Costa Rica Weather in October 2025: Green and Rainy

October is very much part of Costa Rica's "green"season. This is a period marked by constant rains and resulting lush landscapes.

However, October is one of the last months of the country's wet season that typically runs from May to November. It's also important to keep in mind that not every region in the country is marked by rains during this time.

The Caribbean coast is very much dry during October, as are some northern parts on the Pacific side. Daily temperatures, too, will start to ease off during this month, as compared to the preceding months of the rainy period. Average October temperatures range from maximums of 30°C (86°F) to minimums of 16°C (61°F) in the country.

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica in October, you'll be delighted to read that it is neither crowded nor expensive to do so during the rainy season. Compared to the high season, October is largely lacking in huge tourist numbers and these generally low numbers result in favorable flight and accommodation costs for those who do end up visiting the country.

If you plan on visiting the drier Caribbean coast during October, you'll likely have to plan for both dry and wet weather conditions, as most other parts of Costa Rica experience moderate to heavy rainfall during the month. A comprehensive packing list that is well-equipped to handle all weather conditions for an October trip to Costa Rica includes the following items: quick-drying shorts and tops, a few dresses, a trusted raincoat or poncho, lightweight pants or capris, insect repellant, tennis shoes, sandals, swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and a pair of binoculars that'll prove handy for spotting wildlife.

To better understand what Costa Rica is like when it comes to climate and weather conditions during the month of October, continue reading below.

Costa Rica Weather in October: Overview

• Average temperature range: 16°C (61°F) – 30°C (86°F)
• Rainfall: 480 mm (19 inches) in San Jose; 910 mm (36 inches) in Manuel Antonio; 330 mm (13 inches) in Puerto Viejo.
• Rainy days: 22 in San Jose; 21 in Manuel Antonio; 20 in Puerto Viejo.

June to November marks the hurricane period in Costa Rica. As such, if you're traveling in the country during October, it's a wise idea to stay on top of things by checking local and national weather reports whenever possible. Although Costa Rica is rarely hit by hurricanes given its unique latitudinal position, hurricanes developing in the region can sometimes develop into tropical storms that may touch the country.

The average temperatures in October will vary from place to place and depend on where you are. Temperatures hit highs of 24°C (75°F) in San Jose, 27°C (81°F) in Manuel Antonio, and 29°C (84°F) in Puerto Viejo. Temperatures touch lows of 16°C (61°F) in San Jose, 23°C (73°F) in Manuel Antonio, and 24°C (75°F) in Puerto Viejo.

If you're looking to relax amidst the natural greenery brought on by the rains, whilst also looking to move around in search of some sun and beach time, October is a great time to be visiting Costa Rica! What's more, prices are good and there are far fewer tourists in the country during this month.

Weather of Costa Rica's Major Cities in October

Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in October

1.Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park in Limon Province remains dry and sunny for most of October. Not only is the weather here exceptional during this time of the year, but October is also one of the last months of the turtle nesting season. You'll be able to see the turtles laying their eggs and if you're lucky, even babies hatching. It's an incredible experience and something you definitely shouldn't miss if you plan to visit Costa Rica in October. What's more, hotel occupancy rates are generally low in Tortuguero around October, so you don't have to worry about paying over the odds for what will surely be an unforgettable memory.

2.Puerto Viejo

You can make your way from Tortuguero National Park and head further south on the Caribbean coast to spend some time in pristine Puerto Viejo, located close to the Panamanian border. While most of Costa Rica experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during October, Puerto Viejo offers you the chance to get away from it all and soak up some sun while relaxing on the beach. It's sunny and gorgeous, and you'll get to spend the days swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the town by biking around.

3.Monteverde

While Monteverde certainly sees signs of rainfall in October, it's nowhere near as wet as it is during the height of Costa Rica's rainy season. The region is a lush, green, paradise and if you're into wildlife spotting, there are very few places in the country better than Monteverde. You'll be treated to sights of quetzals, monkeys, and sloths but just make sure you carry a raincoat or poncho with you during your visit here.

October Crowds and Costs

The rainy October days result in far fewer visitors to the Central American paradise that is Costa Rica. Even popular destinations like Monteverde and Manuel Antonio are largely free of huge groups of tourists during this time, meaning you can have as private and relaxing a visit as can be hoped.

Costs associated with traveling to, and within, Costa Rica remain low during October as well. Not only are flights and hotels easily available during the month, but they also cost a fraction of what they would during the first quarter of the year. To get the best possible deals, though, make sure you book your flights and hotels as early as you can.

October Events in Costa Rica

Caribbean Carnival: Every year, the coastal town of Puerto Viejo commemorates the historic arrival of Christopher Columbus to its shores by having a 12-day long carnival. It's a fabulously fun time and Ticos and Ticas celebrate the day by partaking in live music, Mardi Gras-style parades, parties, and dances. The Caribbean Carnival is a beautiful display of the region's Afro-Caribbean roots and traditions, and usually takes place from October 11-22, although dates can differ slightly year to year.

What to Wear in Costa Rica in October

While the Caribbean coast does remain dry, it may be hard to avoid the rains entirely if you're in other parts of Costa Rica during October. That being said, it's very easy to still have a good time, and good planning and preparation with packing goes a long way in ensuring this. If you do plan to visit the drier Caribbean side, just remember that you'll have to be packing for both dry and wet weather conditions.

Ideally, a thorough and comprehensive packing list that is suitable for all weather conditions for October in Costa Rica should include: quick-drying shorts and tops, lightweight pants or capris, a few evening dresses, a good quality raincoat or poncho, insect repellant, tennis shoes, sturdy sandals, swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and binoculars for spotting wildlife.

Explore Costa Rica with Global Highlights

If you're reading this, you're probably planning your dream vacation to gorgeous Costa Rica!  That's just perfect because our travel experts here at Global Highlights go above and beyond in making sure your itinerary is as well planned yet personal as you like. We take immense pride in making sure you have a memorable time in Costa Rica, and we use our expertise and attention to detail to curate trips for you and your loved ones that are both unique and dreamy. We'll keep everything from weather conditions to special interests in mind, so that you can just relax and take in the good times!