Monteverde - Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is one of the most frequented forests in Costa Rica. The Quakers who settled in the Monteverde area were intent on preserving the watershed, and in 1972 the Tropical Science Center bought and established the reserve with help from the Nature Conservancy and the World Wildlife Fund. In 1986 the Monteverde Conservation League (MCL) was formed and continues to buy land to expand the reserve through various ventures, including an international children's educational and forest preservation project.

Covering over 17,000ha/41,990ac of land, the cloud forest differs from a rainforest because it is usually much more humid and cloudy (due to high altitude) and receives less rain. The Monteverde Cloud Forest includes eight different ecological life zones including over 400 species of birds, 110 species of amphibians and reptiles, 100 species of mammals, 2,500 species of plants as well as thousands of insect species.

Visitors should note that the thick vegetation and cloudy conditions sometimes make it difficult to spot wildlife. However, the reserve is very scenic offering tall trees, streams, rapids and waterfalls in the forest area.

There are several hiking trails that are often very muddy. The Chomongo Trail reaches an elevation of 1,680m/5,510ft above sea level, and other trails lead through the Peñas Blancas river valley. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve presents an example of a fragile ecosystem that should not be missed.