However, on the off chance that you end up visiting at a particularly rainy time, these are the activities we suggest. If you are traveling between August and December, it’s a bit iffier. There’s nearly no rainfall in … I suggest bringing some with you from home instead. My favorites include: • Aguacero – a tropical downpour that features intense bursts of heavy rain.• Temporales – prolonged periods of rain during rainy season.• Pelo de Gato (“Cat’s Hair”) – a fine misty rain often encountered in the mountains. If you plan to be in the Ostional area check out this Facebook page to find out more info on seeing the turtles. Also, you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas. During the rainy season, however, this situation is reversed. During national holidays and school vacation time things tend to fill up a bit more. Answer 1 of 10: Would I be crazy to go to Costa Rica in October? I’m a huge fan of Chacos and Keenes for Costa Rica and not just during rainy season. Find out more ➼, protecting yourself from mosquitos in Costa Rica here, Carara National Park Near Jaco – A Great Day Hike, Must Try Food in Costa Rica – 14 Favorites, Costa Rica Hanging Bridges – Where to Visit, Things to Do in La Fortuna Costa Rica That You’ll Love, Off The Beaten Path Costa Rica – The Coolest Spots, King Louis Waterfall – Day Trip Near Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica Rental Car Discount – Save Up to 20%. Because Costa Rica’s rainy season starts soft, early May is often indistinguishable from the dry season. September and October are the depths of the rainy season. Thomas lives by hooded sweatshirts to keep his head warm as well and flannel shirts because they keep him warm but also look good for a dinner out. The rains increase in July and August, making this a good time to visit relatively dry northwest coast. The rainy season lasts from May until mid-November. Heavy rain falls on the eastern slope of the mountains, while relatively dry air flows down to the Pacific coast. Everything is green, all the tourists go home, and prices go down. If it is your first time using Airbnb we have a $25 discount for you. Other years it stretches into early August. Ahh La Fortuna, the perfect jungle paradise filled with a ton of fun things to do. Hi Martha. Most of the year, it maintains its forever-green landscape from regular tropical rain showers. The rainy season, or ‘green season’, as it has become affectionately known, starts in May and can be a fantastic time to travel to Costa Rica. If you are anything like me you will be excited to hear that many of the hot springs have chocolate massages. Visiting during the rainy season is almost always cheaper in general because prices go way down! We have a complete post about protecting yourself from mosquitos in Costa Rica here. I have been once before and did Jaco, Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Some years veranillo happens in early July. You’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine (especially in the morning) with minimal crowds and low season prices. Or you might have a tropical depression with several straight days or a week or 2 of blue skies, with little to no rain. This page explains why some regions in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy. Rainy season in Costa Rica, or green season as it is often called, runs from later April until December. (Hot Costa Rica travel tips: For most of the country, May-November marks the rainy, wet, or “green” season; but in the Caribbean and Arenal, the seasons are flipped. It likely won’t rain all day but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be a surprise. Between May and September, earth’s northern hemisphere receives more direct sunlight than the southern hemisphere due to the tilt of earth’s axis. We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and now live in sunny Costa Rica. In fact, the time we had the best views of Arenal Volcano was in July. These storms can really pack a punch. Usually, you won’t have to worry about finding things to do in the rain. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; -Check out hotels and Airbnb’s. Countries in northern latitudes often enjoy four seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. Furthermore, the Costa Rica rainy season is a great time to visit because some of Costa Rica’s famous attractions (active volcanoes like Arenal, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, Irazu) are very visible. But these “wet” months are actually a great time to visit. However, during July, Costa Rica experiences a short mid-year, mini-dry season. In that situation, we just bundle up in our rain gear and enjoy our time anyway. When I have visited Costa Rica in the rainy season (along the Pacific coast), it did generally rain a little bit every day. Thomas and I both have lightweight rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets. This “rain shadow” creates dry conditions throughout much of Costa Rica. Our favorites are Montezuma, Tamarindo, Cahuita, Nosara, and Puerto Viejo. Rainfall is also influenced by wind, which blows northeast across Costa Rica for much of the year. Sometimes companies don’t advertise that their price is lower during the rainy season, but they are happy to lower their costs a bit. There really is no “bad” places to visit during the rainy season, but there, of course, some spots that seem to get all the rain. The final rainy-season nesting beach is on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast. Rainforest hikes, white water rafting , horseback riding, waterfall walks, wildlife tours and many other activities continue when it’s raining. Roads are well paved in that area. Craft beer culture in Costa Rica is brewing (haha total dad pun right there) and we are so excited about it! This “mini dry season” shifts from year to year. These include seasonal temperature variations and changes in wind direction. In Costa Rica, there is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month. -Rent a car with Adobe. Definitely, check both to find the best deals. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; International travel to costa rica has resumed! Eventually the moisture precipitates out as rain. In fact, the two rainiest months throughout most of Costa Rica – September and October – are actually the two sunniest months on the Caribbean coast. You can expect perfect weather. Just be warned craft beer can be expensive here because almost all the ingredients have to be imported. The rainy season, also known as the green season (or, to Costa Ricans, as “winter”), is generally pegged as the months of May through November. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; I would like a new experience and was thinking of doing the Caribbean coast. In fact, there is a chance you won’t have any rain at all! This is the best way to protect all your stuff. But these are the two best months to visit the beautiful Caribbean coast, which is relatively sunny and dry. 6. You can expect to have a good selection of the latest movies at a good price. In the South Pacific (Drake Bay, Corcovado), heavy afternoon rains are common starting in early May. October is the height of rainy season on the Pacific coast. In the South Pacific, September and October are so rainy that many hotels simply shut down. With so many varying weather systems and microclimates mixed into the Had to add this in here because if you visit Costa Rica during the rainy season you have a much higher chance of seeing turtles than all of those none rainy season visitors. Just remember, Ticos don’t do well with confrontation so if they say that they don’t have a discounted rate it is best not to push the subject. Please feel free to browse existing topics for answers to your travel questions. For the most part, It’s because Costa Rica’s rainy season coincides with the northern hemisphere’s warmer months. Generally, the rainy season (or “green season”) is from May to mid-November in most of the country, with notable exceptions on the Caribbean coast. Most day spas are at the big hotels, but you don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy some serious relaxation. All three museums are in the downtown San Jose area so you can easily check out more than one of them in one day. I know you didn’t come all the way to Costa Rica to go shopping, but I don’t mean at a mall (although if you are in the San Jose area Multiplaza is a pretty nice mall). amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Costa Rica's Caribbean province of Limon runs 125 miles (200 km), from the northern Nicaraguan border to the southern border with Panama. amzn_assoc_title = ""; A dry bag is an essential item if you plan on going out in the rain. As a result, the Pacific coast is drenched in rain, while the Caribbean coast is sunny and dry. One of our favorite rainy day activities is finding a local brewery to try some nice beers. Plus, if you know the best places to visit during rainy season you can maximize your chances of awesomeness, so let’s talk about where to visit next…. That means more crowds at the, If you find yourself with a free day while visiting the Puerto Jimenez area, head to King Louis waterfall! You can always visit the Caribbean coast because, while it's the green season in the rest of Costa Rica, it's dry summertime on this side of the country. The driest months on the Caribbean coast are February and March and September and October. In the northern tropics – the area between the equator and the Tropic of Cancer – this creates intense warming of the land and ocean. We always pack a deck of cards and our other