August marks the heart of Costa Rica’s green (AKA rainy) season, which runs from May to November—this is when tourists typically steer clear of the popular Central America travel destination, holding out instead for the perfect warm, sunny weather of the dry season that runs from December to April. But, there are actually many reasons to travel to Costa Rica during the green season. So, don’t let the rainy days scare you away and plan your Costa Rica Vacation during the lush and more affordable green season.
Traveling to Costa Rica During the Green Season Has its Benefits!
Here are a few reasons why…
1. More Rain Equals More Life
Frequent showers and high humidity are a given during the country’s rainy season, but so are cooler temperatures, an explosion of vibrant flora and fauna, and an abundance of emerging wildlife. In August, the remote Osa Peninsula, home to the fantastic Corcovado National Park (where jaguars and pumas roam), sees nesting turtles and their hatchlings on the beaches. Humpback whales are in the Sweet Gulf, just beginning to arrive in late July to have their calves. In the rainforest, now more lush and exuberant than at any other time of year, you can see exotic beauties like the red-eyed tree frog and cat-eyed snake (who you may spy eating said frog eggs).
2. A Few Showers Might Even Make Your Trip
Keep in mind that while rain is more frequent in the green season, it often comes and goes quickly, and there can be days at a time where it doesn’t rain at all. Mornings are usually sunny and warm, with plenty of time to hit the beaches and pools. Still, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to experience the magic of being in a rainforest during a rainstorm, with massive leaves glistening around you and everything buzzing. Near San Jose (which you can reach by direct flight from Chicago and many other major U.S. cities on United Airlines), check out the sprawling Atlantic park at Rainforest Adventures (from $114 for adults, $65 for children), which is next to Braulio Carrillo National Park. After ziplining through canopies, over streams, and mountains of treetops, pray for rain. It’s fantastic during a quiet aerial tram ride over the forest or within the park’s massive butterfly and frog garden.
3. Lower Rates and Lighter Crowds
From coffee estate tours to zipline adventures, Costa Rica’s most popular activities are more private in green season, when crowds are lighter than in the dry, high season. You’ll also spend a good deal less on air, tours, and accommodations, with many hotels discounting rates by 30 percent or more. Experience a once in a lifetime Costa Rica vacation at Hacienda Pinilla, in spectacular Guanacaste, where you’ll enjoy authentic luxury surrounded by 4,500 acres of Costa Rica’s most beautiful landscapes and best activities.
Original Article: Chicago Magazine