dlisker

I am looking at Contiki tours for a 12 day tour to Costa Rica. I want to go between July & August this summer, because there is a temporary lull in the rainy season. Does it matter whether I travel to Costa Rica during the dry or rainy seasons? I ask, because whether its cooler or not is it still warm enough to swim in the oceans or rivers?

volcanogirl

The oceans stay warm year round so that shouldn't be a problem for you. Where does the tour go? You can't really pinpoint when the lull in the rain will come. We've traveled during that time frame a few times and have still gotten some rain. I still like that time of year though because things are usually lush and green, and you can get some good deals during green season. The only place we've encountered cool temperatures are at the higher elevations like Monteverde and Poas.

Christina

Rainy seasons just affect your activities. If it's raining half the day, you can't be doing outdoors stuff as much. I was in mexico city during the rainy season and it wasn't too bad, but several nights it did rain a lot, so you couldn't be out walking around or doing anything at those times. And I was in San Juan PR during the rainy season and it was a little worse, as it did rain a lot several days I was there, and it churned up the water near shore so snorkeling wasn't any good, either (poor visibility). That may not be an issue where you are going, I hven't been there, but that's just in general what rainy seasons can affect.

volcanogirl

For the most part, all activities go on as planned in Costa Rica even in the rain. The exception would be if it's lightning out. I think in all our trips, we've only had one activity cancelled due to the rain, and that was ziplining. We usually just back one of those foldup rain ponchos and go on with activities as planned.

volcanogirl

That should say pack - sorry.

dbijal

We just got back from Costa Rica a week ago. It rains there almost everyday as it is tropical but the rains do not affect anything until its like a storm. Also, the water may be cold depending on the place but the ocean water is generally good. It also gets hot a lot so use ample sunscreen.

On a cloudy day we thought we did not need it and after sometime it got bright and we got sunburned.

MichelleY

If you go in August, I would want Tortuguero included as it is turtle nesting season. With the weather, one can never predict what will happen, so just go and have a good time!

MichelleY

Bring fast dying clothing, shoes with good traction, non slip.

volcanogirl

We always pack Keen's quick dry shoes and also running shoes for hiking, flip flops for around the pool or cabin. And binoculars - you never know when you'll see wildlife. If you're going somewhere at a higher elevation, pack a sweatshirt or light jacket.

dlisker

There is a trip going from August 29th-Deptember 9th. Is that a good time to go in the rainy season?

dlisker

What kind of shoes should I take to costa rica. I am going to be in the forays as well as the beaches.

volcanogirl

See my post up above.