Costa Rica Weather in November

Costa Rica's weather in November is characterized by the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. Alongside April (after Easter) and May, November is the best time to visit as the rains have just died off, and the country is refreshed, green and relatively untouristy. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, with sunny mornings often giving way to rainy afternoons or vice versa, the overall trend is towards drier conditions as the month progresses, marking the end of Costa Rica's rainy season.

Overview of Costa Rica Weather in November

November is a fantastic time to visit Costa Rica as the country transitions from the rainy season to the dry season. November is an ideal time to explore the Pacific coast, where you’ll find popular destinations like Manuel Antonio National Park basking in the sun. 

The Central Valley also enjoys pleasant weather, making it perfect for sightseeing and cultural activities. With the lush landscapes still vibrant from the recent rains, November offers a unique blend of green scenery and fewer crowds, making it a great time to experience the beauty of Costa Rica.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in November?

November marks the end of the rainy season and the transition into the dry season. The weather in Costa Rica in November can vary depending on the specific region you are in. Visiting Costa Rica in November offers a unique experience as the country transitions from the rainy season to the dry season.

November is a transitional period, so you can expect a mix of rainy and dry days. The amount of rainfall decreases compared to the previous months, and the frequency of rain showers tends to diminish as the month progresses.

The Caribbean coast, including areas like Puerto Limón and Tortuguero, tends to receive higher rainfall compared to the Pacific coast throughout the year, making Costa Rica's Caribbean coast a lush and vibrant destination even in November. The Pacific coast of Costa Rica, including popular destinations like Nosara, Puntarenas and Corcovado, tends to have drier and sunnier conditions in November.

Overall, November can be a great time to visit Costa Rica, especially if you prefer fewer crowds and more affordable prices compared to the peak tourist season. The vegetation is still lush from the previous months’ rains, and you can witness vibrant green landscapes across the country.

Rough Guides tip: read all about the best time to visit Costa Rica

corcovado-costa-rica-shutterstock_257689762

Corcovado National Park Costa Rica ©Shutterstock

Is Costa Rica warm in November?

In November, the average temperatures in most regions range from 66°F to 82°F (19°C to 28°C).

Coastal areas along the Pacific, such as Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Guanacaste, offer warmer temperatures during November, ranging from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C). You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, indulge in water activities like swimming and surfing, and bask in the warm tropical sun.

In the Central Valley, where San Jose is located, the average temperatures range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during November. This region offers a blend of cultural attractions, including museums, markets, and historical sites, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant city life while enjoying pleasant temperatures. November also coincides with Thanksgiving, a growing Costa Rican vacation among ex-pats, which can add a festive atmosphere to your visit.

Higher elevation areas like Monteverde and Arenal tend to have slightly cooler temperatures in November. The average temperatures in these regions range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°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 November a good time to visit Costa Rica?

November is the tail end of the rainy season, which means there may be fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the high season (December to April). The landscape is lush and green from the recent rainfall, which can make for beautiful scenery and good conditions for wildlife viewing. Although a Mexican tradition, some Costa Ricans participate in Día de los Muertos to honor deceased family members.

Despite being at the end of the rainy season, there can still be plenty of sunny days around this time. November is also when the Venado Caves reopen, around 30km northwest of La Fortuna. Providing a rare opportunity to head subway, this labyrinthine system of bat-filled caverns proves an interesting alternative to the ubiquitous canopy tours.

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.

Costa Rica, playa Uvita © Judith Lienert/Shutterstock

Costa Rica, playa Uvita © Judith Lienert/Shutterstock

Average rainfall in November

The amount of rainfall also varies depending on the region. On the Pacific coast, in places like Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, November is usually a dry month, with very little precipitation.

In contrast, on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast and in the central and southern regions of the country, November can be quite rainy, with an average of 10-20 rainy days during the month and up to 10 inches (250 mm) of rainfall.

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

Best places to visit in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise brimming with stunning destinations. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • San José: The vibrant capital city is a hub of cultural attractions, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife. Explore its museums, markets, and theaters to get a taste of Costa Rican culture.
  • Manuel Antonio National Park: Located on the Pacific coast, this park is renowned for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest: This unique ecosystem is home to over 2,500 plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, and mosses. The misty forest offers a magical experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
  • Tortuguero National Park: Situated on the Caribbean coast, this park is famous for its incredible biodiversity. It’s a prime spot for seeing sea turtles, monkeys, and exotic birds.
  • Puerto Viejo: A charming coastal town on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the local culture.

Top activities to enjoy in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an adventure-seeker’s paradise, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy:

  • Hiking: Discover Costa Rica’s stunning natural beauty on foot. Popular trails include the Arenal Volcano hike, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
  • Surfing: The Pacific coast is a surfer’s dream, with renowned spots like Tamarindo and Jacó offering excellent waves for all skill levels.
  • Wildlife Watching: Costa Rica’s national parks and wildlife refuges are teeming with animals. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, toucans, and the elusive quetzal.
  • Zipper-lining: Experience the thrill of flying through the jungle canopy on one of Costa Rica’s many zipper-line tours. It’s an exhilarating way to see the rainforest from a different perspective.
  • Coffee Tours: Learn about Costa Rica’s famous coffee production and sample some of the best brews in the world. It’s a delightful way to understand the local culture and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee.
Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park ©Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Costa Rica in November

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

  • All Souls’ Day (2 November): Families visit cemeteries to pay their respects to their ancestors.
  • El Desfile de Carretas (Parade of Ox-Carts; third Sunday of November). This grand parade is a cherished tradition in Costa Rica and is particularly prominent in San José, the capital. It showcases the iconic ox-carts that have played a significant role in Costa Rican history and include elaborately decorated ox-carts, adorned with vibrant colors, intricate paintings, and traditional designs.

Ready for your dream trip to Costa Rica in November?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without the planning or hassle. All of our planned itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

  • A Self Drive Caribbean Adventure (10 days): Embark on a Costa Rican adventure along the Caribbean coast with your rental car. Explore Boca Pacuare, witness turtle nesting, experience Cahuita's unique culture, and bask in the beauty of Puerto Viejo's beaches. Your journey concludes in Turrialba, where the country's primary archaeological monument awaits.
  • Beaches and Volcanoes (7 days): Escape to Arenal for volcanoes, waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Enjoy gentle hikes or partake in adrenaline-fuelled river rafting. Then journey down to Costa Rica’s Central Pacific for some sand and surf fringed by dense forest that’s teeming with wildlife.
  • Or discover more Costa Rica itineraries.
Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 20.09.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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