13 Top Things to Do in Monteverde - Everything you Need To Know Before Your Visit

I spent five nights in Monteverde, and it was unlike anywhere else I visited in Costa Rica. The mornings were often covered in mist, birds were singing everywhere, and the clouds seemed to move through the trees. It almost felt like stepping into another world. The cooler temperatures were also a welcome change from the tropical heat we had other places in the country.

If you are planning a trip, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde, from exploring the famous cloud forest and walking across hanging bridges to ziplining through the canopy, spotting hummingbirds and joining a guided night walk.

In this guide, I'll share the best things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica, including the experiences I enjoyed, the attractions I would consider adding to your itinerary, and a few practical tips to help you plan your visit.

13 Best Things to Do in Monteverde

As always I’ll start with the fun part first, namely the top things to do in Monteverde. If you also want more practical information like where you should base yourself, how to get around and my favourite restaurants, just scroll further down and you’ll find everything you need, including personal tips to help you experience the city beyond the obvious.

Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is the main reason most people visit this part of Costa Rica, and it should definitely be at the top of your list when you visit

A cloud forest is a very particular type of tropical forest that develops in high-altitude areas where moisture from the clouds and mist creates an incredibly humid environment. The result is a landscape covered in moss, ferns, orchids and bromeliads, with a constant layer of mist hanging between the branches.

Walking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest feels completely different from exploring a typical rainforest. Everything is green, the vegetation is incredibly dense, and you can often hear birds and insects long before you have any chance of seeing them.

There are several walking trails throughout the reserve, ranging from relatively easy paths to longer hikes. One of the highlights is the suspension bridge, which allows you to experience the forest from above and look out over the canopy.

I visited in May, which is the beginning of the green season, and although we had quite a bit of rain during our five days in Monteverde, I actually think the misty weather added to the atmosphere. It’s exactly what you imagine a cloud forest to look like.

One thing worth knowing is that spotting wildlife here can be surprisingly difficult. There are plenty of animals living in the forest, but the dense vegetation makes them hard to see. If seeing birds and other wildlife is high on your list, I would consider booking a guided walk with a local naturalist. We didn’t and I regretted it afterwards because we saw no animals, just heard them.

Practical tip: Book your entrance in advance, especially during the busy season. The reserve uses scheduled entry times and visitor limits, so you should check the official booking arrangements before visiting.

Book your guided tour to Monteverde Cloud Forest in advance here

Visit Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Most people don’t know that there are actually two different cloud forests in Monteverde. While the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve gets most of the attention, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is another fantastic option and is often a little quieter.

The two reserves protect similar cloud forest ecosystems, with various trails taking you through thick vegetation and moss-covered trees. However, they have different trail networks which gives you slightly different experiences.

Santa Elena is particularly interesting if you want to get away from some of the crowds at the more famous Monteverde reserve. The forest is incredibly lush, and there are several trails to explore, including viewpoints that offer beautiful views across the surrounding mountains when the weather cooperates.

The biggest difference in my opinion, other than the crowds, is that Santa Elena don’t have a huge suspension bridge. So if that is important to you, I would choose Monteverde Cloud Forest, and I don't necessarily think you need to visit both of them unless you have plenty of time or are particularly interested in cloud forests.

Book your guided tour to Santa Helena Cloud Forest in advance here

Go zip lining through the Cloud Forest

After the Cloud Forest this is probably the most popular thing to do in Monteverde. This is the area in Costa Rica that first started building zip-lines and is still considered to have some of the best ones in the country.

I went zip-lining on my first visit to Costa Rica and found it both fun and a bit scary so I chose to skip it on my most recent visit. However, it’s a truly unique experience flying through the trees and I definitely don’t regret doing it.

There are several companies offering zip line tours, and some of the courses include multiple cables, platforms high up in the trees, suspension bridges and even Tarzan swings.

One of the most famous options is Selvatura Park, which offers several different activities in one location. You can also look at 100% Aventura and Sky Adventures, both popular choices for canopy experiences.

