Each year, travelers discover what industry insiders have been saying: September is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica. While September and October are the tail end of the rainy season, the weather can be a bit unpredictable, and heavy rains are expected. With proper planning, visiting Costa Rica in September can be an unforgettable experience. As North America’s fall begins, schools in the US start, and summer travelers return home, Costa Rica travel becomes significantly less crowded, allowing for a more intimate travel experience.
Additionally, traveling to Costa Rica in September is an excellent idea for those wanting to visit the Caribbean side of the country. During September, the Caribbean coast experiences a miniature dry season and even sees a record number of Sunny days. If you’re considering planning a trip to Costa Rica in September, continue reading below.
What the Weather is like in Costa Rica in September
In the Central Valley and the Pacific Coast, the climate during September is pretty wet. While precipitation levels are high, there’s still plenty to do, and the increased rainfall results in a lush, green tropical landscape. Conversely, the Caribbean side of the country experiences a miniature dry season during September, when days are sunnier and dryer than typical.
Rainfall
While the rainfall in September is significant, as mentioned above, it varies significantly by region. For example, Guanacaste (Northern Pacific) can see up to 11 inches of rain and 20 rainy days in September. Similarly, San Jose will see up to 12 inches of rain with 22 rainy days. Quepos (Central Pacific Coast) sees up to 10 inches of rainfall with around 23 rainy days. Limón sees just 9.8 inches of rain in the Caribbean, with 18 rainy days.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean side has a different weather pattern and can experience a mini dry season in September, resulting in less rain compared to the rest of the country. This makes it a great destination during this time.
Temperature
Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm. Coastal areas typically experience highs in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-33°C) and lows in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-27°C). In higher elevations such as Monteverde or the Central Valley, temperatures are cooler, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C) and nighttime lows in the 60s Fahrenheit (15-20°C).ea tends to be calmer, making it ideal for water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Holidays, Festivals & Places to Visit
Independence Day / Dia de la Independencia (September 15th)
The 15 de septiembre (September 15th) is celebrated universally throughout the country and marks the anniversary of Costa Rican independence from Spain in 1821. Costa Rica achieved its independence in a nonviolent revolution, where independence was issued after a letter was delivered from the Central American capital of Guatemala declaring independence for Costa Rica. With no Costa Rican lives lost, the event foreshadowed Costa Rica’s current pacifist culture.
Each September 15th, stores, businesses, and schools close their doors so that the community can celebrate its culture. Babies are dressed in miniature colonial attire or the national colors of red, blue, and white. Parades of schoolchildren flow through town squares, playing patriotic songs.
While the Independence Day celebrations in Costa Rica are tame compared to July 4th, they’re still worth experiencing for travelers. Most stores and businesses will be closed on September 15th, and public transportation will be minimal, but large supermarkets will likely stay open.
The whole month, specifically the week surrounding September 15th, is focused on the Independence festivities. Stores are decorated floor to ceiling with national pride, proudly displaying red, blue, and white colors.
Parade of Lanterns (September 14th)
The Parade of the Lanterns (Desfile de los Faroles), celebrated on the evening of September 14th, is another independence celebration not to be missed. On the eve of Independence Day, schoolchildren and their families carry, often elaborate, homemade lanterns and parade around the town center. This ceremony reenacts the Guatemalans’ celebration of the announcement of their independence when they lit up the town.
What to Pack
If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica in September, prepare for rain. In the tropics, rain is a reality most days, so pack a raincoat, travel umbrella, and water-resistant footwear. Consider bringing waterproof alternatives to any travel gear, luggage, or backpacks you use daily. While rain is expected, the sun will peak out, so bring plenty of sun protection. If visiting the Caribbean side of the country, bring polarized sunglasses, a hat with a broad brim, and high-quality sunscreen. For more information on what to pack for a trip to Costa Rica, visit our detailed Costa Rica Packing List article.
Why Visit Costa Rica in September
Despite the rainy season, September has its perks. Visitors can enjoy lively, green landscapes, increased wildlife activity, and fewer tourists. During September, the Caribbean coast experiences a mini dry season, and visitors can explore Tortuguero National Park’s canals and witness the nesting of green sea turtles. The Monteverde cloud forest comes alive with the rainfall, making it an excellent time of year for hiking and canopy tours. Head to La Fortuna and chase waterfalls while they’re at their fullest. There’s always something to do in Costa Rica, no matter the weather. Despite the rain, the temperatures remain pleasantly tropical, and the light crowds make for an entirely different Costa Rica travel experience.
Top 5 Things to Do in Costa Rica in September
- 15 de Septiembre – If you are in Costa Rica in September, it’ll be hard to miss the Independence Day Celebrations. Seeing hundreds of schoolchildren and families as they parade through town, banging on their drums, and trying to stay in formation is a one-of-a-kind travel experience.
- Visit the Caribbean – The Caribbean is a less developed and (some say) more unique part of the country. Spend the day floating in the turquoise sea, then order a plate of fresh coconut-battered fish and fries under the starry evening sky.
- Watch Migrating Birds—Join a trained ornithologist to spot migrating birds as they make their way south across the majestic Costa Rican canopy.
- Sea Turtle Hatching Observation – Visit Tortuguero and take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch sea turtles hatch on the sand and then crawl into the sea.
- Relax in Natural Hot Springs – Take advantage of the rainy season by soaking in the natural hot springs around Arenal Volcano. The hot springs are even more enjoyable with the cooler, wet weather, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst lush, green surroundings.
Pros to Visiting Costa Rica in September
- Costa Rica travel becomes significantly less crowded
- The Caribbean side of the country tends to be dryer than the rest of the country
- Experience Independence Day Celebrations on the 15th of September
Cons to Visiting Costa Rica in September
- Weather can be a bit unpredictable
- In the Central Valley and the Pacific Coast, the climate is often wet
The Bottom Line on September in Costa Rica
Despite higher precipitation levels, September is a great month to visit Costa Rica. With fewer tourists, lower prices, and cooler weather, traveling to Costa Rica in September is one of the best ways to experience the country. In the Caribbean, visitors are more likely to have sun and clear skies in September. And though it can occasionally result in slower transportation services, the Costa Rican Independence Day on September 15th is an incredible national event not to be missed! Contact us below if we can help you plan a trip.