Monteverde and Santa Elena:
The magic of the Cloud Forest

Visit this unique eco-system and stay in cozy mountain hotels and lodges in Monteverde.

The rare phenomenon where climatic conditions cause cloud and mist to be in regular contact with the vegetation is the cloud forest, and few exist in the world. Monteverde is one of the few destinations where cloud forests are easily accessible to visitors. This magical environment enchants visitors and entices them to fall in love with nature.

Spending one or two nights in a hotel or resort in the Monteverde Cloud Forest is a memorable part of a Costa Rica vacation. Nature lovers visit this secluded part of the country in search of exciting nature trails in the Cloud Forest, adventurous canopy rides, and relaxing evenings in the cool and crisp climate. Cozy mountain lodges provide the opportunity for romantic, intimate moments.

Monteverde offers many attractions and activities, among them, canopy tours, the Sky Walk / Sky Trek, butterfly farms, orchid gardens, day and night nature hikes, a cheese factory, tours on horseback, and ATV tours. We recommend a minimum one-night stay in one of the many Monteverde resorts and hotels, with at least two full days to enjoy the region. Day trips are also offered from Arenal and Guanacaste.

While in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

You must visit the Cloud Forest National Parks of Monteverde and Santa Elena.  Both parks have short and long hiking trails, which take from two to six hours to climb. As two of only a few unspoiled Cloud Forests on Earth, they are a unique experience.

The Serpentarium is a zoo dedicated to snakes and reptiles.  It’s worth a visit to observe the many varieties of snakes that live in Costa Rica’s Cloud Forest.

Visit the famous Monteverde Cheese Factory. The Monteverde region was founded by Quakers, and early on, they established this factory as one of their only industrial activities. Tour the facility to learn the process of producing different cheeses. Taste-test the products and the superb hand-dipped ice cream at the end of the tour!

Experience the Sky Walk / Sky Trek or the Canopy Tour.  Costa Rica boasts over 50 canopy tour experiences, but two of the originals are set in Monteverde.  The mist of the cloud forest makes this the most magical canopy experience in Costa Rica.

Learn about the coffee growing and processing industry at the Monteverde Coffee Tour.  Taste some of Costa Rica’s best coffee as you learn about one of the country’s most important and traditional agricultural products.

While Monteverde is not a great fit in every Costa Rica family vacation package, those true nature lovers will find the experience unique and fascinating.  Hotels are well managed, cozy and warm, but do to fit most traveler's idea of luxury.  Accomodations are rustic and feature local hardwoods and comfortable rooms.  If you wish to add a stay in one of the cozy Monteverde Cloud Forest hotels and resorts during your family Costa Rica vacation, please call us toll free at (888) 928-3688 or email us at info@memorablecostarica.com.

Costa Rica is a tropical country with only two seasons: dry and green! Click here for forecast Exchange Rate for May 13 507.54 CRC for each USD 685.18 CRC for each EUR