-Hotels & Tours by Zone-
MONTERVERDE
Hotels | Tours
Monteverde
(the Green Mountain), is nestled amongst the clouds. One first views it after
about a four-hour journey from the capital. To those with a romantic bent,
it truly appears as a Shangri-La; a rich, verdant mountain top standing in
stark contrast to the deforested slopes below. First and foremost to the visitor,
it will stand out as a region of incredible ecological richness. It can boast
over 350 orchids native to the area, and has registered one of the highest
bird counts in the world.
Nine Quaker families arrived in the early 1950´s, essentially emigrating
as a statement of strong disapproval against the military system in the United
States. At this time Costa Rica was the only nation in the world that had
formally abolished its own army altogether. Monteverde was founded as a religiously
motivated community committed to peace, simplicity, and non-materialistic
rural living. Although some growth and development has begun to challenge
this lifestyle, these ideals are still fundamental within the community.
Monteverde is also truly a Mecca of biological study and conservation. A
variety of biologists and naturalists reside full time in the zone. Hundreds
of students participate in university and high school level courses that run
from one week to a semester. At any given time up to five research projects
are underway. This academic foundation has been instrumental in supporting
ever-greater initiatives in conservation.
Nowadays, Monteverde offers a wide array of activities to the visitors besides
the private reserves. These include Canopy tours & zip lines, hanging
bridges with spectacular views of the cloud forest, horseback riding and ATV
tours, among others.
What to bring: Necessary equipment is simple. If you are visiting
during the rainy season, keep rain gear handy and keep comfortable shoes on
your feet when taking in the sights. Binoculars are mandatory when in the
area since birdwatching is excellent. Light clothes for the plains and long
pants and long sleeved shirts and a sweater for the mountains.
Weather: As it name indicates, the Cloud Forest remains much of the
year blanketed in clouds, creating conditions of high humidity. The trade
wind that comes from the Atlantic forces moist air up cooling the air and
forming clouds; meaning lower temperatures and a nice refreshing breeze throughout
the day.
MONTERVERDE HOTELS: