Epic Costa Rica Wedding in August: A great Photographer’s guide

August: Lush and Quiet – A Truly Green Wedding

August is deep in the rainy season, offering lush scenery and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path wedding experience. While rain is frequent, the lower tourist numbers and vibrant landscapes make it a unique and memorable time to get married in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica wedding guide August

Weather Through My Lens

Expect frequent afternoon showers in August, but mornings tend to be sunny and clear. The rain is typically brief but can be heavy at times. Temperatures range from 72°F to 84°F (22°C to 29°C). The Pacific Coast experiences more rain, while areas like the Central Valley and Monteverde have cooler, misty weather. According to 2024 forecasts, rainfall surpluses are expected in the Central Pacific, South Pacific, and Central Valley, with normal conditions in other regions. Warmer-than-normal temperatures are also expected.

    Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light is consistently beautiful for photography. The lush greenery provides a stunning backdrop, and the misty conditions in the highlands can create a magical, ethereal atmosphere. Embrace the rain – it can lead to some truly unique and dramatic photos.

    Location Insights

    After years of shooting across the country, here are my top August wedding locations:

     

    • Central Valley: Gardens and haciendas are incredibly lush and green.
    • Highlands (Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota): The misty cloud forests are perfect for romantic and intimate weddings.
    • Caribbean Coast: While it doesn’t have a strong dry season, August can still be a good option for those seeking a less touristy experience.

    What I Love About August Weddings

     

    • Lush Landscape: Costa Rica’s nature is at its greenest.
    • Lower Costs: With fewer tourists, many venues and vendors offer discounts.
    • More Privacy: Enjoy more intimate moments with fewer tourists aroun

    Planning Considerations

    Based on my experience with August weddings:

     

    • Frequent Afternoon Showers: Be prepared for rain, especially in the afternoons. Ensure your venue has a reliable backup plan.
    • Humidity: The humidity can be quite high, particularly along the coast.

    Guest Experience

    From feedback I’ve received from wedding guests:

     

    • Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and authentic Costa Rican experience.
    • Nature lovers will appreciate the lush landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

    Season Fruit:

    Cas

    Local Events to Consider

    When scheduling your August wedding, keep in mind:

     

    • Day of the Virgin (Día de la Virgen de los Ángeles): Celebrated on August 2nd with pilgrimages to the Basilica of Cartago.
    • Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres): Celebrated on August 15th.

    Photography Timeline Tips

    For August weddings, I typically recommend:

     

    • Morning ceremonies are still recommended.
    • Be flexible and prepared to adapt to the weather.
    • Capture the vibrant greens and the dramatic skies.

    Costa Rica wedding guide August, Additional Points:

    • Weather Concerns: Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity, especially on the coast.

    • Tourist Season and Crowds: Low tourist season, offering a more private experience.

    • Local Events or Holidays: Festival de la Virgen de Los Angeles and various local patron saint festivals.

    • Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

    • Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable.

    • Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local traditions related to the festivals or use local flora in your décor.

    • Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

    Check out other months’ wedding guides:

    Christopher Alga

    Christopher Alga

    Photographer

    About the Author: With a degree in photography from the Universidad Técnica Nacional and advanced training through the VII Masterclass and Magnum Photos, I’ve spent 18 years documenting  stories across the world’s most beautiful locations.

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