Monteverde, in the heart of Costa Rica, is a natural gem with a fascinating history that has shaped its identity and unique ecosystem. While records of indigenous peoples in the region are limited, artifacts dating back to around 600 BC have been found, suggesting that Monteverde may have been a crossroads for various pre-Columbian cultures.
In the early 20th century, between 1915 and 1920, the first non-indigenous pioneers arrived in the Monteverde area, mainly families seeking fertile land for agriculture. Over the years, the community grew and developed, surviving thanks to agricultural knowledge, natural medicine, and a strong spirit of cooperation.
In the late 1940s, a group of Quakers from the United States arrived in Monteverde, bringing with them fine cheese production, which boosted the region’s socio-economic development. In the following decades, cooperative initiatives like Coopesanta Elena and the Monteverde Institute were instrumental in strengthening the local economy and promoting environmental conservation.
Monteverde underwent a major transformation in the 1970s with the creation of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, which became a key research and ecotourism center. This marked the beginning of the ecotourism boom in the region, which, over the years, would make Monteverde a globally recognized destination for its biodiversity and natural beauty.
Monteverde’s history is also marked by the birth of several nonprofit organizations dedicated to conservation, such as the Monteverde Conservation League and Bosque Eterno de los Niños, one of the largest private conservation areas in Costa Rica.
Today, Monteverde remains a leader in ecotourism and sustainability, though its economy has faced challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the fragility of its dependence on tourism. Nonetheless, the community continues to be resilient, striving for a more sustainable future and working toward the eventual creation of Monteverde as an independent canton.
At Selvatura Park, we are proud to be part of this story and the preservation of nature. We invite you to explore our attractions, such as the famous hanging bridges and canopy tour, and discover why Monteverde is considered one of the most important ecotourism destinations in the world. Come and be part of our history while enjoying a unique experience surrounded by the beauty of nature! Source of information, Municipality of Monteverde: https://monteverde.go.cr/index.php/mn-conozcanos/mi-distrito/mn-historiacanton.html