Costa Rica Tours in January 2026

What our customers ask about Costa Rica Tours in January 2026

• What is the weather like in Costa Rica during January?

  January stands out as one of Costa Rica's finest months with clear skies during the dry season particularly in Guanacaste and Arenal. The Arenal region maintains temperatures around 19°C with a tropical climate that's ideal for outdoor exploration. At Arenal Paradise Resort & Spa visitors note the weather creates perfect conditions for thermal pool relaxation and volcano hikes. The Caribbean side near Tortuguero sees occasional rain showers keeping the rainforest environment rich and green.

• What accommodation options are available in Costa Rica for January trips?

  The peak January season presents varied lodging choices across the country. Visitors can select Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa in La Fortuna with direct views of Arenal Volcano. El Establo Hotel serves as a gateway to Monteverde's cloud forest while beachgoers find comfort at places like Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows on Playa Carrillo. "The Mountain Paradise Resort was perfectly located for January activities - close to hot springs and hiking trails with amazing volcano views from our balcony."

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

  Costa Rica comes alive with cultural celebrations in January. The Santa Cruz Fiestas brighten Guanacaste from January 14-16 with traditional bullfights folk dancing and regional food. San José hosts the Palmares Fiestas in mid-January bringing together horseback parades live music and carnival activities. "Experiencing the Palmares festival during our January tour added an incredible cultural dimension to our wildlife adventures."

• What are the top activities to do in Costa Rica during January?

  January weather creates optimal conditions for outdoor adventures. Arenal offers zip-lining waterfall rappelling and relaxation at Baldi Hot Springs. Monteverde Cloud Forest welcomes visitors for guided night walks and elevated bridge trails. The Nicoya Peninsula particularly Playa Tamarindo presents excellent surfing conditions. "January was perfect for learning to surf at Playa Guiones - the waves were consistent and the weather was sunny every day."

• Should I book my Costa Rica January tour in advance?

  January sees the highest tourist numbers making early reservations crucial. Popular accommodations such as Arenal Springs Resort and Si Como No in Manuel Antonio often reach capacity 3-4 months ahead. "We booked our January tour 6 months in advance and were glad we did - many hotels were already full and some activities had limited availability."

• How much should I budget for a Costa Rica trip in January?

  An 8-15 day January tour typically costs between USD 2000-4000 per person covering lodging some meals and guided experiences. Premium options like Arenal Paraiso Resort command higher rates. Additional activities range from zip-lining at USD 60-100 to hot springs visits at USD 40-70. "While January is peak season with higher prices the perfect weather and amazing wildlife viewing made it worth every penny."

• What wildlife can I typically spot in Costa Rica during January?

  January offers prime wildlife viewing throughout Costa Rica. Tortuguero National Park reveals howler monkeys toucans and caimans along its waterways. Monteverde Cloud Forest houses the resplendent quetzal 400-plus bird species and night creatures including pacas and tarantulas. "We saw so much wildlife in January - from sloths in Manuel Antonio to scarlet macaws in Carara Reserve and even spotted a mother and baby sloth near La Fortuna!"