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Monteverde Cloud Forest Holidays

Perched upon the continental divide amid the peaks of the Tilaran Cordillera, towering trees reach high into the mist. Draped in moss, ferns and epiphytes, the atmosphere feels almost prehistoric. As the primaeval roar of howler monkeys reverberates through the cloud forest, it’s easy to see why Michael Crichton was inspired to write Jurassic Park after a visit here! The small town of Santa Elena is a great base for exploring with cloud forest tours, horse-riding and hiking available.

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Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves

Take a guided hike through the jungle to the beautiful San Luis waterfall or explore the treetops from a dizzying network of hanging canopy bridges. Come face to face with hummingbirds, capuchin monkeys and kinkajous, search for the elusive resplendent quetzal, and enjoy the background melody of a thousand tree-frogs. Renowned for their astonishing biodiversity, the famous Cloud Forest Reserves of Monteverde and Santa Elena are home to over 2,500 plant species, 400 bird species and a wealth of mammals, insects, and amphibians.

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Children’s Eternal Rainforest

Costa Rica’s largest private reserve was founded by donations from schoolchildren across 44 countries, from Sweden to Japan and the UK. Their epic fund-raising contributions have resulted in a 23,000-hectare forest, supporting the conservation and rehabilitation of a vibrant tropical ecosystem. Visitor fees directly support the ongoing work of the non-profit Monteverde Conservation League, who run research and educational programmes within the rainforest. A visit means a positive contribution to the planet and the chance to see toucans, hummingbirds, coatis, sloths, butterflies, and so much more.