19 Best Things To Do In Monteverde Costa Rica

About Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a world apart from the country’s warm beaches and bustling resort towns. Tucked high in the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range, this lush green paradise is a prime ecotourism destination. Known for its stunning cloud forests, diverse wildlife, and commitment to sustainability, Monteverde offers a unique blend of adventure, conservation, and cultural heritage.

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The star attraction here is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a biological sanctuary straddling the Continental Divide. Home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, the reserve welcomes around 70,000 visitors each year, drawing scientists, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers alike. The ecosystem is fragile, making it all the more important to explore responsibly.

While Monteverde’s rugged roads require patience, the journey is well worth it. Beyond its world-famous cloud forest reserves, the area boasts quaint coffee shops, locally-owned restaurants, and immersive tours in the neighboring communities of Monteverde and Santa Elena. Whether you’re here for hiking, birdwatching, or adrenaline-fueled zip-lining, Monteverde is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
The Monte Verde Rainforest Cabins
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Oksana in Monteverde Cloud Forest
Oksana in Monteverde Cloud Forest

Best Time To Visit Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde’s weather is unique compared to Costa Rica’s coastal regions. With a year-round cool, misty climate, it’s important to pack accordingly. Expect frequent rain showers and temperatures around 24°C (75°F) during the day, dropping significantly at night.

  • Dry Season (December – April): The most popular time to visit, offering less rain and better hiking conditions.
  • Rainy Season (May – November): Monteverde receives up to 102 inches of rain annually! While some trails can get muddy, this is the best time for lush greenery, waterfalls, and fewer tourists.

special weather phenomenon in Monteverde is the “pelo de gato” or cat fur mist—a fine mist that can appear even on sunny days, creating incredible rainbows and a truly magical atmosphere.

Monteverde Costa Rica
Enjoying being in nature at the recently reopened Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

READ NEXT:Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

How To Get To Monteverde, Costa Rica

By Car

Monteverde is a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from San José, depending on road conditions. The most common route follows Highway 1 toward San Ramón, then toward Sardinal and Monteverde. If you’re coming from Tamarindo or Liberia, expect a drive of around 3.5 hours.

The final stretch up the mountain roads is winding and, at times, unpaved. From November to March, Monteverde experiences strong winds and mist, making the drive even trickier. While 4×4 vehicles are not strictly necessary, they are recommended, especially during the rainy season (June to October).

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By Shuttle Bus

For those without a rental car, several shuttle services operate daily routes between San José, Monteverde, and La Fortuna (Arenal). Some options include:

  • Interbus: Comfortable coach-style shuttles with A/C, starting at $45 per person from San José and $35 per person to Arenal.
  • Shared and private shuttle options are available from both Liberia and San José airports.
La Fortuna town, getaway to Arenal Volcano
La Fortuna town, getaway to Arenal Volcano

By Public Bus

Taking a public bus to Monteverde is a budget-friendly option. The Transmonteverde bus departs from San José twice daily (6:30 AM and 2:30 PM), with a journey time of approximately 4.5 hours and a fare of around $6 USD.

The Bus Schedule is a great resource for checking up-to-date bus schedules for destinations nationwide. However, you cannot buy tickets online but in person upon boarding the bus. 

Getting Around Monteverde

While the towns of Monteverde and Santa Elena are walkable, the major attractions and cloud forest reserves are spread out. Some hotels offer free shuttles, but renting a car or booking guided tours gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: Sun peaking through the trees in the cloud forest
Sun peaking through the trees in the cloud forest

READ NEXT: Driving in Costa Rica

Best Things to Do in Monteverde 

1. Explore The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Cost: $25 per person ($8 for Costa Rican residents) | Why Visit: Home to 400 bird species, including the rare Resplendent Quetzal, and one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse cloud forests.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the most celebrated natural attractions in Costa Rica, spanning 35,000 acres and home to a vast array of wildlife, towering trees, and mist-covered trails. With more than 100 mammal species, 400 bird species, and 1,200 amphibians and reptiles, the reserve is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. The highlight for many visitors is spotting the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, a brilliantly colored bird that migrates to the area during mating season.

