Situated 1,400 meters above sea level, Monteverde is a popular eco-tourism destination located in north-western Costa Rica. Substantially cooler than other areas in the country, Monteverde is home to a cloud forest, one of the most popular places to visit in all of Costa Rica!

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is world renowned for protecting its vast ecosystem which contains: over 400 birds, 120 amphibians and reptiles, 3000 plants and tens of thousands of insects.

• If you look closely (above), you can see two quetzals (green backs) – the most popular bird in Central America.

The Reserve was established in 1972 to curb an increasing threat from settlers who wanted to move up the mountain into the cloud forest. Today, through heavy protection, only 3% of the Reserve’s territory is open to visitation!

From the main town, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is a 30-minute bus ride and the park takes about 3 hours to fully explore. It costs roughly $20 USD to enter but only half of that amount if you have a valid student card … Or an expired one from 5 years ago like me ; )

Along with the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the Santa Elena Reserve is only a short bus ride away. In addition, there are countless activities to take part in close to the main base: From zip lining, bungee jumping, coffee plantation tours and numerous observation points, one has enough options to remain occupied for up to a week.

Just a short walk from the town centre lies an incredible ficas tree that simply needs to be seen to be believed!

• The hollowed out tree works as a ladder, so climbing to the top from the INSIDE is possible.. Amazing!

After you finish the climb, grab yourself a delicious ‘Casado’ meal for $6USD. These types of meals can be found just about anywhere in Costa Rica.

While touristy and a little expensive (especially if you’re doing all of the excursions), Monteverde should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Costa Rica. Roughly a 4-hour bus from San Jose, Costa Rica and a 3-hour bus from Liberia, Monteverde is conveniently located in the middle of two international airports. SO, if strapping into a harness and zip lining through a Cloud Forest interests you, or if you just want to enjoy some awesome nature, make sure to check out Monteverde!

Salud!