The rainy season is genuinely wonderful for travelers who prepare for it. Crowds are smaller, forests are greener, and waterfalls are at their most dramatic. It rains hard, but usually in defined afternoon windows — mornings are often clear.

Want the full picture? Our guide to Costa Rica’s rainy season covers what to expect region by region.

Do not repeat your master checklist here these are the additions that matter for specific trip types. Grab what applies to your itinerary and leave the rest.

Beach and water sports

• Rash guard sun protection in the water is more effective than sunscreen alone
• Waterproof phone case or action cam housing
• Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory in marine reserves; this is not a suggestion
• Water shoes for rocky beaches and shallow reef walks

Hiking and national parks

• Trekking poles especially useful on steep, wet trails in Corcovado or Chirripó
• Gaiters for deep mud on rainy season trails
• Extra headlamp batteries early morning wildlife walks start before dawn
• Microfiber towel compact and dries fast between hikes

Wildlife watching

• Binoculars note that most FMCR partner guides carry loaners, so check with your guide before packing yours
• Zoom lens (200mm or more) for photographing birds and monkeys at distance
• Early-morning layers wildlife is most active before 8am when temperatures are still low
• Silent, dark-colored clothing neon colors startle wildlife

City and culture (San José and beyond)

• Money belt or anti-theft bag  pickpocketing exists in busy market areas
• Light cardigan or blazer for nicer restaurants
• Comfortable walking shoes  cobblestones in Barrio Amón are tough on sandals

This is the section most travelers wish they had read first. Overpacking is the number one complaint we hear from guests on their first day. Less really is more when you are moving between regions.

Jeans: They never fully dry in the humidity. Swap them for quick-dry pants or shorts and thank yourself on day two.

High heels or dress shoes: You will not need them. Even nice restaurants in Costa Rica are casual. One pair of clean trail sandals does the job.

Too many shoes: Three pairs maximum: waterproof sandals, trail shoes, and flip flops. Shoes are heavy and take space.

Non-reef-safe sunscreen: It is prohibited in several reserves and harmful to marine ecosystems. Bring reef-safe from home. Brands like Raw Elements and Badger are good options.

A hair dryer: Almost every hotel and lodge provides one. Leave yours at home.

Valuables you cannot afford to lose: Leave the expensive jewelry and the laptop you need for work. Use your trip as a proper break.

Cotton everything:Cotton absorbs moisture and stays wet all day. Pack synthetics or merino for everything except maybe one casual outfit.

Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your trip.

Customs also requires a tiquete de salida proof of onward travel out of Costa Rica. This can be a return flight or a bus ticket to a neighboring country. Have it printed or easily accessible on your phone. See Costa Rica national park regulations via SINAC for entry requirements at protected areas.

Money

• Colones (CRC) are the local currency; USD is widely accepted but change is given in colones
• ATMs are available in most towns withdraw colones there rather than exchanging at the airport, where rates are poor
• Visa and Mastercard accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators; carry some cash for small sodas and local markets

Health prep

Check the CDC health recommendations for Costa Rica before your trip they cover vaccines, repellent, and food safety guidance. Travel insurance is not required by law, but we strongly recommend it for anyone doing adventure activities.

Tech

• Costa Rica runs on 110V/60Hz US travelers need no adapter or converter
• Cell coverage is solid in tourist areas; download offline maps before heading into remote zones
• WhatsApp is the primary communication tool in Costa Rica make sure it is installed and working