Sanctuary of unparalleled Natural beauty

Explore a thriving ecosystem boasting an astonishing variety of flora and fauna.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

A community project Created by the efforts of many local and foreign volunteers, which began in the 80's and opened its doors in 1992.

Local Benefit: Our Reserve

It is administered by the Administrative Board of the Santa Elena Professional Technical College, the funds raised through Eco-tourism are used for the operation of the Reserve, support of environmental and social programs, educational scholarships and general support for the public school.

Rates

Open everyday: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Adults: $18.00

Student: $12.00

Children: $12.00

National: $8.00

National student: $6.00

Guided Tours

Natural History Walk

Natural History Walk

$35

per person

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Immerse in local culture and explore breathtaking natural wonders.

Guided Tour

Start: 7:30 am, 9:15 am, 11:30 am, 13:00

Cloud Forest Sounds
Popular

Cloud Forest Sounds

$28

per person

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Sunset time. A night experience in the heart of the cloud forest. 1.5 hours

Guided Tour

Start: 4:40 pm

Coffee in the Clouds

Coffee in the Clouds

$28

per person

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Dawn | Observation tower A unique experience to start the day

Guided

Start: 4:50 am.

Walking Trails

We have 12 kilometers of trails, with different levels of difficulty.

From natural trails and forts for those looking for a challenge (Caño Negro) to Trails under Law 7600 (Young World), scenic views from the 3rd highest point of Monteverde and tor Challenge), emblematic bird watching (Encantado) or peace and tranquility in the Shinrin Yo style trail with beautiful forest scenes (Del Bajo).

About us

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica is a privately owned and operated reserve that protects over 300 hectares (741 acres) of cloud forest. It is located on the Caribbean side of the Continental Divide, at an elevation of 1600 meters (5250 feet). The reserve is known for its high biodiversity, with over 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and 2,000 species of plants.

Visitors to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and guided tours. There are over 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of trails to explore, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails offer stunning views of the cloud forest, and hikers may encounter a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and quetzals.

Magic Forests

An agricultural project transformed into one of the 25 Magic Forests of the World, with a Cloud Forest in the Caribbean of the Continental Divide of Costa Rica.

Local workforce: Families from the area, school graduates, local and foreign volunteers, tourism students