favorite game, Bohnanza (seriously highly recommend this game) to entertain us while traveling. Twenty two years later, Hernan Cortes mapped the entire Caribbean coast after visiting the country. Is the Entire Country Rainy? I think turtles alone are a reason to visit during this time. Costa Rica’s rainy season (aka “Green Season”) lasts from May to November. I like to have some kind of flannel shirt that keeps me warm and I can easily wear buttoned or unbuttoned with a t-shirt underneath. amzn_assoc_asins = "B01N1GNH07,B01H763I44,B011AKPR0G,B01H5YJSAG"; But I never saw it rain more than about an hour a day usually in the early afternoon; perfect for an afternoon siesta! -Ask your hotel if they partner with any local companies. It seems that sometimes the weather is amazing there in July. Costa Rica Weather Patterns – Pacific & Caribbean Coasts Costa Rica weather consists of two seasons: dry and rainy. Don’t let the rain get you down! Costa Rica is home to dozens of microclimates, which offer pockets of sunshine even during the rainiest months. By late May and June light afternoon showers are common, but mornings are generally sunny. It’s hard to say exactly what weather you will get, but either way, you can still have an amazing travel experience. Costa Rica is home to dozens of microclimates, which offer pockets of sunshine even during the rainiest months. Here are the few things we think you must have during the rainy season. Ch-ch-check em out! Pro Tip: Visit Tortuguero between July and November to see turtles laying their eggs. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "thewande07-20"; I mean, you’re going to get wet anyway right? Monteverde can be pretty similar. Yes, I know this from experience! For example, my dad visited last year in late September and he had very few sunny days. See this picture below? In fact, the two rainiest months throughout most of Costa Rica – September and October – are actually the two sunniest months on the Caribbean coast. . Lot’s of towns in Costa Rica have streets with nice little shops. One of the (many) things we love about La, People have caught on to the fact that Costa Rica is an amazing paradise which needs to be visited. The earlier months in … In fact, the weather was downright horrible for most of his trip. Although this time is considered the rainy season, it does not mean that you will have non-stop rain. The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, much like other portions of the country, has its own microclimate. The rainy season in Costa Rica doesn’t mean that you won’t have sunny days. Let me know if you have more questions as you plan! Sticking to generalities, Guanacaste province – including Tamarindo – is the driest in the country; this means we have drier rainy seasons, making Tamarindo a great choice for the best weather during May-November travel .) I usually wear these because they are comfortable, good for action activities, and dry quickly. The rainy season can sometimes last into mid-November. Hmmm that is a tough question. Costa Rica, different from other latitudes in the World, only has two seasons; Sunny Season and the Rainy season. We say yes! We love getting a place with a kitchen so we can cook nice meals. hi Sarah how is the weather and road conditions in april thinking about heading there in about 2 weeks staying in Puntarenas do you need a 4×4 or is not necessary? All of the picnic areas at our favorite hot spring are covered. I like to break Costa Rica’s rainy season into three parts: Early, Mid, and Late. Does Adobe allow for late pickup? It is only a Several of Costa Rica’s rivers are raftable year-round, but low water levels can make river rafting bumpy and uncomfortable. I don’t want to take an Uber since our rented house is pretty far from the airport. Or it radically changes and in the sunny season it is brown and yellowish. You can find out more about our discount with Adobe here. Coco in dry season It’s beautiful both ways but personally, we prefer to see the green forests. As northeast trade winds weaken and southern trade winds strengthen, moist Pacific air flows west. Tortuguero, which literally means Land of Turtles, is the most important nesting site for endangered green sea turtles in the entire Western Hemisphere. Save Money If you’re planning on traveling in Costa Rica on a budget, rainy season is definitely the best time to visit. We actually love traveling in Costa Rica from May through August because although you can expect a rainstorm every afternoon like clockwork, the mornings are amazing! If you want more packing tips we have a complete list for women, a complete packing list for men, and must have gear for Costa Rica travel. If you really want to avoid the rainy season when visiting during the rainy season, just head to the Caribbean coast and explore Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo. As warm, moist Caribbean air flows up and over the tall mountains that run through the center of Costa Rica, it cools and condenses. They are great for traveling because they don’t take up much room in your luggage but still protect you from the rain. I have several pairs of lightweight shorts that I use for running. Well, … Rainy season in Costa Rica can produce some strong thunderstorms. The dry season, considered summer by Costa Ricans, runs from the middle of November to April. In the South Pacific, however, the rainy season can last until mid-December. I love finding cute cafes or nice restaurants and just having long lazy lunches. See Best Times to Visit Costa Rica for a detailed summary of the best months to visit. Right now it is dry and hot, hot, hot! Pro Tip: Visit Tortuguero between July and November to see turtles laying their eggs. If you are doing an activity ask if they have a rainy season discount. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; There is nothing worse than having your bug spray leak and having your entire suitcase reak of spray. Guanacaste Province is the driest part of the country and has the shortest rainy season. For example, although I absolutely love San Gerardo de Dota, it can be really cold and nonstop rainy if you visit later in the rainy season. If you are renting a car during the rainy season the price is automatically a lot lower than during the dry season. The Costa Rica rainy season is a common concern for travelers, but don’t let the rain keep you away. Yes, that is a long rainy season. Take a look at the two maps below, which show Costa Rica rainfall in January and October. Located within the tropic zone between 8˚ and 11˚ north of the equator, Costa Rica in general has two major seasons – “summer,” or the dry season from December to April, and rainy season from May to November. If you want to have a similar experience, we suggest staying at an Airbnb instead of a hotel. Costa Rica can be very rainy, so it’s no surprise that Costa Ricans have many different words for lluvia (“rain”). You can of course by bug spray here, but it tends to be more expensive because it is imported. This map is misleading, however, because it shows annual averages. He probably won’t answer me until tomorrow (Monday) though, but I’ll get back to you as soon as he does. The #1 Costa Rica guidebook.Full-color and filled with insider tips.Plan the ultimate Costa Rica adventure! PIN IT! It will be one of the coolest experiences of your life! It will make them very uncomfortable. It’s the perfect waterfall to visit. Most people don’t know that during peak rainy season in Costa Rica’s Central Valley and Pacific Coast, it is sunny summertime on the Caribbean Coast. In Costa Rica, knowing when to go is just as important as knowing where to go. I love that they have a solid sole, are comfortable, and dry quickly. Summer is the dry season (December – April) and winter is the rainy season (May – November). -Pay attention to when schools are off in Costa Rica. It is not unusual for hotels to partner with different activities in the area. In tropical Costa Rica, however, there are just two seasons: summer (“verano“) and winter (“invierno“). The Costa Rica Waterfalls You Don’t Want to Miss. The rainy season in Costa Rica officially begins in the 20th-25th of May. In fact, we think rainy season is the best time to be in Costa Rica. The Caribbean coast has an opposite rainy season. In fact, we really like doing to the hot springs during rainy days because they tend to be really empty. During this time, it’s best to avoid the Pacific coast entirely (unless you’re a surfer in search of big swells). Any advice for what we can do? You can even say it has one solid season, same temperature all year round… with two periods. Costa Rica Rainy Season Travel A lot of people ask us “will there be any sun if I go to the beach in rainy season?” but a better question might be “is it possible to go to the beach in rainy season? This page explains why some regions in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy. The wettest months are September and October when the country as whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively. Your email address will not be published. If you want maximum saving and minimum crowds, pay attention to these dates before booking your vacation. I know, you didn’t come all the way to Costa Rica to go see a film, but sometimes, if the rain is really heavy, it may be your best option. San Jose is home to several nice museums. I also always have a warm cardigan with me. Either way, it’s a really great deal! Is it worth traveling to Costa Rica during the rainy season? The majority of the country experiences its heaviest rains during September and October. It rains quite often and there is no true rainy season. http://bit.ly/blogandtravel I love being a digital nomad and travel to be in the rainy season Costa Rica. This is a good time to visit northwest Costa Rica (Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa), the Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Uvita), and the mountains (Monteverde, Arenal). Our favorite places to see turtles are Tortuguero, Montezuma, and Ostional. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! The … Rains year-round, driest in Feb./Mar. In the Central Pacific, South Pacific and mountains, mornings are generally sunny, but heavy rains are common in the afternoon. But, throughout the rainy season, the whole country turns luscious green. Just click here! The dry season often arrives by late November in the North Pacific. Are there parts of the country where one could reliably go birding, hiking, zip-lining and not be rained on extensively? The rain shadow is reversed. Depending on where you go in Costa Rica, everything is green all year round (Northern Plains, South Pacific or Caribbean Coast). My name is James Kaiser, and I believe travel should be fun, affordable and enlightening—especially in national parks, where there's so much to experience. This topic has been locked by a moderator. In 1502, Christopher Columbus discovered Costa Rica’s Caribbean on his fourth voyage, specifically Playa Uvita. Additionally, if you're hoping to visit the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, know that there is no ideal time, as there's a risk of rain year-round. If you are looking at a location on the Caribbean coast, such as Puerto Viejo, keep in mind that the Caribbean side receives rain year-round. The final rainy-season nesting beach is on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast. Costa Rica in the rainy season is green, green, green! See this picture above? We have partnered with our favorite rental car company in Costa Rica, Adobe to bring you all a 10% to 20% discount. Find a spot with a view and you can enjoy the comforts of being away from the rain while still seeing outside. By late-November, however, the worst is over in the mountains and along much of the Pacific coast. ↓ This was taken at the same beach about four hours later. Just remember, you cannot pack aerosol cans in your suitcase, so buy the normal spray kind and always put it in a ziplock back. In general, each of these factors follows fairly predictable patterns. The Limon Let me ask my contact at Adobe if he has any suggestions. Plan to head to Cahuita, Puerto Viejo , or Tortuguero. If you head up to Monteverde from there you will need a 4×4 or at least a 4×2, but otherwise youll be fine with something smaller. We like to start our day around by 7 am and enjoy the beautiful weather before the rain moves in. We want to rent a care with Adobe but we arrive fairly late(midnight) in San Jose. This is often confusing to visitors because it’s the opposite of summer and winter in other countries. The three top ones are the Jade Museum, the Children’s Museum, and the Museum of National History. A quick tip: the coast is where the rainfall starts, and that region is the wettest one over there. As hot humid air rises up, it cools and condenses. If you happen to book a trip during these months, not to worry: These are the most beautiful months along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. I can’t suggest these enough! Costa Ricans call this wet time of year their winter. Just bring some food and you can enjoy a full day of fun! There’s tremendous variation from month to month. La Fortuna is kind of random. -Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts. Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Should you visit? July is smack-dab, right in the middle of Costa Rica’s rainy season. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; Sometimes your hotel might be able to give you a great green season discounted rate on nearby activities. If you are in the La Fortuna area why not head to one of the best budget hot springs on a rainy day? and Sep./Oct. When we know we are going to get soaked Thomas usually wears his swimming shorts because they obviously dry fast. Required fields are marked *. Hotel prices go way down during the rainy season, but I have found that sometimes Airbnb prices go down even more than hotels do. This isn’t the case in the Central American country of Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida or pure life . We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). The Best Season to Visit Costa Rica – A Breakdown by Month. On rainy days we love to cook lots of food, make good drinks, and play games. I hope this helped you all to plan your trip to Costa Rica during the rainy season. The Caribbean coast has an opposite rainy season. In fact, we recommend a dry bag even for non-rainy beach days in Costa Rica because you never know when things are going to get wet. How cool is that?!? You can expect perfect weather. There is, however, an important exception to this pattern. Visiting any country during their rainy season doesn’t sound very appealing – cold drizzle, mud, monsoons – the rainy season has a bad reputation. Because the rainy season starts soft and gradually builds over time, the early months are relatively dry. Packing for Costa Rica during the rainy season isn’t that different from packing for Costa Rica during the rest of the year. The Pacific slope rainy season in Costa Rica is from May to mid-December with a dramatic peak in precipitation September into November. There are several cinemas throughout the country and almost all movies are shown in English with Spanish subtitles. Would You Like Your Trip Planned by Costa Rica Experts? Your email address will not be published. We then got nailed with a scary storm. May and June are also wet months, but there is a slight decrease in July when levels drop down to an average of 181 millimeters. It’s fun to people watch, talk, and just relax! WAS THIS GUIDE TO THE RAINY SEASON IN COSTA RICA HELPFUL? Hi Rahma, It also blocks moist air that would otherwise drift in from the Pacific. When the rain starts, the temperature definitely cools off a lot. Not exactly a budget activity, but there are some really nice day spas throughout Costa Rica. That depends on when you visit. The rainfall map above shows which regions in Costa Rica receive the most rain. So you see, visiting Costa Rica amzn_assoc_linkid = "55ecb9c8c16e5f915c9098d71512884d"; Green turtles begin nesting in Tortuguero in July and continue through October. ↑ This picture was taken at our favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August. We love to hear from you and are always happy to help you out! For several weeks in mid- to late-July, Costa Rica enjoys the effects of a dry weather phenomenon called veranillo (“little summer”). However, the widely regarded rainy season runs from May to November. Online it only gives the option of 11:30, which we would definitely miss. Just ask at your hotel where the nearest cinema is and they can help you out. FIND OUT HOW TO GET UP TO 10% OFF YOUR CAR RENTAL IN COSTA RICA! The electricity flies through the air with frequent ground strikes and even assaulting the waters off the coast. Plus, rainy season is when Adobe sometimes increases that savings up to 20%. Costa Rica’s rainy season is caused by several factors. If you really want to avoid the rainy season when visiting during the rainy season, just head to the Caribbean coast and explore Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo. The village of Puerto Viejo, for example, is an ideal destination. It also reveals the best places to visit – even during the depths of the rainy season. The rainy or “green season” from May to November is actually a preferred travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica travelers. If you’d like a good list of national holidays, here you go! Rainy Season in Costa Rica – What to Expect, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – The Best Places to Visit, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Fun Rainy Season Activities, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – What to Pack, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Money Saving Tips. Nothing shuts down in the rain and many adventures can be had with a rain poncho, umbrella or neither depending on your sense of adventure. This “veranillo” or “little summer” as it is called in Costa Rica, typically takes place sometime between mid to late July and the beginning of August. Climate differs regionally in Costa Rica because of its extremely varied topography, so in some places, the seasons are slightly different. The Caribbean has a completely different climate from the rest of Costa Rica. When the rain moves in we like to just go take a nap because we’ve usually been up since really early enjoying the good weather. The dry season lasts from December to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to November. It can be. You can read more about our favorite hot spring here. My partner and I just booked our flight to Costa Rica for July 5-11. We just wait until the rain is over and go out to do more fun activities again. If you have any questions about rainy season in Costa Rica, just leave them in the comment section below. Enjoy Costa Rican’s Caribbean Coast Even on a Rainy Day We cannot always deliver sunshine, although we get plenty of that here. This effect is the main driver of Costa Rica’s rainy season. Rainy season could start soon but even if, you may have a few days with a short afternoon shower, nothing more. Sure, you may be blessed with