15 Best Things to Do in Monteverde, Costa Rica for Nature Lovers

With plenty of exciting things to do in Monteverde Costa Rica, being the top eco-tourism destination in the country is a given.

I spent a week experiencing what to do in Monteverde. I flew across the rainforest canopy via zipline in Selvatura Park, strolled across scenic hanging bridges, spotted the elusive Resplendent Quetzal in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and witnessed 80% of Monteverde’s wildlife on a night walk. If you love chasing waterfalls, a hike to El Tigre Waterfalls is just the ticket! Monteverde attractions are plentiful.

For something a little different, partake in a Monteverde coffee tour to learn how one of Costa Rica’s top exports is grown, harvested and produced.

This detailed guide on Monteverde Costa Rica attractions will also give you information on the Monteverde region, how many days you should spend here (along with a simple itinerary), my recommended organized day tours, the best restaurants and more!

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

Best Things to Do in Monteverde Costa Rica

The majority of Monteverde Costa Rica’s things to do are based around the beautiful and mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest. Whether that be the wildlife-rich Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, ziplining through the Monteverde canopy, or strolling across some of the best hanging bridges in Costa Rica, nature will be the focus here.

Other top Monteverde activities include witnessing Monteverde’s nocturnal animals on a Monteverde Night Walk, a hike to the El Tigre Waterfalls, learning about Costa Rica’s top export on a coffee tour, and visiting a sanctuary for Costa Rica sloths.

Here is a list of the top things to do in Monteverde Costa Rica:

1. Ziplining

Monteverde Costa Rica is a popular destination for nature lovers and Adventure seekers alike, and one of the most exciting activities in the region is ziplining. The Monteverde zipline course at Selvatura Park takes you through the scenic Monteverde Cloud Forest canopy, where you can enjoy views of the lush rainforest. 

Ziplining in Monteverde Costa Rica is an adrenaline-pumping experience that is not to be missed and was one of my favourite Monteverde things to do. Zip across 8 lines, try out the tarzan swing and maybe even take a crack at flying superman-style!

Spend a Day at Selvatura Park

My recommendation is to get the full-day Selvatura Adventure Park package which includes ziplining, hanging bridges, a sloth sanctuary, a butterfly garden and a reptile exhibit.

WHERE | Selvatura Adventure Park

2. Hanging Bridges

The hanging bridges of Monteverde are not your typical bridges. For starters, they’re hanging, which is pretty darn impressive. Jokes aside, the hanging bridges Monteverde offers allow for a unique and special way to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest, which the region is best known for.

Some of the top hanging bridges in Costa Rica can be found at Selvatura Adventure Park with 8 suspension bridges in total. Lengths and heights of the hanging bridges vary from 2m-30m high and 50-600m long. 

Costa Rica hanging bridges are super safe and made with sturdy materials like steel and concrete. If you are scared of heights, rest assured that the hanging bridges provide a safe experience. Just be sure to hold on tight when crossing!

The hanging bridges combined with ziplining make a great day of fun.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Costa Rica. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve has several well-marked trails (including a hanging bridge!) that wind through the forest and is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life.

Its high elevation means that hikers can also enjoy breathtaking views of the continental divide. 

Monteverde is also a renowned bird-watching destination, and it’s not uncommon to see exotic species like the resplendent quetzal during a hike. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Monteverde is one of the most popular places to go hiking in Costa Rica.

TIP | Make sure to check out the Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery on your way out of the preserve!

WHERE | Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

If hiking is your thing, you can choose to visit the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve for additional hiking in Monteverde. 

4. Monteverde Night Walk

Monteverde at night is a whole different world. The Monteverde night tour will take you on a journey through the rainforest after the sun has set over the Monteverde Cloud Forest. With trails only lit by your flashlight, you’ll be guided by an expert naturalist who knows the Monteverde rainforest like the back of their hand. 

Monteverde is home to a large and diverse range of nocturnal animals (80% of Monteverde wildlife comes out at night!), and on the night tour, you’ll have the chance to see them in their natural habitat.

