Things to do
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Selvatura Park
Zip lines strung across the canopy, a treetop walkway of eight bridges and a glass fronted hummingbird garden share one site in the forest above Santa Elena. The cable runs are long and fast, which suits anyone wanting adrenaline alongside the trees. Booking a morning slot matters in high season, as afternoon cloud closes in and visibility drops.
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Cloud forest protected since 1972 covers a continental divide where trade winds push mist through moss hung trees all day. Resplendent quetzals nest between March and June, and guides with telescopes find them far faster than unaided eyes. Trails are short, steep and slippery, and the first entry slot of the day brings quiet paths and clearer air.
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Monteverde Night Walk
Guided walks after dark on the private reserves along the Santa Elena road turn up kinkajous, sleeping birds, tarantulas and tree frogs that daylight hides. Torch beams stay low and groups stay small, so sightings depend on the guide's eye. Two sessions run from around dusk and are booked the same day, and rain gear helps in drizzle.
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Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Run by the local high school since 1992, this smaller reserve sits higher than its neighbour and looks toward Arenal on rare clear mornings. Wildlife sightings are no less likely and the trails carry a fraction of the traffic. Entry fees support the school, which is reason enough for some walkers. Wind on the exposed ridge can be fierce.
