When is the best time to visit the Central Pacific and Monteverde?

The best time to visit involves two key seasons. July to October is peak Humpback whale season in Marino Ballena National Park. December to March offers the best climate while whale season continues.

When is the best time to visit Guanacaste for sea turtles?

July to December is excellent for witnessing sea turtle nesting. Olive ridley sea turtles have mass nesting events (arribadas) in Ostional from July to November, peaking around the new moon.

What is the best time to visit the Northern Lowlands and Arenal?

November to April is the dry season, which brings clearer skies and great volcano views, making it perfect for hiking and adventure tours.

When is whale watching season in the Osa Peninsula?

There are two whale watching seasons in the Osa Peninsula. From July to October, humpback whales from the southern hemisphere arrive. From December to March, northern hemisphere humpback whales migrate to the warm waters.

When is the best time to visit the Caribbean Coast and Tortuguero?

Unlike the rest of Costa Rica, the Caribbean coast experiences its sunniest weather during September and October. Turtle hatching season in Tortuguero also happens from July to October.

DESTINATIONS

Explore Costa Rica
region by region

From misty cloud forests to vibrant coastal towns, discover the landscapes and ecosystems that make this country so diverse

Central Pacific and Monteverde

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast is where rainforest meets ocean. From the famous beaches of Manuel Antonio to the lively surf town of Jacó and the hidden waterfalls of Dominical, this region blends coastal fun with tropical wilderness. Adding to this vibrant mix is the cloud-shrouded cloudforest of Monteverde, where visitors can hike misty trails, stroll across hanging bridges, and spot rare wildlife.

Experience

Exclusive Adventure Journey in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

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Northern Costa Rica Birdwatching Experience

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Discovering the Tropics: 9-Day Costa Rica Family Tour

Best time to visit

July to October – Humpback whale season in the Marino Ballena National Park is at peak during these months!

December to March- Not only is the climate the best, whale season continues during these months.

Wildlife you may see

Capuchin, spider, howler monkeys
Sloths
Humpback whales and Dolphins in Marino Ballena National Park (best sightings from July to October and December to March)
Three-wattled Bellbird
Quetzals

Catamaran cruise along the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica

Lush rainforest trail in Costa Rica Central Pacific region

Guests on a catamaran tour off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica

Wildlife and nature in Costa Rica Central Pacific region

White sand beach on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica

The iconic Three-wattled Bellbird with its distinct white head and chestnut plumage, a highlight of Horizontes Nature Experiences cloud forest tours

Howler monkey in Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

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Guanacaste

Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region is sun-drenched and rich in cowboy culture. With its golden beaches, dry tropical forests, and vibrant fiestas, it’s a favorite destination for beach lovers and cultural explorers alike. With thermal rivers, volcanoes and vibrant beach towns Guanacaste truly encapsulates a lot of Costa Rican charm in its land.

Experience

Guanacaste Volcano & Beach Resort

Best time to visit

July to December – Guanacaste not only boasts the longest dry season in Costa Rica lasting from November to April, but it’s also one of the best times to witness sea turtle nesting. In Ostional and other secluded beaches along the Pacific coast, thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Wildlife you may see

Howler, Spider and Howler monkeys
White-tailed deer
Sea turtles (nesting in Playa Nancite and Playa Ostional: August to December)
Olive ridley sea turtles (mass nesting or arribadas in Ostional: July to November, peaking around the new moon)
Jaguars (especially around remote turtle nesting areas)

Aerial drone view of Guanacaste coastline, Costa Rica

Aerial drone view of northern Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Drone aerial view of Guanacaste landscape, Costa Rica

A Mottled Owl with large dark eyes resting camouflaged in a tree during the day, a special find with Horizontes Nature Experiences guides.

Tropical wildlife scene in Guanacaste Costa Rica

Natural scenery in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Wildlife in Guanacaste region, Costa Rica

Local culture and nature in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Panoramic view of Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste Costa Rica

Rincon de la Vieja forest and biodiversity, Costa Rica

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Nicoya Peninsula

Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is famous for its world-class surf, and vibrant sunsets. Stretching from lively beach towns like Santa Teresa to beautiful islands like Isla Venado and Isla Chira. With island hopping, sustainable oyster farms, bioluminescence and even San Lucas Island—once a prison and now a national park—Nicoya is an incredible destination for exploring less-traveled trails and stunning beaches.

