Best Things to do in Monteverde – 25 Epic Ideas!
Looking for the best things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica? We’ve got you covered!
Matze and I first visited Costa Rica in 2022 for our honeymoon, spending over four weeks exploring every corner of this beautiful country. We dedicated a full week to Monteverde, uncovering its top attractions, hidden gems, and must-do experiences.
From thrilling day tours to breathtaking sunset viewpoints, lush nature parks, and so much more, Monteverde offers tons of adventure and beauty.
???? Don’t miss the FAQ at the bottom – we answer all your top questions about Monteverde, including the best time to visit, how to get around, and essential travel tips.
Let’s dive into the best things to do in Monteverde!
Short on time?
We got you!
Monteverde is known for being a unique cloud forest region – arguably the best on Earth! You can usually expect big crowds and somewhat higher prices compared to the rest of the country, but it is definitely worth a stop of at least 1-2 days, though we would suggest at least 4, when possible!
We highly suggest checking out this day tour at Selvatura, the hike at Cerro Amigos, exploring one of the nature reserves, and the San Lucas Treetop Dining experience for a romantic splurge!
Quick book top Monteverde tours:
Tours and Adventurous Things to do in Monteverde!
Looking for the most adventurous things to do in Monteverde? From thrilling ziplining to tree climbing and beyond, these must-try adventures will add excitement, unforgettable memories, and plenty of fun to your trip!
01.) Zipline + Tarzan Swing
Is there a more epic place to go ziplining than Costa Rica’s lush cloud forests? Monteverde is home to some of the most thrilling zipline experiences in the world!
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, don’t miss the Tarzan swing – a heart-pounding mix of a free-fall and a giant swing that comes with some zipline tours in the area.
My husband and I took the 100% Adventure combo tour in Monteverde, which included two Superman ziplines (where you soar on your belly just like Superman) and one Tarzan swing! The swing was one of the top highlights of our entire trip!
As if that weren’t enough, this combo tour features Costa Rica’s longest zipline, stretching a whopping 5,220 feet (1,590 meters)!
Book the tour we took here or check out these other top-rated zipline tours in Monteverde!
02.) Canyoning Tour
With breathtaking waterfalls all across Costa Rica, what better way to experience them than by rappelling straight down the cascades?
Monteverde is one of the top canyoning hotspots in the country, offering tons of thrilling waterfall descents. Matze and I booked the Monteverde Canyoning Tour with Finca Modelo, tackling six waterfalls, including a heart-pounding 131-foot (40-meter) descent!
It was equal parts exhilarating and challenging – feeling the rush of water over my face while focusing on safety, breathing, and overall technique was intense! But with expert guides leading the way, we felt 100% safe and had so much fun.
If you’re adventurous and at least somewhat athletic (because, as mentioned, it is HARD sometimes!), this is one of the best things to do in Monteverde!
Book the tour we took here or check out these other top-rated canyoning tours in Monteverde.
03.) Day Tours
Day tours are hands-down one of the best things to do in Monteverde!
These action-packed adventures combine multiple must-do activities into one epic experience – helping you see more, do more, and save more compared to booking separate tours.
We spotted tons of wildlife, checked off bucket-list adventures, and had an unforgettable day on our day tour – all in just one trip! Plus, spending 6-12 hours with a group creates great friendships, making the experience even more special.
One top tour in Monteverde is the Selvatura Combo Tour. This tour within Selvatura Adventure Park (more on that below at #15!) takes you through canopy walkways, hanging bridges, and butterfly gardens – offering a perfect mix of thrill and nature.
Check out that tour here, or explore more incredible Monteverde tour options here!
04.) Don Juan 3-in-1 Tour: Chocolate, Sugar Cane, & Coffee!
Want to dive into Costa Rican culture and traditions?
There’s no better way than by exploring coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane – three of the country’s most important (and beloved!) exports.
