In the 1950s, a group of Quakers fleeing US conscription practices lived on this verdant hillside, swirling with clouds and clothed in flora, and named it Monteverde, or ‘green mountain.’

The land was first cultivated for agriculture, but a third was set aside to safeguard the watershed. They had no idea what they were starting!

In collaboration with environmental organizations, the Quaker community established the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (Reserva Bosque Nuboso).

Tourists and naturalists came to investigate this unusual habitat, and the conservation movement grew.

The Monteverde reserve is the most well-known, but the area consists of both public and private assets dedicated to safeguarding the valuable terrain.

And this is great news for vacationers! All routes lead to gorgeous vistas, waterfalls, wildlife encounters, and exciting adventures.

Santa Elena, the largest population center, is a lively village. This is where busses come and depart, as well as where the majority of restaurants and inexpensive accommodations are located.

Santa Elena connects to Cerro Plano, a smaller community to the south, and then to Monteverde, a small town in the cloud forest.

The Original Cloud Forest Reserve

Wandering the trails through the lush virginal forest, draped with greenery and dripping with mist, it’s clear why the Quakers named this place Monteverde, or ‘green mountain.’

Because of the constant cloud cover, plants such as moss, ferns, bromeliads, and orchids grow everywhere, including on the trees themselves.

The cloud forest is saturated with moisture, as seen by dewdrops on foliage, trickling streams, spongey ground, and damp air.

Of course, there’s more than just plants here. The reserve is home to 425 bird species (including the famous quetzal), 120 mammals, and 161 amphibians and reptiles.

However, the foliage is dense and the air is hazy, making it difficult to observe animals.

The major attraction here is the forest itself, with its distinct ecosystem and the ever-present swirl of clouds.

What to Do in Monteverde and Santa Elena

Monteverde and Santa Elena attractions focus on bringing wildlife closer, including bats, butterflies, frogs, snakes, and flowers.

While these stops can be fun and informative for kids, seeing these species in their natural habitat is far more enjoyable. Explore the wild!

Tours in the Monteverde/Santa Elena region are not particularly diverse. Many reserves include guided treks, morning bird walks, and eerie night hikes.

Other options include canopy excursions and coffee tours, which provide an energy boost.

Remember that locals work on a commission-based basis, so be wary of unsolicited advise.

Do you ever wonder where the canopy tour trend originated? Costa Rica’s initial ziplines were in Santa Elena, but now there are nearly 100 imitators, some of which are located nearby.

If you’re looking to fly in Costa Rica, here is the ideal area to do so. However, you won’t see any quetzals or coatis.

Several outfits offer hanging bridges for a more leisurely exploration of the treetops.

Prices include transportation from your hotel.

Monteverde and Santa Elena are home to numerous private reserves, including the 220 sq km Bosque Eterno de los Niños.

The Monteverde and Santa Elena reserves are unique since they are the only cloud forest reserves in the region.

If you want to enjoy nature, get some exercise, see monkeys, appreciate scenery, or cool off in a waterfall, there are many options to choose from. Most of these areas are less busy than the Monteverde reserve.

Cloud Forest Canopy Tour

The tropical cloud forest is a world unto itself, swirling with mist, reverberating with birdsong, and literally brimming with life.

While Monteverde is well-known for its cloud forests, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is located at a higher altitude, creating a more ethereal atmosphere (in a positive way).

If you have ever wondered what it’s like to stroll (or fly) through the clouds, now is your chance to find out. Slow down for sensory overload, or speed up for an adrenaline surge.

Consider doing both. (Both reserves will pick you up from your accomodation for an extra cost.)

Hit the Trails

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve contains 13 kilometers of trails that are well-marked but occasionally muddy. This 5km loop takes in the highlights.

From the ranger station, take the Sendero Bosque Nuboso into the mist. This is a popular trail, so if you want to (attempt to) avoid other hikers, consider using the parallel Sendero Camino.

The latter is wider and flatter, making it less visually appealing but more conducive to bird watching.

Both trails terminate at a small track that ascends to the Mirador La Ventana. At 1550m, this is a magnificent overlook over the Continental Divide, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific slopes.

If the clouds aren’t too thick, the view extends east across the plains and valleys and west all the way to the Golfo de Nicoya.