Experience

Rafting and Surfing Adventure

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Costa Rica Family Adventure

Best time to visit

December to April – Expect sunny skies, ideal surf conditions, and dry beach weather all season long.

Wildlife you may see

Capuchin and howler monkeys
Scarlet Macaw
Boa Constrictor
Red eyed tree frog
Blue morpho butterfly
Manta rays

Nature and wildlife in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Natural landscape in Guanacaste Costa Rica

Nantipa boutique hotel on Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Nantipa beach resort with ocean views, Nicoya Peninsula Costa Rica

Nantipa eco-hotel experience, Nicoya Peninsula Costa Rica

Nantipa luxury lodge surroundings, Nicoya Peninsula Costa Rica

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Northern Lowlands

Costa Rica’s Northern Region is a land of volcanoes, rainforests, and natural hot springs. From the iconic Arenal Volcano to the mystical blue waters of Río Celeste, this area is perfect for adventure seekers and wellness travelers alike. It’s a destination where adrenaline, wildlife, and relaxation beautifully coexist. Located near the Nicaragua border the northern region offers prime birdwatching spots like Caño Negro or Sarapiquí, amazing alternatives if you prefer less crowds.

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Experience

Costa Rica Family Adventure

Best time to visit

November to April – The dry season brings clearer skies and great volcano views, perfect for hiking and adventure tours.

Wildlife you may see

Two-toed and three-toed sloths
Blue Jean Frog
Grey-cowled Wood Rail
Toucans
Jabirú Stork

Lake Arenal panoramic view with mountains and tropical forest, Costa Rica nature tour highlight

Northern Lowlands wildlife and nature, Costa Rica

Northern Lowlands nature scene, Costa Rica

Natural landscape in Northern Lowlands, Costa Rica

5 day itinerary man looking at volcanoe in costa rica

Elisa at Arenal Volcano, Northern Lowlands Costa Rica

Cerro Chato and Arenal Volcano, Northern Lowlands Costa Rica

Wildlife and nature in Northern Lowlands, Costa Rica

Northern Lowlands nature and biodiversity, Costa Rica

Northern Costa Rica wildlife on nature tour

Maleku indigenous community cultural presentation, Costa Rica

Tabacon hot springs and nature adventure, Arenal Costa Rica

Tabacon Nature Adventure experience near Arenal Volcano

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Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula is wild, remote, and teeming with life. Home to Corcovado National Park, it’s one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. From dense jungles to untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters, this region offers deep nature immersion for true adventurers. The Osa Peninsula harbors incredible wildlife not only on land but also in the sea. It’s one of the best places to watch whales and dolphins and to snorkel near Caño Island.

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Experience

Birdwatching Journey Through Costa Rica

Best time to visit

June to December – Experience the peak of whale watching season in the Osa Peninsula, especially around Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park, where humpback whales from the southern hemisphere arrive to breed and give birth.

This period also marks the sea turtle nesting season, with beaches like Playa Carate and Playa Madrigal serving as vital nesting sites for olive ridley, green, and hawksbill turtles.

December to March – Northern hemisphere humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off the Osa Peninsula, offering another window for unforgettable whale watching tours in this remote and biodiverse region.

Wildlife you may see

Jaguar and Puma
Howler and Capuchin Monkeys
Tapirs
Humpback whales (best sightings from July to October and December to March)
Sea turtles (nesting from June to December)
Dolphins (year-round)

Coati and capuchin monkeys on Costa Rica wildlife tour

Collared peccary on jungle trail, Osa Peninsula Costa Rica

Lush primary rainforest in Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

Primary forest canopy in Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula

Coati and capuchin monkeys in tropical forest, Osa Peninsula

Slaty-tailed Trogon with its bright red belly perched in the canopy, a beautiful addition to Horizontes Nature Experiences tours.

Wildlife encounter in Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula

Tropical wildlife in Corcovado National Park rainforest

A Yellow-throated Toucan perched on a damp branch, a magnificent sighting on a Horizontes Nature Experiences birdwatching journey.

