While exploring the rainforest on the hanging bridges trail, we experienced a couple of short periods of mild rain. I actually felt that the rain added authenticity to the experience because being in a rainforest without rain would almost feel unnatural. We also learned that the rain can make certain animals like sloths, less likely to spot because they prefer hotter and drier conditions. But the rainforest still showed off Costa Rica’s vast biodiversity because we were able to see many organisms like poison dart frogs, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, bird species, and a wide variety of plants. So, the rain slightly impacted what wildlife we were able to see, but it also made the rainforest experience feel more immersive.

Then at Lake Arenal, I chose to kayak, which ended up being a rewarding but physically challenging activity. Kayaking required a lot of effort, but it was an amazing experience being out on the water with everyone while surrounded by the lake and mountains. Toward the end of the activity, the rain came and changed the experience. Once the rain started, our focus shifted toward getting back to the dock as quickly as possible instead of enjoying the experience. The stronger winds and rain made paddling way more difficult, especially since we were already tired by that point, and struggling to keep our eyes open against the rain. I would say the rain definitely lessened my overall experience because it made the lake less comfortable and more physically demanding.

Our final stop at the family owned sugarcane farm, Vida Campesina, was an example of how Costa Rican businesses adapt to the rainy season. The farm originally focused entirely on agriculture, but eventually expanded into ecotourism because farming alone was too much of an unpredictable income. But now, the farm grows around 160 crops that are used in the restaurant rather than exported. All of the educational and restaurant areas were built under covered roofs, allowing visitors to remain comfortable and get the full experience even when it rained. Because of this design choice, the rain had almost no negative impact on my experience there. Our guide explained that tourism is much busier during December and January because of the nicer weather, but the farm still grows the same crops year-round and avoids wasting food by using it directly in the restaurant. This showed me how businesses in Costa Rica adapt to slower tourism seasons by diversifying their revenue and adjusting their operations around the climate. I also think companies can continue attracting visitors during the rainy season by marketing it as the authentic Costa Rican experience, because rain is naturally part of visiting a tropical rainforest environment.