Road to Sendero Cascade
Road to Sendero Cascade
Quetzal Bird found in the Monteverde, Costa Rica Cloud Forest
Quetzal Bird found in the Monteverde, Costa Rica Cloud Forest

Hiking Trails in Monteverde Reserve 

Monteverde Reserve features six main trails, ranging from short 10-minute walks to 2-kilometer routes winding through swamps, waterfalls, and lush forest. The Sendero Camino (2 km) leads to a suspension bridge with panoramic treetop views, while Sendero Bosque Nuboso (1.9 km) offers a Continental Divide lookout and strangler fig trees.

For a scenic route to the hanging bridge, Sendero Chomogo (1.8 km) and Sendero Roble (0.6 km) provide an elevated walk with oak and heliconia plants. On the return, Sendero Wilford Guindon (0.9 km) and Sendero George Powell (0.2 km) showcase towering ficus trees and diverse flora. The Sendero Tosi and Quebrada Cuecha trails (0.5 km each) lead to a small waterfall, often surrounded by birds and butterflies.

While self-guided hikes are possible, hiring a guide ($40 per person) enhances the experience by revealing hidden wildlife and sharing conservation insightsArriving early increases the chances of spotting active wildlife and avoiding crowds.

Costa Rica Monteverde Trail Map
Costa Rica Monteverde Trail Map
Hiking in Monteverde, Costa Rica
Hiking in Monteverde, Costa Rica
Monteverde Cloud Forest. Costa Rica. Cover Photo
Monteverde Cloud Forest hiking trail directions
Restrooms in Monteverde trail
Restrooms in Monteverde trail

READ NEXT: The Complete Guide to Costa Rica National Parks

2. Go Ziplining

Hours: Varies by operator | Cost: From $67.80 per person | Why Visit: Experience the longest zipline in Latin America and fly through the cloud forest at exhilarating speeds.

Monteverde is one of the best places in Costa Rica for ziplining, offering an adrenaline-filled ride above the cloud forest canopy. Whether you’re a first-timer or a thrill-seeker, soaring hundreds of feet above the forest floor is an unforgettable experience.

The 100% Aventura Canopy Tour boasts the longest zipline in Latin America at 1,590 meters (5,216 feet) and features a 148-foot Tarzan swing for an extra rush. Selvatura Park offers a 15-cable circuit with breathtaking treetop views.

Most tours last 2 to 3 hours, including safety briefings and professional guides. For those visiting La Fortuna, some operators offer day trip packages to Monteverde. If you’re after a high-energy way to experience the cloud forest, ziplining is a must.

Superman zip line at 100% Aventura Canopy Tour in Monteverde, Costa Rica
Superman zip line at 100% Aventura Canopy Tour in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Photo via 100% Aventura
Costa Rica Monteverde tarzan swing ziplining 4366
Tarzan Swing Ziplining

READ NEXT: Best Zip Lining in Costa Rica

3. Take a Coffee, Chocolate, and Sugarcane Tour

Hours: Varies by operator | Cost: From $40 per person | Why Visit: Learn about Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee culture and enjoy hands-on experiences with locally grown chocolate and sugarcane.

Monteverde’s high-altitude climate makes it ideal for growing some of Costa Rica’s best coffee, and a coffee, chocolate, and sugarcane tour is a great way to explore its agricultural heritage.

The Faro Travel Coffee, Chocolate & Sugarcane Tour takes visitors through lush plantations, demonstrating how coffee, cacao, and sugarcane are cultivated and processed. At the Don Juan Coffee Tour, guests can roast beans, taste fresh coffee, and learn about Costa Rica’s coffee history.

Most tours last 2 to 3 hours and offer hands-on tastings, providing a deeper appreciation for sustainable farming and a chance to support local producers.

Reasons to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest: Coffee tree at the Don Juan Coffee Planation in Monteverde
Coffee tree at the Don Juan Coffee Plantation in Monteverde
Reasons to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest: Coffee tree at the Don Juan Coffee Planation in Monteverde
Coffee sorting at the Don Juan Coffee Tour in Monteverde
Reasons to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest: Coffee tree at the Don Juan Coffee Planation in Monteverde
Different levels of coffee roasts ranging from green to dark.

4. Visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Cost: $18 per person | Why Visit: See over 425 species of orchids, including some of the smallest in the world.

Monteverde Orchid Garden features 425 orchid species, including miniature varieties visible only by magnifying glass. This 35- to 40-minute guided tour explores their pollination, conservation, and unique cloud forest adaptations.

Located in Santa Elena, the garden is an easy stop in town, offering a peaceful and educational experience for both orchid lovers and casual visitors.

