The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve was founded in 1972 by George and Harriet Powell and is the best known forest in the Monteverde Zone. In 1975 the initial 328 hectares of this Monteverde Forest reserve were increased with the addition of the Quaker communities 554 hectare water shed preserve.
The reserve now covers around 10,500 hectares. Elevation ranges from 600 meters above sea level to 1800 meters on isolated peaks. This reserve, under the administration of the Tropical Science Center, is known world wide for its biodiversity and is visited each year by many tourists and scientists. What is a Cloud Forest? Click here.
In the tourism high season this Monteverde Forest is popular and the number of people allowed access at one time is limited. Trails are in excellent condition with railings on the steps and in some cases slices of tree trunks creating a lily pond like path to keep people from walking through mud.
Notes about the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve:
- Hours: Open 7.00am - 4.00pm everyday. - Children under 6 are free - Students have special rates so bring valid student ID - Restrooms only at entrance of park - Free Hummingbird Gallery near the entrance - There is a coffee shop, cafeteria and gift store at the entrance - Buses go between town and the park about every 2-3 hours starting at 6:15 am from Santa Elena - Entrance to the park is limited if numbers are too large so best to get there when the park opens at 7.00am
The Fascinating Relationship Between Hummingbirds and Flowers. click here
Why Trees in a Wet Cloud Forest Get Thirsty! click here
The Case of the Disappearing Frogs or Why Cloud Forests Need Clouds AND Forests click here
A Fascinating Look at the Industrious Leaf-cutter Ants - See more
Wild Cats of the Cloud Forest - yes they are out there! Click here
Why is a flower red or other colors, a plant green?... Monteverde is a riot of color.. read why click here
Guided Tours in the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Kinkajou Monteverde Cloud Forest
Queztal in the Monteverde Clould Forest
Guided Hikes in the Monteverde Reserve
Monteverde tours offers a package (see prices) that includes an English-speaking, naturalist guide (only the best ones are chosen - tried and tested!), transport to and from hotel and entrance fees. The guides bring scopes and relevant reference books so you can really learn about the forests.
The tour pick-up time is at approx. 7.00am and return journey is at 11.20am, everyday. The groups are usually small, 6-8 people and the guided walks are easy and takes about 2.5 - 3 hours with frequent stops to observe wildlife through the special scopes the guides bring. There is a restaurant at the park if you want to buy snacks and drinks. There are also guided walks that start at 12md and 1.30pm.
We can also arrange early morning birding tours which include parts outside the reserve as well as within the park. These are $95 per person including guide, transport from your hotel to Stella’s Bakery and return from the reserve, and entrance fee. Start at 6.00am from Stella’s Bakery. Minimum 2. No children.Desafio requires advance booking for guided walks especially during high season.
