A Guide to Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers plenty of things to do for every traveler. In our Monteverde Cloud Forest travel guide, we've covered all the essential information you need to know before visiting one of the most remarkable parks in this Central American country. Including how to get, where to stay, and tips on visiting the park with a guide or individually.
What things you should know before visiting Costa Rica? Well, definitely a few things. First of all, the trip will be all about connecting with nature and enjoying a laidback vibe.
At first, it could seem that this Central American country features 'only' beautiful beaches that can be enjoyed with a drink in hand.
Although you can certainly spend whole your vacation by the ocean, it would be a mistake (in our humble opinion) not to venture inland.
In this blog post, we would like to inspire you to take a winding road that will take you to a mysterious forest, where the moist is almost constantly dripping from trees and where the clouds and mist blend together, creating a magical and photogenic experience.
You may be asking, what is the place we are talking about? Sure, Costa Rica is home to a few destinations that could meet this description.
But this time, we want to tell you more about Bosque Nuboso Monteverde, alias the cloud forest of Monteverde, which did not get the name by accident.
If you plan your trip, read more about how to get, what to pack, what to expect, and how to prepare for the journey to have the time of your life.
THINGS TO KNOW
Since we arrived, the place looked exactly as we had imagined, and it definitely lived up to its name.
The forest was dark, quiet; the cloud above us was dripping with moisture, moss and plants were growing everywhere around, and from time to time, we could hear birds in the distance, and we could almost sense animals watching us from their hidings in the trees.
Weather in this place can turn either way, but to be honest, we cannot imagine Monteverde Cloud Forest with blue skies; the cloud and occasional rain just seem to fit perfectly here and create an unparalleled atmosphere.
Monteverde in Spanish means green mountain, and the comparison surely could not be better.
The exotic fauna and flora can be seen on every single step, so it is not a surprise that Monteverde is a destination well-known among naturalists and bird-watchers.
Monteverde is not only about nature though. Lately, it became popular with adrenaline seekers. So if you are looking for fun things to do in Costa Rica, Monteverde should be on your radar.
After our visit, we've put together this Monteverde Cloud Forest travel guide which includes everything you need to know before traveling to this special place.
WILDLIFE IN MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST RESERVE
One of the most common questions we receive is whether the park is a perfect place for wildlife watching. Well, we have visited a few parks in Costa Rica, Arenal National Park among them, and we surely rate Monteverde among the best ones.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a renowned paradise for bird-watchers and photographers or people interested in birds who come here from all around the world to study unique species.
One of the biggest attractions is to look for uniquely colored, resplendent quetzals that are rightfully on the top of the list of animals to see in the park.
There are also many frogs, insects, and snakes, but you can spot monkeys, tapirs, sloths, and other species that live in similar ecosystems.
Monteverde is also home to wildcats, but it is very rare to spot them, especially during daylight.
As usual, the best chance to see wildlife active is either early in the morning or later in the afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly. Another option is to hire an experienced guide.
HIRING A GUIDE VS. VISITING INDEPENDENTLY
Like in other parks in Costa Rica, you can choose if you want to visit the reserve with a guide or independently. Both alternatives have pros and cons, the advantage of visiting the area on own is definitely saving a lot of money, and it is option number one for budget travelers.
Hadn't we traveled long-term, we would have probably opted for the guided tour, but as we had already seen many species when traveling across South and Central America, we decided to explore Monteverde Cloud Forest on our own.
Hiring a guide is definitely a good idea if you want to know more about the forest, the ecosystem and if you want to have a better chance to see wildlife.
There is also an option to book a night tour - we took one in Mindo, Ecuador, and can only recommend the alternative as the experience is entirely different.
Guides in the park are knowledgeable, know the trails by heart, and most importantly, know where to look. Surely, tours often do not come cheap; on the other hand, you won't be disappointed.
Of course, do not forget that nature is unpredictable, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
We opted to visit the cloud forest independently, the same way we did in Manuel Antonio National Park, but this time we were not that lucky and spotted 'only' Quetzal Birds and a few other bird species.
