Rainy Season in Costa Rica brings verdant landscapes and seasonal promotions.

With the Costa Rican dry season coming to an end, and the so called “Green” season looming upon us, we can look forward to lots of rain and bigger traffic jams in the city. The outlook is not all dreary though and there is a silver lining to be found, so don’t despair.

Costa Rica’s summer, or dry season, usually starts in December and ends in May. The dry season is historically the time when most tourists come to vacation in Costa Rica so during these months tourist destinations are crowded and expensive. Of course, “crowded” is a relative term as most places in Costa Rica never really feel crowded at all. If you’ve been to a beach or other tourist destination during peak season in Europe or in the United States, then you’ll really know what being in a crowded place is. Let me tell you, Costa Rica is spoiling you rotten!

Ok, back to the main theme now… This year, experts have predicted the rainy season will start in mid-April. Although, the experts may have different opinions on why the rains will come earlier this year, some point to La Niña and others blame Global Warming, regardless of who’s right or wrong, we will all be carrying our umbrellas very soon.

Looking at the bright side of things, as the rainy season starts many tourist destinations and hotels typically start to offer special promotions to locals and visitors. Since last September, CANATUR (Costa Rica’s Board of Tourism) and ICT (Costa Rica’s Tourism Institute) began promoting countrywide discounts for Ticos in all seasons in a “Get to know your country” campaign. For outside visitors, the Green Season is the only time such lower prices for accommodations, tours and just about any tourism related service are available. And don’t be shy, if you don’t see a low-season promotion for the place you want to see, just ask.

Besides being able to save a few of your hard-earned money, you will also get to see something the regular high-season tourists don’t see – Costa Rica beaches and mountains in full splendor. This time of the year, everywhere you look, you’ll see green, green, green. I don’t know what it is, but there’s something truly primeval and invigorating about being surrounded by lush tropical vegetation during rainy season. It makes one feel truly alive in every sense of the word, but don’t take my word for it – go see for yourself.

The Exception to the Rule

During the “rainy” season, there is one region of Costa Rica that has a slightly different weather pattern than the rest of the country. The Caribbean coast has it’s peak rainy season around December so places like Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo are highly recommended in the coming months. Of course, it can and does rain year-round on the Caribbean coast but while most of us are soaking wet, they are enjoying the tropical sun and heat. My personal favorite is Puerto Viejo where you can find anything you need from a spartan campsite to a private luxury villa. And the food, ahhh the food… In Puerto Viejo, you’ll find authentic Italian, Japanese, Thai, Hindu, American fare, and more. Of course we can’t forget the ever popular and tasty Caribbean cuisine of the region. Travel Tip: As always, keep your belongings in sight at all times. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way in Puerto Viejo, yet still call it my favorite. It’s just that special.

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Filed under: Travel on April 3rd, 2008