Book the Monteverde Night Walk

I spotted scorpions, tarantulas, frogs, lizards, snakes and birds on my Monteverde Night Walk, and you can even have a chance to see a sloth and a few other furry Monteverde Cloud Forest animals. 

Monteverde is one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica, and the night tour in Monteverde is the perfect way to experience it. 

5. Sloth Sanctuary Costa Rica Monteverde

The Monteverde sloth sanctuary is located in Selvatura Park and is a must-visit for anyone who loves these adorably slow creatures. The sanctuary houses orphaned sloths that have been rescued from the wild and provide them with a safe place to live. 

Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, and learn a few fun facts about Costa Rica sloths from a knowledgeable guide (spoiler, they aren’t always slow!).

And, of course, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close as they laze the day away in their sanctuary home. So whether you’re a die-hard sloth fan or simply looking for a unique experience at a top sloth sanctuary in Costa Rica, be sure to add it to your Costa Rica itinerary.

6. Monteverde Butterfly Garden

If you love butterflies, then a visit to the Monteverde butterfly garden is a must! Located in Selvatura Park, the butterfly garden is home to over 30 species of butterflies, including one of the largest and most beautiful butterflies in the world, the Blue Morpho butterfly.

The butterfly garden in Monteverde Costa Rica, with its striped dome interior, is a great place to learn about these amazing little creatures, from their lifecycle to their living habits. Have a chance to get up close to many colourful varieties living in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that’s sure to delight kiddos to adults, alike.

WHERE | Monteverde Butterfly Garden at Selvatura Park

7. Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery

Looking for what to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica for bird enthusiasts? The Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery is a one-of-a-kind gallery, devoted to the fascinating hummingbird (or ‘Colibri’ in Spanish). What I loved most about visiting the gallery was the up close and personal encounter with many hummingbirds flitting around out front of the souvenir shop. 

Make sure to check out the shop for all of your hummingbird souvenir needs, from feeders to paintings and so much more. Perfect after a morning hiking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve.

WHERE | Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery

8. Monteverde Coffee Tour

Ahh, the smell of a freshly brewed cup of joe… is there anything better? If you’re a coffee lover like me, then a Monteverde coffee tour is a must-do while you’re in Costa Rica. The Don Juan Coffee Tour offers a great overview of the coffee-making process, from picking the cherries to roasting the beans. 

Book the Don Juan Coffee Tour

The tour takes place on a working farm in the lush rainforest of Monteverde. Along the way, you will learn about the different steps involved in getting that perfect cup of coffee. And of course, you’ll also get to sample some of the delicious coffee made right there onsite. I particularly loved the traditional ‘sock’ method of brewing the coffee, too.

If you can’t decide where along your itinerary you should take a Costa Rica coffee tour, I’d recommend Monteverde overtaking one in La Fortuna (coffee doesn’t grow in La Fortuna!).

WHERE | Don Juan Coffee Tour Monteverde 

9. El Tigre Waterfalls Monteverde

Costa Rica is home to an incredible variety of natural wonders, including more than a thousand waterfalls. Among the most impressive is El Tigre, located in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a 30-minute drive north of Santa Elena. 

The 3.25 mile (5.2km) intermediate level trail will showcase four waterfalls and nine hanging and stationary bridges. The trail is very well-marked and easy to follow, making for a great half-day waterfall hike in Monteverde.

If you happen to be visiting in the rainy season between May and October, the El Tigre Waterfall will be at its best, bursting and overflowing with water. However, even during the dry season, El Tigre is an impressive sight, and well worth a visit for any visitor to Costa Rica.

WHERE | El Tigre Waterfalls, Monteverde

10. Bungee Jump Monteverde

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Then bungee jumping in Monteverde Costa Rica is definitely for you! Nestled in the lush rainforests of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve at the Extremo Park, bungee jumping off the 143m (469ft) platform (the highest in Costa Rica and Central America!) is an exhilarating experience. 

Check Price on Extremo Bungee Jumping

With experienced staff on hand to make sure you’re safely harnessed, you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the rainforest canopy and beyond. Bungee jumping is one of the most fun-packed Monteverde things to do.