In other places in Costa Rica, we had a feeling that wherever we look, a monkey is hanging on a tree or a frog jumps from a leaf to a leaf, but here in Monteverde, no matter how slowly we walked with our eyes open, we could not see a thing.
What is the result? If you can afford it or are short on time, go for a short guided tour and then explore the rest of the forest trails on your own.
On the other hand, we enjoyed the freedom and the adventure of looking for animals by ourselves.
Most importantly, we could choose our own pace, take pictures of the most photogenic places and enjoy the serenity of the cloud forest without crowds.
ENTRANCE FEE
For foreigners, the entrance fee to Monteverde Cloud Forest is pretty steep, $25 per person. It is really only the fee for entering. If you plan on hiring a guide or joining a tour, prepare to pay at least twice as much.
The truth to be told, Costa Rica is not a budget-friendly country, but Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of its kind, and in the end, we found the price reasonable.
Of course, for budget travelers like us, who usually aim to spend not $50 on entrance fee, the trip was expensive. But it was one of those exceptions when we allowed ourselves to spend over the planned budget as we believed it was going to be worth it.
Although in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve there is also a quota on how many people can visit the forest daily, there were no queues in the morning (we were there during high season in March).
Overall the atmosphere was more calm and relaxed than we have expected, similar to Ballena National Park near Uvita.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST
Weather in Monteverde is a chapter on its own. Although guidebooks will tell you that the dry season runs from December to April, the truth is that it can rain any time of the year here.
Simply because you are high in the mountains, at a place where the cloud is hanging above hills most of the time.
We were leaving Santa Elena in the morning when the skies were blue, and only 30 minutes later, when we arrived at the entrance, we were in the cloud, and the mist was dampening our faces.
In our opinion, the misty weather is exactly what adds up to the atmosphere of the place, and we cannot imagine the park in a different way.
Simply put, do not worry about visiting the place even during the rainy season, between May and November, as there is not such a big difference from the dry season. The key to success is to be well-prepared. When it rains lightly, you can easily find shelter under the trees.
It is also good to know that temperatures in Monteverde Cloud Forest are much cooler here than in other parts of Costa Rica; it is more notable at night.
WHAT TO PACK
The hottest months are March and April, but you will still need a rain jacket (or rain poncho),a long-sleeved t-shirt and hiking pants.
In the wet season, it can rain for days, but you can, of course, experience dry conditions as well. Wear comfortable shoes because trails can be muddy and slippery at times.
We were glad we wore our hiking boots, not only sneakers and also our daypack came in handy.
Although tap water in Costa Rica is drinkable (not everywhere, though). We took our reusable water bottles , and asked at places around Monteverde whether the water is safe to drink or not.
If you are not sure, bring also SteriPen.
SANTA ELENA
First of all, it is important to know that the usual base for visiting Monteverde Cloud Forest is the town of Santa Elena.
Although the roads leading to Santa Elena, no matter if you travel from the capital San Jose, another popular destination La Fortuna or Jaco, are winding, you'll eventually get there thanks to the reputation, which made from the reserve a must-see stop on every Costa Rica itinerary.
Once you get to Santa Elena, staying there overnight or finding accommodation in one of many retreats lining the road leading from Santa Elena to Monteverde Cloud Forest is possible.
HOW TO GET TO MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST RESERVE
It is easy to get to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, whether you have a rental car or not. Here's a list of ways how to get to Monteverde Cloud Forest.
BY CAR
If you travel around Costa Rica by rental car (which is, by the way, the most popular travel style), we see no reason not to get this way to Monteverde.
When traveling by rental car, you only need to follow signs from Santa Elena to the forest reserve; the entrance is located at the dead-end of the road.
Parking in Monteverde Cloud Forest is stress-free, and traveling by car gives you much-needed flexibility.
BY BUS
Getting to the reserve by bus is very easy, even for inexperienced travelers, and it is also cheap. When using public transport, the first two buses leave from a station next to the bakery at 6:15 AM and 7:30 AM and from a station across the road from Sloth hostel at 1:20 PM and 3 PM.
