Monteverde
Monteverde is the best possible example of cloud forest – an astoundingly fertile environment that is teeming with life. The near 100% humidity means that from forest floor to leafy canopy, it’s just layer upon layer of plant life, inhabited by myriad mammals, birds and insects. Wandering the trails in the early morning feels like you are in a timeless primordial world.
Costa Rica’s last swath of cloud forest exists thanks to the efforts of local conservationists, started by Quakers in the 1950s. The Monteverde 30,000 acre private reserve comprises six different 'life zones' and an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Obviously, actually spotting the fauna is a challenge in such dense forest but the main attraction is the environment itself.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Cloud forest trails. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot the shy resplendent Quetzal, a poison arrow frog or two-toed sloth among many others. Night tours are particularly rewarding as 70% of the animals are nocturnal.
Horse riding. This is one of the best ways to access the superb views across the park, especially those across the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean beyond.
Canopy trail and zip-lines. Undoubtedly a highlight of the park, these wires allow you to observe the forest from a different perspective. There is something for everyone from quiet walkways to rapid zip-wires and Tarzan swings through leafy treetops in a completely safe but exhilarating manner.
Horse riding. This is one of the best ways to access the superb views across the park, especially those across the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean beyond.
Canopy trail and zip-lines. Undoubtedly a highlight of the park, these wires allow you to observe the forest from a different perspective. There is something for everyone from quiet walkways to rapid zip-wires and Tarzan swings through leafy treetops in a completely safe but exhilarating manner.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Monteverde
This property feels like it truly belongs in Monteverde with its wooden cabins, beautifully kept gardens and thick forested hills. Nestled into the hills and gardens of the property, each cabin is surrounded by nature.
Monteverde
El Establo is set within a 60 hectare reserve with a range of activities. The hotel itself only covers 3 hectares of this with the reminder containing walking trails and an extensive 16 platform zip wire which runs on top of the cloud forests canopy
Monteverde
Fonda Vela began in 1990 with just 8 cabanas. The lodge was started by the family that still runs it today and as such it has a lovely warm and welcoming feel to it. The 40 rooms are spread through the mountain side