Last updated: January 18, 2025
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, exemplifies the tropical savanna climate classified as Köppen-Geiger class Aw, characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The region experiences temperate minimum temperatures dropping to 14°C (58°F) in January, while an average warmth of 26°C (79°F) prevails throughout the year. The peak summer months can soar to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in April, illustrating the dynamic thermal range that significantly influences local ecosystems and agricultural practices. This unique climatic profile underlines Guanacaste's importance in biodiversity and agricultural development.
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal progression throughout the year, showcasing a transition from the cooler dry months to the warmer wet season. January marks the coolest point, with minimum temperatures around 14°C (58°F), gradually increasing through February and March, where both average temperatures and maximum highs reach 37°C (99°F). April signals the onset of the warmest period, peaking at 39°C (102°F) while maintaining a minimum of 18°C (64°F). As the year progresses into May and June, temperatures remain relatively stable with averages around 26°C (79°F), yet maximums hover around 38°C (101°F). The latter half of the year sees a slight reduction in maximum temperatures, particularly noticeable in October and November, where average temperatures drop to 25°C (78°F) and maximums fall to around 33°C (93°F), before transitioning back to the cooler averages of December. This cyclical temperature pattern highlights Guanacaste's distinct climatic stages and their influences on local ecology and agriculture.
Tilaran experiences a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in April. In contrast, Samara has slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January and reaching up to 35°C (96°F) in April. La Fortuna offers cooler temperatures, starting at 14°C (58°F) in January and peaking at 34°C (93°F) in May. For more detailed information, visit monthly temperatures in Tilaran, monthly temperatures in Samara, and monthly temperatures in La Fortuna.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, experiences a distinctive precipitation pattern that delineates a clear wet and dry season. The year starts relatively dry, with January receiving merely 16 mm (0.6 in) and February experiencing a minimal 5 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall. March marks a slight uptick to 6 mm (0.3 in), but it is not until April that the region begins to feel the effects of the rainy season, with precipitation rising sharply to 63 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 12 days of rain. This transition culminates in May and June, where total monthly rainfall soars to 312 mm (12.3 in) and 333 mm (13.1 in), respectively, making these months some of the wettest, characterized by nearly continuous rainfall.
As the height of the rainy season unfolds, July through October showcases the region's maximum precipitation. July sees a notable 194 mm (7.6 in) of rain, while August and September contribute 285 mm (11.2 in) and 315 mm (12.4 in), respectively. October stands out with the highest rainfall at 426 mm (16.8 in), occurring over 28 days, epitomizing the peak of the wet season. Following this deluge, November experiences a drop to 161 mm (6.3 in), and December concludes the year with a modest 37 mm (1.4 in), illustrating a gradual return to drier conditions.
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica, sunshine duration demonstrates a clear seasonal rhythm, marked by a noticeable increase in hours as the year progresses from winter to summer. January starts the year with 260 hours of sunshine, gradually rising through February to 299 hours and peaking in March at 334 hours. This peak is accompanied by remarkably pleasant weather, making March an attractive time for visitors seeking sun-filled days. April witnesses a slight decline to 322 hours, yet still retains substantial daylight, as the region transitions into the rainy season.
As the rainy season commences in May, sunshine hours drop to 276 hours and continue to fluctuate through the summer months. June sees a marginal increase to 279 hours, while July rebounds to 304 hours, showcasing the tendency for sporadic sun amidst the showers. The trend of decreasing sunlight resumes in the subsequent months, with September recording 266 hours and October dipping to its lowest at 245 hours. This decline is momentarily countered in November with 291 hours, and December concludes the year strong with 319 hours, marking a return to brighter, sunnier conditions. This seasonal variability in sunshine significantly influences local lifestyles, agriculture, and tourism, underscoring Guanacaste's dynamic climate.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is characterized by a consistently high UV Index, reflecting the region's tropical climate and intense sunlight exposure throughout the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers at 11, categorizing it as extreme, with a burn time of merely 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This extreme exposure continues to intensify over the following months, peaking in April at 15; during this period, the risk of skin damage is exceptionally elevated, underscoring the need for effective sun protection. The month of March also witnesses a high UV Index of 14, making it imperative for residents and visitors alike to take precautions.
