January

January is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica, with dry, sunny weather across most of the country—perfect for beaches, hiking, and wildlife watching. It’s peak tourist season, marked by lively local festivals like the Fiestas de Palmares. Roads are in good condition, and landscapes remain lush from recent rains. From whale watching to zip-lining, January offers a vibrant mix of adventure and culture under blue skies.

Places to visit in January

Guanacaste Coast

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Manuel Antonio National Park

Nicoya Peninsula (Santa Teresa, Montezuma)

Celebrations of the month of January

New Year’s Celebrations (January 1st): Fireworks, beach parties, and family gatherings across the country.
Fiestas de Palmares (mid-January): One of the biggest festivals in Costa Rica, featuring bullfights (non-lethal), concerts, dancing, food fairs, and parades.
Fiestas de Santa Cruz (January 14–18 approx.): Traditional Guanacasteco festivities with rodeos, marimba music, and folk dances.
Día de San Sebastián (January 20): A religious celebration in the town of San Sebastián with processions and local events.

Recommended activities for January

Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park

Surfing in Tamarindo or Santa Teresa

Wildlife tours in Corcovado National Park

Zip-lining in Monteverde

What to pack:

Light, breathable clothing
Sunscreen and a hat
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals
Light sweater or jacket for cool evenings (especially in the mountains)
Mosquito repellent
Reusable water bottle
Binoculars for wildlife spotting

Road advices

January is part of the dry season, which means road conditions are generally good, especially on main highways and in popular tourist areas. Remote or mountainous regions (like Monteverde or parts of the Nicoya Peninsula) may still have unpaved or rough roads, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended if you’re driving. Public buses run frequently and reliably on paved routes, making them a good option for budget travelers.

Advantages of visiting during January

Excellent weather on the Pacific side (sunny, warm, low rain)
Peak wildlife viewing (dry trails, more visible animals)
Ideal conditions for beach vacations and outdoor adventures
Festive atmosphere with many local celebrations
Lush landscapes still green from the end of the rainy season
Whale and dolphin watching season on the Pacific coast

Itinerary of January

Fire and rain

Embark on a leisurely journey with our “Costa Rica Gold” tour, perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace and a deep connection with nature.

Waves and Clouds

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica with the “Waves and Clouds” tour, a nine-day adventure that seamlessly blends the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity of this beautiful country.

January

September

August

July

June

May

April