Best places to stay:
Monteverde isn’t the only cloud forest in Costa Rica. This country retreat (formerly owned by president of Costa Rica, Rodrigo Carazo) sits in its own private reserve on the edge of a vast tract of mountain cloud forest.
The hotel is rustic ranch house comfortable. Whitewashed villas – with roaring fires in the grate, terracotta roofs, and terraces with granny rocking chairs under the eaves – overlook the mountains and forest.
Guided trips run straight from the grounds into the wild and white-water rafting, tree-top adventures and canopy tours are all on offer nearby.
This cloud forest reserve is a less-visited alternative to busy Monteverde, but is equally rich in wildlife.
There are more than 900 species of birds to spot on the hotel’s guided walks – from sapphire blue Hummingbirds flitting between dew-dripping orchids to the long-tailed Resplendent Quetzal, Central America’s elusive equivalent to a Bird of Paradise.
Tours to nearby canopy walkways, waterfalls and volcanoes are easily organised. The international airport in San José is a 90-minute drive.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >Please note - we hope to one day have live prices for you, but for now, here are some useful links for you to compare prices...
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Bajos del Toro, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica[24 miles]
Easy to visit, Costa Rica’s biggest waterfall drops into a deep pool in a forest-swathed bowl in the mountains near San Jose.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Costa Rica
Rainforests, powdery beaches, white-water rivers and towering volcanoes: this relaxed Central American country offers exceptional wilderness adventures in stunning landscapes.
