Any time you’re planning a getaway to a new locale, it is important to consider the weather before booking your trip. Here in Costa Rica, the weather is divided into two seasons: dry and green. And depending on who you ask, you’ll get a different response on when you should book that trip.
In today’s post, we’re sharing the insider scoop on the two seasons…and offering a suggestion that just might surprise you!
Dry Season
Costa Rica’s dry season occurs from mid-November through May. During the dry season, visitors enjoy sunny, blue skies and warm temperatures. Along the coastline, temps can climb into the mid-90’s while the Central Valley enjoys the mid 80’s.
One of the biggest perks of visiting the country during the dry season is the deliciously long days—you’ll enjoy 10 – 12 hours of uninterrupted sunshine—during which you can swim, hike, and tour to your heart’s content. Many of Costa Rica’s festivals take place during the dry season, and visitors often schedule their trips around events like Festival de la Luz and Fiesta de los Diablitos.
It should come as no surprise, then, that the dry season is also known as the “high” season, as it is the time when tourism in Costa Rica is at its peak. This, in turn, means you’ll likely pay a premium price for hotel rooms, Airbnb rentals, car rentals, and tours.
Green Season
Costa Rica’s green, or “rainy”, season lasts from May to November. During this time, the country enjoys daily rain showers, typically in the late afternoons. Most of Costa Rica is blanketed in lush, verdant beauty during the green season due to the increase in rain. The flora is vibrantly green, waterfalls are at their most powerful, and the country seems to come alive.
While the tourism world will tell you to schedule your trip to Costa Rica during the dry season, locals will steer you toward visiting during the rainy season. Why?
- The country is even more beautiful – plants are blooming, the jungle looks lush and alive, and temperatures feel a bit cooler due to the moisture in the air.
- Rates are lower – because you’re visiting during “off” season, you can find great deals on local accommodations, rental cars, and tours.
- It’s less crowded – while others are fighting for space during the dry season, you’ll notice fewer visitors if you plan your trip during the green season
May is a great time to visit as the country is transitioning out of dry and into the green season, which means the weather can be somewhat of a mixed bag. But most of the tourists have departed by May, leaving the country less crowded and allowing you to enjoy all of the natural beauty at a lower price rate.
And so…
If you are comfortable with daily rain showers and can be flexible with your plans should an unexpected shower pop up, we recommend rolling the dice and booking a trip during the green season. But here’s the good news—regardless of when you visit, the natural beauty of Costa Rica is sure to take your breath away…and it will have you planning your next trip before you leave!
