Rainy Season Can Be A Great Time to Visit Costa Rica Challenging the Myths

by Terry Carlile

Perhaps some of the myths and misconceptions can be challenged with this information about the rainy season in Costa Rica. For starters, these are some reasons why the rainy season can be a great time to visit this amazing country:

• Fewer crowds

• Open availability

• Lower prices

• More wildlife

Yes, of course the chances of rain increase, depending on which region of Costa Rica you are visiting. You might have rain on any given day or not. There could be a thunderstorm or two the same day — morning or evening. Sometimes you might even experience all-day-long showers if certain atmospheric conditions exist.

Costa Rica’s rainy season — also known as the green season — typically spans the months from May to November. It can provide a unique experience in Costa Rica. The weather during this period is characterized by afternoon showers and short spells of rain. It can be a wonderful time to experience Costa Rica’s lush green forests, stunning waterfalls, and swollen rivers.

During the rainy season, it’s essential to prepare for the changes that come with the weather. The increased rainfall can often result in flooding and landslides, thus causing roadblocks and delays. It is advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your travel accordingly. It’s also important to dress appropriately for the rainy weather, with comfortable waterproof clothing and shoes. Also be sure to take measures to protect yourself against mosquito bites, which tend to increase during the rainy season.

The rainy season favorably affects the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. The increased rainfall results in new growth, which in return attracts more wildlife. The rainfall can also make it easier to spot exotic animals such as monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. However, some attractions may be limited or closed due to the weather.

For instance, some hiking trails might close due to conditions created by rain or rivers rising to dangerous levels. It is, therefore, important to keep up to date with the park regulations and the respective activities.

Such obstacles need not prevent anyone from experiencing Costa Rica's natural beauty during the rainy season. This is a rugged and vibrant destination, with something for everyone throughout these so-called “low season” months and beyond. The rain certainly makes everything very fresh and green. The tourists who are here during the high season from December to May don’t get to experience the greenness. They call this paradise. But imagine what they would say after seeing all the greenery!

While it might seem like Costa Rica’s rainy season is best avoided, some of the top things to do in the country can actually be enjoyed during this time.

For example, the season is ideal for exploring the country's lush national parks, which are less crowded and at their greenest and most vibrant. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a top destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the rainforest, while also enjoying activities such as ziplining, hiking, and bird watching.

Another must-do activity during Costa Rica's rainy season is visiting the country's numerous waterfalls. The increased rainfall during this time of year means that these waterfalls are at their most impressive, with higher water volumes and mistier spray. Some of the best waterfalls to visit during the rainy season include La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Nauyaca Waterfall and Llanos de Cortés Waterfall.

Reasons why the rainy season is perfect for whitewater rafting in Costa Rica are covered in a related cover story.

Overall, while the rainy season might not seem like the most appealing time to visit Costa Rica, there are still plenty of experiences to be had that make the trip more than worth it.

A lightweight raincoat is also an investment you won’t regret!

• Work remotely for a few weeks

• Write a book

• Read a book

• Conduct research

• Paint

• Binge-watch a TV series

• Play table games

• Put together some 1,000-piece puzzles

• Catch up on some missed movies or rewatch your favorites

• Go through photographs and retell the stories

• Create new crafts

• Try cooking new food recipes

• Practice karaoke

• Build a model airplane, car, boat or town

• Complete crossword and other puzzles

• Have an indoor treasure/scavenger hunt

• Make up adventure stories

• Exercise or yoga

• Unplug from all electronics for a set number of hours

• Relax in the hammock on the porch