Monteverde

Things to do in Monteverde

Search attractions or local attractions & tours
Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Monteverde

View all Attractions
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

5.5
4.8/5
9 reviews
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is located on the watershed high in the Tilarán Mountains. The key difference between it and lowland rainforests is the altitude: moist air currents from the Caribbean side rise along the mountain slopes and condense into mist upon cooling, with white mist often filling the forest in the early morning, leaving the entire forest soaked in lush green. The preserve covers 10,500 hectares, with approx. 90% being primary forest. Epiphytes are a highly recognizable view here: mosses, ferns, bromeliads, and hundreds of orchid species hang in layers from the branches, with even the trunks appearing as if draped in a green carpet; the forest is home to birds such as the resplendent quetzal and the bare-necked umbrellabird, while mammals like jaguars and Baird's tapirs are elusive, attracting birdwatchers and naturalists year-round. The park's trails connect several highlights: the classic Cloud Forest Trail allows you to delve into typical cloud forest sections, and walking to the "La Ventana" lookout puts you directly opposite the Continental Divide, where you can overlook the mountain slopes on both sides when the weather is clear; in the hummingbird garden near the entrance, various hummingbirds flit around the flowers and trees, making it suitable for close-up birdwatching; a suspension bridge also spans the valley, allowing you to view the canopy layer covered in epiphytes at eye level. If you wish to experience outdoor activities like ziplining or bungee jumping, you need to book them separately, as the preserve itself focuses on hiking and nature observation.San Ramon · 5.3 km from Monteverde
Arenal Volcano National Park
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park

6.7
4.8/5
15 reviews
Arenal Volcano Park is located in Arenal Reserve. There are actually two volcanoes in this national park, Arenal Volcano with a height of 1633 meters and Chato Volcano with a height of 1140 meters. The latter has been active for nearly 3500 years. A collapsed crater and a beautiful lagoon. In contrast, Arenal Volcano is a very active volcano in Costa Rica. It erupted in 1968 and 1973. Until July 2010, the eruptions of large and small volcanoes continued, and the severity was much lower, but almost every day. There was smoke and lava coming out.La Fortuna · 20.4 km from Monteverde
Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano

5.7
5.0/5
1 reviews
Arenal Volcano has an elevation of approx. 1,633m, with a nearly symmetrical conical shape. The town of La Fortuna at the foot of the mountain is the gateway to visiting this area. It is a relatively young volcano, formed approx. 7,000 years ago. It erupted suddenly on July 29, 1968, destroying villages such as Tabacón at the foot of the mountain, and remained active for over 40 years thereafter. The sight of lava flowing slowly down the slopes and lighting up the night sky once drew many tourists to wait specifically for it. The volcano entered a dormant phase in 2010 and no longer spews magma today, but its perfectly shaped conical silhouette remains striking. On clear days, when viewed from the foot of the mountain, the dark rock walls contrast with the clouds and mist on the mountainside. Within the national park established around the volcano, multiple trails pass through the lava wasteland left by the 1968 eruption and the regrown rainforest, with greenery emerging from the crevices of the black volcanic rocks. You can often encounter howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and toucans along the way. Volcanic geothermal heat also warms the natural hot springs at the foot of the mountain; soaking in the hot springs after a hike while looking up at the silhouette of the volcano is a common experience in this area. The nearby Lake Arenal has vast waters, suitable for birdwatching and water activities such as kayaking. The top of the volcano is often covered by clouds; there is less cloud cover in the early morning, giving a better chance to see the full mountain.La Fortuna · 21.9 km from Monteverde
Fortuna Waterfall
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Fortuna Waterfall

5.6
5.0/5
7 reviews
Fortuna Waterfall is located in a rainforest canyon in San Carlos, approx. 5.5 km from the town of La Fortuna, at the foothills of the dormant Chato Volcano. Originating from theArenal Mountain Range, the Río Fortuna plunges approx. 70 m from the cliff edge, falling straight into the deep blue pool below. The sound of the water is deafening, and mist fills the air. The surrounding cliffs are covered in dense tropical vegetation. To view the waterfall, you need to walk down the steps to the bottom of the canyon, which involves over 500 steps round trip. There are platforms along the way for resting, and the trail passes through pastures and rainforest, where you may have the chance to encounter animals such as toucans and monkeys. Visitors who do not plan to walk the entire way can also overlook the full view of the waterfall from the viewing platform above. There is an open area at the bottom of the valley for taking photos, and you can also swim in designated areas to experience the cool, clear river water. The current is strong directly beneath the waterfall, so be sure to stay within the designated swimming areas. The return trip requires climbing back up the same way, which is physically demanding, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes and allow plenty of time.La Fortuna · 22.7 km from Monteverde
Treetopia Park

