Monteverde Costa Rica was founded by a Quaker community back in the 1950’s. It is one of the country's major ecotourism destinations. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and several other natural attractions in the area draw a considerable number of tourists and naturalists every year. It is home to more than 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, tens of thousands of insect species and 2,500 species of plants, including more than 500 species of orchids.

Things to do in Monteverde Costa Rica

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
This biological reserve is surrounded by a misty cover that supports a wide diversity of flora and fauna. It is considered one of the primary cloud forests in Mesoamerica and one of the most exceptional wildlife sanctuaries in the New World Tropics.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Less crowded than the Monteverde Cloud Forest, this reserve sits at 1650 meters (5400 feet), has steeper trails, and a slightly better chance of seeing quetzals.

Children's Eternal Rainforest
This is Costa Rica’s largest private reserve and a hotspot for biodiversity, ecotourism, bird watching, and hiking trails.  It is run by a nonprofit conservation organization and all proceeds from visitation directly support the conservation of the forest.

Canopy Tour and Hanging Bridges
This adventure provides a unique vantage point of the cloud forest that was once reserved for birds and scientists. You will appreciate the rich diversity of the canopy flora and fauna while you enjoy the adrenaline rush. 

San Luis Waterfall
Approximately a three-hour hike from downtown Santa Elena, this 100 meter waterfall is nestled deep in the valley offering incredible views.

Coffee and Chocolate Tour
Visit a small family owned coffee plantation to learn about the whole process behind two very important products worldwide: coffee and chocolate.

Night Walk
One of the best things to do in Monteverde is go on a nocturnal walk to observe animals in their most peaceful state and some others such as owls, tarantulas, insects and snakes become more active. 

Monteverde tours to other destinations nearby

Isla Tortuga Tour
Isla Tortuga is famous for the white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It is located off the southeastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula and is only accessible by boat or catamaran. Sea life in the area includes dolphins and whales which can often be spotted.