5. Tour the Monteverde Serpentarium

Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Cost: $15 per person | Why Visit: See Costa Rica’s snakes, lizards, and reptiles up close in a controlled setting.

The Monteverde Serpentarium houses over 30 species of snakes, lizards, and turtles, including boa constrictors, pit vipers, and basilisk lizards. Guided tours explain the roles these reptiles play in Costa Rica’s ecosystem.

With interactive exhibits and close-up views, it’s an educational experience for wildlife enthusiasts and families. For a different perspective, visit in the evening, when nocturnal reptiles are most active.

Monteverde cloud forest
Can’t always avoid snakes! This little guy was inside the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Other Things To Do In Monteverde Costa Rica

There are a plethora of outdoor activities and tours to fill more than a few days in Monteverde, so if you have extra time, check out any of the following. 

6. Rappel Down Waterfalls in Monteverde

Hours: Varies by operator | Cost: From $65 per person | Why Visit: Rappel down waterfalls and navigate rugged cloud forest canyons.

Canyoning in Monteverde is an adrenaline-filled adventure combining rappelling, hiking, and climbing. The Finca Modelo Canyoning Tour, just 10 minutes from Santa Elena, features six waterfall descents, the highest at 131 feet.

Guided tours last 2 to 3 hours, providing safety gear and expert instruction. Surrounded by lush rainforest and rushing water, it’s a thrilling way to explore Monteverde’s hidden landscapes.

Waterfall in Monteverde
Waterfall in Monteverde

8. Try Bird Watching

Hours: 5:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Cost: From $50 per person | Why Visit: Spot rare birds like the Resplendent Quetzal in one of Costa Rica’s top birding destinations.

Monteverde is home to over 400 bird species, including toucans, motmots, and hummingbirds. The Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves are prime birdwatching spots, but for a quieter experienceCuri-Cancha Reserve offers excellent views of birds in their natural habitat.

Guided tours last 3 to 4 hours and start early in the morning, when birds are most active. A guide can help identify elusive species by sight and sound, making it a must-do for bird lovers.

Quetzal Bird found in the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Quetzal Bird found in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

9. Go Horseback Riding

Hours: Varies by operator | Cost: From $59 per person | Why Visit: Ride through Monteverde’s scenic landscapes, from rolling hills to cloud forests.

Horseback riding offers a relaxed way to explore forests, farms, and valleys. The Mountain & Farm View Ride by Horse Trek Monteverde takes riders through private trails with stunning views of the Gulf of Nicoya. For adventure seekers, a three-day ride from Monteverde to Arenal includes an overnight stay near Arenal Volcano.

No experience is needed, and guides ensure a safe, comfortable ride. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, it’s a memorable way to connect with nature.

10. Walk the Hanging Bridges

Hours: Varies by operator | Cost: From $34 per person | Why Visit: Get a unique treetop view of Monteverde’s wildlife and dense canopy.

Monteverde’s hanging bridges provide an immersive way to explore the cloud forest, offering wildlife sightings from both the treetops and the forest floor. Unlike ziplining, this experience lets you slow down and take in the sights and sounds.

The Sky Walk at Sky Adventures features six suspension bridges, some stretching over 700 feet, with breathtaking views of the misty forestSelvatura Park has one of Costa Rica’s largest hanging bridge networks, with a 2.5-kilometer circuit offering 360-degree views of Monteverde’s biodiversity.

Tours last 2 to 3 hours and are ideal for families, photographers, and nature lovers looking for a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience the cloud forest.

best cost rica hiking trails
Max and Oksana on the suspension bridge at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
Hanging Bridges Arenal, Costa Rica
Admiring the views from the hanging bridges

12. Explore the Frog Pond

Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Cost: $20 per person | Why Visit: Observe Costa Rica’s colorful frogs and amphibians up close.

Monteverde’s Frog Pond is home to over 25 species of frogs and toads, including red-eyed tree frogs, dart frogs, and glass frogs. Day visits allow for clear views of vibrant amphibians, while night tours reveal nocturnal activity.

Guided tours offer insight into conservation efforts and the importance of amphibians in the ecosystem. A single ticket grants entry for both daytime and nighttime visits, making it a great family-friendly stop.

13. Explore The Bat Jungle

Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Cost: $15 per person | Why Visit: Observe live bats in a simulated nighttime environment and learn from expert biologists.

