There are always new experiences waiting at the cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Rica. I have been to this biological reserve several times, and I’ve never once gotten bored. The beauty of the flora and fauna make any visit here memorable, and it’s even better if you can visit a good adventure park and enjoy activities you’ve never done before.

The first time I came to Monteverde, I wanted to learn about everything I could do here as well as park and lodging options, and while I did find information, it wasn’t thorough enough. Now that I’ve had so many beautiful experiences at this cloud forest, I want to share a list of 5 activities that are not to be missed when you visit this nature reserve.

Things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

In Monteverde there are activities for everyone. If you want to discover beautiful nature and take photos of wildlife, you can visit hummingbird gardens or a herpetarium. Or, if you’re more into extreme, adrenaline-filled activities that take you out of your comfort zone, you can go on zip line or canopy tour circuits, or hanging bridges.

1. Bird Watching: Colours That You Won’t Forget

Monteverde is full of vibrant colours as it is home to more than 400 bird species, which is why several establishments offer bird watching activities. Among the tropical birds here, the wonderful quetzal and the fast flying hummingbird stand out. In some adventure parks, they even provide the basic materials needed for bird watching and you can discover hummingbird gardens. Can you imagine taking photos of more than 400 different bird species?

2. Amphibian and Reptile Watching: Debunking Myths

If you want to learn more about amphibians and reptiles, Monteverde is the best place for it. There’s a rich variety of wildlife in the area, so that while you’re hiking you’ll be impressed by animals that you’ve never seen up close before. You can also take advantage of the deals offered at some establishments, such as the herpetarium at Selvatura Park, where guides teach you about the beauty of frogs, lizards, geckos, snakes, and 30 more native species

3. Tarzan Swing: An Amazing Experience in the Middle of the Jungle

This activity is not to be missed. Since 1918, Tarzan has delighted audiences on the big screen, jumping from tree to tree, swinging on vines and hollering in the middle of the jungle. In Monteverde, you can have that fantastic experience in a beautiful cloud forest on a Tarzan Swing, which is offered by almost every adventure park in the area. This swing mimics the way Tarzan swings on vines.

4. Hanging Bridges: Overcome your Fears

Here, you can hike 60 metres above the ground while enjoying the weather at the cloud forest Monteverde and watching birds and other wildlife, all with the excitement of overcoming your fears on the very safe hanging bridges. If you visit the biological reserve, this experience is not to be missed. It’s the perfect complement to zip line or canopy tours.

5. Zip Line or Canopy Tours: Have You Ever Wanted to Fly Like Superman?

This is the queen of all adventure activities in Monteverde. You can see the forest while safely gliding between two trees on a cable that’s hundreds of metres long. Zip line or canopy tour options have increased at the cloud forest, due to the popular demand of national and international tourits.

The Superman zip line option, where you cross the cables as if you’re flying, is available at most adventure parks. As long as you don’t have any physical conditions that would prohibit you from doing it, don’t miss this unforgettable experience. You’ll love it so much you’ll want to do it again and again. If you’re interested, let me tell you about the best zip lines in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

When you arrive to Monteverde you’ll see that it’s a great place to visit, especially if you love nature, ecotourism, adventures, or extreme excitement. There are several adventure park options at this biological reserve. I recommend one of the most renowned parks nationally and internationally:

All the adventure of Monteverde in one place

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Everyone should visit Monteverde, the cloud forest in Costa Rica where you can deeply connect with nature. In fact, CNN recently named Monteverde as one of the 25 most beautiful places in the world, along with Ciudad Perdida in Colombia, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, and other wonders.

I love nature and I partake in ecotourism, so I’ve visited several adventure parks. I know that most people visit Monteverde in search of activities like zip line or canopy tours, which is why I wanted to put together a little guide about that in this blog. Based on my experience I can recommend 3 options, including the best zip line tour in Costa Rica.

The Best Canopy or Zip Line Tour Options in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Canopy or zip line tours are very exciting, especially when you go to suitable places with great service. Essentially, zip lining involves gliding across one or more cables connected between trees, while observing natural riches from above, and feeling butterflies in your stomach from the speed and height.

Here below, I’ll tell you about 3 adventure parks in Monteverde that offer this activity.

3. 100% Adventure: Affordable Prices and a Mega-Tarzan Swing

Just being in Monteverde is a beautiful experience, so whichever park you go to, you’ll have a good time. The zip line or canopy circuit at 100% Adventure offers good service.

Nine canopy zip lines are crossed, in which 1 kilometer of those can be made in Superman position. One great attraction at 100% Adventure is the Mega-Tarzan Swing, which has become popular in adventure parks, but the one found here is slightly larger. There’s also a very good price-quality ratio here, as they have the most affordable deals. For all these reasons, 100% Adventure ranks third in my recommendations.

2. Sky Trek Monteverde: Low Impact Gondola Rides

This is one of the most famous adventure parks in Monteverde. Sky Trek Monteverde offers a good experience, especially for those who would like to go on a short gondola ride before doing the zip line or canopy circuit, which isn’t offered at other parks.

If you decide to visit this park, you will cross 8 cables and you won’t need to walk much throughout the tour. Their safety measures are impeccable, and the staff is very helpful. This park isn’t my first recommendation, because their prices are a bit higher. While they do have a gondola, they don’t offer a Tarzan Swing, which is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

1. Selvatura Park: The Highest and Longest Zip Line in Monteverde

At Selvatura Park, you can have a complete experience. As their slogan says, “all of the adventure in Monteverde can be found here”. The zip line or canopy tour circuit includes 13 cables, some of which are 180 metres high. The canopy tour can also be possible to do it in Tarzan Swing, and go across one of the zip lines in superman position.

The last cable, which you cross with another person, is more than a kilometre long and it’s really wonderful because you’re so high above the valley,” wrote a visitor on his blog, Lagarto Rojo.

Although I had enjoyed other zip line tours, none of them were as exciting as this one, especially because of how long the tour lasted, and the incredible views at that height. They also offered the best service.