Treetopia Park

3.4
5.0/5
1 reviews
Tilaran · 4.1 km from Monteverde
Curi-Cancha Reserve

Curi-Cancha Reserve

3.1
Monteverde · 1.2 km from downtown
Monteverde Orchid Garden

Monteverde Orchid Garden

2.8
Monteverde · 2 km from downtown
Puentes Colgantes Arenal, Mistico Park

Puentes Colgantes Arenal, Mistico Park

4.1
Puentes Colgantes Arenal, Mistico Park is an ideal eco-tourism destination that combines rainforest, elevated hanging bridges, and nature sightseeing, making it especially suitable for travelers who love outdoor activities and wildlife. One of its features is a circular trail composed of multiple hanging bridges and standard forest wooden bridges, allowing visitors to overlook the rainforest scenery from the canopy level and various heights. Walking on the hanging bridges, you can truly feel the sounds of the forest and the breeze. Biodiversity is another major highlight here. This forest is located where highland and lowland ecological zones meet, featuring a wide variety of plants and rich birdlife. Monkeys, tree frogs, and other wildlife are also frequently seen, making it highly attractive to birdwatchers and nature photographers. Hiking is a common way to explore this area. Visitors can choose to traverse the hanging bridges and rainforest on their own, or follow a professional guide to delve into the mysteries deep within the rainforest. Either way, visitors can fully experience the unique charm of this ecological treasure.La Fortuna · 21.9 km from Monteverde
Night Walk Santamaria´s

Night Walk Santamaria´s

2.6
Monteverde · 3.2 km from downtown
Monteverde Reserve Trails Entrance

Monteverde Reserve Trails Entrance

2.6
Monteverde · 1.4 km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Monteverde

Featured Cultural experiences in Monteverde

View all Cultural experiences
Monteverde: Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour
󱌍
5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,644.11TRY 1,730.65
Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffe Tour
󱌍
4.9/5
· 2.5k reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Book now for today
100 consecutive positive reviews
FromTRY 1,524.68
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugarcane Tour La Fortuna
󱌍
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromTRY 2,744.62
San José by Night: Food, Drinks & Local Culture Tour
󱌍
Duration: 4 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 3,710.97TRY 3,906.29
Vista Los Sueños: Cacao Plantation & Chocolate Tasting
󱌍
5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 2,348.88TRY 2,472.51
San José Highlights Audio Tour: Cultural Treasures and Historical Landmarks
󱌍
Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
20% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 354.68TRY 443.35
Guided Walking Street Art & Graffiti Tour in Jaco Costa Rica
󱌍
5.0/5
· 26 reviews
Duration: 2–3 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
26 consecutive positive reviews
FromTRY 1,932.48

Featured Food & drink in Monteverde

View all Food & drink
Hands-On Costa Rican Bread Making Workshop in Monteverde
󱌍
4.9/5
· 17 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromTRY 2,229.79
Monteverde: Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour at El Pueblo
󱌍
5.0/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 2–2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,973.04TRY 2,076.89
Costa Rican Bread-Making Workshop in Monteverde
󱌍
5.0/5
· 35 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
35 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 2,125.91TRY 2,237.8
La Fortuna: Relax Termalitas Hot Springs Entry with Meal
󱌍
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 2,348.88TRY 2,472.51
Farm to Table Cooking Class
󱌍
4.8/5
· 156 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
23 consecutive positive reviews
FromTRY 2,229.79
Sloth Tour in La Fortuna and Tortillas Cooking Class
󱌍
5.0/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromTRY 1,882.93
San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets
󱌍
4.9/5
· 912 reviews
Duration: 210 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for today
97.6% of travelers recommend
FromTRY 1,833.38

Featured Spa & wellness in Monteverde

View all Spa & wellness
Hot Springs Pura Vida River and Thermal Pool Access
󱌍
4.9/5
· 8 reviews
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,338.91TRY 1,409.38
1-day tour in Costa Rica - Fortuna Waterfall + Arenal Volcano + Natural Hot Springs
󱌍
FromTRY 8,207.26
From 1 person for Arenal volcano and hot springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
󱌍
FromTRY 4,959.29
One Day Adventure Pass at Vida Aventura Nature Park
󱌍
Duration: 4 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 5,669.25TRY 5,967.64