This immersive 3-in-1 tour is run by Don Juan, a family-run company. You’ll learn the history, cultivation, and harvesting process of these three products. And, of course, you’ll get to taste fresh coffee and chocolate along the way – because what’s a food and drink related tour without delicious samples??
Book your Don Juan tour here for an authentic and flavorful Monteverde experience!
05.) National History Tour at Curi Cancha
Curi Cancha Reserve is one of the best things to do in Monteverde for wildlife lovers!
Named after the Inca word for “Golden Enclosure,” this private reserve was founded in 1970 and opened to tourists in 2011 after years of dedicated reforestation and conservation efforts.
Spanning 205 acres with seven kilometers of scenic trails, it offers an unforgettable experience in Monteverde’s lush cloud forest.
From sloths and howler monkeys to coatis, ocelots, and more, the wildlife here is incredible. Birdwatchers will be especially thrilled – over 200 species have been recorded in the reserve!
While self-guided walks are allowed, we highly recommend a guided tour to make the most of your visit. Expert guides can spot animals you’d never notice on your own, making for a far more memorable experience. We were shocked by how much more we saw on our tour compared to our solo hikes – it was almost embarrassing, haha.
This Nasua Tours experience is the best in the reserve and pairs you with a seasoned guide. Book the tour here!
06.) Night Tours
Hands down one of the best things to do in Monteverde and honestly one of the best things to do in all of Costa Rica! If you can only squeeze in one tour during your trip, make it a night tour. You won’t regret it!
Exploring the cloud forest region after dark is a thrilling, educational, and unforgettable experience. The sheer amount of wildlife you’ll encounter is truly shocking! Here’s just a small glimpse of what you might see:
– Tarantulas & neon-colored spiders (see the image above!)
– Scorpions (which glow under UV light – see image above!)
– Snakes, including the infamous Fer-de-Lance
– Frogs & Toads, like the red-eyed tree frog and the tiny “denim pants” frog
– Hummingbirds (they sleep on tree branches at night!)
– Kinkajous, quirky little mammals that, if you’re very lucky, you might spot in the trees above
Here are the top-rated (5 star!) night tours in Monteverde to book now!
07.) Climb in a ficus tree
Monteverde is home to one of Costa Rica’s most incredible natural wonders – the Giant Ficus tree, also known as the Strangler Fig!
This fascinating tree starts life in the crevice of another tree, slowly growing around its host until the original tree dies and decays, leaving behind a hollow (and climbable!) masterpiece of nature.
For an unforgettable adventure, this tree-climbing tour with Finca Modelo (a company that Matze and I used for another tour and loved) lets you climb a 131 ft (40m) Giant Ficus tree – either from the inside or outside.
At the top you can take in breathtaking panoramic views from a platform before either rappelling down or climbing back through the tree’s hollow core.
This is absolutely one of the best things to do in Monteverde for nature lovers! Book your adventure here.
08.) Horseback tour
Another one of the top things to do in Monteverde for nature lovers is to do a horseback riding tour.
During our Costa Rica adventures, we’ve seen so many incredible horseback tours – and Monteverde is arguably one of the best places to experience one!
Many tours take place on private land, meaning it’s just you, your small group, and untouched nature all around. The dense rainforest and misty cloud forest in Monteverde create a truly magical setting.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s a perfect tour for you! Choose from quicker multi-hour rides to longer day tours (or multi-day tours!) deep into Monteverde’s wilderness.
Check out the best horseback riding company in Monteverde here!
09.) Cafe Monteverde Coffee Tour
Love coffee? A coffee tour is sure to be one of your top highlights in Monteverde!
For an authentic experience, Café Monteverde is the place to go. This 17-hectare farm, run by 12 local families, is dedicated to eco-friendly, specialty coffee production.
On their tour, you’ll dive deep into sustainable coffee farming, explore different coffee fields, and learn their entire process from seed to cup. Plus, you’ll get to taste six different types of coffee brewed on the spot for you – a dream for any coffee lover!