We believe that it is always much better to visit the reserve in the morning, so try to get up early. Bus returns to Santa Elena at 8:30 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM. One way ticket costs 700 colones.
We took the first bus in the morning, returned at 11 AM, and had enough time during this time slot to explore all the trails in the park without a guide. If you stay in accommodation along the road leading to the reserve, it is also possible to flag the bus down.
BY TAXI
If you did not rent a car but still prefer a higher level of comfort, you can ask basically anywhere, even in your hotel, and hire a taxi driver. It is essential to set the price before the ride.
It is common to pay around $10 per one way, which is quite reasonable if you travel as a group.
TOURS
Last but not least, your other option is to book a tour in Santa Elena, which also includes transport to and from the park.
You can also opt for your own transport option to the park and hire a guide by the entrance.
THINGS TO DO IN MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST RESERVE
Monteverde and the area around Santa Elena will easily keep you busy for several days. Apart from hiking and wildlife watching in the cloud forest reserve, you can try other activities, which became a standard in places with a similar type of climate.
We love to explore the area the most common way, but even nature enthusiasts and those of you who like to enjoy their time in a more adrenaline way will leave Monteverde satisfied, that's for sure.
Here's the list of the best things to do in one of Costa Rica's most popular parks, Monteverde.
HIKING
Hiking does not need an introduction. According to us, hiking is one of the most beneficial activities that anyone can do while traveling.
Exploring Monteverde on foot has its charm. Do not be put off by the number of people waiting in the queue by the entrance. Once you pay for the ticket, walk a bit deeper in the forest, and it won't take long to enjoy the place almost by yourself, surrounded only by greenery.
The best part is that Monteverde is not that large, so you can cover most of the trails in only one day; you do not even need a map.
Although, grab one for better orientation to make sure you walk all 'senderos' you can.
BIRD WATCHING
We will never forget the moment once we saw the elusive quetzal bird for the very first time. It felt like we could have stood on the hanging bridge forever, and just to take in the wonders of nature.
If you are a bird-watching enthusiast (but you even do not have to be), walk around with your eyes wide open.
Or reserve a Monteverde Bird Watching Tour to make your trip even more memorable.
Either way, bring a camera with an animal eye auto focus such as Canon EOS R6 and telephoto lens.
And if you don't want to carry a camera with you, bring at least binoculars.
ZIPLINING
Santa Elena is the destination of Costa Rica's first zipline, and specifically, a company 100% Aventura Extreme in Monteverde boasts the longest zip line you can try in Central America.
You can feel the adrenaline rushing through your body while swinging among treetops. This activity is perfect for everyone, even for families with kids.
You can reserve Monteverde Adventure Combo Tour here.
NIGHT TOUR
The cloud forest is alive all day long, but when the night falls, you have a unique opportunity to visit the reserve one more time and see it with new eyes.
Different species of animals crawl out from their hidings, and your guide will be able to point out all of them and describe their behavior in their natural habitat.
You can reserve the El Bosque Night Tour in advance or choose from one of many tour operators in Monteverde.
We had a night tour experience from Ecuador, so we did not participate in similar activity here in Costa Rica - this is also one of the reasons we could travel for less than $50 a day - but we can only encourage you to sign up.
It is essential to have a headlamp for this adventure.
SANTA ELENA RESERVE
Monteverde's smaller sister, Santa Elena Reserve, offers several hiking trails in the cloud forest where you can also see many monkeys, sloths, and birds. Approximately ten times fewer people visit this reserve than the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Santa Elena entrance fee is $14.
If you are looking for a more intimate experience of having more time to spare, visiting Santa Elena Reserve is a good choice.
COFFEE TOURS
The mountainous humid, and cool climate, very similar to the one we experienced in Boquete, Panama, agrees with the coffee business.
Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, and you can visit one of the farms around, learn how coffee is made, and generally see the journey from the bean to a cup.
