Costa Rica Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Costa Rica Tours in December 2025

• How busy is Costa Rica in December and should I book in advance?

  Costa Rica experiences peak tourism in December particularly during the holiday season. Tour data shows 13-23 bookings per tour during this period. Popular accommodations like El Establo in Monteverde and Los Lagos in Arenal often reach full capacity. For the best selection of tours activities and hotels booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended especially for sought-after experiences like rafting and zip-lining adventures.

• What are the best outdoor activities to do in Costa Rica during December?

  December's favorable weather sets the stage for Costa Rica's signature outdoor pursuits. The Pacuare River welcomes rafters with class III-IV rapids. Monteverde's Cloud Forest provides zip-line courses that stretch through the canopy. Near La Fortuna visitors can trek around Arenal Volcano then unwind in the thermal pools at Baldi Hot Springs. A TourRadar traveler reports: "The zip-lining was the longest and scariest the rappelling was great fun and the horseback riding was a two-hour ride of hills valleys and rivers."

• What's the weather like in Costa Rica during December?

  December signals the beginning of Costa Rica's dry season with reliable weather in key destinations like Arenal and Manuel Antonio. Monteverde Cloud Forest maintains temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) while coastal regions such as Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo see temperatures of 85-90°F (29-32°C). A TourRadar traveler noted about their December visit: "The weather was amazing the wildlife was amazing and the tour guides were amazing."

• What's the best region to visit in Costa Rica during December?

  The Pacific Coast stands out in December with Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo offering consistent sunshine and minimal rainfall. The Arenal area provides clear volcano views and optimal conditions for outdoor activities. One TourRadar traveler shared: "We loved everything about Arenal and Samara especially. The combination of volcano views hot springs and beach time was perfect." Consider stays at Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows in Tamarindo or Los Lagos Resort in Arenal.

• Are there any special festivals or events in Costa Rica during December?

  December brings notable celebrations across Costa Rica. San Jose hosts the Festival de la Luz with illuminated parade floats and music performances. The Fiestas de Zapote runs December 25th through early January featuring traditional bull runs carnival attractions and food festivals. Hotels like Hotel Autentico in San Jose provide convenient access to these events. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The Costa Rican people were very friendly and gave exceptional service everywhere we went especially during the festival season."

• What are the best beaches to visit in Costa Rica during December?

  December presents ideal beach conditions on both coasts. Manuel Antonio National Park combines pristine beaches with wildlife encounters. Tamarindo and Flamingo beaches in Guanacaste create perfect settings for surfing and swimming. A TourRadar traveler observed: "The sunsets from the coast which are best viewed from the beach are spectacular and have to be seen to be believed."

• What's the price range for Costa Rica tours in December?

  December tour prices typically span from 1299 USD to 3250 USD per person averaging 175-338 USD daily. These rates cover stays at properties like Pachira Lodge in Tortuguero or Arenal Paraiso Resort guided activities select meals and inter-destination transfers. Prices vary based on tour duration and included services.