In Steep, windy and rugged, the unpaved journey to the Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the most famously bumpy rides in the country. But brave the trek and a spectacular ecological experience awaits: thousands of acres of lush protected forests brimming with life. Majestic moss-covered trees tower high overhead as wild jaguars lurk in the thick jungle, the elusive Resplendent Quetzal sing-songing in the distance. Inhale the pure misty air as the humid forest’s all-encompassing biodiversity embraces your every footstep. Park your belongings at a local Eco-lodge in Monteverde, the town itself known for delicious locally-produced cheeses, biological research labs, Spanish language schools and a perfectly-dewy mountain climate. Awaken early for daytime exploration. Straddle the continental divide within the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve on a guided tour of sloping green trails, murky swamplands, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring panoramas of the tree-covered mountainsides.

Soar above the emerald treetops with Star Trek Canopy Tour, featuring 3 kilometers of zip-line cables, Sky Walk suspended bridges and an aerial tram through acres of primary forest. For a charitable and authentic look into Costa Rica’s coffee industry, the Santa Elena Cooperative’s Café Monteverde Coffee Tour offers up history lessons, sample tastings of local blends and informative guided tours of working coffee farms—with proceeds benefi tting Monteverde’s local coffee farmers and surrounding community.