As a tropical country, Nicaragua has two distinct seasons: the wet season, and the dry season, although the locals call these invierno (winter) and verano (summer). The rainy season lasts from May to October, and the wettest months are September until November. This time is also the Caribbean hurricane season, so heavy tropical storms are common. Between November and April is the dry season, although it still may rain during this time, from the occasional shower to a downpour lasting several days.
The driest Months are between March and May, which are also the hottest months. Temperatures here can rise to 100°F during the day in coastal areas. Temperature in Nicaragua varies with altitude, and in Pacific and Caribbean coast lowlands expect average temperatures between 72°F and 86°F. The central part of the country drops by about 10°F, and if you travel higher to the mountains it is another 10°F cooler, so maximum temperature here is about 66°F during the day.
Best Time to Visit Nicaragua
The best time to visit Nicaragua is probably December, January, and February, which are the beginning months of the dry season, before the weather gets too hot and dry. During the peak of the dry season, the trees and plants of Nicaragua start to dry out, so to see nature thriving it is better to head there earlier on.
The months of June, July, and August, are also nice, when the weather is cooler, and before the heavy rains start. During this time there is a significant reduction in numbers of tourists, so you will be able to beat the crowds when going on tours, although hotel rates remain the same year round in Nicaragua. Traveling during the months of September, October, and November is best avoided, since during this time the rain can cause mudslides in some areas and make some roads impassable. If you are in the coastal regions, or on the Corn Islands in the Caribbean, experiencing a tropical storm can be particularly unpleasant, and may delay forward travel plans.