Monteverde

Founded in the 1950's by a group of Quakers from the U.S., Monteverde has gained international renown as one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the tropics. The reserve spreads out over 10,500 hectares of land that hold six different life zones. The climate and terrain of the preserve produce an incredible bio-diversity. There are at least 400 bird species in this high elevation rain forest, including the Resplendent Quetzal, ancient holy bird of the Mayans, over 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles and an estimated 2,500 species of plants making Monteverde a true "nature lover's paradise". The preserve has a definite wet and dry season, though the upper levels have fog and rain much of the year.

The area provides visitors with a large variety of options: from art and butterfly galleries, to orchid gardens, a serpentarium, slide shows, horseback riding, boot rentals, camping, comfortable lodges, cozy and family style restaurants, pubs, bakeries, vegetarian diners, handicraft and book stores, scientific displays, guided tours into nature and a deep look into rural life.

Local awareness on environmental value is a significant stepping stone before entrance into the reserve. Most hotel owners have set aside land to encourage reforestation programs as well as flora and fauna conservation. The Monteverde Conservation League is a local organization developing programs in environmental education, reforestation, protection and sustainable development projects in nearby communities, and raising funds to buy more land for the reserve. Scientists and biologists from all over the world meet here, and improvised conversations can lead to a learning experience.

Although not a National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is part of the Arenal Conservation Unit, and it sits on the Continental Divide in the Tilarán Mountain Range. Inside the reserve (open to the public daily, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.) you will have a chance to enjoy one of the most enchanting and overwhelming experiences inside cloud forests. Eight life zones are to be found in this 10,569 hectares reserve, encompassing more than 400 species of birds, 490 species of butterflies, 100 species of mammals, 300 species of orchids, 200 species ferns, plus more than 2,000 species of other plants. The reserve is home to the golden toad, an endemic two-inch brilliantly colored amphibian, and to many rare species such as quetzals, three-watted bellbirds, umbrella birds, and endangered tapir. There are nature trails that will guide you through this breath-taking journey. Help and information is provided at the visitor center, where you can also find maps of the trails and checklists on birds and mammals to be found in the forest.

Unpaved roads, lots of cloudy and rainy days, plenty fog, and muddy trails should not keep you away from experiencing such a rewarding journey. Definitely haunted by the area's amazing beauty and peaceful environment, visitors feel inspired and show a different attitude of mind once they get to Monteverde. The entire community has its own philosophy about nature and life, and they are not willing to sacrifice their silent treasure for the sake of mass tourism. They will certainly continue to support actions towards protecting the reserve and keeping their healthy and peaceful environment.

Aside from the preserve, some other places merit attention while you're staying in nearby Santa Elena. The Children's Eternal rain forest, the first international children's rain forest in the world, the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, and the Hummingbird Gallery a must for those with a penchant for these winged, colored jewels of the forest, to name a few.

A novel and spectacular way to view the forest canopy without much physical effort is the Skywalk. Some of the bridges hang suspended at over 130 feet making for truly spectacular views.

Attractions:

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve is one of the most famous attractions in Costa Rica. The cloud forest is very developed and well maintained. The trails are clearly marked and are easy to traverse. You should try to schedule your trip to the park for early in the morning, since you're more likely to spot wildlife. Plus, the park has a maximum occupancy and if you wait until later, you may be delayed at the entrance.

Monteverde is a bird-lover's heaven.  If you're lucky, you'll spot  the elusive Quetzal. Other animals that have been seen include jaguars, ocelots and tapirs. More than 400 species of birds and 100 species of mammals have been observed. Also, over 2,000 plant species are native to Monteverde, including a host of wild orchids. The preserve is open from 7a - 4p daily with admission of $8 per person. We highly recommend that you higher a guide. Arrange your guide at your hotel on the day before your tour. The park also offers its own tours including a slide show. Inquire at your hotel. Guides will charge $15 per person, but a good guide at Monteverde is worth every penny.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a 900-acre area with an elevation at its highest point of 5,600 feet. It's the highest forest in the Monteverde area. The reserve is located about 3-miles north of the village of Santa Elena. There you'll find 5 miles of hiking trails and an information center. The forest is very similar to the Monteverde Preserve but is not as popular or crowded. Open 7a-5p with a $6 admission fee. You can hire a guide for the reserve for $20 incl. admission.

The Bajo Del Tigre Trail (Jaguar Canyon) offers a 2-mile path where you may find a few bird species which are not as common in the Preserve. You'll find the trail near the CASEM artisans' shop. Admission is $5 and is open from 8a-5p.

Monteverde Hotels

Hotel Las Orquideas New small hotel that just opened it's doors. Family owned and operated offers . Double $25

Fonda Vela Dedicated to the idea of eco-tourism in harmony with the earth. Seven buildings are scattered about the landscaped property. Single $76

Hotel Belmar In a forest of clouds, a hotel of warm hospitality nestled in the mountains adjacent to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve. Single $70 - $80

Hotel Montaña Monteverde is situated within minutes from many local attractions, incluiding the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Santa Elena Rain Forest Reserve, the Canopy Tour Single $63

Monteverde Lodge Located in the Tilarán Mountain Range at 4,600 ft. above sea level on the edge of the world's best known mid-elevation cloud forest. Single $82 Includes Taxes and Breakfast.

Hotel Heliconia Sits at the foot of the Finca Heliconia which boasts virgin forest at its upper elevations, only 300 meters above the hotel and views of the Nicoya Gulf.  Single $65 - $70

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín The is located in Hacienda Guachipelín, in Curubandé, an old Indian town, 15 km north of Liberia, in the province of Guanacaste. Single $32

Swiss Hotel Miramontes  Mountain Lodge in Monteverde, located on a quiet sunny place outside of the town of Santa Elena, on the road to the amazing SKY WALK and the Reserva Santa Elena. Six wood paneled rooms, all with private bathroom, hot water.

Hotel El Sapo Dorado Mountain suites nestled in a pastoral setting provide you with spacious, comfortable accommodations just minutes from the Monteverde Cloud Forest and other natural attractions. Single $45- $55

Getting to Monteverde:

From La Fortuna by car - There's a road that goes around the Northwest side of Lake Arenal through Tilaran and down to Monteverde. We've driven the route and, while it offers some beautiful scenery, we don't consider it worth the time and aggravation. The stretch between Tilaran and Monteverde is dreadful. The road is in such disrepair that we recommend going back south toward San Jose and around on the Pan American hwy. Or if your plans include a stay in Nuevo Arenal or Tilaran, take the road around to Tilaran then go to Cañas and get on the hwy going south there.