Costa Rica Geography Profile 2012

A relatively wide plain makes up the Caribbean coast; a narrower one parallels the Pacific shore. Lying between them is a mountain chain, consisting of four ranges and numerous volcanoes, both active and dormant. The mountains are low in the north, but increase to elevations of more than 11,000 feet (3,350 m) in the central and southern sections. The highest peak, Chirripó, rises to 12,533 feet (3,820 m). In the mountains, near the center of the country, is a broad valley called the Meseta Central. It is the most heavily populated part of the country.

Costa Rica's climate is influenced by the country's tropical location, adjacent warm ocean waters, and elevation. Average temperatures vary from about 80° F. (27° C.) in the lowlands to about 65° F. (18° C.) in parts of the mountains. There is little day-to-day or seasonal variation of temperature. Rainfall is abundant and occurs mainly from May through November.