Extending to over 10,000 hectares, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is located high in the hills behind the Arenal volcano and enjoys a traditionally moist tropical climate making it a paradise for a huge variety of flora including many mosses, lichens and other epiphytes. This high elevation forest also offers miles of trails and excellent opportunities for bird watching and is one of the best places to spot Costa Rica’s national bird, the Resplendent Quetzal.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Why visit Monteverde Cloud Forest ?
- Go in search of the Resplendent Quetzal, the Mayan bird of paradise
- Enjoy the rich biodiversity of Santa Elena Reserve’s cloud forest
- See the incredible varieties of colourful butterflies and orchids
- Head out on horse back to explore the great Continental Divide
- Whizz through the forest on one of the exciting zipwires
The nearby Santa Elena Rain Forest Reserve was only inaugurated in 1992 and so is much smaller than Monteverde, but it is less busy and still offers wonderful walking along its misty trails and great birdwatching opportunities as well as the chance to see monkeys, three-toed sloths and other animals as well as wonderful views of the Arenal Volcano.
The Hummingbird garden, butterfly garden and serpentarium all offer a fascinating insight into the local wildlife and there are many trails, canopy tours, zip wires and ‘hanging bridges’ in the surrounding forests to ensure you see the very best of the flora and fauna in the area.
LOCATION
COSTA RICA KEY INFO
Visa
No Visa is required for UK passport holders.
Health Requirements
No mandatory vaccinations are required.
Time Difference
GMT - 6 Hours
Flight Time
11.5 hours Direct
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