Costa Rica year-round guide

North America · September

Best time to visit Costa Rica in September 🇨🇷

September in Costa Rica is shoulder season — mixed conditions. a shoulder-season pick — quieter and cheaper, but expect mixed weather or a few closures.

Last updated June 2026

Is September a good time to visit Costa Rica? Quick answer

Workable — shoulder season with mixed conditions.

Verdict for SeptemberShoulder season — mixed conditions
Peak months overallJanuary, February, March, April, December
Insider tipGreen season has half the prices and a quarter the crowds — most days have only afternoon rain.

Costa Rica year at a glance

best
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off-season
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The absolute peak months for Costa Rica are January, February, March, April, December. September is a solid shoulder choice if you want fewer crowds.

What Costa Rica is like in September

Dec–Apr dry & sunny. May–Nov green season — afternoon rain, lower prices. Caribbean coast on its own schedule (driest Sep–Oct).

Insider tip

Green season has half the prices and a quarter the crowds — most days have only afternoon rain.

FAQs: Costa Rica in September

Is September a good time to visit Costa Rica?

It's a shoulder month: workable but mixed. September in Costa Rica is shoulder season — mixed conditions. Weather varies by region — check the regional breakdown on this page.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in September?

September weather in Costa Rica varies by region. Dec–Apr dry & sunny. May–Nov green season — afternoon rain, lower prices. Caribbean coast on its own schedule (driest Sep–Oct).

What events or festivals happen in Costa Rica in September?

September is a quieter month for major nationwide festivals in Costa Rica — focus on regional events and seasonal food.

Are flights and hotels cheaper in Costa Rica in September?

Outside the peak months (January, February, March, April, December), prices generally drop and crowds thin out.

Should I book Costa Rica in advance for September?

You can usually book closer to your travel dates in September — supply is plenty and prices stay reasonable.