Some tours also offer superman-style ziplines, where you are attached horizontally and fly face-down above the forest. If you want something a little more exciting than a standard canopy tour, this is definitely worth looking into.

Book The Original Zipline Tour in Monteverde here

Book a Zipline and Hanging Bridges Combo Tour in Monteverde Cloud Forest Here

Walk across the hanging bridges in Monteverde

If zip lining sounds a little too adventurous, walking across the hanging bridges is another fantastic way to experience the cloud forest.

Several adventure parks in Monteverde have suspension bridges that take you through the forest. Instead of looking up at the trees, you get to walk among the tops and enjoy a completely different perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Selvatura Park is one of the most popular places to experience the hanging bridges. Its treetop walkway combines forest trails with several suspension bridges, making it a great option if you want to spend a few hours exploring the canopy.

If you visit the Cloud Forest you’ll get to experience one suspension bridge, but if you want even more, I recommend joining this tour.

Book your trip to the Hanging Bridges in Monteverde here

Join a guided night walk in the Cloud Forest

One of the most interesting things to do in Monteverde is to explore the forest after dark.

While the cloud forest might seem relatively quiet during the day, an entirely different world comes alive once the sun goes down. Many animals are nocturnal, and a guided night walk gives you the chance to spot creatures that you would probably never notice during a daytime hike.

Depending on the season and your luck, you might see tree frogs, snakes, insects, tarantulas, sleeping birds and other small animals. Some of the frogs are particularly colourful, and spotting them sitting on leaves in the dark is such a fun experience.

There are several places offering night walks around Monteverde, including guided experiences at the main cloud forest reserves and Curi-Cancha.

If you enjoy nature and wildlife, I think this is one of the activities worth prioritising even if you’re not spending more than two nights in Monteverde.

Go birdwatching at Curi-Cancha Reserve

Monteverde is a paradise for birdwatchers, and Curi-Cancha Reserve is one of the best places in the area to look for some of Costa Rica's most beautiful birds.

The reserve protects a mix of cloud forest, secondary forest and more open areas, making it perfect for birdwatchers because the mix of forest creates different habitats for a wide variety of bird species.

One of the main reasons people visit is the chance to spot the beautiful quetzal. This bird is famous for its long tail feathers and vibrant green and red colouring, and seeing one in the wild is high on many birdwatchers' bucket lists.

Other birds you might encounter include hummingbirds, toucanets, motmots and the three-wattled bellbird.

I visited Curi-Cancha, and even though I wasn't lucky enough to spot a quetzal, I still thought it was a wonderful place to explore. The reserve is beautiful, and I particularly liked having the opportunity to walk through a different type of forest compared with the main Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Visit El Tigre Waterfalls

If you are looking for something a little different from the cloud forest trails, consider spending some time exploring the waterfalls around Monteverde, especially El Tigre waterfall.

This was a spot I really wanted to visit, but we had such bad weather the day I had planned it, and it’s said to be a pretty strenuous hike taking around 4 hours, so we ended up skipping it unfortunately.

You can explore the area on a self guided hike or join a guided tour included lunch. Both versions offer to take you to the starting point either by horseback or on a 4x4.

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See hummingbirds at Café Colibri

One of my favourite little stops around the Monteverde Cloud Forest is Café Colibri, particularly if you enjoy seeing birds up close.

The café is located near the entrance to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and has several feeders outside that attract hummingbirds throughout the day.

Hummingbirds are everywhere in Costa Rica, but they are incredibly fast. You often only get a quick glimpse before they disappear again. Here, you have a much better opportunity to sit down and watch them hovering around the feeders.

It is a simple experience, but I think it is well worth a stop if you are already visiting the cloud forest. You don't need to spend hours here, just take a little break, enjoy a coffee or snack and watch the hummingbirds flying around.

Take a coffee, chocolate and sugar cane tour

Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, and Monteverde is a fantastic place to learn more about how it is grown, harvested and turned into the drink most people, me being a crazy exception, enjoy every morning.

