Costa Rica Weather in November

Alongside April (after Easter) and May, November is the best time to visit Costa Rica as the rains have just died off, and the country is refreshed, green and relatively untouristy. The weather can still be unpredictable and wet at times. Expect sunny mornings to give way to rainy afternoons or vice versa.

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.

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. 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

Is Costa Rica warm in November?

In November, the average temperatures in most regions range from the mid-70s to low 80s°F (mid-20s to high 20°Cs).

Coastal areas along the Pacific, such as Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Guanacaste, offer warmer temperatures during November, ranging from the high 80s to low 90°Fs (30–33°C). Visitors 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 the mid-70s to low 80°Fs (24–28°C) during November. This region offers a blend of cultural attractions, including museums, markets, and historical sites, where travellers can immerse themselves in vibrant city life while enjoying pleasant temperatures.

Higher elevation areas like Monteverde and Arenal tend to have slightly cooler temperatures in November. The average temperatures in these regions range from the mid-60s to low 70°Fs (18–23°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.

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 underground, this labyrinthine system of bat-filled caverns proves an interesting alternative to the ubiquitous canopy tours.

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 the 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.

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 colours, 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.