Monteverde - Costa Rica
Monterverde was established in 1951 by several Quaker families from the USA. They gave the name Monterverde (green mountain) to the area.
The production of cheese was started by them as well. It is possible to store the cheese over a long period and it didn't go bad on the long trip to markets where it was sold. The cheese of Monteverde is known as the best cheese from Central America and can be bought all over Cost Rica.
The 12,000 hectare nature protection area of Monteverde is known worldwide. The amount of tourists reflect this international fame. Nature loves and birdwatchers are ardent about Monteverde. In the tropical rainforest the high trees are covered with bromeliads, orchids, ferns and mosses, it truly is a natural paradise.
The ones that travel to Costa Rica to observe birds or other animals should plan there trip for the dry season, in the rainy season the sighting of animals is more difficult. Many of the birdwatchers that visit Monteverde come to spot the Quetzal, the most famous and colorful species of the family of trogons. The male Quetzal is especially beautiful with its tail feathers that are up to one meter long.
It can be rewarding to book a guide in Monteverde, because they know where the local animals are and at what time of the day to observe them.
Observe the tropical cloud forest from the canopies...
Monteverde is equipped with sufficient hotels and low priced accommodations to offer something for every taste.
There are several trails in the area with beautiful view points, from which you have a view over the cloud forest down into the valley. Various tour companies offer walks in the canopy on hanging bridges.
If you are in search of more adrenaline you should book a canopy tour. Here you will slide from the top to the bottom of an inclined cable, made of stainless steel, with a freely moving pulley. This makes it possible to ride through the rainforest at the height of the canopy.
Monteverde on the map
Facts about Monteverde, Costa Rica
- Monterverde was established in 1951 by several Quaker families from the USA.
- The main attraction in Monteverde is the cloud- and rain-forest.
Driving times and distances
- Distance from San Jose to Monteverde: 144.1 kilometers respectively 89.5 miles.
- Travel time from San Jose to Monteverde: 3.37 hours.
- Distance from Liberia to Monteverde: 140.3 kilometers respectively 87.2 miles.
- Travel time from Liberia to Monteverde: 3.09 hours.