In terms of quality-price ratio, Selvatura Park comes out ahead. For a lower price than the one offered by the previously mentioned park, you can enjoy the entire zip line or canopy circuit, plus a non-guided hike across the hanging bridges. I decided to pay a little bit more for the guide service, which was a great way to keep learning about Monteverde. I took some stunning selfies on those bridges, which were possibly the highest in the entire nature reserve.

The best part of this establishment is that they offer a variety of options to complement the zip line experience. There’s a herpetarium, hummingbird and butterfly gardens, and guided tours across the hanging bridges.

If you’d like to learn more about Selvatura Park, please read the following article:

Adventure in Monteverde lives here

When it comes to ecotourism in Costa Rica Monteverde is by far the best destination, with hundreds of national and international tourists visiting each year. This rainforest offers visitors the joys of nature, including lush vegetation that is home to many wildlife species, in an impressive jungle atmosphere in the North West region of this Central American country.

Do you want to experience adventure in Monteverde, Costa Rica?

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is home to several parks that offer adventure packages for truly unforgettable experiences.

One option that stands out is Selvatura Park, a company dedicated to creating the best adventure experiences in nature. They offer activities such as canopy or zip line tours and a Tarzan Swing; hanging bridges, as well as butterfly and hummingbird gardens, a herpetarium, and countless other attractions.

Selvatura Park: Adventure in Monteverde lives here

Located in Monteverde, 139 km from the Juan Santamaria International Airport and only a few kilometers from the Santa Elena cloud forest reserve, there the majority of the hotels offer free transportation to the park from any hotel in the area. It consists of 350 hectares of protected land, and it’s one of Costa Rica’s main adventure parks.

Unlike other parks, Selvatura Park offers adventure activities that are suitable for the whole family. There’s also a restaurant, and lodging options both in and outside of the forest, so that visitors can enjoy complete, comfortable experiences. This has become one of the most popular online offers because of its great value.

“There’s certainly a lot to do in Costa Rica, but visiting Selvatura Park in Monteverde is a really great experience for kids and adults,” commented a visitor from Mexico City on TripAdvisor.

The best canopy or zip line experience in Monteverde

Each canopy tour or zip line circuit at Selvatura Park lasts for 3 exciting hours. It spans across more than 4 kilometres, connected by 13 cables that get longer throughout the tour.

You will have the option to try the Tarzan Swing, which mimics the way Tarzan swings on vines. You can also the possibility of doing canopy by crossing a 1 kilometer cable in Superman’s position, to truly experience the sensation of flying.

The last cable, which you cross with another person, is more than a kilometre long and it’s really wonderful because you’re so high above the valley, as you can see in our video,” wrote one visitor in their blog, Lagarto Rojo.

Here below, we’ll share one of the videos that this visitor filmed during his adventure:

For this tour, all you need are comfortable shoes. Selvatura Park provides all the necessary equipment, so that you can have a safe and unforgettable experience.

With unbeatable guides and safety standards, I highly recommend this. The way they treated the kids was excellent and very kind, the Tarzan Swing is a bonus,” said one visitor on TripAdvisor.

With Selvatura Park’s Gold Pack,
you will enjoy unforgettable canopy tours or zip lines,
and hanging bridges

I want to know more

The safest hanging bridges in Monteverde

The hike across the hanging bridges at Selvatura Park consists of a 3 kilometre long trail that crosses the cloud forest canopy, which allows you to see nature from a unique point of view. On this tour, you can cross 8 hanging bridges that are between 70 and 150 metres long, and between 12 and 180 metres high.

Each bridge is 1.5 metres wide and can hold up to 80 people, which makes them the most solid, comfortable, and safest hanging bridges in Costa Rica. The whole hike takes about an hour and a half. To enjoy the hike to the fullest you can take a guided tour, and learn about Monteverde’s culture and natural history.

The canopy is spectacular, and the guides are wonderful and very attentive, especially with children. It’s 100% safe. We also crossed the bridges and saw the hummingbirds that pose in your hand. I definitely recommend it. They pick you up and drop you off at your hotel,” wrote a visitor from Spain on TripAdvisor.

Selvatura Park: All the beauty of Monteverde in one place

Butterfly garden

Beyond the incredible experiences with hanging bridges, canopy tours, and zip lines, at Selvatura Park you can also visit the butterfly kingdom that has a controlled temperature set at 28°C. You’ll feel butterflies in your stomach as you learn about this community of more than 30 types of tropical Costa Rican butterflies.

The staff at Selvatura Park will teach you about the life cycles of these beautiful insects, as well as their special abilities and the behaviours that have helped them evolve. You will also have the option of taking a guided tour through one of the world’s largest living butterfly exhibits, that spans across more than 2,700 square metres.

The Herpetarium: Impressive amphibians and reptiles

At the Selvatura Park herpetarium you can see the most beautiful Costa Rican species of lizards, snakes and frogs. They’re cared for under the best conditions in climate-controlled terrariums that mimic each species’ natural habitat.

You will also learn about Costa Rican herpetology and debunk myths about poisonous snakes, while observing this type of Costa Rican wildlife alongside guides who are amphibian and reptile specialists.

We chose the package that included the hanging bridges, the hummingbird garden, the reptiles and amphibians, and the zip line. It was all really interesting, we learned a lot from our reptile and amphibian guide, and the views are great from the impressive hanging bridges,” wrote another visitor.

The best lodging options in Monteverde are here

Lastly, to complete your experience, Selvatura Park has three of the best hotels in Monteverde:

At Selvatura Park, you can experience the best activities in Monteverde. You just need to choose your adventure pack and it can be purchased online. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we suggest the Gold Pack to experience the canopy or zip line tour, and all of Selvatura Park’s bridges.

Selvatura Park, where adventure and safety protocols are priorities.

