If your Costa Rica Itinerary includes a stop in the cooler mountains of Monteverde and nearby Santa Elena, you are in for a treat!
Whether you’re into nature, hiking, birdwatching, food, or thrills, there are so many unique and different things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Located in the mountains of northern Costa Rica, Monteverde is famous for its misty cloud forests and also a hotspot for ziplining, hanging bridges, and unforgettable night hikes.
If you’ve searched online for things to do in Monteverde, you quickly realize how overwhelming it can be — hundreds of options, endless reviews, and too little time.
Bill and I (and some of our friends) spent two weeks in Monteverde, taking the tours, doing the research and narrowing it down so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Here is our concise list of the 25 best recommendations for any kind of interest. Use the Table of Contents, or just read all the way through!
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH OUR FAVORITE TOOLS & RESOURCES
– Best Lodging site: Booking.com
– Book Day Tours here: Viator.com
– Rent Cars here: RentalCars.com
Hiking the Cloud Forest
Hiking in the mystical, misty rainforest is on many people’s Bucket List and one of the most popular things to do in Monteverde. There are many great hiking options to choose from, but first, here are a few important tips:
- Kari’s Travel Tip: Take a guided tour, rather than going on your own. A good guide knows where to take you based on current conditions and you will see so much more!
- Kari’s Travel Tip: Pay close attention to the tour listings: 1) Is transportation to the park included? 2) Is park admission included or do you have to arrange that separately*?
- Kari’s Travel Tip: * Once your Monteverde dates are set, book your tours and park tickets. Top tours sell out fast, and many parks limit daily visitors. Some even require online reservations 2–3 days ahead. Don’t risk missing out by waiting too long.
#1 – Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Also known as the Refugio Monteverde, this is the most famous of all the reserves, featuring over 3000 types of plants and hundreds of different types of trees, orchids and birds. There are 10 trails covering 13 km and 5 scenic viewpoints.
The highly rated and affordable Cloud Forest Adventure: Hike the Mystical Canopy! small group tour lasts 2-1/2 hours and shows you the most amazing parts of the park. It does NOT include transportation or park entrance fees which is reflected in the price.
Another great highly rated tour that includes the park entrance fee is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Guided Tour, led by Dennis. I met Dennis on a different tour and he was fantastic. He’ll bring his professional spotting scope for amazing photos.
This is one of the major parks where day-pass tickets must be purchased online at least 3 days in advance. BOOK EARLY!
#2 – Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
This reserve, also known as the Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena, is about 25 minutes away from Santa Elena. It is less crowded than the other cloud forest, offering quieter, more peaceful exploration.
With 8 miles of trails, 3 scenic overlooks, lots of bridges and a big observation tower to climb, you have many interesting places to explore at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest.
But the road to get there is really rough. Take a tour that offers transportation, or take the shuttle from Santa Elena – details are below. Do NOT take your rental car up there unless you have 4W drive and a high clearance. So here are some tour options:
The Walk in Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour is the only one that offers hotel pick up. This 3-hour tour includes admission to the Reserve and has several different time options. The earliest one will increase your chances of finding more wildlife.
Or this Private Guided Walk to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is just for you and your group to see what you want to see. After the 3 hour guided hiking tour, you are free to spend the rest of the day exploring the Reserve on your own.
You can schedule a shuttle to the Reserve from downtown Santa Elena by sending a message on Whatsapp the day before to +506 8346 0748 or ask your hotel to help you make a reservation. It leaves several times a day and costs just a few dollars.
#3 – Curi-Cancha Reserve
The Curi-Cancha Reserve, about 10 minutes from Monteverde, is famous for it’s bird-watching and wildlife opportunities. It’s a also great place to hike through the virgin forest on 7 km of trails covering 200+ acres.
The highly rated Natural History Tour at Curi Cancha Reserve in Monteverde offers a guided hiking experience. This small-group 3-hour tour takes you through the rain forest to learn about the tropical flora and fauna which are in great abundance.