NOTE | Maximum weight on the Monteverde bungee is 110 kilos (243lbs).

WHERE | Monteverde Extremo Park

11. Horseback Riding

Quietly explore a Monteverde Cloud Forest private reserve on this 2-hour horseback riding adventure.

With sweeping views of the Gulf of Nicoya and its pacific islands, pass by coffee and sugarcane plantations, through primary and secondary tropical forests, and witness a variety of local wildlife like toucans, bellbirds, green parrots, blue-crowned motmots, among other colourful birds. Also, keep an eye out for monkeys! 

Horseback Riding Monteverde Tour

Horseback riding in Monteverde is a great way to see the rainforest without the strain on your feet and joints. 

12. Frog Pond

A short walk outside of downtown Santa Elena Monteverde, you can find the Monteverde Frog Pond.

The Frog Pond is home to a large variety of frog species, including the red-eyed tree frog, the blue-jean frog, the blue jean frog and the poison dark frog. Explore the many habits, learning about frog’s ecology and ecosystem. Among the top things to do in Monteverde Costa Rica for kids!

WHERE | Frog Pond Monteverde

13. Watch Sunset from El Establo Lookout

Costa Rica is famous for its biodiverse ecosystem and natural beauty, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Monteverde cloud forest. As the sun sets, the sky erupts in a spectrum of oranges, pinks, and purples, providing a stunning backdrop to the lush greenery below. No better way to end a great day of Monteverde hiking and adventures. 

There are a few different lookouts scattered throughout the Monteverde region, but my favourite is the one at the top of the El Establo Mountain Hotel property. From here, you can see for miles in every direction, and the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. I also really loved the sunsets from the coastline towns of Santa Teresa and Nosara.

NOTE | You can enter the El Establo property free of charge, just follow the road up the mountain

WHERE | Monteverde Sunset Lookout

14. Watch Birds on Stella’s Back Patio

I had the pleasure of snagging a seat on Stella’s back patio for lunch on one of my days in Monteverde Costa Rica. And, boy, am I glad. The variety of birds and small animals that came to visit during my one-hour lunch was plentiful, with Colibri (hummingbirds) flitting about their feeder and squirrels running across roof lines. 

It’s a quaint little experience not to be missed. Make sure to have a look at their well-maintained succulent garden and try the house quiche and iced tea!

WHERE | Stella’s Monteverde

15. Monteverde Art House Gallery

While walking east on Road 620 you are bound to come across the picturesque spot that is the Monteverde Art House Gallery. Surrounded by a scenic little garden, it makes a perfect pit stop along your walk. 

Discover local jewelry artists and painters and take something home for family and friends, or simply to commemorate your trip to Monteverde, Costa Rica!

WHERE | Monteverde Art House Gallery

Best Monteverde Tours

Planning out every detail of your Costa Rica itinerary can be stressful, that’s where guided tours come in. With the help of a knowledgeable local guide, you can experience the best of Monteverde through one or more Monteverde Costa Rica tours. 

Without a doubt, a tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a must on your visit to the region. The naturalist will provide you with information about the area, plus point out birds (Resplendent Quetzal!), animals and insects that you normally wouldn’t see. 

Then, experience the wildlife of Monteverde in a different and exciting way, via a Monteverde night walk. Since 80% of Monteverde’s wildlife is nocturnal, this is a fantastic way to round out your trip to Monteverde Costa Rica.

And, of course, a day spent in Selvatura Adventure Park is a must for all you adrenaline seekers. Zip through the Monteverde canopy on 8 ziplines, and appreciate nature while hiking some of the top hanging bridges in Costa Rica.

My Top Picks for Monteverde Tours
Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour
Selvatura Adventure Park Ziplining Tour
Monteverde Rainforest Night Walk

Other Cool Things to Do in Monteverde
Don Juan Coffee Tour
El Tigre Waterfalls Tour

Where is Monteverde Costa Rica?

Where is Monteverde in Costa Rica? The region of Monteverde and the town of Santa Elena Costa Rica are located at the northern point of the Puntarenas Province in the hills of the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range, and where the Alajuela, Guanacaste and Puntarenas provinces converge. 