Want to make it even better? You can also book a traditional lunch at their farm for after your tour.
Click here to reserve your spot today!
10.) Sky Walk, Tram, and Zipline Tour
Looking for the ultimate bird’s-eye view? The Sky Walk tour is one of the best things to do in Monteverde to achieve this!
This 3-in-1 adventure lets you experience Monteverde from every angle in a single day – perfect for those who want to see and do it all.
On this tour you can enjoy:
- The Sky Walk – Walk the trails in the cloud forest park, including across suspension bridges
- The Sky Tram – Ride above the cloud forest treetops for breathtaking panoramic views
- The Zipline – Soar through the cloud forest canopy for a thrilling adrenaline rush
Book your Sky Walk combo tour here!
11.) Birdwatching Tours
Costa Rica is a birdwatcher’s paradise and Monteverde is no exception!
If you’re a birder, a birdwatching tour can be one of the most exciting things to do in Monteverde.
This region is packed with rare and fascinating species, and no birding trip would be complete without trying to spot the famous Resplendent Quetzal – one of the most stunning and elusive birds in the world!
But that’s just the beginning. Monteverde is home to hundreds of unique bird species waiting to be discovered!
Check out the top birdwatching tours in Monteverde here.
Pro tip: While some tours provide shared binoculars, having your own is a game-changer and so highly recommended. We made the mistake of not bringing any and then deciding to buy (overpriced) ones mid-trip – so bring yours from home and thank us later!!
12.) El Tigre Waterfall Tour
Looking for adventure-packed things to do in Monteverde? This waterfall tour is sure to be a highlight!
This 5 km guided trek takes you through the lush Monteverde rainforest, past 4 main waterfalls and 10 smaller cascades, along with hanging bridges, a unique zip line bike, and more!
After your scenic hike and dip in the waterfall pools, you even get to choose to return the final 3km by horseback or 4×4 ATV!
With wildlife spotting, forest exploration, adventure, and a delicious traditional lunch, this tour is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Monteverde trip!
13.) Finca El Paraiso Farm Cheese Tour
The Monteverde region was first founded by Quakers and they set up dairy farming and cheese production around the 1950’s. Since then, Monteverde has been known not only for the cloud forest, but also for delicious cheese!
One of the most authentic things to do in Monteverde, this cheese tour at Finca El Paraíso offers a deep dive into sustainable farming, artisanal cheese-making, and local traditions.
Matze and I were lucky enough to stay at Finca Alta Vista, the stunning guesthouse on the farm (more on that in the FAQ below!), and got a firsthand look at this incredible place.
The warm hospitality, sweetest cows, and breathtaking views make this tour and farm very special!
They offer two tours – a bread-making tour and then their famous cheese tour where you learn about traditional cheese-making from local farmers and experts, participate in the process, and taste delicious artisanal cheeses.
Set in one of the most scenic areas of Monteverde, this tour is a must for food lovers and those interested in sustainable agriculture.
Learn more about the farm and book your cheese tour today!
Nature-Inspired Things to do in Monteverde!
I am sure that we don’t need to tell you how much untamed and stunning nature there is to be found in Costa Rica. Monteverde is no exception! From exploring massive ficus trees to hiking to panoramic viewpoints and more – there are many things to do in Monteverde for all of us nature lovers.
14.) Ficus la Raiz
Near Santa Elena in Monteverde, you’ll find the famous Ficus La Raiz, also known as Puente Raiz – a stunning natural ficus tree bridge that’s a must-see for nature lovers!
To find this tree, type “Ficus La Raiz” into Waze (skip Google Maps – it’s incredibly unreliable in Costa Rica!) and follow the directions up to a gate marked “Raiz Parqueo.”
Drive though, park at the bottom, and head to the entrance to pay the small fee (1000 CRC as of 2025) and enjoy a quick (but stunning!) 5 minute trek to the river and the tree!
