Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Cartago, Costa Rica, experiences a mild climate characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F), offering a comfortable atmosphere for travelers and locals alike. The month sees a minimum temperature dipping to 12°C (54°F), creating pleasant evenings. December also marks a wetter period with 78 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall spread over 11 days, leading to a humidity level of 72% that enhances the lush landscapes. Whether you're exploring the vibrant culture or enjoying the natural beauty, December in Cartago promises a delightful experience amidst the varying weather.
In December, Cartago, Costa Rica experiences mild temperatures that invite outdoor exploration. With minimums around 12°C (54°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (75°F), the weather is pleasantly cool, making it ideal for both daytime activities and evening strolls. The average temperature of 17°C (64°F) indicates a slight dip from the warmer months, yet this freshness is balanced with comfortable highs reminiscent of the preceding months. As the year wraps up, December offers a perfect blend of warmth and coolness, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant beauty of Cartago’s lush landscapes and cultural charm.
December in Cartago, Costa Rica, sees a notable decrease in precipitation, with only 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain recorded over 11 days. As the rainy season gradually comes to a close, this marks a shift from the heavy downpours experienced in previous months, particularly October, which boasted a staggering 601 mm (23.7 in) over 30 days. The transition to December reflects a significant drop-off in rainfall, illustrating the region's seasonal patterns and providing a more temperate climate for outdoor activities. With beautiful, crisp days returning, it's a perfect time for locals and visitors alike to embrace the lush scenery that blossomed during the wet months.
In December, humidity levels in Cartago, Costa Rica average around 72%, showing a slight decrease from the peak of the wet season. This month marks a transition from the high humidity experienced in the preceding months, particularly in June and July, when levels soared to 84% and 85% respectively. As the year winds down, December's humidity settles into a more moderate range, providing a brief respite before the return of the wetter months. Overall, while humidity remains relatively high throughout the year, pattern shifts indicate a gradual tapering off towards the end of the year, enhancing the comfort for residents and visitors alike.
In Cartago, Costa Rica, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate. December sees a slight dip in the UV Index to 11, indicating extreme exposure with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of elevated UV levels is notable from January to April, where values peak at 16 in April. Notably, the UV Index hovers between 12 and 15 for most months, showcasing a relentless sun that necessitates caution. As UV rays remain potent even in the cooler months, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and protect their skin. For more details, visit Cartago UV Index.
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December in Cartago, Costa Rica, shines brightly with 300 hours of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This trend of abundant sunlight follows a notable increase from 239 hours in November, setting the stage for a festive holiday season bathed in warmth. As we look back over the year, it’s clear that March takes the crown with 331 hours, but December holds its own as a close contender, encouraging outdoor activities and exploration. After a dip in the cloudier months of September (219 hours) and October (206 hours), the sun reemerges magnificently, bringing life and vibrancy to the end of the year. With February's peak at 298 hours, the allure of Cartago’s December sun not only rekindles the spirit but also illuminates the path into the New Year.
In December, Cartago, Costa Rica offers a 50% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more promising months for sunshine as the year winds down. This month marks a significant shift from the preceding rainy season, where the likelihood of sunny days dramatically decreases from over 50% in early months like January and February to a mere 5% in August. As the year progresses, November shows a slight uptick to 26%, leading into December's balanced outlook. Travelers seeking a blend of mild weather and sunny days will find December to be a favorable time to explore Cartago, as the region begins to transition out of its wetter months.
In Cartago, Costa Rica, December sees a return to 11 hours of daylight, mirroring the transition from the longer days of March through August when the sun graces the skies for a full 12 hours. This consistent daylight pattern reflects the region's tropical climate, where daylight hours remain relatively stable throughout the year. As the year winds down, the days shorten slightly again in October and November, reinforcing the gentle ebb and flow of daylight that characterizes Cartago's monthly rhythm. The predictable transition from the plentiful light of mid-year back to 11-hour days sets a tranquil tone for the festive season.
As December settles in Cartago, Costa Rica, the wind whispers a refreshing change after a series of calmer months. With an average wind speed of 1.7 m/s (4 mph), this time of year marks a slight uptick from the low points experienced during the summer and early autumn. Following a steady decline in wind speed from April to October, where the breezes dipped as low as 1.1 m/s (2 mph), December's gentle gusts usher in a welcomed balance, hinting at the transition toward the more invigorating months ahead. The fluctuating winds of the year invite both relaxation and exploration, making December a delightful period to experience Cartago's natural beauty.