Rare wildlife sighting in Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

White tip reef shark encountered diving near Osa Peninsula Costa Rica

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San Jose & Central Valley Highlands

Costa Rica’s Central Valley is where culture, history, and nature converge. Anchored by the capital city of San José, this region is the gateway to volcanoes, coffee plantations, and artisan towns. It’s a great place to start your Costa Rican journey and get a feel for the country’s heart and soul. San Gerardo de Dota and Turrialba are top birdwatching destinations located just two hours from San José.

Experience

Birdwatching Journey Through Costa Rica

Experience

Secluded Luxury Adventure

Best time to visit

January to July- Spot the resplandesent quetzal in San Gerardo de Dota and enjoy nice temperatures in the city.

Wildlife you may see

Resplendent quetzals
Hummingbirds
Red-headed Barbet
Morpho Butterfly
Collared Trogon

Central Valley Highlands landscape, Costa Rica

Irazu Volcano principal crater in Central Valley Highlands, Costa Rica

Wildlife in Central Valley Highlands, Costa Rica

Natural scenery in Central Valley Highlands, Costa Rica

Costa Rica cloud forest in Central Valley region

San Jose and Central Valley Highlands, Costa Rica

A small hummingbird with green feathers and a peach-colored chest perched on a purple flower bud with a blurred green background.

A small yellow bird with black streaks on its wings perched on a green leaf with a blurred natural background.

Central Valley region nature and culture, Costa Rica

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Tortuguero and South Caribbean

Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is a vibrant fusion of Afro-Caribbean culture, lush rainforests, and untamed beaches. From Puerto Viejo to the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero, this region offers a distinct experience. The area’s Creole and Indigenous heritage, make it a unique part of the country that feels worlds apart. The Caribbean coast is home to protected sea turtle nesting sites in Tortuguero and some of the best beaches in the country. These beaches are also known for their rock formations that create natural sea pools, along with stunning coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, especially in places like Cahuita. The Caribbean coast is also celebrated for having some of the best food in Costa Rica—dishes like rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, rondon (a hearty seafood stew), and patí (a spicy meat pastry) reflect the region’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Best time to visit

July to October – Unlike the rest of Costa Rica, the Caribbean coast experiences its sunniest weather during the green season, and turtle hatching season happens in Tortuguero during these months!

Wildlife you may see

Green sea turtles (nesting in Tortuguero: July to October)
Leatherback sea turtles (March to June)
Great green macaws
Sloths (both two- and three-toed)
Howler monkeys
Manatees and Otters (in remote coastal wetlands)

Green sea turtle nesting on Tortuguero beach, Costa Rica

Colorful Caribbean coastal town of Puerto Viejo, South Caribbean Costa Rica

Kayaking through Tortuguero canal waterway, Costa Rica

Lush Tortuguero National Park canal and rainforest, Costa Rica

Caribbean beach at Puerto Viejo, South Caribbean Costa Rica

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"Horizontes is top notch This is our second trip with Horizontes and was equally impressed both trips. Everything arranged was on time, top shelf and the best experiences. They were super easy to work with. Just gave them a region and general ideas of what we like to do. They created a plan, worked with us as we tweaked activities a bit and it ended up to be perfect. The boutique hotel and tours were staffed with extremely nice and helpful staff, making everything great. We will definitely use them again!"

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Explore Costa Ricaregion by region

Central Pacific and Monteverde

Experience

Exclusive Adventure Journey in Costa Rica

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Experience

Northern Costa Rica Birdwatching Experience

Experience

Discovering the Tropics: 9-Day Costa Rica Family Tour

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Guanacaste

Experience

Guanacaste Volcano & Beach Resort

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Nicoya Peninsula

Experience

Rafting and Surfing Adventure

Experience

Costa Rica Family Adventure

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Northern Lowlands

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Experience

Costa Rica Family Adventure

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Osa Peninsula

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Experience

Birdwatching Journey Through Costa Rica

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

San Jose & Central Valley Highlands

Experience

Birdwatching Journey Through Costa Rica

Experience

Secluded Luxury Adventure

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Tortuguero and South Caribbean

Experience

Costa Rica Highlights: Nature, Wildlife & Volcanoes Tour

Best time to visit

Wildlife you may see

Add another country to your Costa Rica adventure

Crafted by Experts, Backed by Experience

Designed by local experts

Tailored to your journey

Sustainable by design

Recognition & Affiliations

Explore Costa Rica
region by region