street in san jose downtown costa rica

Why fall is perfect for Costa Rica

Fall is an underrated time to visit Costa Rica. With fewer crowds and lower prices, this is the season when nature truly shines.

While some may worry about rain, Costa Rica’s “green season” brings occasional showers mixed with sunny breaks, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. If you’ve been dreaming of a tropical escape, now’s the time to go.

tamarindo costa rica  february 7 2024 people on the

Enjoy the peaceful Costa Rican beaches

Costa Rica’s beaches are stunning year-round, but fall offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. With fewer tourists around, you can explore pristine spots without the crowd.

The Caribbean coast stays warm, and areas like Guanacaste benefit from drier weather. Whether you want to surf or just unwind, fall is the time to enjoy the coast’s natural beauty.

hiking in green tropical jungle costa rica central america

Ideal for nature lovers

Costa Rica’s natural beauty is on full display in the fall. The “green season” means lush, vibrant landscapes and an abundance of wildlife.

This is the perfect time to experience Costa Rica’s national parks, like Tortuguero, known for its turtle nesting season, or Monteverde, where you’ll encounter quetzals, sloths, and tropical birds. Nature lovers will be in paradise.

beautiful tropical pacific ocean coast in costa rica

Costa Rica’s fall weather

Costa Rica’s fall weather is warm but manageable, with temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s. While rain is common, it typically falls in the afternoon, leaving mornings and evenings for exploring.

This makes fall a pleasant time for hiking, wildlife viewing, or enjoying the beaches. If you’re looking for a tropical destination without the oppressive heat, Costa Rica is a great choice.

national theatre of costa rica in san jose

Lower costs in the off-season

One of the best perks of visiting Costa Rica in the fall is the price drop. Hotels and tours are more affordable during the green season.

With fewer tourists, you can enjoy high-quality experiences at a fraction of the peak season’s prices. Fall provides the perfect opportunity to explore without breaking the bank.

A breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu.

Peru’s fall season highlights

In Peru, fall (October and November) brings a magical atmosphere. Fewer tourists means iconic spots like Machu Picchu are less crowded.

While fall marks the beginning of the rainy season, the benefits, like vibrant green landscapes and lower prices, far outweigh the occasional showers. It’s an ideal time to visit Peru’s rich cultural and natural wonders.

Machu Picchu without the crowds

Fall is a fantastic time to explore Machu Picchu. With fewer visitors around, you can experience the awe of the ancient ruins in peace.

The lush surroundings, enhanced by the rains, make the site even more breathtaking. If you’ve been dreaming of seeing this wonder, now is the time to do it without the crowds.

machu picchu cuscoperu overview of the lost inca city machu

Vibrant green landscapes in Peru

Fall in Peru brings a burst of green to its landscapes. The rains create vibrant scenery, especially around the Sacred Valley, where the mountains and rivers look especially lush.

For photographers or nature enthusiasts, this is a prime time to capture Peru’s incredible beauty. The crisp air and fresh greenery make exploring the outdoors even more enjoyable.

A woman in an Alpaca sweater admires the view of Machu Picchu ruins, Peru.

Budget-friendly travel in Peru

As fall is off-peak season, travelers can enjoy significant savings in Peru. Flights, hotels, and tours all become more affordable once the busy summer season winds down.

These lower prices allow you to extend your stay or enjoy extra experiences like guided tours to the Amazon or Cusco’s historic sites. Fall is a great time to visit Peru without overspending.

couple being impressed with the incredible view of machu picchu

Peru’s fall weather and perfect balance

Peru’s weather in the fall is the perfect mix. Days are warm, and nights are cool, ideal for sightseeing. Although there’s a chance of rain, it usually doesn’t last long, allowing for plenty of outdoor time.

Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or exploring the city of Cusco, the mild temperatures make fall a comfortable time for travel.

South America’s mild fall climate

Throughout South America, fall offers a mild climate perfect for traveling. Many destinations, including Argentina, Chile, and Brazil, are cool yet comfortable for sightseeing.

Fall avoids the intense heat of summer, giving travelers a chance to explore cities and nature in comfort. It’s a great time for hiking, exploring markets, and enjoying the outdoors.

galapagos marine iguanas on espanola island

Fewer tourists for a more authentic experience

Fall also means fewer tourists, which translates to more authentic, relaxed travel. You won’t have to fight for a view at the Galapagos Islands or rush through the streets of Buenos Aires.

This slower pace allows you to engage more deeply with local culture, whether you’re trying traditional foods, chatting with locals, or visiting quiet beaches.

inti raymi festival cusco peru south america

Fall festivals across Latin America

Autumn also brings cultural festivals, such as Peru’s Inti Raymi, which celebrates the sun god with vibrant parades, dances, and rituals. Other countries in South America host local harvest festivals full of music, food, and traditions.

If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, fall is the time to do it. These festivals offer a rich, festive atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds of peak travel seasons.

sloth hanging on a tree and eating leaves

Ideal for wildlife watching

Fall is one of the best times for wildlife watching in South America. Costa Rica’s wildlife comes alive with species like sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds flourishing.

In the Galapagos Islands, fall brings some of the best opportunities to spot rare animals. Whether in the Amazon or the coast of Ecuador, wildlife is more active and abundant during this time.

iguazu waterfalls in argentina panoramic view of many majestic powerful

The beauty of Iguazu Falls in fall

Iguazu Falls, on the Argentina-Brazil border, is stunning in fall. The weather is warm but manageable, and the crowds are smaller, allowing you to enjoy one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

With fewer tourists, you can take in the falls’ grandeur from multiple angles and explore the surrounding rainforest without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

Ready to explore more stunning fall landscapes? Take this scenic train ride through New Hampshire’s breathtaking autumn foliage.

hiker near sign in santa elena costa rica

Costa Rica’s off-season perks

Costa Rica’s “green season” gives you more time to explore its biodiversity. The rains make the landscape more vibrant, with flowers in full bloom and the rainforest alive with activity.

Despite the occasional showers, the natural beauty of Costa Rica is at its peak. Whether you’re hiking volcanoes, spotting wildlife, or relaxing on secluded beaches, fall offers the best experiences. Discover more about why Machu Picchu should be at the top of your travel list this year.

Which destination are you adding to your fall travel list, Costa Rica’s lush nature or Peru’s historic wonders? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Read More From This Brand:

Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN.

If you liked this story, you’ll LOVE our FREE emails. Join today and be the first to get stories like this one.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

Nauris Pukis
Somewhere between tourist and local. I've always been remote-first. Home is my anchor, but the world is my creative fuel. I love to spend months absorbing each destination, absorbing local inspiration into my work, proving that the best ideas often have foreign accents.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.