Weather in Cartago varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Cartago, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in Cartago range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (64°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) over 11 days, resulting in a relatively humid environment with humidity levels around 72%. In contrast, January features a slightly cooler minimum temperature of 11°C (51°F) while maintaining a similar average of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 6 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 68%. For more detailed information about January weather in Cartago, you can visit Cartago weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, we see some notable differences. December experiences a slightly warmer average temperature of 17°C (64°F), with a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while February has a marginally higher average of 18°C (64°F) and peaks at 25°C (76°F). However, December is significantly wetter, with 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to February's much drier conditions, which see only 19 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in February at 68%, compared to December’s 72%. For more detailed information on February weather in Cartago, you can visit Cartago weather in February.
In December, the weather features slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F), reaching a maximum of 24°C (75°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 78 mm (3.1 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 72%. In contrast, March sees a similar temperature range, with minimum temperatures of 11°C (53°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and maxima of 25°C (77°F). Notably, March is drier, with only 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain spread over just 6 days, and a humidity level of 66%. For more detailed weather information in March, you can visit Cartago weather in March.
December and April both have mild temperatures, but April tends to be slightly warmer, with average highs reaching 26°C (78°F) compared to December's 24°C (75°F). December sees a moderate level of precipitation at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 11 days, while April experiences significantly higher rainfall at 155 mm (6.1 in) across 23 days, indicating a wetter month. Additionally, humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with December at 72% and April slightly lower at 67%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can check Cartago weather in April.
December weather features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), combined with an average of 17°C (64°F). It experiences moderate precipitation levels of 78 mm (3.1 in) over about 11 days, and humidity sits at a relatively high 72%. In contrast, May sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), accompanied by a higher average of 18°C (65°F). However, May is notably wetter, with an impressive 532 mm (21.0 in) of rainfall spread across 29 days, while humidity drops slightly to 69%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Cartago weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (64°F). The month experiences 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 11 days and has a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, June is slightly warmer, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 25°C (76°F), and an average temperature of 18°C (66°F). However, it is also much wetter, receiving 399 mm (15.7 in) of rainfall over 29 days and a higher humidity of 84%. For more details on June's weather conditions, you can check Cartago weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, both months showcase similar maximum temperatures, peaking around 24°C (75°F). However, December offers a slightly cooler experience with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), coupled with lower humidity at 72%. In contrast, July sees a higher average minimum temperature of 14°C (57°F) and an increased humidity level of 85%. The most significant difference lies in precipitation; July is considerably wetter, with 315 mm (12.4 in) spread over 28 days, compared to December’s 78 mm (3.1 in) over just 11 days. For a deeper dive into the specifics of July weather, you can check Cartago weather in July.
In comparing the weather between December and August, December tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), and a total precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) over 11 days. In contrast, August experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), but it is significantly wetter, receiving 403 mm (15.9 in) of rainfall across 30 days. Additionally, August has higher humidity levels at 82%, compared to December's 72%. For a more detailed look at August weather in this region, you can visit Cartago weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, it is evident that both months showcase mild temperatures, though September tends to be slightly cooler overall. December experiences a minimum temperature of 12°C (54°F) and averages around 17°C (64°F), reaching a maximum of 24°C (75°F). In contrast, September has a slightly higher minimum of 14°C (57°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F).
However, when it comes to precipitation, December is relatively drier with 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain over 11 days, while September sees significantly more rain, totaling 508 mm (20.0 in) across nearly the entire month with rainfall on 30 days. Additionally, September's humidity is higher at 81%, compared to December's 72%. For more detailed information about the weather in September, you can visit Cartago weather in September.
December and October present contrasting weather conditions in terms of temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 17°C (64°F) and relatively lower humidity at 72%. Precipitation also sees a significant reduction, totaling 78 mm (3.1 in) over about 11 days. In contrast, October tends to be wetter and slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 24°C (76°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F). This month experiences much higher rainfall, accumulating 601 mm (23.7 in) over 30 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 80%. For more details on October weather, you can check out Cartago weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, we see a slight decrease in temperature, with December averaging 17°C (64°F) compared to November's 18°C (64°F). Both months experience maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F). However, December is notably drier, receiving only 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 11 days, while November is much wetter, with 272 mm (10.7 in) spread across 26 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in December at 72%, compared to November's 80%. For more detailed information on November's weather, visit Cartago weather in November.
As December rolls into Cartago, the weather begins to shift, presenting a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing humidity. This month stands out with its comfortable average temperatures, making it a pleasant time to explore the region. While December experiences a higher frequency of rain compared to the dry months, the precipitation brings life to the vibrant surroundings without overwhelming daily activities. With about 11 days of rain, the landscape flourishes, offering breathtaking views and a refreshing atmosphere. If you're curious about how the climate in Cartago compares throughout the year, be sure to check out Cartago Climate for a comprehensive look at the seasonal shifts.