Several local farms offer tours that take you through the entire process, from the coffee plant to the finished product. You will learn about the different stages of production, how the beans are harvested and roasted, and what makes Costa Rican coffee so popular.

Many tours also include chocolate and sugar cane, giving you the opportunity to learn about other important products in Costa Rica's agricultural history. The experience usually ends with tastings, so you get to try some of the products yourself.

I didn't do a coffee or chocolate tour in Monteverde because I had already joined several similar experiences during my six months travelling through Central America. My previous tours in Belize, Guatemala and Nicaragua were all really fun though, so I would absolutely recommend adding one if this is your first time experiencing a coffee farm in the region.

Visit the Monteverde orchid garden

If you are interested in tropical plants and flowers, the Monteverde Orchid Garden is a lovely little attraction to add to your itinerary.

Costa Rica has an incredible variety of orchids, and the garden gives you the chance to see many different species in one place. Some are tiny and easy to overlook in the wild, while others have much more noticeable colours and shapes.

It is not a major attraction that I would travel all the way to Monteverde for, but it can be a nice addition if you have extra time or want something a little more relaxed between bigger activities.

It is also a good alternative for those who are interested in nature but don't necessarily want to spend another few hours hiking through the forest.

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Visit the Monteverde butterfly gardens

Another smaller attraction worth considering is the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens.

The gardens offer a closer look at the incredible variety of butterflies and insects found in Costa Rica. You can walk through different enclosed habitats and learn about their life cycles, behaviour and importance to the surrounding ecosystem.

It’s particularly interesting if you are travelling with children, although I think anyone with an interest in nature can enjoy it.

This is another activity I would treat as an optional extra rather than an absolute must-see. If you only have a couple of days in Monteverde, I would prioritise the cloud forest, Curi-Cancha and one of the adventure activities first.

Visit the bat jungle

If you want to learn more about some of Costa Rica's less-loved animals, the Bat Jungle is a rather unusual attraction in Monteverde.

The experience focuses on bats and their importance to tropical ecosystems. You can learn about the different species, how they navigate, what they eat and why they are so important for pollination and controlling insect populations.

It might not be everyone's idea of a fun holiday activity, but I think it’s an interesting option if you enjoy learning about wildlife beyond the usual monkeys, sloths and colourful birds.

Go horseback riding through the mountains

Horseback riding is another way to explore the beautiful countryside around Monteverde.

I’m unfortunately afraid of horses so I skipped this one, but several local operators offer guided rides through the hills, forests and rural landscapes surrounding Monteverde.

If you enjoy horseback riding, it’s worth looking into while planning your Monteverde itinerary.

Where Should You Stay in Monteverde?

One thing worth knowing is that the names Monteverde and Santa Elena are often used interchangeably when people talk about this destination. However, they are not exactly the same place. Santa Elena is the main town and commercial centre, while Monteverde generally refers to the wider area and the communities surrounding the cloud forest reserves, so you’ll be further away from the centre and I recommend having a rental car to stay there.

You do not necessarily need to stay in the town centre to enjoy Monteverde. In fact, some of the most memorable accommodation options are outside it. Just remember that having a rental car makes staying further away much easier.

Below you’ll see my three favourite hotels that I recommend checking out first. This is my personal favourite, and I highly recommend staying there if you want a relaxing, but practical stay in Monteverde.

Koora Monteverde

This is one of the most beautiful options in the area if you are looking for something a little more special. Set in a lush natural environment, the hotel combines modern comfort with the surrounding cloud forest, offering lovely views, stylish rooms and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.

Check prices and availability

Camino Verde B&B Monteverde

This is a lovely option if you want a comfortable and practical place to stay. It’s just a short walk from the centre of Santa Elena, making it easy to head out for dinner or pick up anything you need. The property offers comfortable rooms, a terrace with views of the surrounding mountains and cloud forest.

