Monteverde
Monteverde
“A Piece of heaven”
This is the phrase that thousands of national and international tourists use after visiting the beautiful area of Monteverde every year. Not just for its impressive landscapes or exuberant vegetation, but for the warm reception by the Tico population. People from Monteverde are typical Costa Ricans.
Why visit Monteverde, Costa Rica
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, but really, you’ve reached the central point of the nation’s continental divide. In Monteverde, Costa Rica, the sun-kissed faces of beach dwelling locals are replaced by the warm smiles of farmers, artists, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts—particularly in the small yet pleasant town of Santa Elena.
As Costa Rica’s most famous highland, Monteverde is a haven for nature lovers. Peaceful charm, serene landscapes and a unique range of experiences attract world travellers seeking a regenerative retreat in full communion with our planet and the best elements of human nature.
Top Things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica
1. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Visiting the cloud forest is one of the most popular things to do in Monteverde. This is mainly because of its rare and unique character (cloud forests only make up 1% of all forests worldwide). Due to the high altitude, these forest types get their name from the low-lying cloud and mist that creeps in between the trees. It also means they’re a haven for many wildlife species, and Monteverde cloud forest is no exception.
As you explore the forest, you’ll discover fascinating flora and fauna, hanging bridges as in La Fortuna, a waterfall, as well as hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, butterflies, and insects.
Open 7 am -4 pm every day of the year. Self-guided tickets are $26 USD per person, but we recommend taking a guided tour to spot more animals. Please note that it can be cloudy and rainy so take the necessary items.
2. Reserva Bosque Nuboso, Santa Elena
Because of its popularity, Monteverde cloud forest can be busy with many people on the trails. Another alternative is Santa Elena cloud forest which is equally beautiful but much quieter. It’s home to 13km of trails which you can use to explore the fantastic diversity of plant life and animal species.
Open every day 7am- 3pm
Tickets: $18 USD per person (self-guided)
3. Ziplining
Monteverde doesn’t just offer tranquil forests and peaceful wildlife; you can also get your adrenaline pumping here with a variety of outdoor activities on offer. One of the most popular things to do is zip lining through the forest with Selvatura Park. You’ll get the opportunity to fly over the forest and see the cloud forest from a completely different perspective. You can also try other activities like abseiling or superman ziplining (where you are lying down facing forward). The ziplining circuit costs $84 USD per person and is open from 8 am to 3 pm.
If you don’t like something so adrenaline-pumping, there are also aerial tram that take you high above the forest or more tranquil bridges where you can enjoy a leisurely walk among the treetops. (Book it here)
4. El Tigre Waterfall
Outdoorsy types should definitely do the hike to El Tigre Waterfalls. There are a few waterfalls to visit in Monteverde and El Tigre Waterfall is one of the most popular — it’s easy to see why. The hike there itself is worth the journey, bringing you through lush rainforests and running rivers.
El Tigre is made up of 4 large waterfalls and several smaller ones. The most striking one of all the waterfalls is the first big waterfall. Be sure to check out the viewing platform before walking up to the falls. On the trail, there are 10 hanging bridges that add to the mystic charm of the place.
- Full Package — costs US$69 and brings you on the 5km hike there and a horseback ride or 4×4 trip back.
- Big Hike option — cost US$29 and includes an 8km hike both ways.
5. Coffee Tour, Monteverde
Coffee culture in Monteverde is huge, and there’s nothing better than enjoying a fresh brew in the morning as the mist closes in and the sun rises. Aside from trying coffee, it’s interesting to learn about how it’s made, a process that is a massive part of the culture in Monteverde.
Cafe de Monteverde, close to the cloud forest, is one of the most famous coffee plantations in the whole of Costa Rica. They have guided tours daily (8.30 am, 9.30 am, 2 pm) where you can learn about farming, harvesting, roasting, and production. You’ll also get to taste five different kinds of freshly brewed coffee – delicious! The cost is $43 USD per person for a 2.5-hour tour.
Monteverde Travel FAQ:
Nature, Birding and Other Wildlife
Monteverde remains at the top of the list for birders and nature lovers who come to Costa Rica each year. After all, it is one of the best places to see the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, a mythical bird in Costa Rica and other Central American countries. Monteverde Reserve is one of the most popular places for a guided nature hike, with nearby Santa Elena Reserve almost as popular.
Monteverde Reserve, Santa Elena Reserve, Curicancha Reserve
The road in Monteverde is one of the most technical drives in the country with unpaved, windy pot-hole filled roads. Be prepared to drive slowly and take your time. If you are a confident driver and have experience driving internationally, Monteverde should be no problem. If you’d prefer to have a Costa Rican driver show you the way, we can arrange for a private transfer. The benefit of having a rental vehicle is having the freedom to explore at your leisure. That said, taxis are readily available in the area.
Monteverde is a high-elevation mountain area, making for a moderate climate throughout the year. In areas near Monteverde’s vegetation, you will notice the famous cloud forest atmosphere, misty and somewhat damp.
Daytime temps are typically 65F – 70F depending on cloud coverage. Nighttime can be chilly; temps often dip into the high 50s – lows 60s, so be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater.
A good pair of hiking shoes or sneakers, a sweater or light jacket, and a curiosity about nature.
The dry season runs from mid November to April, and most areas are dry, warm and sunny. Occasional blustery winds blow during January and February bringing the temperature down. During the wet season, from May to mid November, expect afternoon rains and sunny mornings.
Caribbean Coast
May – November
Sea Turtle Nesting Season
May – November
Pacific Coast for Winter Sun
December – April
Birdwatching
Year Round
Monteverde, Costa Rica
Monteverde is our wild canvas, our vibrant stage, and soulful inspiration.