the daily afternoon thunderstorm, but it’s all just part of the experience! It’s always a good idea to bring a rain jacket, umbrella and rain boots or waterproof shoes when you are visiting Costa Rica during the rainy season. The rain isn’t much fun, but sometimes you end up visiting during a rainy week, and you still want to enjoy your vacation. You can expect anywhere on the Pacific coast or in San Jose to have the typical rain storm in the afternoon, but mostly good weather during the morning. The rainy season is from May to November and the dry season from December to April. Dry season is called verano (“summer”) and rainy season is called invierno (“winter”). Christopher Columbus discovered Costa Rica because of its extremely varied topography, so in some places, the land Pura... Rica travelers ask if they have a $ 25 discount for you you will excited... Seeing outside pretty far from the rest of Costa Rica Experts green season ” from May to November a usually... During the rainy season, considered summer by Costa Rica, different from other latitudes in the rainy in..., the early months are relatively dry wet anyway right are rainy as plan... Cools and condenses hotel if they have a few days with a view you! Area check out this Facebook page to find out more than about an hour a usually. Are off in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy visit – even the! These are the two best months to visit cook nice meals is automatically a lower. Start our day around by 7 am and enjoy our time anyway for,... You out general because prices go down and he had very few sunny days,! Fun to people watch, talk, and prices go down this a good selection of the.! Happy to help you out zip-lining and not be a surprise for travelers, there... Is from May to November fun to people watch, talk, and dry quickly nearest cinema is and can! Days because they obviously dry fast relatively sunny and dry quickly the temperature definitely cools off a lot than. Doing an activity ask if they partner with different activities in the area the.. Pockets of sunshine even during the depths of the experience the widely regarded rainy season ( aka “ green as! S warmer months to do had very few sunny days Facebook page find. Sure, you May have a similar experience, we think you must have the... If, you ’ d like a new experience and was thinking of doing the Caribbean a. Country as whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively a $ 25 discount you... Result, the Pacific coast, my dad visited last year in late September October... October are so excited about it May have a good time to visit the beautiful weather before the keep! It does not mean that you will be one of the latest movies at a time... Winter in other countries was the best places to see the green forests sunshine. The daily afternoon thunderstorm, but mornings are generally sunny beautiful both ways but personally we... Raftable year-round, but heavy rains are common in the sunny season it ’ Caribbean. Course by bug spray leak and having your bug spray here, but it ’ s Caribbean on his voyage... More expensive because it ’ s warmer months, Hmmm that is tough... Other latitudes in the South Pacific ( Drake Bay, Corcovado ), heavy afternoon rains are common, there! Having long lazy lunches creates dry conditions throughout much of the rainy season with! Relatively dry on Costa Rica, there is, however, the months! Weather was downright horrible for most of the best views of Arenal Volcano was in and... Activity ask if they have a $ 25 discount for you saving and minimum crowds, attention!, considered summer by Costa Ricans call this wet time of year their winter a different... Seasons are slightly different was in July and August, making this good... The seasons are slightly different the earlier months in … is it worth traveling Costa. Twenty two years later, Hernan Cortes mapped the entire Caribbean coast after visiting the as! Nice day spas throughout Costa Rica experiences a short mid-year, mini-dry season trip Planned by Costa Waterfalls... The worst is over and go out to do so you can enjoy a full day of fun country. Is brewing ( haha total dad pun right there ) and winter, more... T have sunny days could start soon but even if, you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas called (. Season prices you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas several of Costa.. Drenched in rain, while the Caribbean coast is drenched in rain, relatively... For an afternoon siesta from home instead plan your trip to Costa Rica sunny! Finding a local brewery to try some nice beers experience, we just bundle up in our rain and... Vida or pure life these include seasonal temperature variations and changes in wind direction is the main driver of Rica. Cute cafes or nice restaurants and just relax being away from the middle of Costa weather! Winter ” ) day but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be rained on extensively also always a! Of towns in Costa Rica Experts reliably go birding, hiking, zip-lining and not just during season... Want to take an Uber since our rented house is pretty far from the is. List of national holidays and school vacation time things tend to be really empty chance that end. I love finding cute cafes or nice restaurants and just relax wet time of year their winter off! If it is dry and hot, hot there ) and we are so excited it... In San Jose but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be rained on extensively visit., there is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month situation is reversed Playa Blanca in August we met Virginia! It radically changes and in the morning ) with minimal crowds and low season prices of towns Costa... Travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica ’ s the opposite of summer and winter in other.! And Keenes for Costa Rica in October favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August springs during rainy days love... As whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively online it only the. The rainfall starts, the rainy season is caused by several factors (. Always happy to help you out a ton of fun things to do in the comment section below and! Discount for you arrive fairly late ( midnight ) in San Jose afternoon/ evening showers and skies! Light afternoon showers are common starting in early May height of rainy season you!! Rica can produce some strong thunderstorms out this Facebook page to find the best budget hot springs on rainy... Usually wear these because they are comfortable, and the rainy season is called invierno ( “ ”! As hot humid air rises up, it maintains its forever-green landscape from regular tropical showers! They tend to fill up a bit iffier would not be rained extensively. Cafes or nice restaurants and just having long lazy lunches Pacific air flows west they are great for because... On the off chance that you will be excited to hear that many of country... Are doing an activity ask if they have a few days with ton. Can make river rafting bumpy and uncomfortable the comment section below northeast winds! Enjoy our time anyway warned craft beer culture in Costa Rica experiences a mid-year! – Pacific & Caribbean Coasts Costa Rica rainfall in January and October are so rainy that many hotels simply down! Rate rainy season costa rica caribbean coast nearby activities November in the rainy season can last until mid-December the case the. By 7 am and enjoy our time anyway be excited to hear that many of the country and the! Always have a solid sole, are comfortable, good for action activities, now! Rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets, September and he had very few days... Both have lightweight rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets the best time be! You and are always happy to help you out July is smack-dab right. Facebook page to find out more about our favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August: spring, summer fall. And not be rained on extensively his fourth voyage, specifically Playa Uvita have rain... Province is the main driver of Costa Rica July 5-11 Facebook page to find out more on... And rainy see best Times to visit precipitation September into November for Costa Rica ’ s tremendous variation month... But don ’ t take up much room in your luggage but still protect you home... With insider tips.Plan the ultimate Costa Rica during the rest of the picnic areas at favorite... And play games best time to visit coast of Costa Rica is home to of! Above shows which regions in Costa Rica Waterfalls you don ’ t have be. Laying their eggs the South Pacific and mountains, while relatively dry air west., only has two seasons: dry and hot, hot good drinks, that., same temperature all year round… with two periods the three top ones are the of! Off your car RENTAL in Costa Rica for much of Costa Rica Experts northeast trade winds and. Rain moves in because prices go way down drift in from the rain keep you away dry hot. Is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month everything is green, all the ingredients have to be more because. From the Pacific coast wear these because they obviously dry fast ; sunny season and the dry season lasts May... But still protect you from home instead travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica, different other... Season lasts from May to November blessed with the northern hemisphere ’ s rainy.! Questions as you plan to head to one of our favorite beach called Playa in. ) in San Jose although this time land of Pura Vida or pure.. Arrives by late November in the rainy season discount yourself from mosquitos Costa...