The Bat Jungle in Monteverde offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of bats, one of the most important yet misunderstood creatures of the cloud forest. This indoor exhibit is designed to simulate the natural nighttime environment where bats are most active, allowing visitors to observe 85 live bats as they feed, socialize, and fly freely within the enclosure.

Created by renowned bat biologist Richard Laval, the exhibit features interactive displays, an ultrasonic sound system to hear bat echolocation, and guided tours explaining the vital role bats play in pollination and insect control. The experience is both educational and entertaining, making it a great stop for families and wildlife lovers.

Tours last around 45 minutes, and because the exhibit is indoors, it’s an ideal activity for a rainy day in Monteverde. If you’re curious about the mysteries of the cloud forest after dark, the Bat Jungle is a fun and engaging way to learn more about these incredible nocturnal creatures.

14. Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden

Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Cost: $20 per person | Why Visit: Walk among 30 butterfly species and learn about Costa Rica’s diverse insect life.

The Monteverde Butterfly Garden, also known as Mariposario de Monteverde, is a tranquil escape where visitors can observe dozens of butterfly species in a lush, enclosed environment. This garden is home to four climate-controlled habitats, each mimicking the natural conditions of Costa Rica’s different ecosystems, allowing you to see butterflies in their native surroundings.

In addition to butterflies, the garden features an insectarium, where guides introduce visitors to fascinating creatures such as leafcutter ants, stick insects, and tarantulas. The 45-minute guided tour provides insight into the life cycle, behavior, and ecological role of butterflies and insects in the Monteverde cloud forest.

Located near Santa Elena, the Butterfly Garden is an accessible and family-friendly activity that blends education with the beauty of nature. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet enriching experience, this is a great stop to add to your Monteverde itinerary.

Blue Morpho Butterfly
Blue Morpho Butterfly

15. Visit the Monteverde Cheese Factory

Hours: No longer offering tours, but the shop is open daily | Cost: Free to visit, cost varies for cheese purchases | Why Visit: Taste locally made cheese from Monteverde’s historic Quaker-founded dairy industry.

Monteverde’s cheese-making tradition dates back to the 1950s, when a group of Quaker settlers from the U.S. established dairy farms in the area. They founded the Monteverde Cheese Factory, which went on to produce some of Costa Rica’s finest cheeses, including Gouda, Provolone, and Swiss-style cheeses.

Although cheese factory tours are no longer available, visitors can still stop by the shop to sample and purchase local cheeses. The shop also sells freshly made ice cream, yogurt, and other dairy products, all sourced from nearby farms. It’s a quick but worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Monteverde’s agricultural history and locally produced food.

For those who want a deeper dive into sustainable farming and food production, nearby farms such as Finca Terra Viva offer hands-on experiences, where visitors can milk cows, learn about permaculture, and see how dairy farming coexists with conservation efforts in Monteverde.

16. Discover Curi-Cancha Reserve

Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Cost: $25 per person | Why Visit: A quiet, wildlife-rich alternative to Monteverde Cloud Forest, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks.

For those looking to experience Monteverde’s cloud forest away from the crowds, Curi-Cancha Reserve is an excellent choice. This private nature reserve protects a mix of primary and secondary cloud forest, creating a diverse habitat where monkeys, sloths, coatis, and agoutis thrive.

Curi-Cancha is also a birdwatching hotspot, home to species like the Resplendent Quetzal, toucans, bellbirds, and motmots. The well-maintained trails cover about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) and range from easy walks to moderate hikes, making it accessible for all visitors. Unlike other reserves, Curi-Cancha allows self-guided exploration, but hiring a guide enhances the experience, as they can help spot wildlife and explain the forest’s delicate ecosystem.

Visitors typically spend 2 to 3 hours here, enjoying the serene environment and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. If you’re looking for a peaceful nature experience in Monteverde, Curi-Cancha Reserve is a must-visit.

17. Visit Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena

Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Cost: $16 per person | Why Visit: A lesser-known cloud forest reserve with excellent hiking trails and fewer tourists.

For those looking to experience Monteverde’s cloud forest without the crowds, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a fantastic alternative. This nonprofit conservation project, established in 1992, reinvests its entrance fees into local education and environmental protection.

The reserve offers several well-marked trails, ranging from short loops to longer, more challenging hikes. One of the highlights is the Youth Challenge Trail, which leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Arenal Volcano on clear days. Wildlife lovers may spot howler monkeys, sloths, and a variety of tropical birds, including the Resplendent Quetzal.