The town of Santa Elena, the central tourist hub of the Monteverde Costa Rica region, is located ~145km (90 miles) or a 2.5 hour drive from San Jose, ~110km (68 miles): or a 3 hour drive to La Fortuna, ~158km (98 miles) or a 3.5 hour drive from Tamarindo and ~159km (98 miles) or a 3.5 hour drive from Manuel Antonio.

Click on the map of Costa Rica Monteverde below to interact with Google Maps and find the perfect route to get to Monteverde.

About Monteverde and Santa Elena Town

About Monteverde Region

I think it’s important to note, that Monteverde is not a town, it’s a region. The region is home to many small communities, the largest being the town of Santa Elena, where most visitors will choose to stay. 

The literal translation of Monteverde is ‘green mountain’, so you can expect to find rolling rainforested hills, winding roads and wildlife everywhere. Named after the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest (not to be confused with the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve), the region offers many outdoor Monteverde things to do, including some of the best Costa Rica ziplining and hanging bridges, birdwatching and more. 

The Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, in particular, is where Costa Rica’s continental divide splits the country in two and is situated a mile above sea level. If you are wondering, ‘what is a cloud forest?’. The term ‘cloud forest’ derives from a layer of ground-level clouds that create a misty fog that blankets the lush Monteverde rainforest. 

Because of this environment, many species call the Monteverde region home, including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal bird, 100 species of mammals, 160 reptile and amphibian species and thousands of insects. 

The Monteverde Costa Rica Cloud Forest is amongst the most pristine cloud forests in the world, and is a top attraction in Monteverde, bringing in thousands of tourists every year.

About Santa Elena Town

With the Monteverde cloud forest Costa Rica taking up the eastern edge of the region, you can find the town of Santa Elena at its heart, in the centre of the area. The small town of Santa Elena, with a population of roughly 2,000 people, is the main hub for public transportation, restaurants, hotels and amenities for the Monteverde region. 

From here, roads scatter throughout the countryside like veins, with the main road 620 leading to top attractions like the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Road 619, heading north, will take you to the Selvatura Adventure Park for ziplining and hanging bridges, and the thundering El Tigre Waterfalls.

It is common to arrive in Monteverde from other top Costa Rica destinations like the central Costa Rica towns such as La Fortuna and San Jose, or from towns like Tamarindo in the Nicoya Peninsula or Manuel Antonio further south in the Puntarenas province.

Is Monteverde Worth Visiting?

A resounding yes, the town of Santa Elena and the Monteverde region is worth visiting. If you haven’t been to Costa Rica before, it’s hard to determine between La Fortuna and Monteverde, and I’m here to tell you that they each offer something different. 

La Fortuna is known for hot springs, waterfalls, Arenal Volcano trekking and hanging bridges (although Selvatura Park in Monteverde rivals La Fortuna’s Mistico Park). While Monteverde is better for ziplining, cloud forests and spotting birdlife. Monteverde also has a more eco-tourism feel to it, with higher care put into sustainability and preservation.

How Many Days in Monteverde

Is one day enough in Monteverde? No. It really isn’t enough for visiting Monteverde. My recommendation is to spend 3 nights in Monteverde (2 full days) along your Costa Rica itinerary. The journey to get to Monteverde from most other tourist destinations in Costa Rica takes a minimum of 3 hours, so it’s best to make the most of that travel time. 

Ziplining through the rainforest and strolling along hanging bridges at Selvatura Adventure Park is a full-day Monteverde activity on its own. Especially if you add a visit to the on-site sloth sanctuary, butterfly garden and reptile exhibit. And, you can’t come to Monteverde without a hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, which is a perfect activity for the morning of day 2.

Simple Costa Rica Monteverde Things to Do Itinerary:

Day 0: Arrive by sunset

Day 1 in Monteverde Costa Rica:

• Selvatura Park All-Day Package
  • Ziplining
  • Hanging Bridges
  • Sloth Sanctuary
  • Reptile Exhibit
  • Butterfly Garden
• Monteverde Night Walk

Day 2 in Monteverde Costa Rica:

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
• Don Juan Coffee Tour
• San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience

Day 3: Transfer to your next Costa Rica destination

If you have only given yourself one full day in Monteverde, I’d opt to hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve first thing in the morning, then transfer to a half-day adventure through Selvatura Park. Finish your night with a Monteverde Night Walk or a leisurely upscale dinner at San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience. 

