Guided tour
Difficulty/Adventure
Low to Moderate
Walking Distance
3.4 km (2.1 miles)
Aprox duration 2h:30mDiscover the wonders of Monteverde’s lush landscapes with Quality Travel Services on the Santa Elena Reserve: A Cloud Forest Exploration. This indepth journey takes you into Costa Rica’s iconic cloud forest, renowned for its rich biodiversity, where towering trees are adorned with epiphytes, orchids, and bromeliads that thrive in the misty, humid environment, creating a truly captivating ecosystem.
The entirety of your exploration unfolds along the El Encantado trail within the Santa Elena Reserve. This 3.4 km (2.1 mile) trail offers an immersive experience into the unique flora and fauna that define Monteverde’s cloud forest. Guided by an expert, you’ll traverse dense vegetation and encounter a variety of wildlife, from vibrantly colored birds to rare mammals that call the Santa Elena Reserve home. Throughout the walk, your guide will share the ecological stories of the reserve, revealing how each species contributes to the delicate balance of life here.
The Santa Elena Reserve is an exceptional setting for those looking to explore Monteverde’s natural beauty. Along El Encantado, you’ll reach lookout points with sweeping views, and on clear days, you might even glimpse the distant Arenal Volcano. This trail, covered in a thick layer of mosses, lichens, and vibrant plants, brings you close to the intricate details of the forest, all while providing safe and accessible paths for most visitors.
Ideal for nature lovers, the Santa Elena Reserve: A Cloud Forest Exploration is more than a walk; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. Let yourself be captivated by the serene beauty of the cloud forest, and take home unforgettable memories of Monteverde’s enchanting landscapes.
- Entry to Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
- Professional guides
- Drinks and snaks
- Free parking
- Comfortable, rainappropriate clothing
- Closed, comfortable shoes (no flipflops)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Arrive 15 minutes before the start time.
- Children under 3 years old are free of charge.
- A 4x4 vehicle is not required to get here.
- You must show a valid ID upon arrival.
Reserva Bosque Nuboso 
Reserva Bosque Nuboso Included in the rate for reservations made more than 2 hours in advance.
Pickup is done between 30 minutes before the tour start time.
- Not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Free up to 48 hours before the start time.
Quality Travel Services