You can no longer walk across the bridge or climb on the tree, but the intricate, twisting roots of this massive ficus are absolutely jaw-dropping regardless. Be sure that you don’t miss this hidden gem in Monteverde!
15.) National Parks & Nature Preserves
Monteverde is home to some amazing parks and reserves, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters, lush cloud forest hikes, and thrilling adventures.
Here’s a quick rundown of the top parks in the region:
- Selvatura Adventure Park – Monteverde’s popular eco-adventure park, packed with wildlife exhibits (hummingbird & butterfly gardens, animal rescue center) and adrenaline-pumping activities (ziplining, suspension bridges, and more).
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve – The iconic Monteverde park you’ve likely seen in photos! Explore lush trails, towering suspension bridges, and incredible biodiversity with plenty of guided tour options.
- Curi Cancha Reserve – A must-visit for birdwatching and wildlife lovers, this private reserve is perfect for spotting Monteverde’s unique flora and fauna whilst missing the larger crowds.
- Children’s Eternal Rainforest – The largest private reserve in Monteverde, dedicated to conservation and education. Ideal especially for families looking to explore and learn.
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve – With nearly 1,000 acres of cloud forest, this park offers diverse trails and guided tours with a bit less of a crowd compared to the rest.
Pro Tip: Want to spot tons of wildlife? Keep an eye out for fruiting wild avocado trees – they’re one of the top food sources in this region! And don’t forget your binoculars! Even on a guided tour with shared binoculars, having your own ensures you never miss an epic sighting.
16.) The Bat Jungle
If you’re fascinated by bats (like I am!) or just curious about these incredible creatures, The Bat Jungle is one of the most unique things to do in Monteverde.
This hidden gem offers 45 minute guided tours, where you’ll learn all about nearly 100 bats from 8 different species – from their behavior to their crucial role in the ecosystem.
Even if you visit when a tour isn’t running (like we did!), there’s still plenty to explore! We had a blast reading the exhibits, trying the interactive displays, and picking up cute souvenirs (including my all-time favorite mug to this day!).
For a quirky, educational, and fun stop in Monteverde, The Bat Jungle is a must! Find directions and more info on their website here.
17.) Butterfly Conservatory
Costa Rica is home to around 1,250 butterfly species – over 10% of the world’s total!
That makes visiting a butterfly conservatory one of the most educational, yet beautiful things to do in Monteverde.
The Butterfly Conservatory in El Castillo, while not directly in Monteverde, is the best in all of Costa Rica and we highly suggest making a day trip out of it or stopping on the way to or from La Fortuna, as it’s right on the way. It is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from the heart of Monteverde and it is so worth the gorgeous drive!
The Butterfly Conservatory has the largest collection in the country and offer an up-close look at stunning butterflies while teaching visitors about their life cycles and conservation efforts.
In addition, they have tons of trails and other exhibits (even a botanical garden!), allowing you to see and experience much more than just the butterfly exhibits. You’ll be able to spot frogs, insects, fish, and many other creatures. We cannot recommend this spot enough!
Check out their website here and book your visit today.
18.) Orchid Garden
With over 450 orchid species and a guarantee of 120+ blooms daily, this botanical hidden gem is one activity in Monteverde that should not be missed!
The Monteverde Orchid Garden started over 30 years ago when Papo, a passionate orchid collector and rescuer, began collecting and cultivating these flowers.
His love for orchids grew into this incredible, massive collection, which he eventually decided to share with the world. (Thank you, Papo!!)
The guided tour, which is included in admission, is packed with fascinating insights, revealing the uniqueness of each species and imparting tons of knowledge on you. Seriously, if you have ever wanted to know anything about orchids – now is the time!
Book your visit to the Monteverde Orchid Garden here.
Free Things to do in Monteverde:
There is a handful of great budget-friendly activities in Monteverde! Check out the very best things to do in Monteverde for free below.
19.) Explore the City and Art
Did you know that Monteverde isn’t actually a town? It’s the name of the cloud forest and broader region, while the actual town you’ll be exploring is Santa Elena!
