What to Pack for Montezuma: A Seasonal Travel Guide from nYa Hotel

Costa Rica’s Pacifi c coast dances between two distinct seasons, each offering its own unique magic and requiring slightly different preparation.

Dry Season (December to April): Expect consistent sunshine, warm temperatures, and virtually no rain. Perfect for beach days, outdoor adventures, and romantic escapes where you can plan activities without weather concerns.

Green Season (May to November): Montezuma transforms into its most vibrant self. While rain becomes more frequent, showers typically arrive in short, refreshing bursts during late afternoon or evening. Waterfalls like Montezuma Falls reach their most dramatic flow, wildlife emerges more actively, and the entire landscape pulses with life.

Understanding these rhythms helps you pack not just for weather, but for the experiences each season offers.

Essential Packing List for Montezuma

These items prove invaluable regardless of when you visit, creating the foundation for comfortable, sustainable travel that aligns with the area’s wellness and nature-focused lifestyle.

Clothing Basics:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen work best)
• Multiple swimsuits (you’ll want backup while others dry)
• Comfortable walking shoes suitable for various terrains
• Flip fl ops or beach sandals for easy beach access
• Light scarf or sarong (sun protection, towel, or fashion accessory)
• Cotton sweater or long-sleeve shirt for cooler evenings

Sun & Weather Protection:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (protecting both you and marine life)
• Quality sunglasses and wide-brim hat
• Eco-friendly insect repellent

Adventure Essentials:

• Reusable water bottle (hydration is key in a tropical climate)
• Versatile daypack for daily excursions
• Waterproof pouches for electronics
• Reliable fl ashlight or headlamp for night walks or early hikes

Comfort Items:

• Quick-dry towel for the beach and hiking
• Spanish phrasebook or app for cultural connection
• Reusable coffee mug for slow mornings in the garden
• Dry Season Additions

Dry Season Additions

During the dry months, focus on sun protection and breathability. The intense midday heat requires thoughtful clothing, while warm evenings call for light layers.

Extra Items to Pack:

• Long-sleeve UV shirt for added sun protection
• Dust-resistant footwear for unpaved roads
• Casual-chic evening wear for dining at Agrá, our in-house restaurant
• Extra sunscreen—you’ll use more than you think

Dry Season Tip: Pack clothes that transition easily from beach to town, as you’ll likely shift between settings throughout the day.

Green Season Essentials

Green Season brings afternoon rains and cooler breezes—perfect conditions for deeper nature connection and slower moments.

Weather-Specifi c Additions:

• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
• Quick-dry clothing for nature hikes or boat tours
• Sturdy hiking shoes with grip for wet trails
• Extra socks and backup shoes for post-hike comfort
• Waterproof bag for phones, books, or cameras

Green Season Insight: Some of your most beautiful travel moments may happen just after a rainstorm—when the air is fresh, the forest glistens, and the world feels still.

For a deeper look at what to expect during this season, explore our Green Season blog, which shares insight into the rhythms of May–November.

What to Leave Behind

Packing light means making intentional choices. Here’s what you likely don’t need:

• Heavy clothing that takes too long to dry
• Expensive jewelry or valuables
• Multiple electronic devices
• Rigid schedules
• More than two pairs of shoes

Local Solutions for Forgotten Items

Even the most seasoned travelers forget something. Fortunately, Montezuma and nYa Hotel make it easy to fi nd what you need without stress or excess.

• Montezuma Shops: The town offers small but well-equipped stores with essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, toiletries, snacks, and handmade goods. You can also support local artisans by picking up unique gifts.
• nYa Hotel Services: We offer laundry services and can assist with locating any specifi c items you need. Our staff is always happy to help you adjust or restock, so you can keep your luggage light and your mind at ease.
• Sustainable Suggestion: Consider buying reusable, eco-conscious gear locally—it’s a great way to reduce plastic and support the community.

Smart Packing Tips

Roll, don’t fold: Save space and reduce wrinkles
Choose multi-purpose items: Like sarongs and quick-dry towels
Leave extra room: You’ll likely want to bring home local treasures
Prepare for both sun and rain: Even if the forecast looks dry

Travel Light, Feel More

Packing for Montezuma isn’t about bringing everything—it’s about bringing the right things. Choosing with care leaves room for spontaneity and wonder, which is what this region offers in abundance.

Whether you’re coming to reconnect with nature, enjoy a wellness retreat, or simply feel more grounded, nYa Hotel offers the ideal space to land and unwind. Pack intentionally, stay curious, and let the rhythm of Montezuma guide your experience.

“We arrived with just backpacks and left feeling completely fulfi lled. The warm rain, the sunrise walks, the peaceful garden evenings—this is exactly the kind of intentional travel we needed.” – Guest Review, June 2025