In Spanish, Monteverde means "green mountain" and it is one of the most interesting and most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica. Best know for the world famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, there are a number of other reserves and activities in this area. For nature-lovers and birders Monteverde is a natural destination.

Cloud Forest Reserves

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve This large reserve is one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the Americas and includes eight distinct ecological zones. It protects more than 400 species of birds and over 100 species of mammals. In addition to the spectacular Resplendent Quetzal, you may see the endangered Bellbird, or Emerald Toucanet. There are also 30 species of hummingbirds. (We recommend stopping at the Hummingbird Gallery) While you can walk the trails with a self-guiding pamphlet available at the entrance, we recommend taking at least one guided tour, as an experienced guide will point out flora and fauna that you would probably not notice yourself. Your hotel can arrange a guide for you. As with most wildlife viewing early morning is the best time to go and you should purchase your entrance ticket or arrange for a guided tour the previous day. (Open daily 7 am to 4 pm; Entrance $8.00, student with ID $4.00) The popularity of the Monteverde Reserve has given impetus to the preservation of several other similar areas nearby. Reserva Sendero Tranquilo This 200-acre private reserve allows only two groups of 2 to 6 people at one time. Tours, led by excellent bilingual guides, last 3-4 hours. Groups are for the most part silent when in the forest, and visitors are usually pleased with the amount of wildlife they see. For information and reservations contact Hotel Sapo Dorado. Birds Sanctuary - Paradise for Bell Birds There are 4.5 miles of trails in a special eco-system with an abundance of birds, mammals and plants, which have been preserved through out the years thanks to the heightened interest in conservation that has spread among the inhabitants of Monteverde. For information and reservations contact Hotel Heliconia. Santa Elena Forest Reserve The 765-acre Santa Elena Forest Reserve is located 5 kilometers northeast of Santa Elena. It is at a slightly higher elevation than the Monteverde reserve and tends to be cloudier and wetter, but is also less visited than its better know neighbor. There are over 10 kilometers of trails, with one leading to a lookout point from which you can see Volcán Arenal on a clear day. There are usually local guides on hand, or you can hire one before hand through your hotel. You have the option of buying a self-guided trail map and renting boots at the entrance. (Open daily 7 am to 4 pm; Entrance $7.00, student $3.50)

Interesting Shops & Galleries

CASEM For arts and crafts, be sure to stop by CASEM, a cooperative of local women who make beautiful embroidered and hand-painted clothing and souvenirs portraying quetzales, golden toads, and other cloud forest flora and fauna. It's located on the right next to the food co-op as you enter Monteverde. Hummingbird Gallery The Hummingbird Gallery, just before the entrance to the Monteverde Reserve, features the photography of Michael and Patricia Fogden. The Fogden's spend months at a time with sloths, frogs, snakes, insects, and birds, trying to get just the right shot. They also sell beautiful and inexpensive Guatemalan textiles, T-shirts, and high-energy snacks for the trail. There are feeders outside the gallery that attract a wonderful variety of hummingbirds. We suggest you stop by on your way to or from the Reserve. Monteverde Cheese Factory The famous Monteverde Cheese Factory sells 14 types of cheese including: cheddar, jack, Gouda, and Monte Rico. You can also buy great homemade whole-wheat bread and rolls, fresh milk, and cajeta (scrumptious milk fudge) there.

Activities

Monteverde Guides Association Created in 1996 with the main propose of make professional the tour guided service in Monteverde. The organization has improved the knowledge and capacity of the guide service not only in Monteverde, but in other areas like Tortuguero, San Carlos and Cabo Blanco in Guanacaste; places where our members have trained new guides without any special economical interest, only for the good of Costa Rica. Selvatura A conservation project with over 700 acres of protected land. A thrilled Canopy Tour, walks thru the virgin Cloud Forest, Bird watching, a Butterfly and Humming Bird Gardens, which ever is your adventure at Selvatura you will enjoy all the cloud forest has to offer.

Getting There

There are no flights to Monteverde. It is about a four hour drive by car from San Jose. While you probably can make it in a regular car, we strongly recommend a four wheel drive. For those who do not want to drive there are package tours (by tour bus) from San Jose.

North Central Area Map	Map of Monteverde

Hotels

Belmar Offers spectacular views and personalized service in a comfortable rustic atmosphere.

El Establo - In the heart of the touristic zone of Monteverde.

Fonda Vela - On the 35-acre property, you will find the lush forests and verdant pastures excellent for birding and hiking.

Trapp Family Lodge The nearest hotel to Monteverde Cloud Forest, a home away from home.

Sapo Dorado - Luxury and convenience of five kilometers of self-guided trails for you to explore both primary and secondary forests.

Monteverde Lodge - Is the expression of Costa Rica Expeditions' desire to create the ultimate lodging experience for the discerning nature traveler.

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