The sunny dry months from Dec-Apr are the best time to explore the country's spectacular rainforests and sandy shorelines. It's the time of the vibrant fiestas taking place across the country, featuring dancing and live music. You will need to book many months in advance, as this is an ideal winter break for travellers from North America and Europe.

There is more rain making conditions muddy and some roads difficult to pass. There is a sweet spot around July to August, when there are many tourists flocking to catch sight of the country's natural wildlife without getting drenched.

This is the best time to visit the Caribbean coast, though there are risks of hurricanes.

The rest of Costa Rica gets so much rain that lodges will often close down. Rural roads can be impassable due to river crossings.

Storms bring swells to the Pacific making ideal conditions for surfing.