Costa Rica is blessed by Mother Nature, with travellers finding themselves surrounded by rainforests, beautiful beaches, spectacular waterfalls and mineral-rich thermal hot springs. In the 12 different microclimates the country experiences, tropical rains typically arrive during the period of May - November which allows for a freshness and rejuvenation of the land, making the greenery pop and the rich colours more vibrant. Costa Rica is home to some of the best adventure and nature-based experiences that can be enhanced by a tropical downpour that leaves visitors feeling recharged and at one with their surroundings.

1. Nature is in full bloom

This period of time is known by locals as the “green season,” since the vegetation is lush and verdant. The rain brings extra life to the rainforest, and the greenery is swept by cooler breezes. Not only are the flowers in full bloom, the birds are chirping at their loudest and wildlife is abundant across the rainforests in La Fortuna, and the usually more arid Guanacaste region.

2. Marine life

The rainy season is the best time to spot marine life on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. During this time, humpback whales migrate from the south, seeking warmer waters to mate. The Osa Peninsula, Gulf of Papagayo, Uvita and Tamarindo are the perfect places to set out and whale watch. This is also the best time of year for advanced scuba divers looking to see bull and hammerhead sharks.

3. Turtle Hatching

The end of the green season sees the year’s largest hatchings, as it is the peak of turtle nesting. Travelers can see baby Olive Ridley and the endangered Kemp’s Ridley turtles hatching from their eggs and running towards the shoreline under the moonlight. The best location to see this phenomenon is Ostional Beach on the Nicoya Peninsula. 

4. Surfing

Costa Rica boasts consistent swells and warm water during the green season. The Pacific gets hit by southwest, south, and northwest winds, making for bigger waves and bettersurfing. This is especially the case from June to September.

5. Bird watching

The Palo Verde National Park is a large swath of wetlands fed by the Tempisque River. The river is the perfect trail for a birding adventure, as explorers let the river current guide them through a variety of habitats via speedboat. The best time to visit the Palo Verde National Park for birding is during the rainy fall, when the Tempisque River floods, creating a broad marsh area that attracts many migrating birds. Aquatic bird watchers are sure to spot the Jaribu, tiger heron, and white hibis, while other exotic species like toucans and macaws may make an appearance.

6. Waterfalls

More rain equals more water cascading down the cliffs of Costa Rica’s waterfalls. Hikers should not hesitate because of the weather, as waterfalls are best spotted during thisseason. The rain usually comes and goes in the early morning and late afternoon, making for a brilliant day of hiking and waterfall spotting. A stand-out location with dozens of waterfalls is along the Celeste River in Tenorio Volcano National Park.