So yes – Monteverde and Santa Elena are often used interchangeably, but Santa Elena is the town itself, where you’ll find a handful of shops, restaurants, and sightseeing.
While it’s smaller than most of Costa Rica’s other towns and cities, it still offers some fun discoveries!
Art lovers will enjoy the many beautiful street murals and handmade crafts, while book lovers will be able to pick up Spanish novels at the small selection of bookstores. (I definitely filled a big chunk of my suitcase with books… as always! Haha).
Pro tip: Don’t leave without trying the cheese! We talk above (#13) about a cheese tour in Monteverde if you want to get the full experience. Quakers founded this region and promptly began dairy farming and cheese making – many say the cheese in Monteverde is the best cheese in all of Costa Rica!
20.) Local Farmers Market (La Feria)
Every Friday, you can experience one of the most authentic things to do in Monteverde – visiting the local farmers market!
Here, you’ll find fresh fruit and veggies, local coffee, baked goods, ice cream, and more!
Though still relatively new small, this market is growing fast and is an amazing way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying fresh, homemade treats.
Check out the details here. Tip: the market’s website is only in Spanish, but did you know that you can copy the link into Google Translate to view the entire site fully translated? Give it a try!
21.) Cerro Plano Viewpoint
For an easy, stunning, and (best of all) completely free thing to do in Monteverde, head to Cerro Plano Viewpoint (also known as Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve) for sunrise or sunset.
On a clear day, you’ll get a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Nicoya, making it one of the best sunset and sunrise spots – not just in Monteverde, but arguably in all of Costa Rica!
Pro tip: Skip the first viewpoint with two benches and head up just a bit further to the lookout platform for the most expansive, jaw-dropping views. And don’t forget: always use Waze for directions – Google Maps or Apple Maps don’t work well at all in Costa Rica!
Find directions and insider tips here!
22.) Cerro Amigos Hike
Love the idea of the views from Cerro Plano but looking for an even more adventurous, free thing to do in Monteverde? Take on the Cerro Amigos hike!
At 6,069 feet (1,850m), Cerro Amigos is the highest point in Monteverde.
This 2.5-mile (4km) trek is steep but incredibly rewarding, offering even better panoramic views of the region and the Gulf of Nicoya in the distance than Cerro Plano.
Just be sure to check the weather before heading out – this hike is best done on a dry day for optimal views and safer footing!
Click here for directions and insider tips!
23.) Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery
This hidden gem is the only free hummingbird garden in the entire Monteverde region!
Located right before the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this spot is a small, but impactful combination of a wildlife photography gallery, souvenir shop, and hummingbird garden.
Owned by Michael and Patricia Fogden, whose photographs have been featured in National Geographic, the gallery supports local Indigenous tribes and wildlife conservation.
You’ll find original art for sale while being surrounded by hundreds of hummingbirds buzzing around the feeders! For one of the best free things to do in Monteverde, be sure that you stop by.
Check out their official Facebook page for more info here.
Luxurious Things to do in Monteverde
While there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do in Monteverde, as we have seen, there are also incredible luxury experiences that are absolutely worth the splurge! Here are the top two options we recommend in this region:
24.) San Lucas Treetop Dining
Ranked among the top 20 most romantic restaurants in the world, this one-of-a-kind dining experience in Monteverde will impart memories to last a lifetime.
At San Lucas, you’ll choose between a 9-course or 6-course tasting menu, each carefully crafted to take you on an interactive journey through Costa Rica’s culinary traditions and rich flavors.
What truly sets this spot apart, though? Private glass-enclosed dining pods suspended above the Monteverde cloud forest! With breathtaking views of the forest and the Gulf of Nicoya, it’s one of the most beautiful and intimate places to dine in Costa Rica.
Yes, it’s definitely a splurge, and portions are on the smaller side, but the unforgettable ambiance, incredible flavors, and intimate setting make it absolutely worth it.
