What December is like in Guanacaste
December marks the return of the dry season, with rain tapering off and sunny days becoming the norm again by mid-month. It's also peak holiday travel season, so book tours and transfers early.
Where to go in December
Bijagua
A quiet mountain village at the gateway to Tenorio Volcano National Park and Río Celeste.
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Guanacaste
Costa Rica's Pacific province — dry forests, volcanic peaks and pristine Pacific beaches.
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La Fortuna & Arenal
Volcano scenery, hanging bridges, wildlife and hot springs in Costa Rica’s adventure capital.
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Monteverde
The jewel in the crown of Costa Rica's cloud forests.
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Papagayo
Luxury resorts, quiet bays and easy access to Guanacaste adventures.
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Playas del Coco
A convenient beach town with restaurants, live music and easy day-trip access.
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Playa Hermosa
A calm Guanacaste beach with a relaxed atmosphere near Papagayo and Coco.
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Rincón de la Vieja
Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls and high-energy adventures close to Liberia.
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Río Celeste
A turquoise river flowing through Tenorio Volcano National Park — one of Costa Rica's most magical natural wonders.
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Sámara
A relaxed beach district on Guanacaste's Nicoya Peninsula.
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Tamarindo
Costa Rica's buzzing Pacific surf town on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Explore →Recommended tours for December
2-Hour ATV Mountain Ride
Two hours of private ATV adventure through unpaved mountain roads and dry forest terrain in Guanacaste. Off-the-beaten-track riding with a certified bilingual guide — exclusively for your group.
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Celeste River Hike & Tenorio National Park
Private full-day hike to Río Celeste — the nearly opaque aquamarine blue river at Tenorio Volcano National Park. Lunch and national park fee included. Passport details required for all guests.
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Waterfall Lovers Tour Costa Rica
Private Costa Rica waterfall and jungle tour. Discover hidden waterfalls with a certified local guide, exclusively for your group. Book via WhatsApp with Wild Papagayo.
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Monteverde Treetop Walk
Private full-day Monteverde Cloud Forest treetop walk — suspension bridges at canopy level with zip line (Classic option) or reptiles exhibition, butterfly garden and sloth sanctuary (Plus option). Breakfast and lunch included.
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Congo Trail Half-Day Adventure
Six zip lines, hanging bridges, 45 minutes on ATV and horseback riding through Guanacaste dry forest. Half-day private adventure at Congo Trail with certified bilingual guide.
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Floating at Tenorio River Safari Float
Private Class 1-2 safari float down the Tenorio River — giant kapok trees, wildlife, Llanos de Cortez Waterfall. Option to add Las Pumas Rescue Center. Lunch and fruit break included.
View Experience →December travel guides
Playa Coco vs Samara: Which Beach Town Is Better for Your Costa Rica Vacation?
Playa Coco is livelier and closer to the airport; Samara is mellower and more scenic. Which fits your trip depends on the pace you want in Guanacaste.
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Rental Car vs Private Driver in Guanacaste: Honest Guide
A balanced, locally-informed look at whether renting a car or hiring a private driver makes more sense for your Guanacaste trip, covering cost, insurance, roads and flexibility.
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Best Waterfalls Near Papagayo: Which Day Trip to Pick
A local look at the best waterfall day trips from Papagayo, comparing drive time, walking difficulty, swimming access and how each changes between green and dry season.
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Costa Rica With an 11-Month-Old: Where Should You Stay?
Planning a first Costa Rica vacation with a baby can feel overwhelming. Here is an honest comparison of the weather, accommodations and easiest areas for a relaxed family trip.
Read Article →Plan your Costa Rica in December experience with a local expert.
Private transportation, personalized tours and practical advice in one conversation.