Monteverde
Founded in the 1950s by a few Quakers fleeing the United States in the midst of the Korean War, the community of Monteverde initially developed through a small dairy industry. Little by little, the incredible microclimate of the region and the biodiversity that proliferates there attracted naturalists and nature lovers, and it was finally in 1972 that the "Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde" was founded, a biological reserve preserving one of the last primary cloud forests of the planet!
Perched at an altitude of 1440 meters, the village of Monteverde is today an exceptional ecotourism destination. Scientists and tourists from all over the world stay there to observe some of the 3200 species of plants, including more than 500 orchids (one of the richest places on Earth), and the 425 species of birds, including the resplendent quetzal.
This region alone is home to 2.5% of the planet's biodiversity, with 10% of its flora being endemic.
Finally, the remarkable character of this destination is not limited to its admirable wildlife! A stopover in the village of Monteverde is also an opportunity to learn more about the local culture, including a visit to a family farm producing coffee and preserving the practice of the famous "trapiche" (a traditional mill used to extract the sugar cane). Add to that suspension bridges and zip lines of several hundred meters hanging from the treetops and this region becomes an adventure destination that will delight young and old alike.
THE SUSPENSION BRIDGES
A hike between natural trails and suspension bridges hundreds of meters long is one of the unique experiences to live during a stay in Costa Rica.
Offering impressive views of the rainforest canopy, it allows you to discover a wild fauna and flora that can only be observed from the top of the trees, reaching more than 70m high!
IN THE HEART OF A PRIMARY CLOUD FOREST
The Monteverde Biological Reserve protects more than 4000 hectares of primary cloud forest; a natural habitat in which scientists estimate that 50% of the biodiversity of Costa Rica and 2.5% of the biodiversity of the planet can be observed!
The 13 kilometers of trails open to the public allow you to discover the bowels of one of the most endangered ecosystems on Earth, leading to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean on clear days, a waterfall and a suspension bridge of a hundred meters.
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
A hallmark of Monteverde, ziplines were used by scientists long before tourists as a way to get around while minimizing their impact on nature.
The tourist industry of the region has made it an extreme activity, allowing families and friends to discover this breathtaking and atypical ecosystem!
OBSERVATION OF THE RESPLENDENT QUETZAL
Threatened with extinction, the resplendent quetzal, considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world, has found refuge in the mysterious cloud forests of Monteverde.
The best time to observe this species is during the dry season (January to April) when the aguacatillo fruit grows. This season coincides with its mating and nesting season when a trail of two long feathery tails up to one meter long grows on the male quetzals!
CULTURAL VISITS
A true paradise on earth for nature lovers, Monteverde has also developed through rural tourism, an excellent way to discover the essence and identity of Costa Ricans.
In a warm and family atmosphere, visits to fincas, plantations and small artisanal industries allow you to discover the local gastronomy as well as the sustainable practices for which the country is famous.
Discounts can be applied for nationals and residents as well as for students and children!
HOW TO GET TO MONTEVERDE?
By car via route 606 or by public transportation from the cities of San José and Puntarenas.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTEVERDE?
In a comfortable bungalow that can accommodate up to 4 people.