Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Arenal Volcano

Founded in the 1950's by a group of Quakers from the U.S., Monteverde has gained international renown as one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the tropics. The reserve spreads out over 10,500 hectares of land that hold six different life zones. The climate and terrain of the preserve produce an incredible bio-diversity.

Delicate orchids, more than 400 species, grace the limbs of majestic trees. Their captivating colors of whites, lilacs, and yellows contrast with the emerald green of the forest.

Aside from the preserve, some other places merit attention while you're staying in nearby Santa Elena. The Children's Eternal rain forest, the first international children's rain forest in the world, the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, and the Hummingbird Gallery a must for those with a penchant for these winged, colored jewels of the forest, to name a few.

A novel and spectacular way to view the forest canopy without much physical effort is the Skywalk. Some of the bridges hang suspended at over 130 feet making for truly spectacular views.

Other recommended activities include:

Santa Elena Reserve - Located 3 miles northeast of the town of Santa Elena, open 7 days a week from 7:00am to 4:00pm

Serpentarium - This exhibit of Costa Rican snakes is located in Santa Elena and is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm

Canopy Tour - The Canopy Tour offers the adventurous tourist the opportunity to ascend into the forest canopy and see jungle life from a different perspective.

This is accomplished by modifying techniques used by spelunkers (cavers) and canyon rappelers to provide a safe and enjoyable passage above the forest floor.

Arenal / Monteverde Excursion
		Continuously active since 1968, Arenal Volcano dominates the local countryside. Bass fishing, windsurfing, Tabacon Resort and Spa, waterfalls, horseback riding, hiking, Venado Caverns, and Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge make this an ideal stop for many visitors.
Arenal Volcano	Monteverde Hanging Bridge

There are at least 400 bird species in this high elevation rain forest, including the Resplendent Quetzal, ancient holy bird of the Mayans, over 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles and an estimated 2,500 species of plants making Monteverde a true "nature lover's paradise". The preserve has a definite wet and dry season, though the upper levels have fog and rain much of the year

DAY 1 - SAN JOSE / ARENAL
Early morning pick up at your hotel in San Jose. On the way stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens for tour and lunch. When you think about Costa Rica, you probably imagine lush tropical Rain Forests, flowing white rivers, spectacular waterfalls, birds, butterflies and flowers. At La Paz Waterfall Gardens, you will see all that and more.  When you get to Arenal and after checking in at the hotel, enjoy a relaxing soak and dinner at the thermal pools of Tabacon Resort and Spa whose warm, mineral-rich waters are heated within the volcano. (L, D)

DAY 2 - ARENAL / MONTEVERDE
After an early morning breakfast, tour to the Rio Fortuna waterfall and hike down a steep trail to the base of the waterfall, where you can enjoy a cool swim in the river's crystal clear waters or just enjoy the exuberant vegetation surrounding the canyon. Afternoon pick up at your hotel for Jeep / Boat / Jeep transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Nighttime tour of the Reserve. (B)

DAY 3 - MONTEVERDE / SAN JOSE
Morning pick up at your hotel for Combination Sky Trek (zip line), Sky Walk (Hanging bridges) tour. Afternoon transfer back to your hotel in San Jose. (B)

Package includes:

• One night lodging Monteverde Country Lodge
• One night lodging Arenal Springs Hotel
• Meals where indicated: breakfast (B), lunch (L), dinner (D)
• Tour to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Entrance fee and dinner at Tabacon Resort and Spa
• Tour to La Fortuna waterfall
• Nighttime tour Monteverde
• Sky Trek / Sky Walk tour Monteverde
• Private transfer from San Jose to Arenal
• Jeep / Boat / Jeep transfer from Arenal to Monteverde
• Ground transfer from Monteverde to San Jose

Fonda Vela is the closest hotel within walking distance to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Situated on a 35 acre farm, surrounded by virgin rain forests, lush green fields and exotic birds, Fonda Vela provides a nurturing experience to all those who visit. The lodge offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms and hot water, and a restaurant specializing in home style and international cuisine with ingredients from the organic garden.

Arenal Observatory Lodge is surrounded by densely forested private reserves and offers a majestic view of the Arenal Volcano. Closest to the volcano, this rustic lodge was originally built for the Smithsonian Institute and University of Costa Rica scientists. The dining room and outside terrace face the volcano's southwest slope, dark with recent lava spills.