Because Santa Elena sits at a higher elevation than Monteverde Cloud Forest, it tends to be even mistier, creating an enchanting jungle atmosphere. Most visitors spend 2 to 4 hours here, enjoying peaceful trails, unique wildlife encounters, and breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path cloud forest experience, Santa Elena is a must-visit.

18. Experience Farm-to-Table Dining at Hidden Valley Permaculture Farm

Hours: By reservation only | Cost: Varies by experience | Why Visit: Learn about sustainable farming while enjoying fresh, organic meals straight from the land.

For a truly immersive farm-to-table experienceHidden Valley Permaculture Farm offers a unique opportunity to see sustainable agriculture in action. This working organic farm integrates permaculture principles to produce food in harmony with the environment, focusing on regenerative farming, soil health, and biodiversity conservation.

Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about composting, food forests, and natural farming techniques, gaining insight into how local farmers maintain a balanced ecosystem while growing fresh, nutrient-rich food. The experience often concludes with a delicious, home-cooked meal made from the farm’s organic produce, offering a true taste of Costa Rica’s rich culinary traditions.

Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, organic farming, or simply great food, this experience provides a deeper connection to Monteverde’s agricultural roots. Reservations are required, making this an intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to engage with eco-conscious living in Costa Rica.

19. Visit El Tigre Waterfalls

Hours: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Cost: From $35 per person | Why Visit: Hike through cloud forest to four waterfalls, with an option to return on horseback.

Located 30 minutes from MonteverdeEl Tigre Waterfalls offers a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) hiking loop through lush rainforest, crossing hanging bridges and passing four scenic waterfalls. The trail takes 3 to 4 hours and offers optional returns by horseback, ATV, or 4×4 shuttle.

Wildlife like birds, butterflies, and monkeys can be spotted along the way, and the well-maintained trails make for a rewarding nature experience. Sturdy hiking shoes and a rain jacket are recommended, as cloud forest weather can change quickly.

Best Restaurants In Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde’s restaurant scene offers fresh, locally sourced ingredients, farm-to-table dining, and a mix of Costa Rican and international flavors. Many eateries focus on sustainability, organic produce, and eco-friendly practices, making dining here both delicious and responsible.

Restaurante Celajes

Location: Hotel Belmar | Best for: Farm-to-table dining & fine dining experience

Located at Hotel Belmar, this farm-to-table restaurant offers organic, locally sourced cuisine, much of it grown on the hotel’s own farm. The seasonal menu includes fresh seafood, house-made cheeses, and craft cocktails infused with Monteverde-grown herbs. Sunset views over the Gulf of Nicoya make this one of the most scenic dining spots in town.

Tree House Restaurant & Café

Location: Santa Elena | Best for: Unique atmosphere & casual Costa Rican cuisine

Built around a giant tree, this open-air restaurant is a Monteverde icon. The menu features classic Costa Rican dishes with a twist, including casados, ceviche, and fresh seafood. The relaxed setting and central location in Santa Elena make it a popular choice for visitors.

San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience

Location: Hidden in the forest | Best for: Romantic fine dining

For a unique fine dining experience, San Lucas offers elevated treetop platforms, allowing guests to dine in the canopy of the cloud forest. The tasting menu showcases local ingredients prepared with artistic flair, making it a perfect setting for a special occasion or a romantic evening. Reservations are required.

El Sapo Restaurant & Bar

Location: Santa Elena | Best for: Organic, sustainable dining

El Sapo serves locally sourced, organic dishes, with a focus on fresh vegetables, free-range meats, and handmade pastas. The restaurant follows sustainable practices, including zero waste cooking and plastic-free initiatives. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy healthy, eco-conscious meals in a casual setting.

Farm to Table Escondido

Location: Valle Escondido Nature Reserve | Best for: Sustainable dining in a nature setting

This eco-friendly restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas and contemporary Costa Rican dishes in a beautiful forested setting. Ingredients come from local farms and nearby organic gardens, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a fresh and ethical dining experience.

Bar Amigos

Location: Santa Elena | Best for: Local atmosphere & nightlife

For an authentic Costa Rican experience, Bar Amigos is a go-to spot for local food, live music, and nightlife. The menu includes Tico favorites like chicharrones, ceviche, and fresh fish tacos, along with cold local beers at budget-friendly prices. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of adventure, with a lively atmosphere and occasional salsa dancing nights.

