations. The Caribbean coast, including areas like Puerto Limón and Tortuguero, tends to receive more rainfall throughout the year.

Overall, March is a popular time to visit Costa Rica due to its pleasant weather. It's a great opportunity to explore the country's diverse landscapes, indulge in outdoor activities, and visit popular tourist destinations.

Is Costa Rica warm in March?

In coastal areas like Guanacaste, including Tamarindo and Liberia, temperatures typically range from 70°F to 80°F (24°C to 29°C) in March.

In higher elevations, such as in Monteverde Cloud Forest or Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, temperatures can be a bit cooler, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (around 13°C to 24°C).

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Costa Rica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Connect with our local experts.

Is March a good time to visit Costa Rica?

March is characterized by sunshine, low humidity, and warm temperatures. It is a good time to explore some of Costa Rica’s rich botanical life, including places like the Botanical Orchid Yard just beyond La Garita, or Jardín Botánico Lankester, southeast of Cartago. Between them they are home to some 150 orchid species, half of them native, and they are awash with color as the flowers bloom from January to March.

Also in March, Guanacaste’s many flowering trees flower literally overnight and then, just as suddenly, shed their petals to the ground, covering it in a carpet of confetti colors. The corteza amarilla bursts into a wild Van Gogh-like blaze in March.

On this tailor-made Costa Rica Express trip, you will start with Arenal volcano with its waterfalls, hot springs and hanging bridges before crossing the lake to Monteverde. The unique cloud forest invites both adventure and nature lovers for canopy and zipper-lining activities as well as wildlife spotting. Finish the trip on the beach in Manuel Antonio.

What better way to plan a trip than to rely on personalized experiences? Our content manager has traveled to Costa Rica and shares with you what to consider when planning your trip.

What is the average rainfall in March in Costa Rica?

On average, the total rainfall in Costa Rica in March is around 1-2 inches (30-50mm), which is significantly lower than other months of the year, as the month falls within the country's dry season (December to April).

Just starting to plan your trip? Find out how many days are best to spend in Costa Rica depending on your goals.

Festivals and events in Costa Rica in March

There are several festivals and events that take place in Costa Rica during the month of March. Here are some of them:

• Día de los Boyeros (Day of the Drover): This parade of handmade and painted oxcarts and driving competitions takes place on the second Sunday in March in San Antonio de Escazú.
• Día de San José (19 March): Honoring the patron saint of Costa Rica’s capital, San José (Saint John), special masses are held throughout the country.

If you're still looking for options for your spring trip, also explore our list of the best vacation destinations in March.

Plan your trip with our Costa Rica itineraries

Our Costa Rica itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Get a taste of Costa Rica with a whirlwind visit to Arenal’s volcano and Monteverde’s cloud forests. Perfect if you’re short on time but craving adventure.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Spend a week exploring Arenal, Monteverde, and the Pacific coast’s beaches. A balanced mix of lush landscapes, wildlife, and relaxation.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Dive deeper with stops at Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero’s jungle canals, and Manuel Antonio’s beaches. Ideal for a blend of rainforest, wildlife, and coastal vibes.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: Two weeks to soak up Costa Rica’s best: Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero, and both coasts, including the wild Osa Peninsula. Perfect for serious nature lovers.
• Costa Rica itinerary 3 weeks: Take your time with three weeks exploring every corner— from volcanoes to remote beaches and rainforests. The ultimate Costa Rica adventure for those who want it all.

Visit Costa Rica in other months

• January
• February
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December