The town of Monteverde is fairly small with shopping and some great restaurants, but most of the upgraded accommodations are located outside of the main town centre to take better advantage of the natural beauty and stunning landscapes of the area.
Taxis are readily available to take you into town and back and can cost approx. $10 USD each way. Accommodations tend to be a bit more simple here, with fewer amenities. The cloud forest sits at a higher elevation and offers a cooler but humid climate, which is why hotels in this area do not have A/C. It can also feel damp in rooms, which is unavoidable in such a climate.
Optional activities
Ziplining – Monteverde
Buckle up your harness, don your helmet, and prepare to launch. Glide along cables suspended high above the cloud forest canopy. Dare to let go and reach top speeds as you zip past stunning scenery. Watch for toucans or exotic orchids in this adrenaline-filled experience. Minimum age: 6.
CASEM Coop Visit (first choice) – Monteverde
CASEM—the Cooperative of Artisans Santa Elena Monteverde—is an inspiring example of female empowerment and teamwork. By focusing on providing women artisans with the opportunity to gain economic independence and develop new skills, this G for Good project helps improve the quality of life for its members and strengthens the community. Through the marketing of their products, CASEM Coop not only supports its 90 artisan members, but also promotes the culture and traditions of the Monteverde region. You can also stop by the restaurant to try some delicious local food.
Monteverde Guided Cloud Forest Night Walk – Monteverde
Join a naturalist guide for a 1.5–2 hour tour in the cloud forest after dark. Learn more about the habits of the area's nocturnal wildlife including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. This is a slow-paced walk, and what you see will depend on the day and your luck.
Monteverde Horseback Riding – Monteverde
Enjoy Monteverde’s wilderness by horseback. Spot toucans, bellbirds, and parrots as you ride through private mountain trails along the primary and secondary forest. Meet monkeys, see sloths, and possibly glimpse the Gulf of Nicoya through the clouds.