Tag Archives: local tours costa rica

5 Reasons We Love Low Season in Costa Rica

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It’s the first of May and the rain has finally started to fall on the thirsty southern Nicoya Peninsula. The rain is right on time with the beginning of ‘low season’ for tourism in Costa Rica, which runs roughly from May to October. While the mad rush of tourism may be slowing down, ‘low season’ may actually be the best time to visit. Here are 5 reasons we love the low season in CR and think you might enjoy it too.

1. Bird Lover's Morning - WoodpeckerBird Watching – There is still plenty of bird watching to do during this time and while some of the migrating species may not be visible, there are many resident birds you can easily spot. (Tip: Arenal area is great for viewing Toucans year around, and JC is happy to help novice birders spot them or any other birds on your viewing checklist.)

2. Less Crowded – Since the rush is over, there’s a more tranquil atmosphere especially in beach towns. Fewer people are jamming into the small towns and stealing the quiet away from your relaxing vacation.

3. Cooler Climate – In some regions like the southern Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste areas, it is HOT during Costa Rica’s summer. Low season brings rain and cooler temperatures so you can enjoy the outdoors without the heat. Just pack your rain gear and you’ll love the respite from the heat. Rain also means greener, more beautiful landscapes for these drier regions of the country. Don’t worry, if you’re looking for sunshine you’ll still get plenty here.

4. Deals – Hotels usually offer cheaper rates for low season, or shoulder seasons and who doesn’t love a good deal? Many tour operators also offer cheaper rates on activities, however you should consider that many tours require a minimum number of participants to run the tour, and since there are fewer tourists around, it may be difficult to book these. As an alternative, you can take a private tour or hire a private guide for slightly more than a group tour. The benefit is that you’ll get more personal attention, probably get to see more, and you’ve likely already saved some money on your hotel stay.

5. Connect with Locals – It’s quieter, less crowded and not as busy, so that means you get a little one on one time with locals. Take advantage of it and strike up a conversation with local restaurant and store owners. You can always find out lots of interesting information you wouldn’t find in a guide book or brochure this way. (If you’re a little shy, we can help you connect with locals on our “Let’s Get Local” tour.)

 

Should we go aaaaall the way to Montezuma?!

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All_the_way_to_montezumaVisiting Costa Rica is exciting and different from neighboring countries for many reasons, including the sense of remoteness one gets as soon as they get just a few minutes outside busy San Jose. Almost any visitor can attest to the lush green countryside that still prevails over the asphalted urbanization perhaps more pronounced in other countries in the region. But if you’re aiming to really get away, away from the Taco Bells, KFCs and strip malls that seem to follow you wherever your vacation takes you, then I’d suggest going a little farther to the small town of Montezuma in the Southern Nicoya Peninsula.

Since Montezuma is relatively young in terms of modern developments such as electricity  (brought to the area only 20 years ago!), and paved roads (i.e. they are few and far between), it also provides a sense of genuine escape from those monotonous norms of fast food chains and GAP stores back home. You won’t find a McDonald’s lurking on any street corner here (ok… there’s only one real corner, but still). The fact that big chain restaurants haven’t yet taken over this tiny town attests to the genuine ‘Costa Rica’ feeling you’ll get when you’re here. Although ‘town’ can be quite busy with tourists during the high season (Dec through March), you’ll still find tranquility, wildlife for neighbors, and that tropical escape you were seeking, especially if you find accommodIMG_0033_2ations just a couple minutes up the main hill or in either direction away from town.

While scarcity of paved roads in the area and some other developmental needs are certainly not without some contention among residents, it’s hard to deny that they are characteristics that make going all the way to Montezuma a must on your Costa Rica vacation. If you don’t, I just don’t think you’ll be able to go back home with a good story about the crazy bumpy ride you took that was seemingly forever in what felt like the middle of nowhere to get to a beautiful beach, waterfall or wildlife reserve. Moreover, you will have missed one of the few areas in Costa Rica or anywhere else that really does feel ‘away from it all’. 🙂

For an even greater Costa Rica experience, consider our “Let’s Get Local” tour to meet some amazing and friendly locals and let them share their take on the best aspects of the area.

www.jcsjourneys.com