Many travel companies advise avoiding tropical countries during the rainy season, and Costa Rica is no different. However, there is a common misconception about the wet and dry seasons. People often assume that the dry season means no rain, which is not the case!
Most of Costa Rica's top destinations are either surrounded by or located within rainforests, where it tends to rain year-round. The "dry season" from December to April is more accurately described as the "drier" season because it rains less, not because it doesn’t rain at all. While this period is often considered the best time to visit, it also comes with inflated prices that may stretch your budget.
The rainy season, affectionately known as the "green season," starts in May and offers a fantastic opportunity to travel to Costa Rica. Early in the green season, the hustle and bustle of peak season diminish, making accommodations more affordable and special offers more accessible. Additionally, flights are often cheaper during this period.
Traveling during the green season requires an open mind. The weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of daily rain, but you might also enjoy blue skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity. While dry weather is less likely, being prepared for rain can lead to a wonderful experience.
Read our guide for packing during Costa Rica’s rainy season.
Costa Rica is the adrenaline capital of Latin America, with many activities continuing regardless of the weather.
White-water rafting is a prime example—getting wet is part of the fun! Pacuare Lodge, accessible by the class III/VI rapids of the Pacuare River, offers an incredible eco-lodge experience in the central rainforest. Other notable rivers for rafting include those near Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park.
Surfing is another activity unaffected by rain. The Pacific and Caribbean coasts boast some of the best swells in Latin America, perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
The green season also offers unique wildlife opportunities.
The Caribbean coast hosts turtle nesting from late February through October. Tortuguero National Park is a top spot for turtle encounters, with leatherbacks peaking in April and May and green turtles in August and September. Hawksbill turtles nest along both coasts, primarily at Cahuita National Park and the Osa Peninsula.
Costa Rica boasts the longest whale-watching season in the world. Humpback whales migrate along the Pacific coast from August to November, with Manuel Antonio and the Osa Peninsula being prime locations for tours.
Contrary to popular belief, animals are not necessarily harder to spot during the rainy season. While they seek shelter when it rains, the lush foliage and abundant plant life during this time create more feeding grounds, potentially increasing your chances of wildlife sightings.
Wildlife watching in one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet. Explore tropical Tortuguero; home to tapirs, jaguars, monkeys, sloths and more. Witness and hike around the majestic, nearly perfectly conical, Arenal Volcano. Venture through the cloud forest and coffee plantations of Monteverde. Explore the wonders of the Osa Peninsula and relax overlooking the Golfo Dulce.
From 13000 per person
A thrilling eco-adventure through the jungles & beaches of Costa Rica spotting an abundance of wildlife and doing exhilarating activities such as ziplining and white water rafting.
From 11000 per person
Taking in the wildlife highlights of Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio National Parks and the Osa Peninsula. Costa Rica is synonymous with rainforests and tropical beauty, and on this trip we take you to the renowned ‘land of the turtles’ Tortuguero National Park, whose canals, rivers, beaches and lakes are a working laboratory of rain forest, freshwater, and marine biology. Experience the contrasting Pacific region in Manuel Antonio and Corcovado National Parks, with marine reserves, pristine beaches, snorkeling amongst rays and turtles in an ancient Indian burial ground and excellent primate-spotting, before completing your adventure with a day of beautiful waterfalls and coffee estates.
From 8500 per person
Explore tangled primary rainforest in the Osa Peninsula and encounter Capuchins, tree frogs and sloths in Corcovado. Unwind away from the crowds and explore the best of the natural world.
From 15500 per person