BUTTERFLIES, FROGS, AND BATS
Monteverde is a place where people are guaranteed to see butterflies, frogs, bats, and much more. You only need to visit one of the gardens or centers and take one of many guided tours which will inform you about different species.
MONTEVERDE ORCHID GARDEN
Personally, I think orchids are one of the most beautiful flowers whatsoever, and Monteverde also has a garden with different species of orchids easily accessible to all visitors.
If you are traveling around Central America, you can also stop by in El Valle de Anton in Panama, another place boasting orchids.
Make sure you will visit the garden during the rainy season when flowers are in bloom.
CANYONING TOURS
We tried canyoning and rappelling down the waterfalls in other Costa Rica's destination, Jaco. Canyoning in Jaco was fun, and we don't see a reason why it should be any different here.
Still, canyoning is another activity you can do here in Monteverde - another proof that this place offers the best from the Central American country.
So in case your time is limited, you can easily build your Costa Rica's itinerary around visiting Monteverde and try as many things as possible.
HORSEBACK RIDING
It is beautiful to observe the cloud forest from a different perspective, in this case, from horseback.
You can admire the true Costa Rica's nature on this El Tigre Tour, which combines hiking, horseback riding, and waterfalls.
HANGING BRIDGES
If you don't suffer from vertigo, you can visit hanging bridges in Monteverde and get even closer to treetops from where you have a chance to see even more birds (the best time to see resplendent Quetzal birds is during their nesting season in March and April).
You can find a hanging bridge directly in Monteverde Cloud Forest or in Selvatura Park.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTEVERDE
When looking for accommodation in Monteverde, you might find it confusing that Google will show you options in Santa Elena instead.
Generally, Santa Elena is the closest village to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can find many restaurants and shops, and it is better for travelers without a car.
Monteverde is a village along a road leading to the reserve lined with houses outside Santa Elena with many accommodation options (usually more expensive ones).
It is better to have a car to get there. Otherwise, you will have to take a taxi or be dependent on infrequent public transport.
We've put together the best hostels and hotels in the area, so you can choose the best option and have a trouble-free holiday.
Budget | Hostel Cattleya - A good hostel close to the cloud forest bus stop, restaurants, and shops. This was also the place where we stayed. Our room in this hostel was one of the nicest we stayed in Central America for the price we paid.
Mid-range | Camino Verde Bed and Breakfast - Closest reasonably-priced hotel to Monteverde Cloud Forest offers a beautiful setting in nature, terrace, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi.
Luxury | Chira Glamping Monteverde - A unique concept of luxury accommodation - you will sleep in fully-equipped upscale tents with everything you might need, comfy beds, or even a hot tub!
HOW TO GET TO SANTA ELENA - MONTEVERDE
Although Monteverde is one of the premier parks in Costa Rica, it does not mean that reaching it is easy or quick.
Despite the popularity, the road connecting Monteverde with other parts of Costa Rica is not in the best state, so it takes a while to reach this destination, although distances are not great.
But the most important information is that even though you don't have a rent a car or don't want to pay for expensive shuttles, you still can get to Monteverde respectively Santa Elena Village by public transport.
If you are traveling from the capital, San Jose, the good news is that there is a direct bus between San Jose and Monteverde, but it still means that the bus stops for everyone who stands along the road. The journey takes around five hours.
We traveled to Monteverde from Jaco - it required us to take a bus to Puntarenas and changing a bus going to Monteverde. The route between Puntarenas and Monteverde took three hours with one bathroom stop.
Another tourist destination from where people reach Monteverde is La Fortuna, a base for visiting Arenal Volcano.
This is actually a route where most travelers, including us (we continued to La Fortuna after visiting Monteverde), use the tourist shuttle for $25 as it is much faster. The included boat trip across Arenal Lake is pretty scenic.
We were quite unlucky that day as our boat broke down in the middle of the lake, and it took us forever to get safely on the other side, but normally the route takes three hours.
If you want to save some money and are not limited by time, you can take a bus from Santa Elena to Tilaran (3 hours) and wait for two hours in Tilaran for a connecting bus to La Fortuna (2 hours).
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