Monteverde, in beautiful Costa Rica is a center for many outdoor activities. Not only is it home to the mystical cloud forest and all the treasures it holds, but it is also where close-to-nature adventures are thrilling! Selvatura Adventure Park Monteverde takes your love for nature to a new level. Your day of adventure full of a diversity of activities at Selvatura Park, also has all the safety and hygiene protocols in place so you can focus on the experience and the excitement of your day in nature. Selvatura Park is where adventure and safety protocols are priorities!

Selvatura Park in amazing Monteverde was designed to offer visitors a true connection with nature and the opportunity to experience its wonders from different and exciting perspectives. From below, from above or in the middle, the cloud forest is vibrant, mystical, magical and there is always a way to enjoy it for people of all ages, thrill seekers and the lovers of diversity in flora and fauna.

As the world begins to open its wings after a period of hibernation, travelers’ retake to the skies of adventure and experiences with renewed expectations and safety protocols. This is how travel is done nowadays and Selvatura Park Monteverde has updated its bio-safety practices accordingly.

What hasn’t changed is the fun guests continue to have as they explore the cloud forest and the amazing wildlife that can be spotted and enjoyed.

Selvatura Adventure Park sits on 850 acres of protected cloud forest that is the backdrop to a day of close to nature adventure. While most of the day is outdoors exploring the forest whether it be flying along a zipline or walking through the forest canopy on amazing hanging bridge system, you may also enjoy an array of open space activities such as observing the sloths, butterflies, or hummingbirds. All these open air activities are part of the efforts to promote natural safety protocols that are already in place.

Welcome to Selvatura Park!

From the moment you step into Selvatura Adventure Park, your safety is our priority. It always has been, but we have added some processes to the adventure so that you feel just as safe with the hygiene and sanitary protocols as you do with the ziplining and superman safety harness and helmet.

With further accesses to the reception area, signage for physical distancing, and the incorporation of additional technology, and of course, increased disinfections of the area, your check-in to a day of fun is in accordance with the Ministry of Health’s latest indications. The decision to ponder is which package to choose from for your day at Selvatura Park. There are 8 packages which means that you decide the level of adrenaline you want to experience, which gardens you would like to explore and if you would like to enjoy a delicious lunch in between activities.

The Thrill of the Canopy!

For those thrill seekers wanting to see the cloud forest from its canopy perspective while flying through the skies, ziplining is an absolute favorite! Safety has always been a top priority due to the nature of the activity but some supplementary protocols in the way of hygiene are part of the fun now too.

All zipline guides will use their personal protection equipment and group numbers have been reduced to ensure physical distancing. The ziplining equipment is also disinfected regularly and with the Ministry of Health’s recommended products.

With your feet on the forest floor!

Selvatura Adventure Park boasts a series of trails through the amazing cloud forest which visitors can wander through at their own pace and within their social bubble. They include the incredible treetop suspension bridges that take you through the cloud forest canopy guaranteeing spectacular views of the forest and beyond. These are engineering works of art and not only are the longest bridge system in Costa Rica, but they are also the safest and the strongest!

The nearly 2 miles of trails and 8 bridges throughout the park means that there is lots of space to walk and feel the sense of freedom and openness that the cloud forest exhales. The only sense of closeness is to nature, which is not only an experience, but it also gives peace of mind in these exceptional times.

Time for lunch!

After a morning immersed in nature, inhaling the fresh mountain air and after the adrenaline rush is over, it is inevitable to work up an appetite. It is time for a delicious, hearty lunch!

The Garden Restaurant is another favorite place for guests at Selvatura Adventure Park with its extensive menu of Costa Rican inspired dishes that are full of fresh, flavorful ingredients perfect for the cloud forest and the mountains.

From colorful salads with tropical accents to Costa Rica’s favorite traditional dish, El Casado with its rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and your preferred protein, our menu will satisfy everyone’s eager appetites.

Enjoy your meals in the company of your social bubbles with the recommended 2-meter distance between tables and with our digital mobile menu accessed by a QR to choose your meal. That may be the difficult decision as there are so many delicious options!

In accordance with the Ministry of Health’s protocols, Selvatura Park decided to expand the terrace area to offer additional open-air spaces for diners too. When not sitting at your table, it is required that you use your face mask too just as the waiters and kitchen staff do.

Selvatura Adventure Park is a place of adventure and a day of fun-filled activities surrounded by nature and its beauty. With the additional safety and hygiene protocols, visitors can focus on spotting wildlife and creating memories in the cloud forest above, below and within. Come and see for yourself!.

At Selvatura Park, you can experience the best activities in Monteverde. You just need to choose your adventure pack and it can be purchased online. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we suggest the Gold Pack to experience the canopy or zip line tour, and all of Selvatura Park’s bridges.

Selvatura Park: Amazing things to do in Monteverde

Monteverde is one of those special places in Costa Rica for many reasons. Nestled up in the highlands of the Continental Divide, it not only is exceptionally beautiful where you take a deep breath and watch the beauty of nature unfold before your eyes, but it also is full of possibilities. There is a long list of amazing things to do in Monteverde, whether it is to pause and experience the wonder of nature as you explore the cloud forest or if you are looking for some wholesome adrenaline-rush activities.

Vacations in Monteverde is where nature, adventure, and new experiences are wrapped up into a little mountaintop sanctuary! Monteverde is a place for nature lovers without a doubt and a visit is an experience unlike any other. A hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve will show you one perspective of this verdant gem, while walking over the suspension bridges at Selvatura Adventure Park, will show you what the forest looks like from above. The possibilities are endless!

For the love of birds

Monteverde is a very special place for bird watchers too and is home to over 500 species. The thrill of spotting them, brings such excitement and leaves you in awe especially when you can see the resplendent Quetzal or the Black, Yellow Silky Flycatcher or the largest hummingbird in Costa Rica called the Violet Sabrewing. It is of no surprise that Monteverde is one of the best places for birdwatching in Costa Rica….and the world!

Much of Monteverde´s success as a best place for birdwatching is that it is home to over 140,000 acres of mostly privately owned reserves and parks. Selvatura Adventure Park is one of these and sits on 850 acres of protected forest. Its neighbor is the largest private protected forest in the country called the Children´s Eternal Forest. This network of reserves and parks is a safe haven for endemic and migratory birds that become a bird watchers paradise when they vacation in Monteverde.

