Microclimates and life zones in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous for its microclimates: within a few kilometres you go from one climate to a completely different one. That is why your local forecast matters more than the country-wide one.

From the beach to the cloud forest

• Central Valley (San José, Heredia): spring-like climate all year, cool at night.
• North Pacific (Guanacaste): hot and dry, with surf beaches.
• Caribbean (Limón): warm and very rainy.
• Highlands and cloud forests (Monteverde, Cerro de la Muerte): cool, cloudy and, at the highest points, cold.

What to bring

If you travel around the country, be ready for the climate to change within hours: bring clothing for the heat, for rain and something warm for altitude.