Featured Outdoor experiences in Monteverde

View all Outdoor experiences
The Original Canopy Tour Monteverde, Zipline
󱌍
4.9/5
· 413 reviews
Duration: 150 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
97.6% of travelers recommend
FromTRY 4,459.57
Monteverde Night Tour: Glass Frogs, lateralis, Sloths & Jungle
󱌍
4.4/5
· 128 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromTRY 1,882.93
Monteverde: Night Sightseeing Tour Near Town, Easy Walk, Small Group, Wildlife Spotting
󱌍
4.7/5
· 66 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
27 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,511.80TRY 1,591.37
Monteverde: Night Walk with Guide and Flashlights
󱌍
4.7/5
· 30 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 939.34TRY 988.78
Monteverde: Kinkajou Forest Night Walking Tour
󱌍
4.7/5
· 22 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,503.37TRY 1,582.5
Monteverde Night Tour+Guide+Photos+HD optic+Flashlights
󱌍
5.0/5
· 5 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 998.38TRY 1,050.93
Monteverde: Night Walk in the Magical Forest
󱌍
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,644.11TRY 1,730.65
Monteverde: Curi-Cancha Tour with Guide+HD Binoculars+Photos
󱌍
4.8/5
· 9 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromTRY 1,009.98TRY 1,063.14

Free things to do in Monteverde

More ways to travel from Monteverde

What travelers say about Monteverde

user-avatar
YoYo_1I8Q7O5ODecember 1, 2025
5.0
Entering the Montevideo Cloud Forest, the world suddenly sinks into a grey-green seabed. Gnarled tree roots, wrapped in moss, resemble the spine of a prehistoric behemoth, and each fern is adorned with diamond-like droplets of mist. On the suspension bridge, hummingbirds flutter their wings eighty times per second, frozen before bromeliad blossoms, while twenty meters below, in the layer of decaying leaves, the legend of the golden toad's extinction gently turns its page with a sigh from the guide. The most magical moment is the "sun dog"—a crack in the thick fog, sunlight dyeing the steam iridescent, and thousands of shades of green awaken in an instant. Touching the roots of epiphytic orchids leaves your hands covered in cool mist, and you understand why the locals call this place "the forest of eternal breathing."

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

user-avatar
南美当地向导YolandaFebruary 16, 2020
5.0
We welcome tourists to the Arenal Volcano Park. It is so enjoyable to soak in the volcanic hot springs. Costa Rica is really a fairy-like country! There are more than 270 volcanoes here. The most famous one is the Arenal Volcano, which is located near La Fortuna, a well-known tourist destination in northern Costa Rica. It had a devastating eruption in 1968 and entered a long-term dormant state after 2010. It is now a national park for tourists to visit. On the way to the volcano, you can see many small ants moving in groups with mini leaves on their backs. Walking to the observation deck, the view here is very good. There is always a cloud of mist around the crater, and it is surrounded by cloud forests. There is a restaurant next to it, where you can have a drink and look at the volcano. The scenery here is too suitable for wide-angle, enjoy pure life pura vida! ❤️For more local fun in Costa Rica, please consult me!

Arenal Volcano National Park

user-avatar
criskotsuJune 16, 2022
5.0
Arenal is wonderful. During winter is hard to see the full cone without mist, or even some clastic material falling down at night. However, it’s a gorgeous location to visit anytime of the year, close to San Jose even for one-day trip

Arenal Volcano

user-avatar
乖小咪August 21, 2019
5.0
La Fortuna Falls in Costa Rica is a very spectacular waterfall. Although it is not very wide, it has a large amount of water. The mist stirred up by the waterfall is very large, like a fairyland. Many tourists are swimming in the pool below, very happy.

Fortuna Waterfall

user-avatar
丰辰June 30, 2025
5.0
10/10 we walked up to bridge 5 bright and early and saw the resplendant quetzal! 🦜go to bridge 5 and find the avocado tree!contact me to buy these photos:bryankor@hotmail.com

Treetopia Park

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Monteverde?

Don't miss these attractions in Monteverde: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Arenal Volcano. If you like Cultural experiences, try Monteverde: Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Hands-On Costa Rican Bread Making Workshop in Monteverde.

You can give Hands-On Costa Rican Bread Making Workshop in Monteverde and Monteverde: Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour at El Pueblo a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.