Best Restaurants in Monteverde Costa Rica

Monteverde is home to a wide variety of restaurants for every taste and budget. If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, Monteverde has plenty to offer. 

For example, you can enjoy a mix of local and western cuisine in Santa Elena town centre at the ever-popular Tree House Monteverde, or try a tasting of craft beer at the Belmar Craft Brewery. For something truly special, book a table at San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience and spend the night in the rainforest canopy. 

Other great options for Monteverde Costa Rica restaurants I can recommend are Stella’s Monteverde (try the quiche and iced tea!), organic Celajes Restaurant, casual Taco Taco Tacqueria,  and Orchid Coffee for a great cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Budget for Costa Rica Monteverde

Costa Rica is a relatively expensive nation. What are the reasons for this? Costa Rica has a better national health system and, in general, a higher quality of life than many other Central American nations owing to its strong government (which is unusual for Central America).

Costa Rica’s main source of income is tourism, with most tourists coming from the United States. Due to this, the government decided that it would be beneficial to price tourist attractions and activities at prices similar to what they are in America.

The government also spends a significant amount of money on preserving Costa Rica’s natural beauty, which has resulted in some of Central America’s most well-kept forests.

You can travel to Costa Rica on a budget, just remember that you’ll need extra time for all the bus transfers.

Costa Rica uses both the Costa Rican Colones (CRC) and the American Dollar (USD).

Daily Monteverde Costa Rica Budget (for Couple)

*excludes international flights

• Monteverde Hotel: ~$64USD Nightly
• Monteverde Car Rental: ~75 USD Daily
• Monteverde Tours: ~$55 USD Daily per Person
• Monteverde Food: $20 USD Daily per Person

Total Daily Monteverde Costa Rica Budget (for Couple): ~$289 USD Daily Budget

Daily Monteverde Costa Rica Budget (for Family of 4) 

*excludes international flights

• Monteverde Hotel: ~$120 USD Nightly
• Monteverde Car Rental: ~75 USD Daily
• Monteverde Tours: ~$55 USD Daily per Person
• Monteverde Food: $20 USD Daily per Person

Total Daily Monteverde Costa Rica Budget (For Family of 4): ~$495 USD Daily Budget

Monteverde Costa Rica Packing List

Generally speaking, the dress code in Costa Rica is comfortable and casual. In Monteverde, with its sporadic rainfall, quick winds and humid rainforest climate, I would recommend layered clothing that is quick-dry or moisture-wicking, plus a rain jacket and sturdy walking shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

I lived in my athletic leggings, long sleeve t-shirt and sweater for most of my visit to Monteverde Costa Rica. I always, ALWAYS, carried a water-resistant day pack with my rain jacket, reusable water bottle and mosquito repellent inside.
 
When the sun does come out in Monteverde, it can get really hot! So make sure to equip yourself with good sunscreen.

Here are some other essentials to bring along on your Monteverde activities:

• hooded rain jacket
• water resistant daypack
• purifying reusable water bottle
• natural mosquito repellent

Monteverde What to Do FAQ

Things to Do in Monteverde Costa Rica Final Thoughts

I thoroughly enjoyed my week-long visit to Monteverde Costa Rica. I enjoyed some of the best things to do in Monteverde. I ziplined through the Monteverde canopy, strolled across the best hanging bridges Monteverde had to offer, hiked through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve spotting beautiful exotic birds and wildlife, took part in an exciting night walk and enjoyed being amongst nature. 

As a digital nomad, I stayed in the popular Selina Monteverde, one of the top hotels in Monteverde, and can also recommend the top-rated Hotel Belmar. Whether you are travelling cheaply or looking for a luxury stay, Monteverde has you covered.

More Things to Do in Costa Rica