Hiking Boots on the forest floor!

Monteverde is also a favorite vacation destination for the opportunity to pause and experience the wonder of nature, one unhurried moment at a time as you explore the number of reserves and the hiking trails they contain. Immerse yourself into the dense cloud forest for a truly sensorial experience. This is for the nature-lover that likes to feel their hiking boots safely on the forest floor and enjoy the views of the diverse tropical forest and its misty surrounds at ground level. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a unique opportunity to re-connect with nature and visit one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world.

Offering a number of trails, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve can be visited multiple times, and each experience will be a new one thanks to the richness of its biodiversity, the everchanging energy of Mother Nature, the clouds that will engulf , before sliding away magically and the colors and aromas of the cloud forest that bring new life and seasons. A must-do is to visit the Cloud Forest Reserves in Monteverde.

And for the adventurous at heart!

For those searching for different ways of experiencing the cloud forest, welcome to Selvatura Adventure Park. This is what we call in Monteverde where a choice of packages means you do the activities you prefer with the adrenaline-level you would want to reach.

The ultimate sky adventure in Monteverde is of course ziplining. What better way to see the cloud forest from above than flying through its canopy and treetops offering birds-eyes views of the forest below and the spectacular scenery beyond. Monteverde is the birthplace of ziplining so put on your harness and connect to the line. It is an adrenaline rush that you will want to continue beyond the 13 cables. Extra points if you do the last cable in the superman position!

Selvatura´s ziplining experience is the only canopy tour in Monteverde and Costa Rica that is fully immersed in the cloud forest too. This activity not only is exhilarating but you will see the cloud rainforest from a unique perspective. Oh…and let´s not forget that this zipline also offers you the opportunity to try out the Tarzan Swing to really feel the thrill of nature. This is for the adventurous of spirit and will be the highpoint of your vacation in Monteverde.

Selvatura Adventure Park is also home to it´s famous Treetop Suspension Bridges and Walkways. This 1.9-mile-long walk through the cloud forest includes 8 suspended bridges that offer breathtaking views of the cloud forest, Monteverde and further afar. Remember that Monteverde is over 4500 feet above sea level with views of the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean. Your Treetop Suspension Bridge walk is also a prize opportunity to do some serious wildlife and bird watching making this experience all the more exciting.

To see some more wildlife up close don´t forget to pass by the Sloth Sanctuary, the Reptile and Amphibian Exhibition and of course the Butterfly Garden. This is an adventure park that visitors of all ages will enjoy so come with the family and enjoy the epitome of Costa Rica and Monteverde.

Another adventure park that offers the thrills of a close-to-nature experience is Sky Adventure Monteverde. While offering a zipline tour and hanging bridges, this adventure in the sky has a shorter circuit than Selvatura for both attractions and without the final bang of the Tarzan swing either! And when you are looking for adventure, more is definitely better!

Monteverde is a small area sitting on a mountaintop, but it is also story of a community and it´s profound respect for nature and a love story of how it has been safeguarded for present and future generations.

It is a paradise for birdwatchers, a sanctuary for keen hikers and a hot spot for adrenaline-rush seekers. Wander the reserves like the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and inhale its magic and watch its endemic wildlife to draw inspiration and wonder. Soar through the sky on an unforgettable adventure at Selvatura Adventure Park, a world of natural wonders. This is about a uniquely immersive into nature.

Selvatura Nature Park and its sister properties, Hotel Ficus Sunset Lodge, Jaguarundi Lodge and Hotel Heliconia look forward to your visit! Your adventure planning begins at the website so come visit us, pick your package and book online to create an unforgettable vacation in Monteverde.

Traveling the world can be amazing but where do you go for a romantic getaway? Not everywhere checks those romantic boxes when couples want to celebrate their honeymoon, a special milestone or occasion, or just because. When you add to the romantic getaway an element of adventure in nature, Monteverde Costa Rica is a perfect choice. Let´s say that Monteverde is an adventurous romance on cloud nine!

Nestled up in the mountains of Costa Rica, Monteverde is the most beautiful backdrop for a romantic vacation where nature, citrus orange sunsets, chalet-inspired hotels, adventure, and serenity all merge into one small destination that is big on amazing. This unique destination will take the adventure in romance to a new level as you achieve those couple goals in nature.

Love and romance is full of emotions, ups and downs, highs, and lows with lots of middle ground. It requires support, enthusiasm, spontaneity, leaving your comfort zone, and lots of laughter created from unforgettable moments, fun, and facing the unknown. A romantic getaway to Monteverde offers you all those emotions as you zip through a rainforest canopy, as you hike through the cloud forest in awe of its magic, as you sit and inhale the picture-perfect sunsets, and as you wine and dine on fantastic food.
After your arrival at Monteverde and settling into your romantic getaway like Ficus Sunset Suites, don´t miss the amazing views of the Gulf of Nicoya in the far distance and the afternoon spectacle as the sun goes down with its symphony of colors. This is the perfect welcome to your romantic getaway in Monteverde.

Romance is in the Air
Ziplining is just one of those adventure in nature activities that is so much fun and a must to do during your romantic getaway in Monteverde. Monteverde is the birthplace of canopy or ziplining and Selvatura Adventure Park gives its fearless adventurers the unique opportunity to fly entirely within the cloud forest, Monteverde´s most important and precious natural attraction.
Romantic travel is about living new experiences and reaching new couple goals too. What better way to inject some real thrill into your relationship than tossing on a harness, connecting to a cable, and then gliding through the forest to where your beloved is awaiting you at the other end. On the first cable, you both were novices, by the 13th you both will be experts! Try the Tarzan swing at the end of the zipline for the perfect romance in the air adventure experience.

