Costa Rica December Weather:

For the Pacific Coastal region, San Jose, and Central Valley it is finally here - the DRY SEASON! The rain has dropped significantly, and in the northern Pacific coastal region it is dry.  The days are mostly sunny, and, if there is rain, it is very little in the evening. The temperatures are in the mid 80’s along the coast, with San Jose about 10 degrees cooler and higher elevations about 20 degrees cooler.  Much of the “lush green” from the rainy season remains, so this is a beautiful time of year. 

The temporales del Atlantico bring heavy rain to the northern Caribbean region in December. You can expect days of steady rain.  The Southern Caribbean region is also wetter than the rest of Costa Rica but is not as rainy or wet as the northern Caribbean region in December.  The temperatures average in the mid 80’s for both regions.

Clear sunny days are in abundance on the Pacific Coast and this pattern will continue for the next several months!  The beaches are lush with tropical plants from the recent rains and flowers still abound!  This is a beautiful time of year in Costa Rica as spirits rise at the return of the sunny days and the coming holidays, but that also brings the tourist (many tourists!), so book very early if you want to spend the holidays in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica December Reservations:

Reservations for December should be made 6 months to even a year ahead of travel.  December is one of the highest (if no thee highest) travel periods in Costa Rica. Many Costa Ricans are also off work and school so hotels fill up early.  Make your plans and book early!

Costa Rica December Costs:

High season prices are in effect and many hotels are now charging “holiday surcharges”.  Book early to get room in the area you desire, or you may need to change your plans. We can help, as hotels give us allotments of rooms so we can usually satisfy our customer’s needs who book early.

Costa Rica December Holidays & Festivals:

12/1- Festival de la Luz- San Jose weeklong Festival of the Lights  with concerts and fireworks.

12/4- Fiesta Pattronale Pavas- street fair with music, dancing, food and bull fighting (no bloodshed).

12/8- Immaculate Conception, Fiesta do los Negritos-religious masses and processions and costume dancing.

12/12- Fiesta de la Yeguita-Bull Fighting, followed by a parade in Parque Central Nicoya with foods, concerts and fireworks.

12/24- Misa de Gallo-Christmas Eve mid-night mass.

12/25-Christmas Day celebrated by family gatherings and dinners.

12/26- Tope Caballos- Horse parade in downtown San Jose – displays their proud equine traditions and unique Criollo breed.