Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a nature lover’s dream and an adventure seeker’s paradise. Whether you’re zip-lining through the treetops or walking across hanging bridges in Monteverde, it guarantees unforgettable experiences. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the best things to do in Monteverde to make your visit truly magical!
Table of Contents
- Discover the Ficus Root Bridge
- Watch the Sunset from Mirador El Milano
- Walk the Cloud Forest Trails at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Zip-Lining at Selvatura Adventure Park
- Explore the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
- Birdwatching at Curi-Cancha Reserve
- Visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden
1
Discover the Ficus Root Bridge
Discover the Ficus Root Bridge, a natural marvel where the roots of a ficus tree have intricately formed a sturdy bridge over a gentle stream. This hidden treasure is not only a serene spot for photography but also perfect for a peaceful picnic, as you’ll find a small table conveniently located on the trail leading to the tree.
Price: Free
How to Get There: A short hike from Santa Elena brings you to this fascinating activity. The trail is relatively easy to follow.
Tips:
- Visit during daylight hours for the best visibility and to fully appreciate the natural surroundings.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the trail may be uneven in parts.
- Remember to leave no trace—pack out all trash to help preserve this site for others.
Location: 857H+H8X, Puntarenas Province, Monteverde
My Experience: The Ficus Root Bridge was one of our favorite discoveries in Monteverde, especially since it’s one of the few free things to do in Monteverde. The hike to reach it was a pleasant escape into nature, and the sight of the tree’s roots forming a natural bridge was absolutely breathtaking.
It’s a unique and impressive experience, showcasing the wonders of nature’s design. If you’re in Monteverde, this spot is definitely worth your time!
2
Watch the Sunset from Mirador El Milano
Monteverde offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in Costa Rica, and Mirador El Milano is the perfect spot to enjoy them. For just $2 USD, you can soak in panoramic views that are truly unforgettable. It’s an experience that’s not to be missed!
How to Get There: Mirador El Milano is conveniently located along the road between Santa Elena and La Lindora. From Santa Elena, you can:
- Walk: Take a 35-minute stroll by heading up the street to the left of Hotel Tropico Monteverde until you reach the gate to the mirador.
- Drive: It’s a quick 4-minute drive and easily accessible by car.
Address: 8527+3C8, Puntarenas Province, Monteverde
Tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot before sunset.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as it tends to get chilly in the evenings.
- Don’t forget your camera—this is one view you’ll want to capture!
3
Walk the Cloud Forest Trails at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde’s most iconic attraction, the Cloud Forest Reserve, is an absolute must-see for nature lovers. Wander along well-marked trails surrounded by lush greenery, where you’ll have the chance to spot exotic birds like the magnificent quetzal.
You can choose to explore on your own by following the trails or enhance your experience with a guided tour. Guides not only share fascinating insights about the reserve’s unique ecosystem but also help you spot elusive wildlife.
Entrance Fee: 26$ USD per adult, $13 USD for children
Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
How to Get There: The reserve is located about 10 minutes from Monteverde’s town center. It’s easily accessible by taxi, ride-share apps like Uber, or a private vehicle.
Tips: Arrive early in the morning to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife and enjoy the trails before the crowds arrive. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, and a camera
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
Monteverde: Cloud Forest Guided Walk – Click Here
Monteverde: Guided Tour in the Cloud Forest – Click Here
4
Zip-Lining at Selvatura Adventure Park
Fly through the forest canopy on one of the longest zip-lining courses in the world! Selvatura Park offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush for adventure enthusiasts with 13 cables, including a 1km cable, 15 platforms and one tarzan swing.
Price: 69$ USD per person
Opening Hours: Open daily, 365 days a year, from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tours are scheduled at 8:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:30 pm.
How to Get There: A 15-minute drive from Monteverde. Shuttles are available from major hotels.
Tips: Wear comfortable long clothing, hiking boots or closed-toe shoes, and rain gear (if necessary during the rainy season).
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are is an option we believe is among the best.
Monteverde: Jungle Zipline & Tarzan Swing with Transfer – Click Here
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5
Explore the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
Home to over 30 species of butterflies, this enchanting garden is an ideal thing to do in Monteverde with kids or anyone seeking a tranquil escape into nature.
Daily in-person tours are available, making it a hassle-free and spontaneous activity—no reservations required! It’s a wonderful opportunity to unwind while learning about Costa Rica’s rich ecosystem and the fascinating world of butterflies.
Price: 20$ USD per adult
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
How to Get There: A short 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the town center.
Location: 700 m sur del escuela cerro plano, Provincia de Puntarenas, Monteverde
6
Birdwatching at Curi-Cancha Reserve
This hidden gem is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for toucans, hummingbirds, and the quetzal as you explore their natural habitat.
You can enjoy this activity in several ways: embark on a self-guided adventure during the day, join a specialized birdwatching or natural history tour, or add some excitement with a night tour to experience the reserve after dark.
Price: The cost varies depending on the tour chosen. Without a guided tour, the entrance fee is $20 USD per adult. For detailed information and to explore all tour options, visit their official website here.
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM for self-guided visits.
Tips: For birdwatching, mornings are the best time to spot the most activity. If you opt for a night tour, bring a flashlight and sturdy footwear for a safe and exciting adventure.
7
Visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden
Discover a stunning variety of orchids in this tranquil garden, showcasing everything from the tiniest blooms to vibrant showstoppers. No matter when you visit, you’ll always find 120 different species in bloom, ensuring a captivating experience every day of the year.
Price: $17 USD per person, which includes the entrance and a guided tour.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Is the tour necessary? Yes! The guided tour is included with your entrance fee and is highly recommended. Since 80% of wild orchids are miniature, the expert guides will help you spot these delicate flowers and provide insights into their unique characteristics.
How to Get There: Conveniently located in the heart of Monteverde, within walking distance from most accommodations.
Location: 50 metros sur del Banco Nacional, Provincia de Puntarenas, Monteverde, 60109, Costa Rica
Final Thoughts
Monteverde’s diverse attractions ensure that every traveler finds something memorable. Whether you’re marveling at natural root formations, or soaking in a stunning sunset, these experiences will undoubtedly enrich your Costa Rican journey.
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What’s Next?
Now that you know the best activities in Monteverde, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
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