Love is a bridge
Love and bridges are great emotional and physical connectors. In Monteverde, our favorite bridges are in the form of treetop walkway suspension bridges, and they will take your love to new places! At Selvatura Adventure Park, these state-of-the-art engineering masterpieces are a network of bridges that will take you over and through the park´s nature reserve that protects the cloud forest in all its splendor as part of a nearly 2-mile walk through this misty jungle.
Unlike its ziplining cousin, this is a walk through the forest and over the 8 bridges of varying lengths that can be done hand in hand and at the pace you decide. Take your time and enjoy the diversity of flora and fauna that can be observed and admired as you stroll along the well-maintained paths and trails.

Romance is a walk in the park
Monteverde is home to a number of nature reserves and protected areas that ensure the continued safety and wellbeing of the cloud forest and its wildlife dwellers. After a day of romantic adventure in the clouds, take a romantic walk in the park at one of the reserves including the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.
This magical hike will take you deep into the cloud forest where you will truly sense its profound beauty and perfection. Moisture-laden clouds dance within the dense vegetation to create a mystical forest brimming with life and natural treasures. This walk is an invitation for a moment of peace and to embrace this sensorial experience as a couple. This is a romantic walk in the park with the Monteverde twist to it.

For the love of food!
Monteverde not only is for lovers of nature, during your romantic getaway to Monteverde, it is also the perfect opportunity to dine out on wonderful food at the many restaurants in Monteverde. A romantic dinner to reminisce about the day´s adventures and couple goals is the perfect finish to a day full of love in nature.

Ficus Sunset Suites has an amazing restaurant with some of the best-uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean and the quaint town of Santa Elena if you decide to stay in after a day of adventure exploring the forest canopy or its floor. It is also not far from a number of world-class restaurants including the Tree House Restaurant and the Hotel Belmar´s Celajes Restaurant if you still have some stored energy to venture out in the Monteverde night.
Monteverde is a land of cloud nine for a romantic getaway where close-to-nature adventure and the magic of the cloud forest are the perfect backdrops for an unforgettable romantic vacation. This is the destination that will create love stories you will share for many years to come and is unlike no other.

Check out the Love is in the Air and Love is a Bridge possibility on the Selvatura Adventure Park Monteverde site and choose the package that best suits your romantic expectations in nature.

Selvatura Nature Park and its sister properties, Hotel Ficus Sunset Lodge, Jaguarundi Lodge and Hotel Heliconia look forward to your visit! Your adventure planning begins at the website so come visit us, pick your package and book online to create an unforgettable vacation in Monteverde.

Why Costa Rica is the best birdwatching hotspot!

Did you know that Costa Rica is considered a top ecotourism destination and is one of the top 3 favorites in Latin America for birdwatchers?
Welcome to Costa Rica, one of the best places in the world for birdwatchers and bird enthusiasts! This small country is a birding hotspot where a myriad of endemic and migratory birds can be observed and enjoyed up close or afar. Let´s explore this bird-loving region and understand why Costa Rica is the best birdwatching hotspot.

Costa Rica also offers ideal conditions for birdwatching tourism. This includes naturalist and ornithology specialized guides that love to take fellow bird lovers to the best spots in Costa Rica for tours. Selvatura Adventure Park in Monteverde has a group of professional in-house naturalist guides that will show you the very best of the cloud forest with their eagle-eye bird spotting capacities!

Why Costa Rica for birdwatching.

Costa Rica has been on the world map as a top birdwatching destination for many years and there are very good reasons for this hotspot ranking. Over 900 species of birds have been registered in this small little country that sits in the middle of North and South America.
So, not only are there lots of birds to spot, but they are also flying around a small area of land which heightens chances that you will see many of these hundreds of feathered friends during your travels around Costa Rica.
There are some birdwatching hotspots that are conveniently located close to the two international airports too, including Monteverde that sits basically between the two. This means you won´t have to travel far to enter this mountain-top world of forests, clouds, adventure, and birds galore, whether your fly into San Jose International Airport or the Guanacaste International Airport.

Why are there so many bird species in Costa Rica

One of the reasons that Costa Rica is so beautiful is that it has embraced diversity in a very big way. It begins with its privileged location in the world and that it has mountains, lowlands, wetlands, volcanoes, beaches, rainforests, cloud forests, mangroves, rivers, and so many more beautiful landscapes. This means that many bird species have found their home in the endless types of forests, altitudes, coasts, and other hideaways.
It also is the perfect itinerary stop-over for birds as they move north and south along their yearly migratory routes. These are the true jet setters of the world and Costa Rica is their temporary nest on their long seasonal journey to the warmth and diversity of Costa Rica.

Where are the top birdwatching places in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has birdwatching epicenters all over the country so during your visit and depending on your love for birds, you can stop at a number as you discover the wonders of this top birdwatching destination. For bird lovers, you can never see enough of them, and Costa Rica guarantees endless opportunities to enjoy all stages of your favorite activity.

From the search through the forest, the mountainside, the wetlands, or the cloud forest, to identifying their song amongst the symphony of sounds of nature, and the joy of spotting and observing a known or a new species is all part of the adventure.
High Altitude Birdwatching hotspots include: Monteverde Cloud Forest, Santa Maria de Dota, and the Central Valley.

Low Altitude Birdwatching hotspots include Carara National Park, La Selva Biological Station, Osa Peninsula, and Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge.

Which is our favorite?

While Costa Rica is beautiful everywhere you go, from the palm tree-lined beaches for relaxing to the active volcanoes with adventure-laden slopes, there is always a favorite. Our preferred destination for bird watching, to experience a sense of mystic and magical beauty immersed in nature, great hotels, delicious restaurants, and the thrill of adventure is Monteverde!

This unique destination sits on the top of the continental divide and literally and appropriately means “Green Mountain”. It is home to the magic of the cloud forest that is protected in a network of nature reserves including the Selvatura Adventure Park where you can experience the cloud forest from the thrill of a zipline through the cloud forest canopy or on the treetop suspension bridges with bird’s eye views of the forest and its dwellers.
The Monteverde cloud forest is the perfect backdrop for birding tours or just the pleasure of watching birds and hearing their song from the comfort of your hotel nestled into the mountain slopes like the Ficus Sunset Suites, Hotel Heliconia, or the Jaguarundi Lodge or as you explore the cloud forest on foot or from above.