Check prices and availability

Fondavela Hotel

This is lovely choice if you want a comfortable hotel surrounded by Monteverde's green mountain scenery. The property has spacious rooms, gardens, an indoor heated swimming pool and a restaurant, so there is plenty to enjoy even when the weather is not ideal.

Check prices and availability

Map of the Best Hotels in Monteverde

Below you'll find a map where I've pinned my favourite hotels in Monteverde to make it easier for you to navigate when you're looking for where you want to base yourself.

How Many Days Do You Need in Monteverde?

I would recommend spending two to three nights in Monteverde, giving you at least one or two full days to explore the area.

If you only have one full day, I would prioritise the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, followed by either a hanging bridge experience or zip lining. You could then finish the day with a guided night walk if you have enough energy.

With two full days, you can explore the cloud forest, visit Curi-Cancha, go zip lining or walk across the hanging bridges, and add a coffee tour or waterfall experience.

If you are particularly interested in birdwatching, photography or hiking, you could easily spend four or five nights here. There are enough activities to keep you occupied, and the slower pace can be quite nice.

I spent five nights in Monteverde, which gave me plenty of time to explore without rushing. However, if you are travelling around Costa Rica with limited time, I think two or three nights is a good balance.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Monteverde?

Monteverde can be visited throughout the year, but the weather is something you should consider when planning your trip.

Unlike Costa Rica's coastal destinations, Monteverde has a cooler mountain climate due to its elevation. You can expect mist, humidity, occasional rain and changing temperatures regardless of when you visit.

Dry season: December to April

The dry season is generally the most popular time to visit Monteverde and Costa Rica in general. You have a better chance of enjoying clearer weather and less persistent rain, which can make hiking and outdoor activities more comfortable.

However, don't expect completely dry conditions every day. Monteverde is a cloud forest after all, and the mist is part of what makes it so special.

This is also the busiest time of year, particularly around Christmas, New Year and Easter, so I would recommend booking accommodation and popular tours ahead of time.

Green season: May to November

The green season brings more rainfall, but it also means the surrounding forests are incredibly lush.

I visited Monteverde in May and experienced heavy rain on almost every day of our five-night stay except one. This definitely affected some of our plans, and I would have loved a little more sunshine to enjoy the scenery.

That said, the misty atmosphere made the cloud forest feel even more magical, and there were noticeably fewer visitors than you might expect during the high season.

If you visit during the rainy months, I would recommend planning your outdoor activities for the morning whenever possible. Bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes, and leave a little flexibility in your itinerary.

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How Do You Get to Monteverde?

Getting to Monteverde is not quite as straightforward as reaching some of Costa Rica's other popular destinations.

There is no airport in Monteverde, so you will need to travel by road. The mountain roads are pretty winding, and some sections are unpaved or in poor condition, meaning journeys can take longer than expected, so don’t leave your previous destination too late.

Getting to Monteverde by rental car

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get to Monteverde and explore the surrounding area. You have the freedom to stop along the way, explore attractions at your own pace and avoid relying on organised transport for every activity.

As a rough guide, allow around three to four hours from La Fortuna and five to six hours from San José, depending on your route, traffic and road conditions.

Getting to Monteverde by shuttle

If you don't want to drive yourself, tourist shuttles are a convenient alternative. You can find shared and private shuttles connecting Monteverde with popular destinations such as La Fortuna, San José, Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio.

One popular option when travelling between La Fortuna and Monteverde is the Jeep-Boat-Jeep transfer, which combines road transport with a boat crossing of Lake Arenal. It is a scenic alternative to driving around the lake.

Shuttles are generally more expensive than public buses, but they can save you a lot of hassle.

Getting to Monteverde by public bus

If you are travelling on a budget, there are public buses connecting Monteverde with San José and other destinations. The main bus operator is Transmonteverde, and I recommend checking its website for current schedules and departure information before travelling.

Public transport takes longer and offers less flexibility, but it’s a good option if you don't mind spending more time getting from one destination to another.

Practical Tips for Visiting Monteverde

Before you visit Monteverde, there are a few things worth knowing. The weather, road conditions and layout of the area can make a difference to your experience.

