Monteverde Cloud Forest, an ecological paradise that stretches over 35,000 acres in northern Costa Rica, is home to over 200 species of wildlife. At an altitude of 1000 m., this ecosystem sits above the regular rainforest and captures the moisture from clouds blowing in from both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, hence the name cloud forest. The billowing clouds rolling in bestow an otherworldly feel to the forest, enveloping it in a soft mist, where the humidity level is often 100%.
The mist and fog rolling through the vegetation hydro-fuel the biosphere, preventing the sun from drying the forest. This natural phenomena results in the unique flora that flourishes, making the trip here well worthwhile. The entire area blooms in emerald hues and vibrant floral colors, offering fascinating insights into the plant and wildlife, including a multitude of orchid types, insects and a rainbow of colored butterflies, more than 30 species of humming birds and the dazzling quetzal, as well as plenty of mammals. The reserve even houses 6 cat species including jaguars, pumas, ocelots, oncillas, margays and jaguarondis.
This stunning park offers plenty of adventure outdoors. Easy nature hikes and challenging trails traverse several elevations of the cloud forest. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, nothing quite compares to the zip-lining and rappelling adventures. Insectariums, a reptile museum, a butterfly house, frog ponds and so much more are part and parcel of the cloud forest experience. A hummingbird gallery at the entrance of the reserve provides a mesmerizing preview of what the forest holds in store for birdwatchers.
Bird Watching in Monteverde
Nowhere is there a better place for bird watching than in the Monteverde National Park. While hiking offers nature enthusiasts an up-close encounter with the Reserve's bio-diversity, the stage here is set, entrancing bird watchers. The diversity of species and variety of incredible exotic birds is impressive. In a mixed flock alone, up to 30 varieties of birds can be seen. Suddenly, the hushed rainforest can explode in a cacophony of noise as a frenzy of flapping birds appears. As quickly as they emerge, they disappear, restoring the forest to the sounds of silence.
Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to some of the world's most beautiful bird species, where between 200-400 different kinds are often spotted in a bird watching expedition. Costa Rica's national bird, the splendid quetzal, is found here, along with other unusual species such as the Azure-hooded Jay, the Three-wattled Bellbird and the Zaledonia. One needn't be a bird watcher to appreciate the large exotic birds which abound in the park's ecosystem.
Traveling up to the park is an adventure in itself. Bump after bump at 15 mi. per hour, the rough ascent will make you wonder if it is worth the effort. Once you experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest, however, its beauty and myriad of natural wonders, you will never wonder again!
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