Book your table at San Lucas here!
25.) Cloud Forest Private Tour
What’s better than a private tour that lets you and your loved one(s) explore Monteverde at your own pace, with your own goals, and completely on your own time?
This luxurious day tour hits all of Monteverde’s top activities. Here’s a quick overview of the main highlights:
- Explore the hanging bridges and trails at Selvatura Adventure Park
- Wander through a butterfly garden
- Go ziplining above the treetops on one of Costa Rica’s longest and highest ziplines
- Discover the rich flora and fauna with an expert guide
Whether you’re into birdwatching, butterfly spotting, hiking, or soaring above the trees, this tour immerses you in Monteverde’s breathtaking cloud forest and gets it all done!
Book your private day tour here!
Bonus: a Unique Foodie Thing to do in Monteverde!
Ever tried fried ice cream?
Today’s the day! Monteverde Brewing Company is a must-visit for local craft beer and this behemoth of a dessert treat!
Whether you’re here for the brews or the sweets, the lively and joyful atmosphere makes it a great stop every time. Check out their website here!
Visiting Monteverde: Travel FAQs!
Now that you have a long list of unforgettable things to do in Monteverde, let’s get all of your burning questions about this region answered!
Here are the top 10 questions about Monteverde answered below:
Q1: Is Monteverde Worth Visiting?
Monteverde is absolutely worth visiting!
Check out the question right below for what makes this region so special, but just know that it is just that: special. It is one-of-a-kind cloud forest region and you will never visit a place on earth just like it.
Is it a bit overpriced in spots? Yes. Are there quite as many types activities to do here compared to the rest of Costa Rica? No.
However even if you only have a day or two, it’s worth making the trip! (More below on how to make the most of a short visit!)
Q2: What Makes Monteverde so Special?
The name Monteverde means “green mountain”, and this lush cloud forest region more than lives up to its name!
National Geographic even once called Monteverde “the jewel in the crown of cloud forests.” In 2007, Ticos (Costa Ricans) even voted the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as one of the Seven Wonders of Costa Rica – a well-deserved honor, I would say!
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, there is a wide range of things to do in Monteverde, from thrill-seeking adventures to relaxing nature escapes to educational tours and more.
If you’re looking to go ziplining in Costa Rica, Monteverde is the #1 recommended spot in the entire country!
Plus, the main town, Santa Elena, has a handful of great dining options, vibrant art, and some of the best cheese in Costa Rica!
Q3: What is a Cloud Forest?
Did you know that cloud forests are incredibly rare, covering just 1% of the world’s woodlands?
A cloud forest, also called a water forest, primas forest, or tropical montane cloud forest, is a unique ecosystem covered by a constant mist of low-hanging clouds, usually hovering right at the canopy level.
And Monteverde’s cloud cover is next level – you can literally watch the mist roll in like a tsunami, engulfing you in a dreamlike, mystical atmosphere. (I have probably 1,000 videos on my phone during our 7 days in Costa Rica of this mist, haha)
Cloud forests are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, home to countless plant and animal species found nowhere else. From vibrant orchids to rare birds like the Resplendent Quetzal and more – wildlife thrives here!
If you’re looking for some of the most breathtaking things to do in Monteverde, exploring its cloud forests should be #1 on your list!
Q4: What is the Weather Like in Monteverde?
Even though Monteverde is just a few hours from the coast, its cloud forest microclimate creates a cool, misty atmosphere, especially in the mornings and evenings.
If you’re coming straight from the warm coast in just a tank top and shorts, you might be in for a chilly surprise!
Monteverde’s temperatures range from an average high of 84.2°F (29°C) to an average low of 64.4°F (18°C) – but with thick mist and cloud cover, it can feel even colder.
Rainfall varies drastically throughout the year! While March sees just 2.5 inches (67mm) of rain, October gets a whopping 16.65 inches (423mm)! As seen, the dry season is December through April and the wet season is May through November.
