August falls right in the middle of Costa Rica’s “green” season, a rainier time of year when all of the country’s famous flora is in bloom. Take advantage of the precipitation with whitewater rafting, or head to the Caribbean coast if you’re looking for a vacation with more sun. One of the biggest religious holidays of the year occurs during this month, too. Read on for more on the nature and festivities of Costa Rica in August.
August in Costa Rica presents a unique travel experience, characterized by the vibrant “green” season, also known as the rainy season, which extends from May to November. During this period, visitors can anticipate slightly cooler temperatures across much of the country, accompanied by more frequent rainfall. If your travel plans involve spending time on the beaches of destinations like Manuel Antonio National Park or other enchanting locations along the central and southern Pacific coast, be prepared for the possibility of significant rainfall. However, it’s worth noting that the northern Pacific Coast, including the stunning Guanacaste Province, typically remains relatively dry, even during this green season, offering a delightful alternative.
One of the appealing aspects of traveling during this low season is the opportunity to take advantage of reduced hotel prices and smaller crowds in many areas of the country. It’s not unusual to find typical discounts in the range of 15-20%, and in some instances, you might even discover hotel rooms available at up to 50% off during these less crowded months. Additionally, the cost of international flights tends to be lower during this time. While fares offered by Sansa Airlines, the main local carrier, might not fluctuate dramatically, there’s still a chance to find some appealing discounts.
When planning your trip to Costa Rica during the green season, it’s wise to prioritize regions that experience the least amount of weather fluctuation compared to the dry season. A significant portion of Guanacaste Province, particularly the picturesque Gulf of Papagayo, boasts a tropical dry climate throughout the year. Consequently, the temperature variation in many areas within this province is minimal, often just a couple of degrees.
This means you can enjoy the beauty of popular Pacific coastal destinations such as Playa Hermosa, the vibrant Tamarindo, and many others, while experiencing pleasant weather without the crowds and inflated prices typically associated with the high season. Furthermore, consider exploring the Caribbean side of Costa Rica during August. The charming village of Puerto Viejo, nestled near the border with Panama, experiences its own mini-dry season during this time, offering visitors sunny beach weather.
If your visit to Costa Rica coincides with the beginning of August and you plan to spend more than a day or two near the capital city of San José, make sure to include a trip to the nearby city of Cartago in your itinerary. On August 2nd, Cartago hosts the Virgin of Los Angeles Day, Costa Rica’s third-largest religious festival, following Christmas and Easter, offering a captivating cultural experience.
The Caribbean coast beckons during the middle of sea turtle nesting season, making Tortuguero National Park an unmissable destination. This remote, protected area, located on the northern corner of the coast, is accessible only by boat and plane. However, the journey is well worth it, as you’ll have the chance to witness female hawksbill, leatherback, and green sea turtles laying their eggs under the cover of darkness.
Venture further down the Caribbean coast, and you’ll discover fantastic surfing opportunities on the beaches surrounding the village of Puerto Viejo, including Playa Cocles and Playa Negra. On the opposite side of the country, along the Pacific coast, you can witness the awe-inspiring migration of humpback whales. A visit to the Osa Peninsula and the marine reserve of Isla del Cano offers the opportunity to spot both whales and dolphins.
The rainy season also provides ideal conditions for whitewater rafting, thanks to the higher water levels in the rivers. Costa Rica offers a variety of rivers to choose from, including the Balsa River, the Reventazon, and the Sarapiquí, each offering rapids suitable for all skill levels, ranging from gentle class I to exhilarating class V.
For a unique cultural experience, consider witnessing the spiritual pilgrimage known as the romería. Every year, approximately two million locals make their way on foot to the city of Cartago. The 13-mile walk from San José can take a couple of days or longer, and you are welcome to join in the procession.
August in Costa Rica is marked by several notable events, including:
**Virgin of Los Angeles Day:** On August 2nd, countless people embark on a pilgrimage to the cathedral in Cartago to pay their respects to the Virgin and offer their prayers.
**San Ramon Patron Saint Day:** August 30th is dedicated to the Festejos Patronoles, an annual celebration held in the town of San Ramon, located outside San José. The festivities include parades, live music, and dancing.
Consider a Caribbean Coast Adventure for a week filled with rainforest hikes, snorkeling in coral reefs, and rafting on the Río Pacuare. This itinerary is well-suited for travelers visiting during the green season, as the Caribbean coast tends to remain relatively dry, and it’s also the prime time to witness turtle nesting in Tortuguero National Park.
Alternatively, opt for a Costa Rica Whitewater and Surfing adventure, featuring whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River and a visit to one of the country’s top surfing destinations. This itinerary is packed with aquatic experiences.
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