Bring a rain jacket: Even if you visit during the dry season, you should be prepared for rain. The cloud forest gets its name for a reason!

Pack layers: Monteverde is considerably cooler than many other parts of Costa Rica. Bring a light jacket, particularly if you are planning an early morning walk or evening night tour.

Wear proper shoes: Trails can become muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season. Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are a much better choice than sandals.

Book popular activities in advance: Cloud forest visits, ziplining and guided wildlife tours can get busy during high season. Check availability before you arrive.

Consider hiring a guide: If you want to see wildlife, a local naturalist can make a huge difference. Animals are often difficult to spot in the dense vegetation, and guides know where to look.

Don't underestimate the roads: Distances around Monteverde might look short on a map, but winding mountain roads can make driving times much longer than expected.

Allow some flexibility: Weather conditions can change quickly, so avoid planning every hour of your visit. Having an extra morning or afternoon available can make it easier to rearrange activities if it rains.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monteverde

What is Monteverde, Costa Rica, famous for?

Monteverde is best known for its cloud forests, incredible biodiversity, hanging bridges, ziplining and wildlife experiences. It is also one of the best places in Costa Rica for birdwatching, particularly if you hope to spot the famous resplendent quetzal.

How many days should I spend in Monteverde?

I recommend spending two to three nights in Monteverde. This gives you enough time to visit a cloud forest reserve, enjoy an adventure activity, go on a night walk and explore some of the smaller attractions.

Is Monteverde or La Fortuna better?

Monteverde and La Fortuna offer quite different experiences. La Fortuna is famous for Arenal Volcano, waterfalls, hot springs and a wide range of outdoor activities. Monteverde is better known for its cloud forests, birdwatching, hanging bridges and cooler mountain climate. If you have enough time, I would visit both.

Can you visit Monteverde without a car?

Yes, you can visit Monteverde without renting a car. Santa Elena has restaurants, shops and tour operators, and many activities offer transport or can arrange transfers. However, having a rental car gives you much more flexibility when exploring the surrounding area.

Is Monteverde expensive?

Monteverde can be relatively expensive, particularly if you plan on doing several adventure activities and guided tours. Entrance fees for cloud forest reserves and hanging bridge parks can add up. You can keep costs down by choosing a few priority activities, staying in budget accommodation and eating at local restaurants.

Can you see sloths in Monteverde?

Sloths live in the wider Monteverde region, but sightings are not guaranteed and the dense cloud forest can make wildlife difficult to spot. If seeing sloths is a priority, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide or visiting other wildlife-rich destinations in Costa Rica as well.

What should I wear in Monteverde?

Pack comfortable hiking clothes, closed-toe shoes, a waterproof jacket and a few warmer layers. The weather is cooler than in much of Costa Rica, and rain is possible throughout the year. If you are joining a night walk, bring suitable clothing for spending time outdoors after dark.

Final Thoughts: The Best Things to Do in Monteverde

Monteverde is one of those destinations that offers something completely different from the rest of Costa Rica. The cloud forests, cooler mountain climate and misty landscapes make it a unique place to explore, and there are plenty of activities to fill a few days.

I wouldn't say it is an absolute must-visit for every traveller, especially if you are short on time. But if you enjoy nature, hiking, birdwatching and outdoor adventures, I think you will find plenty to love here.

For me, the cloud forest was the highlight, and I am glad I made the journey. Just make sure you bring a rain jacket, allow enough time to explore and don't expect perfect weather every day.

Plan Your Trip to Monteverde

Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to plan what to do in Monteverde. To make planning the rest of your trip even easier, I've included all the resources I personally use when I travel.

Find the best hotels and compare prices on Booking.com

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Book buses, trains and ferries with 12Go

Brows the best tours on Viator here

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Get travel insurance from SafetyWing here

Every recommendation is based on tools and services I genuinely use and would recommend to friends and family.

By using these links you help me continue to create free travel guides like this one.

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-Ingrid

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