If you don’t have a rental car, use the Rome2Rio app to find a taxi to “Reserva Curi Cancha” for less than $10 USD. Or send a message on Whatsapp to +506 8346 0748 or see if your hotel can help you arrange transportation.
#4 – El Tigre Waterfall Hike
The El Tigre Waterfall Hike is a 5 km hike through the Rainforest, passing several major waterfalls and a bunch of smaller ones. At the end, choose between taking an ATV or riding a horse back to the start. You can also swim at some of the waterfall bases.
Our friends Kenny & Wendy said El Tigre was really beautiful, but a pretty challenging hike. They took the horseback option back to the start and shared their photos with us. Photo credits: Kenny F.
El Tigre is best done with a guide due to the dense vegetation and remote location. The El Tigre Waterfalls Hiking Tour is one highly-rated option that includes the guide, park admission, hanging bridges, horseback or 4 WD return trip and lunch.
#5 – Santuario Ecologico Sanctuary
The Santuario Ecologico Sanctuary is a small family owned reserve that offers 6 km of guided or self-guided hiking on their trails through a banana and coffee plantation. We saw some playful coatis on the ground and a huge 10-12′ Tiger Snake in a tree!
Bird Watching
Monteverde is truly a Bird Lover’s Paradise and my camera was shooting pretty much non-stop every day we went out. What you see at different times of the year varies depending on which trees are bearing fruit – fig trees, avocado trees and many others.
I shared a lot of details in Where are the Best Places to Find Birds in Monteverde?, but here’s a quick summary of the best places near Monteverde and Santa Elena.
Hire a guide. You will 100% see more birds with a guide than without because they know where birds have recently been spotted and what types of trees will attract them.
In Monteverde, we hired Dulce Wilson several times to do guided birdwatching. She works Sunday – Friday and can be reached on WhatsApp at +506 8739 4345. My Birds of Costa Rica post has several other options about how to find a qualified guide.
#6 – Reserva Curi Cancha
The small, private family-owned Curi Cancha Reserve is best known for frequent sightings of the Resplendent Quetzal. They have over 200 species of birds and a variety of mammals and reptiles within the Reserve. Limited tickets are available each day so plan ahead and book your tickets.
#7 – Finca Ecologica San Luis Reserve
My favorite place to bird in Monteverde, the Finca Ecologica San Luis Reserve offers great birding opportunities with a number of covered feeding gardens (which is great if it’s raining) and four hiking trails. We went there several times, both with and without a guide and I saw at least 30 new birds.
#8 – Bajo El Tigre
The Bajo El Tigre Reserve offers several scenic overlooks and 4.5 kilometers of both easy and steep hiking trails through the secondary forest. Going with a guide like Dulce will guarantee you the best wildlife experience, but they also have self-guided day passes available.
At the right time of year, this is one of the best places to see the long-tailed Manakin and the Three-Wattled Bellbird. The shy Gray-Cowled Wood Rail is always around, but hard to spot.
#9 – The Monteverde Humming Bird Garden
Right next to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is the free Hummingbird Garden. They appreciate it if you make a purchase at the gift shop or the Cafe there. Parking is very tight here along the road below the garden, but if you can snag a spot, it’s a great way to pass a few hours.
For even more places to find birds in Monteverde, all the details are HERE.
Zip Lining / Hanging Bridges
For those seeking more of an adrenaline thrill, Monteverde offers lots of options for zip-lining and crossing hanging bridges through the Cloud Forest. Here are three of the most highly-rated and best choices:
#10 – The Original Canopy Tour Monteverde, Zipline
This tour offers multiple opportunities to zipline through the canopy, rappel down 150 feet to the forest floor, and climb ladders through the trees! Sure to get your heart pounding, but with safety as the first priority. Also has an optional Tarzan swing free-fall experience available if you’re brave enough to try it.
#11 – Sky Walk – Sky Tram & Sky Trek Zipline From Monteverde
This combo tour combines the best of 3 activities, all in one amazing package. Explore the canopy on the hanging bridges of the Sky Walk, take a gondola ride up the mountain on the Sky Tram, and zipline down through the cloud forest at amazing speeds on the Sky Trek!