With over 400 bird species, 160 species of amphibians and reptiles and 100 species of mammals, Monteverde´s unique ecosystem compares to no other. It also is a favorite for bird species like the resplendent quetzal, the three-wattled bellbird, the bare-necked wood quail, and the azure-hooded jay just to name a few.

Bring your hiking boots, binoculars, camera, and your sense of adventure when you visit Monteverde. Selvatura Adventure Park will show you how to enjoy the cloud forest from a whole new perspective when you explore the nature reserve.

Selvatura Nature Park and its sister properties, Hotel Ficus Sunset Lodge, Jaguarundi Lodge and Hotel Heliconia look forward to your visit! Your adventure planning begins at the website so come visit us, pick your package and book online to create an unforgettable vacation in Monteverde.

Monteverde Cloud Forest; the essence of the destination.

Did you know that Monteverde in Costa Rica boasts 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity? Throw in thrilling eco-adventure, spectacular views, some great places to stay at, and this is fun! On the other side, this amazing little mountain top is a place that has kept its treasured essence and defeated progress in a really great way. One of its landmark treasures is the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the true representation of the essence of the destination.

Nestled up in the Costa Rican highlands that overlook the impressive Gulf of Nicoya, on the Pacific Coast, you will find a verdant gem in the form of a quaint, alternative living town called Monteverde. This small, picturesque mountain top village is home to a number of beautiful nature reserves and protected areas.

A community affair.
Monteverde is one of Costa Rica’s little treasures and it never ceases to amaze with its diverse wildlife, gorgeous eco-boutique hotels, and great eateries to entertain you while you are here. Sustainable tourism is the foundation of the town’s philosophy, and this is a community effort that comes from the heart. In other words, it is a community affair.

While small in size, Monteverde is big on hiking, adventure parks, cloud forests, all connected by a profound love for nature and how we can live in harmony with the environment while preserving it. This is where Monteverde Cloud Forest comes to play a key role in finding a balance between them. No easy feat but Monteverde has seemed to find the way with peace and respect.

Monteverde has also found innovative ways to show its visitors the cloud forest from its different perspectives and degrees of adventure. Monteverde Cloud Forest can be done by moving with your hiking boots firmly on the forest floor, or Selvatura Adventure Park shows you the cloud forest helping you fly through its canopy on a zipline or walking over a network of state-of-the-art suspension bridges during your walk. You decide on your adrenaline-rush level, but both will guarantee you an unforgettable experience in nature.

So, why is the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica so important?

The Cloud Forest is all about what its name already implies and what makes it so very special and unique. Mist and low-lying clouds will drape the forest canopy giving the magical impression that the sky is basically reaching down into the forest making you walk through the clouds. This is just one reason that the Monteverde Cloud Forest is a must to experience during your visit, and especially as you walk over a suspension bridge!

And then, those low-lying clouds that dance between the trees and that are filled with moisture undergo condensation creating vital waterdrops that eventually reach the bio-rich, forest floor. This process becomes easier thanks to those clouds not letting a lot of sunlight through, so evaporation is minimal. This means, the Cloud Forest of Monteverde, is extraordinarily lush and permits many plants to thrive. It is visually captivating.

Just as the plants and trees flourish, so do the animals that call the Cloud Forest of Monteverde home on a permanent or temporary basis. So, be prepared to enjoy wildlife and bird spotting galore during your exploration of the Cloud Forest. This is one of many things to do in Monteverde. Keep your binoculars or eagle-eyes ready to see the Resplendent Quetzal, the Three Wattled Bellbird, Spider Monkeys, and frogs to name just a few.

Where can I see the Cloud Forest of Monteverde?
Well, that is an easy question to answer. In lots of places! What makes Monteverde all the more special is the number of nature reserves, which means much of the Cloud Forest is protected with parts open to eager visitors wishing to experience this mystical world of orchids, bromeliads, ferns, trees, and much more.

One of the outstanding features of Monteverde is the community involvement in the conservation efforts to preserve the Cloud Forest and its inhabitants. Making up just 1% of the total of the world’s forests, the Cloud Forest is particularly vulnerable to climate change, so education, research, and sustainable tourism are critical to the Cloud Forest of Monteverde’s survival. A visit to one of the private and community-managed reserves will help in the fight for its well-being.

For the “hiking boots” firmly on the Cloud Forest floor, choose from the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Santa Elena Reserve, and the Children’s Eternal Rainforest, the latter being Costa Rica´s largest private reserve. These reserves have research stations and boast a series of trails with numerous animal and bird spotting opportunities. Explore the beauty of this forest that is teeming with colors, textures, aromas, and sights making it a uniquely sensorial experience.

And for the thrill-seekers?
For the more adventure-spirited, cloud forest lovers, Monteverde has the Selvatura Adventure Park to quench your thirst for experiencing the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica. With a number of fun and thrill-filled activities, enjoy a day in the Cloud Forest in the most exciting of ways.

Selvatura Adventure Park sits within a private reserve and is the only place in Monteverde that offers a zip lining tour that runs entirely inside the Monteverde cloud forest. This is not only exhilarating with fantastic views of the forest and beyond, but also a unique way of experiencing the Monteverde cloud forest.

After flying through the clouds, try walking on them over the network of treetop hanging bridges that connect the 1.9-mile trail through the Monteverde cloud forest. Take your time to stroll through the cloud forest while taking and absorbing the beauty of the flora and fauna that live in the sanctuary of the reserve.

To truly take advantage of the nature walk, the Park features on-site expert naturalist guides that can be hired for an upgraded Monteverde cloud forest experience. They love to share their knowledge and love of the cloud forest too so here is to the love of learning while in nature.