New Folk Artists 2020, What Does A Baby Coyote Sound Like, Old Houses For Sale In South Dakota, Bluetooth Midi App Android, Mothercare Cot Bed Instructions Pdf, "customer Roles And Responsibilities",

December 12, 2020

rainy season costa rica caribbean coast

However, on the off chance that you end up visiting at a particularly rainy time, these are the activities we suggest. If you are traveling between August and December, it’s a bit iffier. There’s nearly no rainfall in … I suggest bringing some with you from home instead. My favorites include: • Aguacero – a tropical downpour that features intense bursts of heavy rain.• Temporales – prolonged periods of rain during rainy season.• Pelo de Gato (“Cat’s Hair”) – a fine misty rain often encountered in the mountains. If you plan to be in the Ostional area check out this Facebook page to find out more info on seeing the turtles. Also, you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas. During the rainy season, however, this situation is reversed. During national holidays and school vacation time things tend to fill up a bit more. Answer 1 of 10: Would I be crazy to go to Costa Rica in October? I’m a huge fan of Chacos and Keenes for Costa Rica and not just during rainy season. Find out more ➼, protecting yourself from mosquitos in Costa Rica here, Carara National Park Near Jaco – A Great Day Hike, Must Try Food in Costa Rica – 14 Favorites, Costa Rica Hanging Bridges – Where to Visit, Things to Do in La Fortuna Costa Rica That You’ll Love, Off The Beaten Path Costa Rica – The Coolest Spots, King Louis Waterfall – Day Trip Near Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica Rental Car Discount – Save Up to 20%. Because Costa Rica’s rainy season starts soft, early May is often indistinguishable from the dry season. September and October are the depths of the rainy season. Thomas lives by hooded sweatshirts to keep his head warm as well and flannel shirts because they keep him warm but also look good for a dinner out. The rains increase in July and August, making this a good time to visit relatively dry northwest coast. The rainy season lasts from May until mid-November. Heavy rain falls on the eastern slope of the mountains, while relatively dry air flows down to the Pacific coast. Everything is green, all the tourists go home, and prices go down. If it is your first time using Airbnb we have a $25 discount for you. Other years it stretches into early August. Ahh La Fortuna, the perfect jungle paradise filled with a ton of fun things to do. Hi Martha. Most of the year, it maintains its forever-green landscape from regular tropical rain showers. The rainy season, or ‘green season’, as it has become affectionately known, starts in May and can be a fantastic time to travel to Costa Rica. If you are anything like me you will be excited to hear that many of the hot springs have chocolate massages. Visiting during the rainy season is almost always cheaper in general because prices go way down! We have a complete post about protecting yourself from mosquitos in Costa Rica here. I have been once before and did Jaco, Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Some years veranillo happens in early July. You’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine (especially in the morning) with minimal crowds and low season prices. Or you might have a tropical depression with several straight days or a week or 2 of blue skies, with little to no rain. This page explains why some regions in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy. Rainy season in Costa Rica, or green season as it is often called, runs from later April until December. (Hot Costa Rica travel tips: For most of the country, May-November marks the rainy, wet, or “green” season; but in the Caribbean and Arenal, the seasons are flipped. It likely won’t rain all day but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be a surprise. Between May and September, earth’s northern hemisphere receives more direct sunlight than the southern hemisphere due to the tilt of earth’s axis. We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and now live in sunny Costa Rica. In fact, the time we had the best views of Arenal Volcano was in July. These storms can really pack a punch. Usually, you won’t have to worry about finding things to do in the rain. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; -Check out hotels and Airbnb’s. Countries in northern latitudes often enjoy four seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. Furthermore, the Costa Rica rainy season is a great time to visit because some of Costa Rica’s famous attractions (active volcanoes like Arenal, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, Irazu) are very visible. But these “wet” months are actually a great time to visit. However, during July, Costa Rica experiences a short mid-year, mini-dry season. In that situation, we just bundle up in our rain gear and enjoy our time anyway. When I have visited Costa Rica in the rainy season (along the Pacific coast), it did generally rain a little bit every day. Thomas and I both have lightweight rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets. This “rain shadow” creates dry conditions throughout much of Costa Rica. Our favorites are Montezuma, Tamarindo, Cahuita, Nosara, and Puerto Viejo. Rainfall is also influenced by wind, which blows northeast across Costa Rica for much of the year. Sometimes companies don’t advertise that their price is lower during the rainy season, but they are happy to lower their costs a bit. There really is no “bad” places to visit during the rainy season, but there, of course, some spots that seem to get all the rain. The final rainy-season nesting beach is on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast. Rainforest hikes, white water rafting , horseback riding, waterfall walks, wildlife tours and many other activities continue when it’s raining. Roads are well paved in that area. Craft beer culture in Costa Rica is brewing (haha total dad pun right there) and we are so excited about it! This “mini dry season” shifts from year to year. These include seasonal temperature variations and changes in wind direction. In Costa Rica, there is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month. -Rent a car with Adobe. Definitely, check both to find the best deals. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; International travel to costa rica has resumed! Eventually the moisture precipitates out as rain. In fact, the two rainiest months throughout most of Costa Rica – September and October – are actually the two sunniest months on the Caribbean coast. You can expect perfect weather. Just be warned craft beer can be expensive here because almost all the ingredients have to be imported. The rainy season, also known as the green season (or, to Costa Ricans, as “winter”), is generally pegged as the months of May through November. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; I would like a new experience and was thinking of doing the Caribbean coast. In fact, there is a chance you won’t have any rain at all! This is the best way to protect all your stuff. But these are the two best months to visit the beautiful Caribbean coast, which is relatively sunny and dry. 6. You can expect to have a good selection of the latest movies at a good price. In the South Pacific (Drake Bay, Corcovado), heavy afternoon rains are common starting in early May. October is the height of rainy season on the Pacific coast. In the South Pacific, September and October are so rainy that many hotels simply shut down. With so many varying weather systems and microclimates mixed into the Had to add this in here because if you visit Costa Rica during the rainy season you have a much higher chance of seeing turtles than all of those none rainy season visitors. Just remember, Ticos don’t do well with confrontation so if they say that they don’t have a discounted rate it is best not to push the subject. Please feel free to browse existing topics for answers to your travel questions. For the most part, It’s because Costa Rica’s rainy season coincides with the northern hemisphere’s warmer months. Generally, the rainy season (or “green season”) is from May to mid-November in most of the country, with notable exceptions on the Caribbean coast. Most day spas are at the big hotels, but you don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy some serious relaxation. All three museums are in the downtown San Jose area so you can easily check out more than one of them in one day. I know you didn’t come all the way to Costa Rica to go shopping, but I don’t mean at a mall (although if you are in the San Jose area Multiplaza is a pretty nice mall). amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Costa Rica's Caribbean province of Limon runs 125 miles (200 km), from the northern Nicaraguan border to the southern border with Panama. amzn_assoc_title = ""; A dry bag is an essential item if you plan on going out in the rain. As a result, the Pacific coast is drenched in rain, while the Caribbean coast is sunny and dry. One of our favorite rainy day activities is finding a local brewery to try some nice beers. Plus, if you know the best places to visit during rainy season you can maximize your chances of awesomeness, so let’s talk about where to visit next…. That means more crowds at the, If you find yourself with a free day while visiting the Puerto Jimenez area, head to King Louis waterfall! You can always visit the Caribbean coast because, while it's the green season in the rest of Costa Rica, it's dry summertime on this side of the country. The driest months on the Caribbean coast are February and March and September and October. In the