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Everyone warns you against going to Costa Rica in October. It’s too rainy. Even too sleepy. It’s too muddy. But here’s the thing—they’re not entirely wrong. But they’re also… not entirely right.
It’s the low season. Yes. Some roads will be washed out. Yes. You will probably be damp for days. And yet somehow, it might be the best time to go. I’m not joking.
Costa Rica in October – Let’s Talk About the Rain (Because Yeah, It Rains)
October is one of the wettest months in Costa Rica, at least on the Pacific side. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s torrential downpours every day, all day. There were several days in Uvita where I drank my morning coffee in the sun, went for a hike, and only got caught in a rainstorm when I was back under the tin roof of a soda enjoying arroz con pollo.
It’s not all bad. The rain sparks a revival of life in the jungle—frogs, birds, that insane scent of fresh earth after a storm—it’s overwhelming and almost magical.
Just don’t try to drive to that secret beach when it’s pouring down rain in your small rental car. Take my word for it.
Where to Go in Costa Rica in October (Hint: Caribbean)
If you’re thinking of travel options in October, don’t stick to the Pacific side. October is for the Caribbean.
Puerto Viejo is poppin’, hotter and less humid than the rest of the country this season. Gorgeous beaches with Playa Cocles, Punta Uva, and a relaxed, reggae vibe.
Tortuguero is another hot spot in October if you want to catch baby turtles heading into the ocean at sunrise.
Other spots worth checking out:
- Sarapiquí – Great for wildlife tours and less intense rain
- Turrialba – A bit off-the-map, but full of character and greenery
- Central Valley towns like Grecia and San Ramón – Chill, accessible, and full of real Costa Rica life
The key? Stay flexible. And maybe don’t book a beachfront yoga retreat where the roof leaks.
Is October Actually a Good Time to Visit?
Depends what you’re into.
If your dream trip includes wall-to-wall sunshine and packed beach clubs, maybe wait until January.
But if you’re down for something a little quieter, a little cheaper, and a lot greener—Costa Rica in October is low-key amazing.
You’ll get:
- Lower prices on accommodation
- Empty trails and quiet beaches
- Jungle that looks straight out of a nature documentary
- That smug feeling of “everyone else is missing this”
Downsides? Sure. Some tours may be canceled due to weather. Roads can get sketchy. And you’ll probably wear the same pair of damp shoes for a week. But you’re here for the adventure, right?
What to Do in Costa Rica When It Rains?
Because it will. Probably daily.
Here’s what actually works when the skies open up:
- Hot springs in La Fortuna – Especially if it’s raining and steaming at the same time
- Cooking classes or chocolate workshops – Delicious and dry
- Wildlife tours – Some animals only come out when it’s wet
- Read in a hammock under a metal roof—rain in Costa Rica is a vibe
- Go outside anyway – Sometimes you’re wet before it rains. Lean in.
October is a great reminder that travel isn’t about perfect conditions. It’s about finding joy even with mud on your ankles.
What to Pack for October in Costa Rica
Don’t overthink it—but don’t wing it either.
Bring:
- A real rain jacket (not a dollar-store poncho)
- Dry bags or ziplocks for electronics
- Lightweight clothes that dry fast
- Sandals that can handle water
- An extra layer if you’re heading to higher altitudes
Leave your suede loafers and your expectations of staying clean at home.
Make It Easy – Book Directly, Travel Stress-Free
Want to explore Costa Rica in October without stressing about logistics, rain delays, or whether that random tour you found online is legit? We’ve got you.
At GoExploreWith.me, you can book epic, rain-or-shine adventures directly—no middlemen, no confusion, just real-deal Costa Rica.
From waterfalls and jungle treks to river tours and family-friendly trips, we’ve made it easy, flexible, and 100% pura vida.
Want the Real Costa Rica? The One Most Tourists Miss?
We’ve put together a free eBook just for that: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
If you’re traveling in October, you’ll love these low-key spots that stay magical even in the rain. Download it now, and go find your own slice of the unexpected.