So, whether you’re hiking, exploring, or just enjoying the views, make sure to pack accordingly (tips on that below!) for Monteverde’s unique climate.
Q5: When is the Best Time to Visit Monteverde?
No matter when you visit, there are always amazing things to do in Monteverde! The best time to visit just depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
If you want sunny skies and minimal rain, the dry season from December to April is the best choice. However, this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for big crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind some rain, the wet season from May to November is a great time to visit. Yes, there will be rain, but it usually comes in short, intense bursts in the mornings, late afternoons, or at night, leaving plenty of dry windows for exploring.
When we visited in August and September, we planned all our main activities right after breakfast and lunch, which helped us avoid most of the rain while enjoying Monteverde without the crowds!
A good tip is to always carry a light, foldable rain poncho (like this one!) and wear waterproof shoes (like these!) since Monteverde’s weather can be unpredictable. No matter when you go, this beautiful cloud forest region is always worth visiting!
Q6: What Should I Pack for a Trip to Monteverde?
Monteverde’s somewhat cooler climate and very frequent rain sets it apart from other regions in Costa Rica, so prepping whilst packing is key!
Here are the items that should be in every suitcase:
✔ Sweater & warm trousers – Nights and early mornings can be chilly!
✔ Rain Gear – A rain jacket, umbrella, or foldable poncho is a must.
✔ Waterproof Shoes – The trails can get muddy and it can rain a lot, so good waterproof shoes / hiking boots are essential!
Our go-to shoes (which we wore everywhere, from the ocean to the rainforest) were these for me and these for Matze. Super comfy, easy to clean, and durable. We can highly recommend them!
In addition to the above, we also highly suggest these:
✔ Binoculars – Perfect for birdwatching & spotting wildlife! This small, easy to pack one is great!
✔ Camera (or at least a good phone) – You’ll want to capture the magic of the cloud forest.
✔ Wildlife Field Guide – Enhance your experience with a Costa Rica nature guide like this one!
Monteverde is full of adventure – so pack smart and have fun exploring!
Q7: What Kind of Wildlife Will You See in Monteverde?
If you’re a nature lover, one of the absolute best things to do in Monteverde is wildlife spotting – especially birdwatching!
Monteverde is just teeming with incredible biodiversity.
From rare and colorful birds to cheeky little mammals to stunning frogs to neon spiders and SO. Much. More. Seriously, we could write an entire book about all of the animals (and plants!) you can spot in Monteverde!
Did you know that Costa Rica makes up less than 1% of Earth’s landmass, but holds about 6% of the world’s biodiversity!? That means no matter where you go or how long you stay, you’re guaranteed to spot unique wildlife in Monteverde and in all of Costa Rica.
Q8: Is Monteverde Family Friendly?
Yes! If you are looking for family-friendly things to do in Monteverde, you’re in luck! This vibrant region is perfect for families – especially those with kids who love adventure and nature.
Many of the treks in the cloud forest can be muddy and challenging, and thrilling activities like ziplining are generally best suited for kids 8 and up, so families with older kids will find the most activities here.
But don’t worry – there are plenty of great things to do in Monteverde for younger kids, such as all of the guided wildlife and food related tours, exploring Santa Elena, visiting the animal conservators, and more.
Costa Rica’s culture is joyful, energetic, and family-focused, and locals genuinely love seeing kids exploring and enjoying the area.
No matter your child’s age, there’s something exciting for every family in Monteverde!
Q9: How to Get to Monteverde?
Here are the best ways to reach Monteverde from your airport or city:
✔ By Rental Car – The easiest and most flexible option! We personally rented from Zuma Rent-a-Car and highly recommend them. Monteverde is about 3 hours from both San José and Liberia airports (traffic-dependent).
If you’re coming from La Fortuna, like we did, it’s also around 3 hours, with absolutely breathtaking scenery along the way. The winding roads and stunning views make for an unforgettable experience!