#12 – Selvatura Park Combo Tour From Monteverde
This full-day tour combines exhilarating ziplining, guided bird-watching in the canopy, swinging hanging bridges and a cool butterfly garden. If it’s your first time zip-lining, they start you out slow to build your confidence, then move you on to longer lines.
Coffee / Food Tours
Another one of the popular things to do in Monteverde is take Coffee and Food Tours. On these excursions, you learn about the process for harvesting and making delicious products from local ingredients, plus there is always sampling and tasting at the end! 😊
#13 – Don Juan Coffee, Chocolate & Sugar Cane Tour
This very popular 3-in-1 tour teaches you how Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar are made, using both traditional and newer methods.
Sample the authentic taste of native Costa Rican products made in the Santa Elena Valley.
#14 – Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour
Learn about organic farming on a 2-hour tour of a 3 generation family farm. We did this tour with friends and we learned so much.
We fed some baby animals and milked a cow while learning about organic farming practices from different generations of the family. Then we made some cheese with the cow’s milk!
The family matriarch, Yolanda taught us how to make corn tortillas and cheese. Then we got to eat our freshly made items along with organic coffee and tea.
#15 – Costa Rican Bread Making
Take part in this hands-on cooking class where Costa Rican natives Yolanda and Orlando will show you how to make Empanadas and artisanal Costa Rican sweet bread, using only natural ingredients from the land or that you already have at home. At the end, enjoy the foods you have prepared, along with some homemade sweet tea.
#16 – Cooking Lesson at Santuario Ecológico
Our friends Stephanie and Ron said this was their favorite thing they did in Monteverde. “After a tour of the gardens, we picked our own ingredients and learned about organic farming methods. Then, we learned how to prepare a traditional Costa Rican lunch. It was delicious!” said Stephanie.
Night Hikes
Guided Night Tours give you an opportunity to view the animals and creatures that don’t become active until the darkness sets in. Many of the bird guides offer night hikes and as in town or along the highway, you’ll find another sign posted every 300 feet or so, offering a Night Tour. Here are some highly-rated options that you can book online:
#17 – Monteverde Rain Forest Night Walk
Come see the forest come to life as nocturnal birds and animals get active after sundown. This two-hour guided small-group tour will help you see many things that you can’t see on a daylight tour. Note the additional fees for park entrance and transportation, if needed.
#18 – Monteverde Night Tour Unique Experience
The Cloud Forest Night Tour prides itself on offering responsible animal watching as you join your guide for an unforgettable experience under the cover of nightfall. The park fee is included in the price for this tour.
Other Fun Things to Do in Monteverde
#19 – Discover the Butterflies of Costa Rica
A one-hour guided tour at the local Monteverde Butterfly Gardens gives you unique insight into these beautiful creatures.
Learn about native Costa Rican bugs from passionate guides and see the Rearing Chamber where caterpillars turn into butterflies!
#20 – The Orchid Garden
If you love color and beautiful flowers, then the Monteverde Orchid Garden is a must-see stop. Right in the heart of Santa Elena, these gardens feature over 450 different species of orchids, with promises of 120 blooming every day.
To be fair, orchids are found growing all over the place in the Monteverde area, but at the Orchid Garden, you can see them all in one convenient place. Bring your camera!
#21 – Monteverde Art House
The Monteverde Art House, nestled in the forest between Monteverde and Santa Elena, offers opportunities for individuals to create art and music, surrounded by a most beautiful setting.
A studio in the forest is accessed by beautiful trails and colorful birds. The Art House offers workshops and classes, concerts and jam sessions, and art for sale by local artists. Stop by today to learn more.
#22 – The Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday morning, starting at 9:00 AM, local farmers bring their produce into Santa Elena to the Farmer’s Market in the gymnasium at the Santa Elena Technical Professional College.
We heard it was amazing but we had trouble finding it. Link to map provided to help you find it so you can get some fresh local produce and products!
