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Escape the Crowds and Save Big: Why Central America Should Be Your July Destination

Escape the Crowds and Save Big: Why Central America Should Be Your July Destination

In a recent survey by Allianz Partners USA, 62% of respondents say they’d like to take a vacation, but financial concerns may be a significant barrier.

However, a unique weather phenomenon in Central America known as the “canícula” presents an enticing opportunity for budget-conscious travelers seeking solace from the crowds. 

While the summer months fall within the rainy season and thus less preferred. Canícula between 15 July and 15 August marks a decline in rainfall, which allows visitors to enjoy peak-season activities at low-season prices.

62% of Americans Plan Vacations Away from Home, But Financial Concerns Remain

According to Allianz Partners USA’s 16th Annual Vacation Confidence Index published on May 29, 2024, Americans show increased confidence in taking summer vacations. The survey reveals that 62% of Americans plan to book a trip of 100 miles or more away from home for at least a week this summer.

This is in line with data from the International Trade Administration, reporting that outbound travel from the United States increased by 21% in 2023 compared to 2022. That’s only 1.3% below the pre-pandemic volume in 2019, and it is estimated to continue to increase in 2024.

Most travelers were flying to Mexico, Canada, Europe, or the Caribbean. 

Photo credit: Think4photop via Canva Pro.

Canícula Brings Agricultural Challenges But Presents a Great Opportunity For Travelers

The canícula, a distinctive weather phenomenon in Central America – mostly in countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala – marks a period of high heat and dry conditions in the middle of the rainy season. 

It usually spans from July 15 to August 15, concentrating on the Pacific side, although variations exist across regions. INM, Costa Rica’s National Meteorological Institute, characterizes it as a series of consecutive dry days interspersed with intermittent rain showers lasting between 5 to 15 days. 

A decline in rainfall has dire consequences for crop cultivation, particularly for essential seasonal grains. It disrupts agricultural production and poses significant challenges to the food security of vulnerable communities. However, it may provide a small window of opportunity for travelers who want to enjoy peak-season activities at low-season prices.

Highlighting Costa Rica

Take, for example, Costa Rica. More than 53% of inbound travelers were from the United States last year, according to the Costa Rican Tourism Board. They also reported less than 68.5% and 60.4% occupancy rates in July and August last year. Most of them flying to San José International Airport.

Skyscanner also reports August, July, and November as the top 3 months to book the cheapest flight to Costa Rica. Compared to December, the middle of the high season, prices can be 30% above the average.

It is not unheard of that eco-lodges in Costa Rica offer 50% discounts on weekly stays for two adults during the last weeks of July compared to the rates at the end of December. 

Arenal Volcano in the background rainforest in the front

There are many things to do in Costa Rica, but canícula offers an opportunity to get a sneak peek into both seasons. Since the weather is dry, travelers enjoy dry-season activities like hiking, horseback riding, or birdwatching. Due to the heavy rains, the Costa Rican waterfalls and rivers also reach their largest state, making rafting and rappelling even more enjoyable.

Inspirational Testimonials from July and August Travelers

There is plenty of positive feedback from travelers all around social media who went to Costa Rica during the mid-summer drought.

Several redditors shared their experience:

“We went in August last year and loved it so much we’re considering going again this year. We were there for a week, and the rain only canceled plans one evening. Everything else we were able to fit in the morning or did in the rain. Plus, depending on where you go, you’ll have more or less chance of heavy rain.” 

“We loved it. Crowds were nonexistent, and the rain was in the afternoons, so we just did stuff early and enjoyed the rain from balconies and cafes. We still hiked, kayaked, and had a blast. Just splurge on a nice place to stay and stick with it, so you’ll be able to enjoy views and wildlife no matter the weather.”

A man in a yellow kayak paddling.
Photo credit: Canva Pro.

“I live on the Pacific side, in Flamingo. The green season is wonderful, and most of us who live here full-time prefer the rainy season. Mornings are sunny and dry. There may be passing storms in the afternoon, and most rain happens overnight. Remember, the rain here is TROPICAL and WARM. It’s Costa Rica, so just enjoy it.”

While the dry season is often recommended as the best time to visit Costa Rica, July and August can offer an opportunity to escape the crowds, enjoy cheaper lodging options, and still experience the country’s natural beauty and captivating attractions, if you stick to the Pacific side.

This article originally was published by Media Decision (but written by me).

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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.