Weather in La Fortuna

Planning a trip or already in the city of La Fortuna? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, detailed forecasts, and visual charts to help you plan your day.

La Fortuna in Costa Rica has a typical tropical climate, characterised by warm and fairly stable temperatures throughout the year. Average annual temperatures fluctuate within a comfortable range of approximately 22°C to 25°C. Daytime highs usually reach 25-29°C, and nighttime lows rarely drop below 19°C, creating pleasant conditions for visiting year-round; however, rainfall seasonality should be taken into account.

Two main seasons, defined by the amount of rainfall, are clearly distinguished in the climate of La Fortuna. The drier dry season usually falls between January and April. During these months, especially in February and March, the least amount of precipitation occurs, and the number of rainy days is noticeably lower compared to the rest of the year. Nevertheless, brief showers are possible even during this period.

Starting from May and continuing roughly until November-December, La Fortuna experiences a distinct rainy season. During these months, rainfall increases significantly, and the number of rainy days reaches its peak – in some months (June-October), it can rain almost daily. Despite this, temperatures remain high and comfortable, which is characteristic of a tropical rainforest.

Warm tropical weather prevails year-round in the city of La Fortuna with insignificant temperature fluctuations. Monthly average temperatures usually vary from 22.6°C in January to a peak value of 25.1°C in May. April often becomes the hottest month in terms of maximum daytime temperatures, when the thermometer can reach 28.9°C. December and January are considered the "coolest" months, although temperatures remain comfortable even then: average minimum values rarely drop below 19.3°C (recorded in February), and average maximums stay around 25.5°C - 25.7°C.

Speaking of seasonal features, the conditional "summer" period, covering the months from March to May, brings the highest temperatures. At this time, daytime heat can be quite palpable, especially in April, when average highs approach 29°C. In May, the average temperature is 25.1°C, while nights remain warm with minimum temperatures around 21.7°C. The "winter" period, from December to February, is characterised by milder weather. Average daytime temperatures hover around 22-23°C, and nighttime temperatures drop to a pleasant 19-20°C, creating comfortable conditions for evening walks.

Throughout the year, moderate diurnal temperature fluctuations are observed in La Fortuna. The difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows is usually between 5°C and 8°C. For example, in March, the average maximum reaches 27.6°C, and the minimum is 19.8°C, resulting in a difference of 7.8°C. In November, this difference is slightly smaller: 25.9°C during the day and 20.7°C at night (a 5.2°C difference). This means that even after a hot day, evenings and early mornings can bring refreshing coolness. Such consistently warm weather with predictable but not drastic changes makes La Fortuna an attractive destination for lovers of tropical climates at any time of the year.

In La Fortuna, located in Costa Rica, there is a distinct shift between wet and dry periods throughout the year. Understanding these seasonal fluctuations will help you better plan your trip and prepare for the weather conditions characteristic of this region.

The relatively dry season in La Fortuna usually falls in the period from February to March, although January and April are also characterised by less rainfall compared to the peak of the wet season. The driest months are February and March, when only about 1 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days is minimal – from 8 to 10. In January, about 3 mm of precipitation falls with 18 rainy days, and in April, rainfall increases slightly to 2 mm, while the number of days with rain is approximately 13.

The rainy season in La Fortuna gathers strength from May and continues roughly until November. The highest amount of precipitation falls in October (average 12 mm), followed by June (11 mm) and November (10 mm). A characteristic feature of this period is the very high frequency of rainfall: in June, July, August, and October, rains occur almost daily (29-30 rainy days per month). In May and November, a large number of days with precipitation is also observed – 25 and 28 respectively. This means that during the rainy season, rainfall is a regular occurrence, most often in the form of tropical showers.

When planning a trip to La Fortuna, keep in mind that a warm and humid tropical climate awaits you year-round. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C, so the basis of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will surely want to explore the surroundings. Do not forget sun protection: sunscreen with high SPF, a head covering (hat or cap), and sunglasses will become your faithful companions. It is also highly recommended to have insect repellent with you, especially for evening walks and nature hikes.

One of the key features of the weather in La Fortuna is the high probability of precipitation. Although rain is possible at any time of the year, the wet season is most pronounced, lasting roughly from May to November, peaking from June to October when rains can occur almost daily. Therefore, a waterproof jacket or a light poncho is an absolutely indispensable item in your suitcase. Clothing made from quick-drying materials will also be very practical. Even in the relatively drier months (from January to April), brief downpours are not uncommon, so light rain protection will always come in handy. The principle of layering clothing is useful here not so much for warmth, but for adapting to possible slight changes in temperature and humidity levels throughout the day.