Most people come to Monteverde mainly for two reasons: nature and/or adventure. Fortunately, at Pasión Costa Rica, we are passionate for both of them, and this blog will cover both subjects. So, let’s get to the point and start with nature.
1. Nature
Monteverde is famous because of its Cloud Forest. It is very unique, and in only about 35,000 hectares (about 85,000 acres), it boasts about 50% of Costa Rica’s biodiversity. Our previous blog explains more about Monteverde; please check it out.
“It is almost overwhelming the amount of nature”
Arjan, from the Netherlands.
a. The Cloud Forest
Not every reserve and trail in the area has Cloud Forest presence, so to visit the must lush cloud forest, our recommendations are the Monteverde Reserve, the Hanging Bridges at SkyAdventures Park, and the hanging bridges at Selvatura Adventure Park. Of course, having a tour guide on these trails makes the experience a lot richer, and guided tours are our expertise. You can see more about our tours and our outstanding reviews.
b. Night Walk Tour
This is definitely a must. There is more night activity of some animals (such as mammals) at night, and walking the forest with a guide after sunset is an adventure as well as fun and educational.
c. El Tigre Waterfalls
This jewel is a private reserve located about 25min from Santa Elena downtown and is absolutely magical. It has views of the Arenal Volcano and lake, and its hike goes through several hanging bridges and finds waterfalls where you can swim. You can do a full hike or mix it up with horseback riding or a Safari 4×4 vehicle.
2. Adventure
As Arjan said, the amount of nature is almost overwhelming, so now imagine feeling that nature through the adrenaline in your body. And let me tell you, that’s one of the bests ways to feel alive!
a. Ziplines
This has to be the top on your list because Monteverde was the first to have this type of tour. And seriously, what better place for a canopy tour than in a cloud forest?
b. Canyoning (waterfall rappelling)
This is a whole other level: the height, the water, the rocks… It is just fantastic! And you can combine this with TreeTop Climbing at the same place.
c. Tarzan Swing/Bungee Jumping
I have to say, out of all of the adventure activities you can do in Monteverde, these are the only ones that make me feel a little bit scared each time. But it feels awesome! Just (close your eyes) breathe and jump!
3. Other active tours…
You can complete your Monteverde itinerary with other interactive, educational and short activities like Coffee Tours, the Bat Jungle Tour or the Butterfly Garden. To help you arrange this don’t hesitate to contact us.
So, are you ready?
Are you ready to be almost overwhelmed by nature, trapped by the “pura vida” feeling and fall in love with Costa Rica? Because that’s what is happening! And to make the most out of your trip and to find a perfect itinerary for you, don’t hesitate to contact us.
My husband and I will be in Monteverde in December. We are planning to visit either Monteverde or Curi-Cancha Reserve on December 9.
We are looking for a guide. We would prefer to book directly with a guide so booking sites like viator or trip advisor don’t take all of the money.
We are wondering if you have a guide available and what you charge. Do you recommend Monteverde Cloud Forest or Curi-Cancha more?
Hello Michelle,
Thank you so much for reaching out, and our apologies for the delay in responding. We’d be delighted to host you on December 9.
We specialize in private guided tours, and one of the nice things is that we don’t need to decide right away whether you’ll visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or Curi-Cancha Reserve. Both are excellent, and the best choice often depends on what you’re most interested in: the Cloud Forest is famous for its lush, iconic ecosystem, while Curi-Cancha offers more open trails, great birdwatching, and often closer wildlife encounters. We can finalize the reserve closer to your visit once we know more about your preferences or other places you’ll be visiting in Costa Rica.
Our rates:
$150 USD (total, not per person) for 1–4 guests
$205 USD (total, not per person) for 5–8 guests
(plus 13% VAT tax)
This includes your private naturalist guide. Please note that transportation and entrance fees are additional.
Important Information
Entrance fees are not included and must be paid directly at the reserve entrance (prices vary).
Transportation is not included unless pre-arranged with Pasión Costa Rica.
Tours operate rain or shine; in case of strong storms, we will reschedule or refund.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but your guide will maximize every opportunity for observation.
This is a leisurely walk, not a strenuous hike. Trail conditions may be uneven in some areas.
We’d love to learn more about your plans so we can tailor the experience for you. And for others reading this reply, the same offer applies—we’re always happy to guide you directly and provide a personalized experience here in Monteverde.
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Warm regards,
Royner Morales
Pasión Costa Rica