Why is green season the most attractive time of the year to visit Costa Rica? Here are my 6 reasons:
I just spent three weeks in Costa Rica during the month of September, which is right in the middle of the rainy season. Typically, this is a time of year when people avoid traveling to Costa Rica, resulting in the low season. However, I think it’s the best time to be in Costa Rica. And I’ll tell you why. But first, a quick background on my story.
I grew up in Costa Rica and left for Europe when I was 19 years old to pursue my studies and professional career. Over the years I experienced 19 rainy seasons, which usually run from May to December. I was very excited to visit Costa Rica in September, since it had been a while since I experienced the rainy season back home. And it did not disappoint.
Now, what exactly does the rainy season mean? Does it rain all day non-stop? Can you even do activities and explore beautiful destinations? Are you stuck with an umbrella or under a roof all day? Let’s quickly explain it. The rainy season in the tropics means a few hours of rain each day. Showers usually appear around 1 or 2 pm and last for a few hours. Oh, and it’s warm rain, unlike the cold rain you get in northern hemisphere countries. There is a possibility of occasional tropical storms that bring heavy rain throughout the day. But why isn’t it that bad? And why is the rainy season actually unique and amazing? Here are my points:
1. Nature explodes in every shade of green
As soon as you approach the airport (or enter the country by land), you’ll be amazed by how lush the landscapes are—even in Guanacaste, the driest area of Costa Rica. The jungle is bursting with shades of green, and you’ll want to stare at it all day. This is why many people in Costa Rica call it the green season. The lush vegetation, different trees, and plants create a unique landscape that truly stands out.
2. Wildlife puts on its best show
Thriving nature also means that wildlife is everywhere. You’ll see all the beautiful animals Costa Rica is famous for: macaws, monkeys, countless bird species, sloths, amphibians, reptiles, and if you’re lucky, even big cats like pumas or jaguars. Oh, and the best part? It’s turtle season and whale season during the rainy months. I was sitting on Playa Hermosa beach next to Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita and got to see whales from the shore. So you’re in for a real wildlife show.
3. Fewer tourists, better prices, and the “real” Costa Rica
Since September is typically the low season, flights to Costa Rica are cheap. I paid just under 500€ for a round trip from Europe to Costa Rica. And not only flights—hotels, car rentals, tours, everything is cheaper because demand is low. On top of that, it’s not crowded. Costa Rica can get packed during the high season, but during the green season, you’ll find plenty of availability, empty national parks, and quiet beaches. You’ll get to experience the country with very few tourists and really feel the pura vida. And if you’re a surfer, the waves are absolutely booming this time of year.
I was also incredibly happy to be in Costa Rica for the 15th of September, which is Independence Day. Wherever you are in the country, don’t miss the celebrations. It’s a beautiful cultural experience where the entire nation comes alive with dancing, music, the antorcha, and food. Ticos really go all in for this holiday, and it makes you, as a Costa Rican, extremely proud.
4. Sunsets that will take your breath away
Rainy season sunsets deserve their own category. After the afternoon showers, you’re often rewarded with a spectacular sunset. The clouds create incredible color formations, blending shades you can hardly believe are real. Uvita and Manuel Antonio are some of the best places to experience them. And maybe you’ll be lucky, like I was, and witness baby turtles being released into the ocean at the same time.
5. Caribbean coast: secret summer during rainy season
Costa Rica’s unique geography gives you access to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Here’s the cool part: while the Pacific coast gets rain in September and October, the Caribbean coast is actually in its dry season. Many travelers overlook this, but you’ll need to see it for yourself. I spent some days in Tortuguero, located in the northern Caribbean. There were a few showers at sunrise, but that was it. The Caribbean offers stunning landscapes, amazing wildlife, and beautiful beaches.
Don’t miss the turtle hatching tour. And if you can, rent a kayak and explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park on your own—you’ll reach places boats can’t go. While you’re there, head down to Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, true gems of the Caribbean coast.
6. Rainy afternoons made for naps and pure relaxation
One of my favorite parts about the rainy season is the chance to nap during the afternoon showers. Picture this: you wake up early, go whale watching, kayaking, surfing, zip lining—whatever you like. Around lunchtime, you return to your accommodation and take a nap while listening to the tropical rain. It’s like using your Spotify “rain sounds” playlist to sleep, but in real life. Even if you don’t nap, just reading a book or watching your favorite series while the rain falls is incredibly relaxing. And after the rain, you wake up to a refreshed, magical landscape.
So there you go—the green season is truly special.
It’s a time of year when many avoid Costa Rica out of fear they won’t be able to do much. But from my point of view, it’s the opposite: it’s beautiful, unique, and wild. That’s what I always tell people who are considering visiting during the rainy season.
Now, don’t get me wrong—it can get very wet. I’ve lived through intense rainy seasons, with days of non-stop rain and beach days with only limited sunshine. During this trip, I spent a few days in the southern part of Costa Rica, more specifically Pavones, Matapalo, and the Drake Bay area. It rained a lot, and I ended up leaving sooner than planned because, like any traveler, I was looking for sun. But guess what? After a two-hour drive, I found it. I get that as a visitor, you’re not looking for endless rainy days. Still, there’s beauty in tropical rains—the smell of wet earth, water dripping from the leaves, the sounds of wildlife. It’s all about flexibility and mindset. If you know what to expect and stay optimistic, trust me: it will be a trip you’ll never forget.
So here’s my advice: escape to Costa Rica in September or October.
Experience a real rainy season with an open mind, instead of assuming warm showers will ruin your trip. Embrace the season, take advantage of affordable flights and accommodations, and explore the country without crowds. And you know what? The ticos are so warm and welcoming that they’ll brighten your days wherever you go. Every time I return to Costa Rica, I’m reminded of how kind and hospitable the ticos are—and they truly make your experience worth every penny. Book that trip—it’s truly beautiful.
