March in Costa Rica falls during the dry season, making it an ideal trip for those looking for sunshine. While March isn’t traditionally considered the high season, spring break puts it in the high-season pricing category. Read on to learn more about planning a trip to Costa Rica in March.
What is the Weather Like in Costa Rica in March?
It’s hard to beat Costa Rica in March, with its sunny days, warm evenings, and starry nights. As mentioned above, March falls in Costa Rica’s dry season, or verano as locals call it, which lasts from mid-December to early May.
Temperatures in March in Costa Rica are comparably warm to hot across the country. Coastal areas, especially along the Pacific, usually experience temperatures from the mid-80s to the low 90s. In the Central Valley, including San José, temperatures are more moderate, ranging from the low 70s to the low 80s. Nights are generally cooler and pleasant, especially in higher elevations.
March is one of the driest months in Costa Rica. Rain is rare in most regions, especially along the Pacific coast and the Central Valley. If there is any rain, it usually occurs as a brief, light shower that does not last long. The dry weather results in plenty of sunshine, ideal for spending your days at the beach.
Video: What it’s Like Visiting Costa Rica in March
National Holidays, Festivals & Events
Holy Week (2nd Half of March or 1st Half of April)
Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is the week that leads up to Easter Sunday. The dates for Holy Week fluctuate from year to year, between late March and early April. As Semana Santa is one of the most significant holidays in Latin America, it’s vital to know ahead of time when considering a trip to Costa Rica during the spring. During Semana Santa, locals and visitors flock to the beaches in mass to celebrate the holiday. In addition to the Semana Santa crowds, spring breakers travel in mass to Costa Rica during the Spring, so expect crowds in March and limited availability on tours and excursions.
With more than 75% of Costa Rica identifying as Catholic, this holiday is a deeply religious event for many Ticos. Beginning with Palm Sunday and lasting through Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Catholic churches begin to hold processionals through the streets, with elaborate mannequins of Jesus and other characters from the Biblical story of Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Fiestas de Palmares
Held in early March, this festival in Palmares features traditional bullfighting, live music, dancing, and plenty of food and drinks.
What to Pack for a March Trip
For a March trip to Costa Rica, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for the warm, sunny weather. Include a rain jacket for potential showers, a light sweater for cooler evenings, and hiking clothes for outdoor adventures. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic toiletries. Bring a daypack, reusable water bottle, dry bag for day trips, travel documents, cash, and a portable charger. Optional items include snorkeling gear, binoculars, and a camera for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife. Check out our detailed Costa Rica Packing List article.
Pros to visiting Costa Rica in March
- The sunny weather is perfect for visiting the beach
- It’s easy to visit even in the most remote of locations due to dry roads
- The consistently dry weather means you can plan your activities ahead of time.
Cons to visiting Costa Rica in March
- Temperatures are at their highest this time of year.
- High-season pricing on accommodations and activities.
- Spring break and Easter can collide to create the perfect storm of overcrowded beaches and accommodations with peak-season pricing.
Things to Do & Where to Go in Costa Rica in March
- Catch sight of the Quetzal bird – The dry season makes certain back-country roads and cloud forest trails easy to travel, which allows admirers closer access to Costa Rica’s vibrantly-colored and exotic birds.
- Catamaran & Snorkel Cruise – Head out to sea and experience the magic of Costa Rica’s sunsets from aboard a beautiful catamaran after a day exploring the underwater world.
- Attend a Semana Santa religious service or procession – Immerse yourself in Tico Culture during Easter week.
- Overnight White-Water Rafting trip on the Pacuare River – Join a certified, professional crew of white-water rafting guides to journey down the Pacuare River and then spend the night under the stars in the surrounding biological corridor Jungle Camp.
- Manuel Antonio: This national park offers pristine beaches with a lush rainforest backdrop and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike around the base of the Arenal Volcano and relax in nearby hot springs after a day of adventure.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: Explore the misty cloud forests, walk along suspension bridges, and visit the butterfly gardens in Monteverde.
The Bottom Line on March in Costa Rica
March offers endless sunshine and tropical weather. However, crowds are a factor during spring break, and travelers and Semana Santa may encounter high-season pricing. The Easter holiday celebrations can seriously impact travel, so plan accordingly.