The ways to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica are diverse but a visit to this mountaintop gem is a must during your stay in Costa Rica. Let Selvatura Adventure Park and its sister properties Hotel Ficus Sunset Suites, Hotel Heliconia, and Jaguarundi Lodge show you the best way to stay at and to experience Monteverde and the cloud forest that has made it such a special place to visit.

Visit the Selvatura Adventure Park’s website to reserve and let the adventure begin!

Selvatura Nature Park and its sister properties, Hotel Ficus Sunset Lodge, Jaguarundi Lodge and Hotel Heliconia look forward to your visit! Your adventure planning begins at the website so come visit us, pick your package and book online to create an unforgettable vacation in Monteverde.

Looking for a family-friendly destination for your upcoming vacations? Finding a place to visit that suits all ages is not always an easy task, especially with young kids and not-so-young ones. So, welcome to Costa Rica, which combines nature, comfort, and lots of fun-filled days for everyone in the family. One very special place and a favorite for families is Monteverde. Let’s check out the top 5 Activities recommended for kids in Monteverde! Let the family fun begin!

Monteverde is one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after destinations for a number of reasons. Located up in the mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Monteverde is a haven for nature and adventure lovers, with the convenience of great hotels and dining options close by. This means, once you have reached this piece of heaven on the mountaintop, car time is limited, making eager and energetic family members all the happier!

1. Canopy Tour at Selvatura

Monteverde is an adventurer’s dream destination and home to some of the most exciting zipline tours including the zipline tour at Selvatura Adventure Park. This zipline is the only one that actually is within the cloud forest in Monteverde so not only is it loads of fun for everyone, but it also gives thrill-seekers a unique perspective of the cloud forest.

This flying-through-the-canopy tour has 13 cables, 15 platforms dotted through the forest, one Tarzan Swing, and it is an absolute favorite for daredevils of all ages. With the best quality, Petzl harnesses and other climbing gear, your ride through the forest is both safe and venturesome. This is a family-goals activity that will most probably be the highlight of your family vacation to Monteverde.

While whizzing through the air may raise some safety concerns for parents, zip lining is absolutely safe so let your kids fly freely as they will always be in the company of our guides who are safety experts. With our 100% accident-free record with children, your 12 years and under child will enjoy the adrenaline-rush with a guide in tandem. Before you know it, your child will be hooked on the cable with the guide and disappear into the clouds and the excitement and sense of achievement will be incomparable.

2. Treetop Suspension Bridges at Selvatura

For those that would prefer to have their hiking boots firmly on the forest floor, Selvatura Adventure Park also offers a fantastic walk through the cloud forest canopy that is highlighted with a network of treetop suspension bridges. What an exciting way to explore this beautiful forest with the opportunity to experience it from above and at the canopy level, where many animals of the cloud forest inhabit.

The trail is nearly 2 miles long and it will take you through the cloud forest’s floor and then out into the sky and the top of the forest when crossing one of the 8 suspension bridges along the walk. Not only are the bridges fun to walk across, but they also have fantastic views of the cloud forest, Monteverde, and beyond making the experience all the more beautiful. You will see lots of birds during your walk as well!

3. Cloud Forest Walk

The Monteverde region is both a thriving rural and ecotourism-based community and a conglomeration of protected nature reserves that make up the cloud forest. This admirable community has made considerable efforts for decades to preserve this invaluable ecosystem that is home to an incredible variety of birds, insects, mammals, and reptiles.

The nature walk through the cloud forest is a low-impact activity for all the family, including the kids, especially when there is so much to see and enjoy. Choose from a number of walks during your stay in Monteverde as each one offers a different cloud forest walking experience.

As mentioned, if there is one thing that Monteverde can boast about is its wide variety of walks and hikes through the cloud forest. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, the Eternal Children’s Rainforest, Curi Cancha Reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve are some of the better-known private reserves found in Monteverde. Each one has a number of trails that vary according to your mobility, adventure disposition, and resistance. This means that there is a trail that best suits your family’s makeup, interests, and hiking level.

A walk through the cloud forest is quite a mystical experience and the kids will love walking through the clouds and seeing the mist dancing between the trees. This fairytale-evoking walk is also very exhilarating, as the reserves are home to a wide diversity of wildlife that always proves to be an exciting way to keep the kids alert, engaged, and enthralled with nature.

4. Night tour of the Cloud Forest

Did you know that about 60% of the cloud and rainforest animals are nocturnal? So, why not treat yourselves and the kids to a night tour through the forest to spot frogs, sleeping birds, reptiles, and mammals as they come from their daytime resting and hiding places to search for their final dinner snack. This is a true favorite for kids and an amazing way to finish off a day of adventure.

This exciting twist on a walk through the cloud forest also gives all the family a new perspective on the sights and sounds of the forest. The symphony of frogs and insects is amazing, and your senses will be enhanced as the torch spots some red frog-eyes or an insect blending into the tree trunk. In the company of expert guides and their magic-like capacity to find animals in the dark, this is a tour that will delight everyone in the family. It could well be a favorite after ziplining.

5. Meet the animals!

Costa Rica is a country of animals and wildlife. In every corner of this beautiful corner of the world, you will spot animals galore. One of the most bio-rich places in Costa Rica is Monteverde, which is also focused on the conservation and preservation of the cloud forest and its inhabitants, whether they are four-legged, furry, leathery, or feathered!

At Selvatura Adventure Park, you can visit the Butterfly Garden, the Reptile and Amphibian Exhibition, and the Sloth Sanctuary to enjoy all these animals up close and in action. Walk through the garden with beautiful butterflies fluttering around you resting on colorful flowers for pollen and then enjoy 360° views of the snakes and other reptiles in their customized natural terrariums.

The Sloth Sanctuary not only will give you and the kids the opportunity to observe these iconic Costa Rican animals, but it will also provide an opportunity to take part in the conservation and protection of sloths. The Selvatura Sloth Sanctuary is a joint collaboration with the Caribbean Sloth Sanctuary to protect and liberate sloths back into their natural habitat.