As the year progresses into the rainy season, the UV Index remains significantly elevated, fluctuating between 13 and 14 from May through August, maintaining the trend of extreme exposure. Notably, September and October sustain this high risk with values around 13 and 14, thus emphasizing the ongoing need for sun safety measures even amidst potential cloud cover. By November, the UV Index decreases to 11 and, further settling to 10 in December, categorized as very high, with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes. This seasonal analysis highlights the year-round necessity for UV protection in Guanacaste, a critical consideration for health and outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
In Guanacaste, Costa Rica, daylight duration exhibits a consistent and predictable pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. During the initial winter months, January and February enjoy 11 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities under the tropical sun. As March arrives, daylight hours increase to 12 hours, a trend that persists into the rainy season from April through August. This consistent daylight in these months fosters a vibrant environment, supporting thriving ecosystems and agricultural practices central to the local culture.
As the year transitions into the latter months, daylight duration begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This decrease culminates a cyclical experience of light and dark, demonstrating nature’s balance in Guanacaste. The relatively stable daylight hours across the seasons highlight the region's suitability for various activities, from tourism to farming, as residents and visitors alike can rely on a predictable amount of sunlight year-round. This gleam of daylight not only positively influences daily life but also enriches the stunning landscapes synonymous with Costa Rica.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to October. Average temperatures range from a mild 23°C (74°F) in January to a hotter peak of 25-26°C (77-80°F) between April and June. Rainfall is most intense in May, with over 300 mm (12 inches), while January and February experience the driest conditions. Sunshine is abundant, with up to 333 hours of sun in March, making the region appealing for outdoor activities year-round. For detailed information, visit La Fortuna climate.
Liberia, Costa Rica, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Monthly average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 27°C (81°F), with high humidity, especially from May to October when rainfall peaks, most notably in October with 418 mm (16.5 in). The dry season, from December to April, sees significantly lower precipitation, with February and March recording just 2 mm (0.1 in) each. Sunshine is abundant during the dry months, with March enjoying the most hours at 334. For more detailed climate information, visit Liberia climate.
The climate in Nicoya, Costa Rica is characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in the rainy months (May to October) to up to 30°C (86°F) in the dry season (January to April), with maximum temperatures reaching as high as 39°C (102°F) in April. Rainfall is most abundant from May to October, peaking in October with 407 mm (16.0 in), while the driest months are February and March, receiving only 2 mm (0.1 in) and 4 mm (0.1 in), respectively. Despite the rainfall, Nicoya enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, particularly in February and March, boasting up to 334 hours of sunshine. For further details, visit Nicoya climate.
Samara, Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 17°C to 35°C (63°F to 95°F), with abundant sunshine peaking in March at 334 hours. The rainy season begins in April, leading to substantial rainfall, particularly in May and October, where precipitation reaches 442 mm (17.4 in) and 514 mm (20.2 in) respectively. Despite the rain, temperatures remain relatively stable, averaging around 25-27°C (77-81°F) throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Samara climate.
Santa Cruz, Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in April, while averages hover around 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to March, but it spikes dramatically in May, June, and October, with October receiving up to 407 mm (16.0 in). Despite heavy rains during the wet season, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in February and March, with over 300 hours recorded those months. For more details, visit Santa Cruz climate.
Tilaran, Costa Rica, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in April and May, with consistent averages around 24°C (75°F). The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in May and October, with June recording the highest at 290 mm (11.4 in). Sunshine is plentiful, peaking in March with 333 hours, while the wet season in September and October sees a slight dip. For more details, visit Tilaran climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is defined by its unique interplay of temperature, precipitation, UV exposure, sunshine duration, and daylight hours. The region showcases a tropical savanna climate with distinct seasonal transitions, from the warm and sunny dry months to the significantly wetter rainy season. With high UV Index values, especially during the peak sunshine months, it is essential for residents and visitors to prioritize sun protection. The relatively stable daylight hours throughout the year further enhance the appeal of Guanacaste for agricultural activities and tourism. Understanding these climatic factors is crucial for fostering sustainable practices, promoting health, and enhancing the overall experience of this vibrant Costa Rican destination.