Monteverde Cloud Forest

The privately owned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is probably one of the most outstanding wildlife refuges in the country. It shelters jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, colorful insects, butterflies and birds, including the metallic-green resplendent quetzal, which is seen mostly during its March-April nesting season. Impressive, mist-covered forests contain thousands of different plant species, including tall trees laden with ferns, bromeliads, orchids and other epiphytes. Because of its altitude and topography, it is deemed a cloud forest. The variable climate and altitude differences contribute to the area's rich biodiversity. The forests in Monteverde shelter more than 100 species of mammals, more than 400 species of birds, thousands of insect species and about 2500 species of plants including more than 400 orchids.

A walk through the Monteverde cloud forest reveals a lush green garden of mosses, ferns, flowers and epiphytes growing thickly on every tree. Clouds drift in and settle among the slopes, giving the continuous moisture required for such exuberant plant growth. Dangling roots and vines sweep across the trails. The air is rich with the sounds of birds and the occasional scurrying of small mammals on the forest floor in Monteverde is always magic.

Monteverde is a special place for bird watching. Since it is very easy to move around from one environment to the next, walking around with an experienced guide can be a very enjoyable and educative experience.