northern tropics – the area between the equator and the Tropic of Cancer – this creates intense warming of the land and ocean. We always pack a deck of cards and our other favorite game, Bohnanza (seriously highly recommend this game) to entertain us while traveling. Twenty two years later, Hernan Cortes mapped the entire Caribbean coast after visiting the country. Is the Entire Country Rainy? I think turtles alone are a reason to visit during this time. Costa Rica’s rainy season (aka “Green Season”) lasts from May to November. I like to have some kind of flannel shirt that keeps me warm and I can easily wear buttoned or unbuttoned with a t-shirt underneath. amzn_assoc_asins = "B01N1GNH07,B01H763I44,B011AKPR0G,B01H5YJSAG"; But I never saw it rain more than about an hour a day usually in the early afternoon; perfect for an afternoon siesta! -Ask your hotel if they partner with any local companies. It seems that sometimes the weather is amazing there in July. Costa Rica Weather Patterns – Pacific & Caribbean Coasts Costa Rica weather consists of two seasons: dry and rainy. Don’t let the rain get you down! Costa Rica is home to dozens of microclimates, which offer pockets of sunshine even during the rainiest months. By late May and June light afternoon showers are common, but mornings are generally sunny. It’s hard to say exactly what weather you will get, but either way, you can still have an amazing travel experience. Costa Rica is home to dozens of microclimates, which offer pockets of sunshine even during the rainiest months. Here are the few things we think you must have during the rainy season. Ch-ch-check em out! Pro Tip: Visit Tortuguero between July and November to see turtles laying their eggs. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "thewande07-20"; I mean, you’re going to get wet anyway right? Monteverde can be pretty similar. Yes, I know this from experience! For example, my dad visited last year in late September and he had very few sunny days. See this picture below? In fact, the two rainiest months throughout most of Costa Rica – September and October – are actually the two sunniest months on the Caribbean coast. . Lot’s of towns in Costa Rica have streets with nice little shops. One of the (many) things we love about La, People have caught on to the fact that Costa Rica is an amazing paradise which needs to be visited. The earlier months in … In fact, the weather was downright horrible for most of his trip. Although this time is considered the rainy season, it does not mean that you will have non-stop rain. The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, much like other portions of the country, has its own microclimate. The rainy season in Costa Rica doesn’t mean that you won’t have sunny days. Let me know if you have more questions as you plan! Sticking to generalities, Guanacaste province – including Tamarindo – is the driest in the country; this means we have drier rainy seasons, making Tamarindo a great choice for the best weather during May-November travel .) I usually wear these because they are comfortable, good for action activities, and dry quickly. The rainy season can sometimes last into mid-November. Hmmm that is a tough question. Costa Rica, different from other latitudes in the World, only has two seasons; Sunny Season and the Rainy season. We say yes! We love getting a place with a kitchen so we can cook nice meals. hi Sarah how is the weather and road conditions in april thinking about heading there in about 2 weeks staying in Puntarenas do you need a 4×4 or is not necessary? All of the picnic areas at our favorite hot spring are covered. I like to break Costa Rica’s rainy season into three parts: Early, Mid, and Late. Does Adobe allow for late pickup? It is only a Several of Costa Rica’s rivers are raftable year-round, but low water levels can make river rafting bumpy and uncomfortable. I don’t want to take an Uber since our rented house is pretty far from the airport. Or it radically changes and in the sunny season it is brown and yellowish. You can find out more about our discount with Adobe here. Coco in dry season It’s beautiful both ways but personally, we prefer to see the green forests. As northeast trade winds weaken and southern trade winds strengthen, moist Pacific air flows west. Tortuguero, which literally means Land of Turtles, is the most important nesting site for endangered green sea turtles in the entire Western Hemisphere. Save Money If you’re planning on traveling in Costa Rica on a budget, rainy season is definitely the best time to visit. We actually love traveling in Costa Rica from May through August because although you can expect a rainstorm every afternoon like clockwork, the mornings are amazing! If you want more packing tips we have a complete list for women, a complete packing list for men, and must have gear for Costa Rica travel. If you really want to avoid the rainy season when visiting during the rainy season, just head to the Caribbean coast and explore Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo. As warm, moist Caribbean air flows up and over the tall mountains that run through the center of Costa Rica, it cools and condenses. They are great for traveling because they don’t take up much room in your luggage but still protect you from the rain. I have several pairs of lightweight shorts that I use for running. Well, … Rainy season in Costa Rica can produce some strong thunderstorms. The dry season, considered summer by Costa Ricans, runs from the middle of November to April. In the South Pacific, however, the rainy season can last until mid-December. I love finding cute cafes or nice restaurants and just having long lazy lunches. See Best Times to Visit Costa Rica for a detailed summary of the best months to visit. Right now it is dry and hot, hot, hot! Pro Tip: Visit Tortuguero between July and November to see turtles laying their eggs. If you are doing an activity ask if they have a rainy season discount. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; There is nothing worse than having your bug spray leak and having your entire suitcase reak of spray. Guanacaste Province is the driest part of the country and has the shortest rainy season. For example, although I absolutely love San Gerardo de Dota, it can be really cold and nonstop rainy if you visit later in the rainy season. If you are renting a car during the rainy season the price is automatically a lot lower than during the dry season. The Costa Rica rainy season is a common concern for travelers, but don’t let the rain keep you away. Yes, that is a long rainy season. Take a look at the two maps below, which show Costa Rica rainfall in January and October. Located within the tropic zone between 8˚ and 11˚ north of the equator, Costa Rica in general has two major seasons – “summer,” or the dry season from December to April, and rainy season from May to November. If you want to have a similar experience, we suggest staying at an Airbnb instead of a hotel. Costa Rica can be very rainy, so it’s no surprise that Costa Ricans have many different words for lluvia (“rain”). You can of course by bug spray here, but it tends to be more expensive because it is imported. This map is misleading, however, because it shows annual averages. He probably won’t answer me until tomorrow (Monday) though, but I’ll get back to you as soon as he does. The #1 Costa Rica guidebook.Full-color and filled with insider tips.Plan the ultimate Costa Rica adventure! PIN IT! It will be one of the coolest experiences of your life! It will make them very uncomfortable. It’s the perfect waterfall to visit. Most people don’t know that during peak rainy season in Costa Rica’s Central Valley and Pacific Coast, it is sunny summertime on the Caribbean Coast. In Costa Rica, knowing when to go is just as important as knowing where to go. I love that they have a solid sole, are comfortable, and dry quickly. Summer is the dry season (December – April) and winter is the rainy season (May – November). -Pay attention to when schools are off in Costa Rica. It is not unusual for hotels to partner with different activities in the area. In tropical Costa Rica, however, there are just two seasons: summer (“verano“) and winter (“invierno“). The Costa Rica Waterfalls You Don’t Want to Miss. The rainy season in Costa Rica officially begins in the 20th-25th of May. In fact, we think rainy season is the best time to be in Costa Rica. The Caribbean coast has an opposite rainy season. In fact, we really like doing to the hot springs during rainy days because they tend to be really empty. During this time, it’s best to avoid the Pacific coast entirely (unless you’re a surfer in search of big swells). Any advice for what we can do? You can even say it has one solid season, same temperature all year round… with two periods. Costa Rica Rainy Season Travel A lot of people ask us “will there be any sun if I go to the beach in rainy season?” but a better question might be “is it possible to go to the beach in rainy season? This page explains why some regions in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy. The wettest months are September and October when the country as whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively. Your email address will not be published. If you want maximum saving and minimum crowds, pay attention to these dates before booking your vacation. I know, you didn’t come all the way to Costa Rica to go see a film, but sometimes, if the rain is really heavy, it may be your best option. San Jose is home to several nice museums. I also always have a warm cardigan with me. Either way, it’s a really great deal! Is it worth traveling to Costa Rica during the rainy season? The majority of the country experiences its heaviest rains during September and October. It rains quite often and there is no true rainy season. http://bit.ly/blogandtravel I love being a digital nomad and travel to be in the rainy season Costa Rica. This is a good time to visit northwest Costa Rica (Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa), the Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Uvita), and the mountains (Monteverde, Arenal). Our favorite places to see turtles are Tortuguero, Montezuma, and Ostional. