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Early green Season: May to June

Cooler, quieter, greener. That’s the simple way to describe Costa Rica’s early green season. After months of near-constant sunshine, the first big rains break through and transform the country. Forests burst back into life, rivers swell, and mornings are often gloriously clear before the afternoon showers roll in.

For travelers, May and June are something of a sweet spot — a shoulder season with fewer crowds, lusher scenery, and lower prices than the peak dry months.

Costa rica pacuare lodge forest

Regional Highlights

Pacific Coast (Nicoya, Osa, Uvita)

  • Nicoya mornings are clear, with rain arriving later in the day. You can expect quieter beaches.
  • Osa is wetter but spectacular — rainforests buzz with activity, dolphins offshore at Uvita.

Central Highlands & Cloud Forest (San Gerardo, Chirripó, La Fortuna, Tenorio)

  • Cooler and misty, but birdwatching remains superb, especially in San Gerardo.
  • La Fortuna and Tenorio shine with powerful waterfalls and swollen rivers.
  • Chirripó trails are greener and quieter than in peak season.

Caribbean Coast (Cahuita, Tortuguero)

  • Warm, humid, and wet, but wildlife thrives. May–June is particularly good for nature photography and spotting frogs and turtles in Tortuguero.

Central Valley (San José, Turrialba)

  • Hillsides are vivid green and farming communities lively with planting season. Great for cultural stops between adventures.
Costa rica dominical dolphin jumping

Why Travel in May–June?

  • Greener landscapes: Costa Rica at its lushest.
  • Better wildlife encounters: Frogs, snakes, insects and birds are more active.
  • Lower crowds & costs: Shoulder season perks without the full force of rainy season.
  • Great photography: Misty mountains, vibrant forests, full waterfalls.
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Things to Keep in Mind

  • Afternoon showers are almost guaranteed — we will help you carefully plan what to pack.
  • Sunshine is often best in the mornings, so we suggest hikes and tours early.
  • Some areas (like the Osa) get very wet — ideal if you want immersive rainforest, less so if you’re after dry beach time.

Ready to Go?

If you’re after quieter trails, greener views and a more intimate Costa Rica experience, May and June are a wonderful time to visit. The early rains make the country feel fresh and alive, while mornings stay clear enough for adventure.

We’ll help you piece together a trip that makes the most of this “in-between” season — from rainforest night walks to lazy mornings on quieter beaches.

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