Monteverde
Monteverde is a cloud forest zone at 1,400 m, permanently damp and misted, with two reserves protecting resplendent quetzals and an extraordinary density of epiphytes. Zip lines were invented here for research access and remain the signature activity. Roads in are rough and slow by design, to limit traffic.
How long to stay
January to May for drier trails; quetzal nesting peaks March to May.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Monteverde yet
Is Monteverde right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Monteverde is known for.
Great for
- Nature
- Solo
Less of a focus
- History & culture
- Food
- Nightlife
- Family
- Couples
Build your Monteverde trip
Top things to do
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Entrance $5 · VerifiedMonteverde
A private reserve of misted primary forest with trails, a continental-divide viewpoint and quetzal sightings in season.
Santa Elena Reserve
Entrance $21 · VerifiedMonteverde
A smaller community-run cloud forest reserve with fewer visitors and similar birdlife.
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Popular activities
Cloud forest birding walk
Dawn walk with a guide and scope for quetzals and bellbirds.
Zip line and hanging bridges
Canopy cables across the cloud forest valleys.