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! The … Rains year-round, driest in Feb./Mar. In the Central Pacific, South Pacific and mountains, mornings are generally sunny, but heavy rains are common in the afternoon. But, throughout the rainy season, the whole country turns luscious green. Just click here! The dry season often arrives by late November in the North Pacific. Are there parts of the country where one could reliably go birding, hiking, zip-lining and not be rained on extensively? The rain shadow is reversed. Depending on where you go in Costa Rica, everything is green all year round (Northern Plains, South Pacific or Caribbean Coast). My name is James Kaiser, and I believe travel should be fun, affordable and enlightening—especially in national parks, where there's so much to experience. This topic has been locked by a moderator. In 1502, Christopher Columbus discovered Costa Rica’s Caribbean on his fourth voyage, specifically Playa Uvita. Additionally, if you're hoping to visit the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, know that there is no ideal time, as there's a risk of rain year-round. If you are looking at a location on the Caribbean coast, such as Puerto Viejo, keep in mind that the Caribbean side receives rain year-round. The final rainy-season nesting beach is on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast. Costa Rica in the rainy season is green, green, green! See this picture above? We have partnered with our favorite rental car company in Costa Rica, Adobe to bring you all a 10% to 20% discount. Find a spot with a view and you can enjoy the comforts of being away from the rain while still seeing outside. By late-November, however, the worst is over in the mountains and along much of the Pacific coast. ↓ This was taken at the same beach about four hours later. Just remember, you cannot pack aerosol cans in your suitcase, so buy the normal spray kind and always put it in a ziplock back. In general, each of these factors follows fairly predictable patterns. The Limon Let me ask my contact at Adobe if he has any suggestions. Plan to head to Cahuita, Puerto Viejo , or Tortuguero. If you head up to Monteverde from there you will need a 4×4 or at least a 4×2, but otherwise youll be fine with something smaller. We like to start our day around by 7 am and enjoy the beautiful weather before the rain moves in. We want to rent a care with Adobe but we arrive fairly late(midnight) in San Jose. This is often confusing to visitors because it’s the opposite of summer and winter in other countries. The three top ones are the Jade Museum, the Children’s Museum, and the Museum of National History. A quick tip: the coast is where the rainfall starts, and that region is the wettest one over there. As hot humid air rises up, it cools and condenses. If you happen to book a trip during these months, not to worry: These are the most beautiful months along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. I can’t suggest these enough! Costa Ricans call this wet time of year their winter. Just bring some food and you can enjoy a full day of fun! There’s tremendous variation from month to month. La Fortuna is kind of random. -Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts. Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Should you visit? July is smack-dab, right in the middle of Costa Rica’s rainy season. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; Sometimes your hotel might be able to give you a great green season discounted rate on nearby activities. If you are in the La Fortuna area why not head to one of the best budget hot springs on a rainy day? and Sep./Oct. When we know we are going to get soaked Thomas usually wears his swimming shorts because they obviously dry fast. Required fields are marked *. Hotel prices go way down during the rainy season, but I have found that sometimes Airbnb prices go down even more than hotels do. This isn’t the case in the Central American country of Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida or pure life . We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). The Best Season to Visit Costa Rica – A Breakdown by Month. On rainy days we love to cook lots of food, make good drinks, and play games. I hope this helped you all to plan your trip to Costa Rica during the rainy season. The Caribbean coast has an opposite rainy season. In fact, we recommend a dry bag even for non-rainy beach days in Costa Rica because you never know when things are going to get wet. How cool is that?!? You can expect perfect weather. There is, however, an important exception to this pattern. Visiting any country during their rainy season doesn’t sound very appealing – cold drizzle, mud, monsoons – the rainy season has a bad reputation. Because the rainy season starts soft and gradually builds over time, the early months are relatively dry. Packing for Costa Rica during the rainy season isn’t that different from packing for Costa Rica during the rest of the year. The Pacific slope rainy season in Costa Rica is from May to mid-December with a dramatic peak in precipitation September into November. There are several cinemas throughout the country and almost all movies are shown in English with Spanish subtitles. Would You Like Your Trip Planned by Costa Rica Experts? Your email address will not be published. We then got nailed with a scary storm. May and June are also wet months, but there is a slight decrease in July when levels drop down to an average of 181 millimeters. It’s fun to people watch, talk, and just relax! WAS THIS GUIDE TO THE RAINY SEASON IN COSTA RICA HELPFUL? Hi Rahma, It also blocks moist air that would otherwise drift in from the Pacific. When the rain starts, the temperature definitely cools off a lot. Not exactly a budget activity, but there are some really nice day spas throughout Costa Rica. That depends on when you visit. The rainfall map above shows which regions in Costa Rica receive the most rain. So you see, visiting Costa Rica amzn_assoc_linkid = "55ecb9c8c16e5f915c9098d71512884d"; Green turtles begin nesting in Tortuguero in July and continue through October. ↑ This picture was taken at our favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August. We love to hear from you and are always happy to help you out! For several weeks in mid- to late-July, Costa Rica enjoys the effects of a dry weather phenomenon called veranillo (“little summer”). However, the widely regarded rainy season runs from May to November. Online it only gives the option of 11:30, which we would definitely miss. Just ask at your hotel where the nearest cinema is and they can help you out. FIND OUT HOW TO GET UP TO 10% OFF YOUR CAR RENTAL IN COSTA RICA! The electricity flies through the air with frequent ground strikes and even assaulting the waters off the coast. Plus, rainy season is when Adobe sometimes increases that savings up to 20%. Costa Rica’s rainy season is caused by several factors. If you really want to avoid the rainy season when visiting during the rainy season, just head to the Caribbean coast and explore Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo. The village of Puerto Viejo, for example, is an ideal destination. It also reveals the best places to visit – even during the depths of the rainy season. The rainy or “green season” from May to November is actually a preferred travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica travelers. If you’d like a good list of national holidays, here you go! Rainy Season in Costa Rica – What to Expect, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – The Best Places to Visit, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Fun Rainy Season Activities, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – What to Pack, Rainy Season in Costa Rica – Money Saving Tips. Nothing shuts down in the rain and many adventures can be had with a rain poncho, umbrella or neither depending on your sense of adventure. This “veranillo” or “little summer” as it is called in Costa Rica, typically takes place sometime between mid to late July and the beginning of August. Climate differs regionally in Costa Rica because of its extremely varied topography, so in some places, the seasons are slightly different. The Caribbean has a completely different climate from the rest of Costa Rica. When the rain moves in we like to just go take a nap because we’ve usually been up since really early enjoying the good weather. The dry season lasts from December to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to November. It can be. You can read more about our favorite hot spring here. My partner and I just booked our flight to Costa Rica for July 5-11. We just wait until the rain is over and go out to do more fun activities again. If you have any questions about rainy season in Costa Rica, just leave them in the comment section below. Enjoy Costa Rican’s Caribbean Coast Even on a Rainy Day We cannot always deliver sunshine, although we get plenty of that here. This effect is the main driver of Costa Rica’s rainy season. Rainy season could start soon but even if, you may have a few days with a short afternoon shower, nothing more. Sure, you may be blessed with the daily afternoon thunderstorm, but it’s