Why Costa Rica’s ‘green season’ is the best time to visit

Ruth MacRae • July 25, 2017

Many people believe that travelling to Costa Rica in the green season will be a disappointment because of the rain. This is truly one of the best times to travel in Costa Rica. The country is lush, fresh and vibrant. But there are many other highlights to travelling during the green season.

Here are 10 reasons to visit Costa Rica during the rainy season:

Sunny Mornings, Rainy Afternoons

The rainy season doesn’t mean it rains constantly. Usually it is sunny and clear in the mornings with rain in the late afternoons and early evening.

Less Crowded

The myth that it rains continuously during the green season discourages many people which means you can expect fewer travellers, more choice in accommodation, shorter waiting times for tours and more attention.

Value for Money

Less visitors translates into hotels and often other tourism arrangements dropping their rates. This time of year offers excellent value for your money.

Rainforest Explosion

The rainforest comes alive during the rainy season. Becoming greener and more lush. Fruits and flowers blossom attracting birds, butterflies and animals. Take a night hike in search of kinkajous, snakes, spiders, and possibly big cats.

Whale Watching Season

Whales and dolphins can be seen at other times of the year but the humpback whales show up in vast numbers as they migrate from the Antarctica to Costa Rica to give birth. A humpback whale has an enormously powerful breach that can lift 90% of its body out of the water. This lunge or cresting display is an amazing sight to witness and often a common courting gesture to attract a female’s attention. It is certain to grab your attention as well. You may want to visit the town of Uvita when they host the Festival de Ballenas y Delfines (Whales and Dolphins Festival) every September

Turtle Nesting Season

The green season is turtle nesting season in many parts of Costa Rica. Visit Tortuguero National Park

to witness thousands of green sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach at night. This season we are offering out clients travelling in Costa Rica from July to October a free Night Turtle Walk in Totuguero.

Coffee Harvest

The coffee harvest for most plantations begin in the green season. Take a tour of a coffee farm or join local pickers in plucking the red coffee berries from October to December.

Exhilarating White Water

For the adrenaline junkie this is time to tackle white water river rafting. More rain raises the water levels of rivers such as Pacuare River and the flow is faster – the perfect time to enjoy the rapids.

Surfing

Surfing in Costa Rica is at its best in the green season. The waves are larger, more plentiful and the crowds are less. You may want to take surf lessons or you may want to watch surfers while lounging on the beach.

Pura Vida

Pura Vida , Costa Rica’s unofficial national motto, translates to “pure life” but it is more than just a saying. To Ticos, pura vida is a way of life. Life in Costa Rica is slower and less stressful than other countries. Ticos use the phrase in many ways- to show appreciation, as a compliment, or as a thank you for what they have. On your visit to Costa Rica, you will experience and understand the meaning of “pura vida”

If Costa Rica is on your travel wish list, consider visiting this breathtaking country in the green season. Less crowds, more choice in accommodation, amazing wildlife sightings and lush countryside awaits you.

Visit our Costa Rica tour page for suggestions.

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Why Costa Rica’s ‘green season’ is the best time to visit

Many people believe that travelling to Costa Rica in the green season will be a disappointment because of the rain. This is truly one of the best times to travel in Costa Rica. The country is lush, fresh and vibrant. But there are many other highlights to travelling during the green season.

Here are 10 reasons to visit Costa Rica during the rainy season:

Rainforest Explosion

Exhilarating White Water