Free and Cheap Things to Do in Monteverde
#23 – Watch the Sunrise at San Luis Mirador Viewpoint
Get up early and drive up to the San Luis Valley Mirador to catch the sunrise. Just a few parking spots available, but you will be rewarded with glorious views.
#24 – Catch the Sunset at Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve
Every evening, hundreds of people gather to watch the sunset at the Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve, right on the main road between Santa Elena and Monteverde.
Get there early to find a good seating spot on the ridge. And walk if you are able, because there really isn’t much parking available.
#25 – The Ficus Root Tree Bridge
Also known as Ficus La Raiz, this unique bridge crosses a small stream near Monteverde. It is formed of twisted and interlocked roots from a Ficus Tree. It is not safe to cross, but it’s a great photo Opp. Here’s where to find it.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Monteverde?
The Rainy Season lasts from May to November, followed by the Windy-Misty season from mid-November to January. The Dry Season (when it is the least cloudy) typically occurs from February to April. But with climate change, the rain has been growing more intense and long-lasting than in past years.
We were there mid-January and the weather was mixed. It would be sunny for hours, rain hard for 20 minutes, be sunny for 2 hours, sprinkle for 30 minute and then the sun came out again. Just be prepared and bring your rain gear EVERYWHERE!
How Many Days Should I Spend in Monteverde?
Bill and I were lucky enough to spend 2 full weeks in Monteverde, but we know others don’t have as much time as we do to explore. I would say a minimum of 2-3 days will let you hit the activities that interest you most. And 5-7 days would give you a more relaxed exploration without being Go-Go-Go every day.
Where Should I Stay in Monteverde?
There are literally over 1000 options of places to stay in Monteverde. I did hours and hours of research for you and narrowed it down to the 12 best options of where to stay in Monteverde, sorted by budget-friendly, moderate priced and luxury lodging. You are welcome! 😊
Conclusion: Is Monteverde Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—Monteverde is a must if you’re craving a break from the beach, cooler mountain air, incredible birdwatching, and unforgettable hiking.
Monteverde is truly my favorite spot in Costa Rica. Tucked away in the mountains, it offers stunning scenery, way less people than the more crowded areas, and a slower, more authentic pace of life. From cloud forest hikes to wildlife encounters—you’ll never run out of things to do in Monteverde.
More Info on Costa Rica
Here are some more posts about Costa Rica, including some that I’m still working on. If you’d like to receive emails when I’ve posted new content to the site, please complete the short form above.
- Costa Rica Facts & Travel Tips – For First Timers
- Colorful Birds of Costa Rica – A Photo Album
- Sodas in Costa Rica – An Affordable & Delicious Experience
- How to Make the Most of Your Day at La Paz Waterfall Gardens
- Buy Costa Rica National Park tickets without pulling your hair out
- Everything You Need to Know about Driving in Costa Rica
- Coming Soon: 7 Day Itinerary for Nature Lovers
- Coming Soon: 14 Day Itinerary for Nature Lovers
- Coming Soon: What to Pack for Costa Rica
- Coming Soon: Costa Rica on a Budget
Monteverde / Santa Elena Rainforest Area
- Where to stay in Monteverde / Santa Elena – Luxury to Budget to Unique
- 25 Epic Things to do in Monteverde / Santa Elena
- Where are the Best Places to Find Birds in Monteverde?
- 14 Awesome Cheap and Free Things to Do in Monteverde
Manuel Antonio / Quepos Area
- Manuel Antonio National Park: How to Have an Amazing Day
- Beyond the Park: 25 Great Things to Do in Manuel Antonio
- The 12 Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio & Quepos for Every Budget
- Carara National Park: Macaws, Monkeys & the Crocodile Bridge
- Whale Watching in Costa Rica at Marino Ballena National Park
- 12 Best Free and Cheap Things to Do in Manuel Antonio / Quepos
La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano Area
- 10 Best Places to Stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica
- Don’t Miss These 24 Unique Things to Do in La Fortuna
- Our Costa Rica Cooking Class – Did it Live up to the Hype?
- 10 Best Free and Cheap Things to Do in La Fortuna / Arenal