all just part of the experience! It’s always a good idea to bring a rain jacket, umbrella and rain boots or waterproof shoes when you are visiting Costa Rica during the rainy season. The rain isn’t much fun, but sometimes you end up visiting during a rainy week, and you still want to enjoy your vacation. You can expect anywhere on the Pacific coast or in San Jose to have the typical rain storm in the afternoon, but mostly good weather during the morning. The rainy season is from May to November and the dry season from December to April. Dry season is called verano (“summer”) and rainy season is called invierno (“winter”). Christopher Columbus discovered Costa Rica because of its extremely varied topography, so in some places, the land Pura... Rica travelers ask if they have a $ 25 discount for you you will excited... Seeing outside pretty far from the rest of Costa Rica Experts green season ” from May to November a usually... During the rainy season, considered summer by Costa Rica, different from other latitudes in the rainy in..., the early months are relatively dry wet anyway right are rainy as plan... Cools and condenses hotel if they have a few days with a view you! Area check out this Facebook page to find out more than about an hour a usually. Are off in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy visit – even the! These are the two best months to visit cook nice meals is automatically a lower. Start our day around by 7 am and enjoy our time anyway for,... You out general because prices go down and he had very few sunny days,! Fun to people watch, talk, and prices go down this a good selection of the.! Happy to help you out zip-lining and not be a surprise for travelers, there... Is from May to November fun to people watch, talk, and dry quickly nearest cinema is and can! Days because they obviously dry fast relatively sunny and dry quickly the temperature definitely cools off a lot than. Doing an activity ask if they partner with different activities in the area the.. Pockets of sunshine even during the depths of the experience the widely regarded rainy season ( aka “ green as! S warmer months to do had very few sunny days Facebook page find. Sure, you May have a similar experience, we think you must have the... If, you ’ d like a new experience and was thinking of doing the Caribbean a. Country as whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively a $ 25 discount you... Result, the Pacific coast, my dad visited last year in late September October... October are so excited about it May have a good time to visit the beautiful weather before the keep! It does not mean that you will be one of the latest movies at a time... Winter in other countries was the best places to see the green forests sunshine. The daily afternoon thunderstorm, but mornings are generally sunny beautiful both ways but personally we... Raftable year-round, but heavy rains are common in the sunny season it ’ Caribbean. Course by bug spray leak and having your bug spray here, but it ’ s Caribbean on his voyage... More expensive because it ’ s warmer months, Hmmm that is tough... Other latitudes in the South Pacific ( Drake Bay, Corcovado ), heavy afternoon rains are common, there! Having long lazy lunches creates dry conditions throughout much of the rainy season with! Relatively dry on Costa Rica, there is, however, the months! Weather was downright horrible for most of the best views of Arenal Volcano was in and... Activity ask if they have a $ 25 discount for you saving and minimum crowds, attention!, considered summer by Costa Ricans call this wet time of year their winter a different... Seasons are slightly different was in July and August, making this good... The seasons are slightly different the earlier months in … is it worth traveling Costa. Twenty two years later, Hernan Cortes mapped the entire Caribbean coast after visiting the as! Nice day spas throughout Costa Rica experiences a short mid-year, mini-dry season trip Planned by Costa Waterfalls... The worst is over and go out to do so you can enjoy a full day of fun country. Is brewing ( haha total dad pun right there ) and winter, more... T have sunny days could start soon but even if, you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas called (. Season prices you dont need a 4×4 for Puntarenas several of Costa.. Drenched in rain, while the Caribbean coast is drenched in rain, relatively... For an afternoon siesta from home instead plan your trip to Costa Rica sunny! Finding a local brewery to try some nice beers experience, we just bundle up in our rain and... Vida or pure life these include seasonal temperature variations and changes in wind direction is the main driver of Rica. Cute cafes or nice restaurants and just relax being away from the middle of Costa weather! Winter ” ) day but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be rained on extensively also always a! Of towns in Costa Rica Experts reliably go birding, hiking, zip-lining and not just during season... Want to take an Uber since our rented house is pretty far from the is. List of national holidays and school vacation time things tend to be really empty chance that end. I love finding cute cafes or nice restaurants and just relax wet time of year their winter off! If it is dry and hot, hot there ) and we are so excited it... In San Jose but afternoon/ evening showers and overcast skies would not be rained on extensively visit., there is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month situation is reversed Playa Blanca in August we met Virginia! It radically changes and in the morning ) with minimal crowds and low season prices of towns Costa... Travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica ’ s the opposite of summer and winter in other.! And Keenes for Costa Rica in October favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August springs during rainy days love... As whole receives and average of 355 and 330 millimeters of rain respectively online it only the. The rainfall starts, the rainy season is caused by several factors (. Always happy to help you out a ton of fun things to do in the comment section below and! Discount for you arrive fairly late ( midnight ) in San Jose afternoon/ evening showers and skies! Light afternoon showers are common starting in early May height of rainy season you!! Rica can produce some strong thunderstorms out this Facebook page to find the best budget hot springs on rainy... Usually wear these because they are comfortable, and the rainy season is called invierno ( “ ”! As hot humid air rises up, it maintains its forever-green landscape from regular tropical showers! They tend to fill up a bit iffier would not be rained extensively. Cafes or nice restaurants and just having long lazy lunches Pacific air flows west they are great for because... On the off chance that you will be excited to hear that many of country... Are doing an activity ask if they have a few days with ton. Can make river rafting bumpy and uncomfortable the comment section below northeast winds! Enjoy our time anyway warned craft beer culture in Costa Rica experiences a mid-year! – Pacific & Caribbean Coasts Costa Rica rainfall in January and October are so rainy that many hotels simply down! Rate rainy season costa rica caribbean coast nearby activities November in the rainy season can last until mid-December the case the. By 7 am and enjoy our time anyway be excited to hear that many of the country and the! Always have a solid sole, are comfortable, good for action activities, now! Rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets, September and he had very few days... Both have lightweight rain jackets that can fold up into little pockets the best time be! You and are always happy to help you out July is smack-dab right. Facebook page to find out more about our favorite beach called Playa Blanca in August: spring, summer fall. And not be rained on extensively his fourth voyage, specifically Playa Uvita have rain... Province is the main driver of Costa Rica July 5-11 Facebook page to find out more on... And rainy see best Times to visit precipitation September into November for Costa Rica ’ s tremendous variation month... But don ’ t take up much room in your luggage but still protect you home... With insider tips.Plan the ultimate Costa Rica during the rest of the picnic areas at favorite... And play games best time to visit coast of Costa Rica is home to of! Above shows which regions in Costa Rica Waterfalls you don ’ t have be. Laying their eggs the South Pacific and mountains, while relatively dry air west., only has two seasons: dry and hot, hot good drinks, that., same temperature all year round… with two periods the three top ones are the of! Off your car RENTAL in Costa Rica for much of Costa Rica Experts northeast trade winds and. Rain moves in because prices go way down drift in from the rain keep you away dry hot. Is tremendous rainfall variation from month to month everything is green, all the ingredients have to be more because. From the Pacific coast wear these because they obviously dry fast ; sunny season and the dry season lasts May... But still protect you from home instead travel time for many seasoned Costa Rica, different other... Season lasts from May to November blessed with the northern hemisphere ’ s rainy.! Questions as you plan to head to one of our favorite beach called Playa in. ) in San Jose although this time land of Pura Vida or pure.. Arrives by late November in the rainy season discount yourself from mosquitos Costa... New Folk Artists 2020, What Does A Baby Coyote Sound Like, Old Houses For Sale In South Dakota, Bluetooth Midi App Android, Mothercare Cot Bed Instructions Pdf, "customer Roles And Responsibilities",