Monteverde is a perfect family vacation full of fun activities in nature for guests of all ages. From the thrill of the ziplining adventure to exploring the cloud forest at night and then observing the fantastically calm sloths as they move slowly yet surely from branch to branch. Selvatura Adventure Park was designed for visitors of all ages, so bring the kids and let the family fun begin! Book your jam-packed adventure package online today!

Let’s say it as it is! Costa Rica is a champion of the earth for many reasons. This little country in the center of the Americas consistently stands out when it comes to looking out for sustainable development including its flagship sustainable tourism model. Selvatura Group is a fantastic example of how sustainable tourism can be done so well in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica was just recently awarded Champion of the Earth by the United Nations thanks to its continued efforts to protect nature and fight climate change. While small in size, Costa Rica aims to do its part in putting environmental conservation at the forefront and show the world that it can be done.

This spirit of protecting nature, not only benefits the diversity of wildlife and flora that Costa Rica is so well known for, but it also means that visitors enjoy exploring the myriad of landscapes and ecosystems that makes Costa Rica so special. It has also meant that sustainable tourism is the preferred business model that Costa Rica has decided to adopt since back in the nineties.

It proved to be a wise decision that has made Costa Rica a favorite destination for so many eager travelers.

So, what is sustainable tourism?

When we talk about sustainable tourism, we very often think that it is about taking care of the environment. This is definitely one of the pillars of this model, but it has two more. It also considers the current and future socioeconomic and cultural impacts of tourism which are of equal importance to being kind to nature.

Sustainable tourism involves the protection of natural environments and wildlife (Costa Rica has lots of that!) when operating tourism activities, ensuring visitors enjoy authentic cultural experiences through its correct representation. It also is about creating socioeconomic benefits for the community where the tourism company is based and operates including hiring local talent and purchasing local produce.

Is sustainable tourism in Costa Rica to stay?

This is no small feat, but Costa Rica has perfected the sustainable tourism recipe and it has only improved as the years have gone by. The wonderful thing about sustainable tourism is that nearly everyone has come on board with this philosophy. This includes the Selvatura Adventure Park and its sister mountaintop hotels, Ficus Sunset Suites, Hotel Heliconia and Jaguarundi Lodge in Monteverde, and the beachfront Papagayo Golden Palms on Panama Beach in Guanacaste.

The group as a whole has implemented a series of policies in each of the properties to uphold the sustainable tourism goals without foregoing any comforts or conveniences that guests may feel happens when sustainability is mentioned. So, when you stay at one of these hotels or visit the adventure park, you are part of the sustainable tourism movement and its benefits.

Will sustainable tourism affect my experience?

The Selvatura Group believes that the experience is actually enhanced and so do the guests and visitors. So, when visiting the eco-tourism hotspot of Monteverde, not only do you have a number of hotels to choose from, but you can also integrate some wholesome “Costa Rican Style” adventure into your days, all under the sustainable tourism flag.

While staying at the Jaguarundi Lodge, you will be transported to the traditional mountaintop wooden cabins of yesteryear incorporating the rich history of Monteverde and its unique beginnings. With the modern conveniences of today, your experience is further heightened by the fact that the lodge sits within the cloud forest alive with birds and wildlife that can be enjoyed from the deck areas of the rooms.

This is sustainable tourism at its best, where you can experience the beauty of nature and the cultural flavors through tradition and history within a local community that thrives on collaboration and support. Sustainable tourism is subtle but a sure thing!

How do sustainable tourism and adventure work together?

Selvatura Adventure Park is a living example of how sustainable tourism and adventure work together. Located on a private reserve that protects the delicate cloud forest, visitors and adventure-seekers can enjoy and experience the cloud forest with minimal impact.

Whether you are flying through its canopy and a zipline or walking over the suspended bridges on your trail walk, the magic of the cloud forest is amplified through all your senses. Great fun in nature, best adventure experience, and optimal respect for the cloud forest!

Another great example of how sustainable tourism and adventure work together is working closely with tour providers to ensure that they comply with sustainability standards. When you stay at Papagayo Golden Palms Beachfront Hotel, this is what will happen when you purchase a tour from the hotel´s tour desk.

All the Papagayo Golden Palms tours have been carefully selected to ensure that your adventure in Guanacaste will be lots of fun and full of thrills but also environmentally friendly and with minimal impact on nature. The hotel also ensures that the tours are from local tour operators as a way of supporting the surrounding community and its members.

Fresh, local produce makes for delicious dining!

A fantastic vacation will always include amazing dining. An exceptional dining experience will include a beautiful setting, great service, and of course, the artistry of creating unforgettable flavors and meals. So, how does sustainable tourism work into delicious dining?

Ficus Sunset Suites certainly has the perfect recipe. Through the use of fresh, local produce from responsible farming and fishing practices, a wonderful menu of appetizers, main dishes, and desserts can be enjoyed in the morning and in the evening. Creative and innovative meals are designed and created by a select group of local, up-and-coming cooks and chefs that bring refreshing ideas and techniques to the table!

While Ficus Sunset Suites is a wonderful gourmet dining experience during your sustainable tourism adventure, Hotel Heliconia boasts the best typical breakfast on the mountaintop that is the perfect start to a day of exploring the cloud forest. This is a daily introduction to Costa Rican culture through delicious flavors. It includes the famous “Gallo Pinto” which translates to colorful thanks to all the delicious ingredients that it involves.

Costa Rica leads the world in sustainable tourism and has proven to be as successful as many of the other decisions this little country has made to protect the environment, celebrate local culture, and create a sense of community and its collective wellbeing. Sustainable tourism is a fantastic way to experience a country at its best without foregoing the comforts of a wonderful vacation.

The Selvatura Group is a proud follower of sustainable tourism and has found many ways to incorporate sustainable practices into their hotels and adventure park and thus, enhancing experiences and adventures. Come and visit Monteverde and Guanacaste and Selvatura Group will show you the very best of Costa Rica and how sustainable tourism is the best way to enjoy this little champion of the earth!