Reasons to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest: Bar Amigos in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Ceviche at Bar Amigos in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Reasons to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest: Bar Amigos in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Delicious nachos at Bar Amigos in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Costa Rica

Where to Stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde offers a variety of eco-friendly accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury lodges, all committed to sustainability and conservation. Many hotels integrate solar power, water conservation, and local community support into their operations. Below are some of the best options for a responsible stay in Monteverde.

Cabinas El Pueblo B&B

Location: Santa Elena | Best for: Budget travelers

This family-run bed & breakfast offers affordable, cozy accommodations with a focus on sustainability. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a communal kitchen, all in a peaceful setting near Santa Elena town. The hotel follows eco-friendly practices, including no single-use plastics and LED lighting.

Cloud Forest Lodge

Location: Near Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve | Best for: Mid-range travelers & nature lovers 

Set within 70 acres of private cloud forestCloud Forest Lodge provides spacious cabins with forest views, on-site hiking trails, and an eco-conscious approach to hospitality. Guests can enjoy organic meals at the on-site restaurant and guided nature walks. Its proximity to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve makes it a top choice for nature lovers.

Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Monteverde Cloud Forest

Rancho De Lelo Ecolodge & Sustainable Farm

Location: 20 minutes from Monteverde | Best for: Farm stays & off-the-grid travelers

This eco-lodge and working farm offers a rustic escape surrounded by nature, organic gardens, and sustainable farming projects. Guests can take part in farm activities, permaculture workshops, and wildlife spotting while staying in comfortable, solar-powered cabins.

Monteverde Lodge & Gardens

Location: Near Santa Elena | Best for: Luxury & sustainability

One of Monteverde’s most sustainable luxury lodgesMonteverde Lodge & Gardens features lush gardens, a solar-heated pool, and an open-air restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine. The property prioritizes environmental conservation, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking comfort and elegance.

READ NEXT: Best Eco Lodges in Costa Rica

How Many Days Do You Need In Monteverde?

The adventures never have to stop in Monteverde. There are certainly enough reasons to visit this beautiful area of Monteverde. However, the length of time you decide to stay in Monteverde should be a reflection of how much time you have in Costa Rica.

two-week nature and wildlife itinerary in Costa Rica would give you 3 days in Monteverde, but then you would have to be selective in which activities you choose to partake in. If you were wondering what to do in Monteverde, we hope we inspired you with our choices!

 

Have You Had The Experience Of Visiting Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve? Can You Suggest Any Other Things To Do In The Monteverde Area? Let Us Know!

10 thoughts on “19 Best Things To Do In Monteverde Costa Rica”

  1. Great post! I went to Costa Rica last year and the highlight of my whole trip was the Aventura Zipline – soon much fun! I’m pretty sure the Tarzan Swing at the end gave me a heart attack haha. Costa Rica is such a beautiful country!

  2. I was just reading about Monteverde the other day. So nice to get a more in-depth look! Love the picture of the orchids growing on the tree.

    1. They are beautiful and this was just a small sample of the orchids we saw in Monteverde! Definitely a must see if you are into gardening and flowers! Glad to hear the post helped you get a more in-depth understanding of the area. It’s definitely worth a visit!

  3. I married a beautiful tica from costa rica and will be moving to costa rica soon. I really appreciate your take take on monteverde. my new son in law and his wife are visiting monteverde as I type this letter. I look forward to visiting monteverde one day. keep up the good work. We enjoy your comments.

  4. Quick update: All roads up to Monteverde are now perfectly paved. They did it during Corona lockdown. No bumpy roads!! 🙂
    We were fully surprised and did the travel today. Therefore, brand new information!

  5. Rachel Nugent

    Hi Oksana – I’m travelling to Costa Rica next week – thanks for all your posts, they are really useful! Just wondered, do you have a link to where I could book a local guide for the cloud forest (preferably one who will provide transportation)? Thank you!

    1. Hi Rachel, unfortunately, we don’t have a guide we can recommend specifically for that region. You could reach out to your hotel in Monteverde and see if they have a local contact. It is unlikely that you will find someone with a vehicle though and if you do, they will probably be a part of a more formal tour operator, so you would just be booking a tour, which is totally fine and great for a place like Monteverde.

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