✔ By Shuttle Transport – A stress-free option for those who prefer not to drive. Private and shared shuttles run frequently from popular destinations like San José, Liberia, and La Fortuna.
✔ By Public Bus – The most budget-friendly choice! Long-distance buses connect Monteverde with a handful of major cities, though schedules can be limited so be sure to plan far ahead. (It can honestly also be kind of scary driving the curvy, small, and pothole-filled Costa Rican roads in a huge bus!!)
To book a shuttle or check for public bus connections near you, Google is your best friend, or check Viator for private transport options!
Q10: How to Get Around Monteverde?
Getting around Monteverde (and anywhere in Costa Rica!) can be tricky, so choosing the right transportation is key to making the most of your trip! Here are the best ways to explore this stunning cloud forest region:
✔ By Rental Car – in our opinion the best option!
We highly recommend renting a car for any trip to Costa Rica, but especially in Monteverde. Many areas can be impossible to get to by foot and public transport can be quite infrequent and unreliable.
As mentioned above, Matze and I used Zuma Rent-a-Car and had an amazing experience! Their team was super helpful and quick to respond.
✔ By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services
Taxis and services like Uber are generally available in Monteverde, but be cautious – some people have reported many taxi services in Costa Rica as scammy. If you go this route, do your research on the company and agree on a rough price estimate upfront.
✔ By Foot – a great option for short trips!
If you plan to stick to exploring Santa Elena and taking guided tours with hotel pickups, you might not need a car at all! The town is small and walkable, and most guided tours include pick-up and transportation.
However, if you want to visit parks on your own schedule or take self-guided day trips or smaller tours, you will need a car.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica: Top Accommodation!
With so many incredible things to do in Monteverde, having a cozy and comfortable place to recharge is essential.
Here are four fantastic accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style!
???? Best Budget Stay (Hostels)
- Monteverde Monkey Hostel – A fun, social atmosphere with amazing views, a great community vibe, and fun events.
- Monteverde Family House – A small, family-run hostel offering a relaxed and welcoming stay. Perfect for those looking for a quieter budget-friendly option.
???????? Best Mid-Range Private Stay
- Finca Alta Vista – A secluded, private home with breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside and the Gulf of Nicoya (see pic above). We stayed here and absolutely loved it. It is located on the same dairy farm as the cheese tour mentioned above at #13! Note: you’ll need a car to stay here, as it’s in a remote part of Monteverde. But that privacy makes it extra special!
???????????? Best Luxury Stay
- Hotel Belmar – A gorgeous eco-luxury hotel featuring an on-site brewery, juice bar, hot tub, yoga studio, spa, and unmatched views of Monteverde’s cloud forest. Pricey, but packed with amenities for an unforgettable stay!
What if You Only Have One Day in Monteverde, Costa Rica?
Only have one day in this region and you are wondering what are the very best things to do in Monteverde that cannot be missed? Well the answer to this is a day tour!
A day tour will combine all of the top sights and activities into one, single day so that you not only get the most bang for your buck, but so that you also see as much of Monteverde as possible.
The top day tour in Monteverde is the Selvatura Combo Tour. You get canopy walkway treks, suspension bridges, and butterfly gardens, and more!
Check out that tour here, or explore more Monteverde day tour options here!
In Short: There are MANY Amazing Things to do in Monteverde!
As you’ve seen, there are so many special things to do in Monteverde – from luxurious splurges to thrilling adventures to amazing free activities that let you soak in the beauty of this one-of-a-kind cloud forest.
No matter what you choose, you can’t go wrong!
You’re guaranteed to have an incredible experience, leave with a huge smile on your face, and start dreaming about your next trip back (likely before you even arrive back home, haha)!
Need more help planning your Costa Rica Vacation?
Check out other articles from us about Costa Rica here:
100 Unforgettable Things to do in Costa Rica: The Ultimate Travel Guide!
25 Amazing Activities You Wont Want to Miss in Puerto Viejo!
