8 Awesome & Interesting Things to Do in Monteverde

As one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde. Located in the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range, Monteverde is a far departure from the warm and sunny beaches of Nosara and Tamarindo. I visited in late November and was greeted by gusting wind, rain, and very chilly weather. Regardless, I had a great time in Monteverde. 

Deemed one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Costa Rica, it is certainly an area to be seen and explored. From hanging bridges to canyoning, there are some amazing things to do in Monteverde.

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MONTEVERDE, COSTA RICA

1. Soar Above the Treetops on a Canopy Tour

If you read any Costa Rica travel guide, you know that zip lining is one of the must do activities. Monteverde is an awesome place to do it because you get to zip through the cloud forest. The canopy tour at Selvatura Park features 13 lines, a Tarzan swing, and an optional superman line for an additional cost. Also, Selvatura offers a combo deal that includes their hanging bridges.

2. Take the Plunge at Monteverde Extremo Bungee Jump 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the Extremo Bungee Jump is just the thing. Take the leap off the 80 foot platform surrounded by lush greenery. One day I think I’ll be brave enough to try something like this.

3. Get a Taste of Costa Rica on a Coffee Tour 

Coffee is one of Costa Rica’s key exports, and there are many tours where you can learn more about how it goes from plant to coffee pot. One of the most popular coffee tours in Monteverde is the Don Juan Coffee, Sugarcane, and Chocolate tour. Another option is the Cafe Monteverde tour.

4. Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is the more popular cloud forest to visit in Monteverde. You can walk the trails on your own, or do a tour with a guide to show you the way and point out wildlife. 

5. Check out the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Smaller and less busy than the Monteverde Cloud Reserve, the Santa Elena Cloud reserve is a good alternative for those looking to escape the crowds and explore a cloud forest at a cheaper price. Santa Elena is $16 for adults and $7 for kids vs $25 for adults and $12 for kids at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This nighttime tour gives you the chance to see many on the jungles nocturnal animals.

6. Ride a horse through the rainforest

There are numerous horseback riding tours in the area. Ranging from quick sunset rides to 8 day treks. This 2.5 hour, easy day ride will take you through the beautiful countryside surrounding the ranch.

7. Visit the hanging bridges at Selvatura Park

A great photo op and a great way to experience the cloud forest. There are 8 bridges total connected by trails surrounded by lush greenery. This is a relatively easy nature walk through some of the prettiest scenery you’ve ever seen. If you’re not interested in zip lining, you can visit just the hanging bridges.

8. See some waterfalls from a different perspective 

Another popular thing to do in Costa Rica is waterfall rappelling, or canyoning. I took a canyoning tour in Arenal, and felt pretty cool rappelling alongside the falls. If you’re interested in doing a canyoning tour in Monteverde, here’s one tour option.

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