From La Ventana, turn back toward Sendero Wilford Guindon. You’ll come across a 100m-long suspension bridge that sways with your step yet provides a wonderful view of the cloud forest canopy.

The final section of the hike follows Sendero Tosi to a small but beautiful waterfall. From here, you can return Sendero Cuencha to the ranger station.

Get a Guide

If you prefer a guided tour, there are various possibilities. The intriguing and instructive natural history trip will teach you a lot about the cloud forest’s ecosystem.

Note that a tour party can be as large as 12 persons, so don’t expect to see as much wildlife as you would at other parks. Consider early-morning birdwatching or a night walk to spot wildlife.

Tip: How to Spot A Quetzal

Monteverde’s most famous native is the resplendent quetzal, a unique and spectacular bird with brilliant green colors and, during breeding season, a magnificent train on the male.

Look for quetzals near Monteverde during their nesting season, which runs from late February to May or June. This also corresponds with the season for wild aguacate (avocado), making it their favorite dish.

The Monteverde and Curi-Cancha reserves are ideal for spotting quetzals. Check out the aguacatillos trees!

During the breeding period, birding guides are going to know where the nesting bushes are, so this is the greatest time to catch a glimpse.

What To Do in Monteverde and Santa Elena: Places of Interest

These are the places of interest in Monteverde and Santa Elena:

Bosque Eterno de los Niños

Website: https://acmcr.org/contenido

This 220 sq km private reserve is the largest in the country.

Mostly inaccessible to tourists, except for the well-marked 3.5km Sendero Bajo del Tigre path, a collection of shorter trails.

Book popular two-hour night walks in advance. The entrance features a children’s education center and a stunning view of the reserve.

BEN manages the Estación Biológica San Gerardo, accessible via a challenging 2½-hour hike from Reserva Santa Elena.

It offers dorm beds for researchers and students, with overnight accommodations available with previous arrangements.

Monteverde Friends School

Website: https://www.mfschool.org/

Visiting this schoolhouse offers children an opportunity to explore and engage with local culture.

Visitors can tour the grounds and attend morning assembly with advance arrangements.

Students can also attend class and recess with an English-speaking friend.

MF School welcomes long-term volunteers to work with local youngsters, offering tutoring, art projects, music sessions, technical support, and personalized attention.

Butterfly Garden

Website: https://www.monteverdebutterflygardens.com/

Learn all about butterflies here. There are four gardens with diverse environments and around 40 species.

Up-close observation cases allow you to see butterflies emerge from the chrysalis (if timed correctly).

Other exhibits include the leafcutter ant, tarantula hawk (a wasp that eats them), and other scorpions.

Children enjoy this place, and competent naturalist guides enhance the experience.

SkyTram and SkyTrek

Website: https://www.skyadventures.travel/

SkyTram, owned by SkyTrek, is a wheelchair-accessible gondola that floats over the cloud forest.

On a clear day, you can see the volcanoes in the east and the Pacific in the west. We provide packages that include SkyTrek (canopy tour) and SkyWalk (hanging bridges).

The canopy tour spans 11 platforms mounted to steel towers along a road, providing a quick view of primary forest.

SkyTrek was the first canopy tour with a braking mechanism, likely due to its high speeds of up to 64 km/h.

SkyWalk offers a 2km guided trip across five suspended bridges, with a night tour also offered. Book online or at the town office, located across from Tico y Rico restaurant and Neko Sushi.

The park is located near the Reserva Santa Elena.

Revive Healing Arts

Website: https://revivehealingarts.com/

Karen Gordon’s unique Mountain Massage soothes hurting muscles after any trip. She provides Reiki, craniosacral treatment, and individualized retreat programs.

Curi-Cancha Reserve

Website: https://reservacuricancha.com/

This private area on the Río Cuecha is popular among birders, located near Monteverde but away from the throng.

There are approximately 10km of well-marked paths, a hummingbird garden, and a vista of the Continental Divide.

Make appointments for guided treks, such as early morning bird excursions and specialized three-hour natural history walks.

Cerro Amigos

Hike up to the area’s highest peak (1842m) for stunning views of the jungle and, on a clear day, Volcán Arenal, located 20km northeast.

From Hotel Belmar in Cerro Plano, take the dirt road downwards and turn left. In three kilometers, the trail ascends around 300 metres. This trail does not connect to the Monteverde reserve’s trails.

Reserva Bajo del Tigre

Website: https://acmcr.org/contenido/estaciones-y-senderos/reserva-bajo-del-tigre/

The public has access to only this area of the Bosque Eterno de los Niños. The forest features a small children’s center, 3.3km of walking trails, and a lookout point with views of the gulf.

Horse Trek Monteverde

Website: https://www.horsetrekmonteverde.com/

Owner and Guide Marvin Anchia, a Santa Elena local, is a professional horse trainer and amateur environmentalist who provides a personalized horseback riding experience.

Choose from two-hour excursions through coffee plantations, picturesque half-day rides in the cloud forest, or all-day cowboy experiences.

The horses are well-cared for, well-trained, and enjoyable to ride. Located immediately west of downtown Santa Elena.

Sabine’s Smiling Horses

Website: https://www.horseback-riding-tour.com/

Sabine, who speaks four languages in addition to equine, will ensure you feel at ease on your horse, regardless of your riding experience.

Her long-standing enterprise provides a range of excursions, including a popular three-hour waterfall tour and a monthly full moon tour. And, yes, the horses truly do smile.

Caballeriza El Rodeo

Phone: 8356 2472

This tour company, based at a local finca, offers private routes through rainforest, coffee farms, and grasslands, with opportunities to view wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery. The excursion offers a sunset view of the Golfo de Nicoya. How lovely!

Finca Modelo Ecologica

Website: https://www.familiabrenestours.com/

The Brenes family finca provides a variety of interesting and exciting activities. The two-hour canyoning excursion features six breathtaking waterfalls, the tallest reaching 40m.

No experience required, just an adventurous spirit. The treetop tour entails climbing a 40m ficus tree using ropes and rappels to ascend and descend.

The finca is located 2km north of Santa Elena in the community of La Cruz, with transportation from your hotel included in the fee.

Original Canopy Tour

Phone: 2645-5243

The iconic zipline excursion that sparked the fad. The activity, which includes 15 cables, a Tarzan swing, and a rappel through an old fig tree, is enjoyable.

While not as thrilling as other canopy excursions, this experience offers smaller groups and a greater focus on nature.

They offer a variety of tours, including coffee and horseback riding, for those seeking a caffeine boost or equestrian activity.

The original canopy is located 2km off the main Santa Elena-Monteverde Rd, upwards near the Cloud Forest Lodge.

Selvatura

Website: https://selvatura.com/

Selvatura, one of the largest games in town, features 3km of wires, 18 platforms, and a Tarzan swing over a stunning primary cloud forest.

The attraction includes 3km of ‘Treetops Walkways’, as well as a hummingbird garden, butterfly garden, and amphibian and reptile exhibits.

Selvatura lies 6 kilometers north of Santa Elena, near the reserve. There is a booking office in town near the church.

100% Aventura

Website: https://www.aventuracanopytour.com/

Aventura has the longest zipline in Latin America (almost 1600m!). The 19 platforms feature a Tarzan swing, a 15m rappel, and a Superman zipline that simulates flight.

It also features a network of suspension bridges that go into secondary woodland. Reservations are necessary. You can also take ATV and horseback tours.

The location is approximately 3km north of Santa Elena on the road to the Reserva Santa Elena, with a booking office in town.

Extremo Canopy

Website: https://www.monteverdeextremo.com/

This location offers thrilling activities such as a canopy ride, the highest Tarzan swing in the area, and a bungee jump.

Regardless, you will shout. Located in a secondary forest, the vistas are breathtaking, but large crowds make for a less natural experience.

Pasión Costa Rica

Website: https://pasioncostarica.com/

Guacimal-born Marcos Mendez, an expert in Costa Rican flora and fauna, offers personalized trips for small groups.

With over 20 years of experience, he exudes passion as a guide. Tour schedules are flexible and include transportation.

Santa Maria Night Walk

Website: https://nightwalksantamarias.com/

Night treks have grown in popularity because 80% of the cloud forest’s species are nocturnal.

This event takes place on a private Santa Elena finca (farm) with 10 hectares of prime and secondary woodland.

Expert guides identify active nocturnal animals, including snakes, spiders, sloths, and kinkajous. We supply flashlights.

Valle Escondido

Website: https://www.escondidopreserve.com/

Book the popular two-hour guided night trip ahead of time and explore the reserve independently the next day.

The well-marked walk behind Monteverde Inn in Cerro Plano leads through a deep canyon to an 11-hectare reserve with breathtaking views and waterfalls.

The best time to observe birds and wildlife is during the day, when the area is less crowded.

Café de Monteverde

Website: https://cafedemonteverde.com/

Stop by the Monteverde shop to get a crash course in coffee and try the delectable blends.

Sign up for a three-hour tour of sustainable agriculture, including visits to organic fincas that use composting and solar energy techniques.

Discover the impact of coffee farming on the community and its potential to enhance the environment.

El Trapiche

Website: https://eltrapichetour.com/

Visit a beautiful family finca in Santa Elena, where they cultivate coffee, sugarcane, bananas, and plantains.

Experience the coffee process, ride a traditional ox cart, and make your own sugar. Samples included sugarcane liquor, toffee, and wonderful coffee. This is a favorite among kids.

Caburé Chocolate Tour

Website: http://www.cabure.net/

Bob, the owner of Caburé chocolate shop in Monteverde, shares his knowledge of cacao pods and their transformation into divine cuisine. You’ll get the opportunity to taste test and make your own truffles.

Don Juan Coffee Tour

Website: https://donjuantoursmonteverde.com/en/

Don Juan’s three-in-one excursions encompass all your favorite vices (well, three of the good ones).

The review briefly covers sugarcane harvesting and processing, cacao bean transformation into chocolate, and coffee production from plant to cup.

Monteverde Hotels and Lodges

Here is a list of the best Monteverde Hotels and Lodges:

Casa Tranquilo

Website: https://casatranquilohostel.wixsite.com/tranquilobackpackers

Tico hospitality begins with handmade banana bread or pancakes in the morning. In addition to a delicious breakfast, staff offer free guided treks, sharing their local knowledge.

Clean, uncomplicated rooms with skylights and gulf views. The exterior features vibrant murals to guide you to the appropriate area.

Pensión Santa Elena

Website: https://www.pensionsantaelena.com/

This hostel in central Santa Elena is a popular choice for budget tourists, providing excellent service and authentic warmth. Each room offers unique options for all budgets.

The ‘grand’ rooms in the annex provide amenities like stone showers, iPod docks, and nicer beds. Four bunk-bed family lofts are available. Bonus: Taco Taco is nearby!

Sleepers

Website: https://visitmonteverde.org/sleepers

Near Sloth Backpackers in central Santa Elena. The downstairs eatery appears pleasant, but is actually a bustling communal kitchen where travelers cook and share meals.

It appears like a sophisticated motel upstairs, but is actually a hostel where tourists may surf the web and enjoy the breeze on the terrace. Perfect rooms with en suite bathrooms. An exclusive rooftop ‘suite’ boasts the greatest view.

Camino Verde B&B

Website: https://www.hotelcaminoverde.com/

This travelers’ nest has big rooms with wood ceilings and tile floors. A recent addition offers premium rooms with whitewashed walls and modern furnishings, which are more expensive and recommended.

Sweet tiny eatery and sprawling garden. Enjoy the picturesque view from the porch with dispersed rocking seats.

Monteverde Backpackers

Website: https://www.monteverdebackpackers.com/

Small and welcoming, Monteverde Backpackers is a Costa Rica Hostel Network member. Dorms are clean, comfortable, have hot showers, are located in a quiet area of Santa Elena, and management is friendly.

Coffee, hammocks, and sunset hikes are free. This DIY breakfast allows you to customize your eggs to your liking. Dorms only, eliminating separate rooms for egalitarianism or financial reasons.

Cabinas Eddy

Website: http://cabinaseddy.com/

Its delicious breakfasts, friendly service, clean rooms and common areas, and charming manager Freddy (son of Eddy) keep this inexpensive hotel in high demand.

The apartments and community kitchen are clean and well-equipped. Relax on the balcony with free coffee and enjoy the view. For a trim, see Eddy in the basement barbershop.

Cabinas & Hotel Vista al Golfo

Website: https://cabinasvistaalgolfo.com/

You’ll feel at home at this colorful, quirky lodge with hot showers and friendly proprietors. On clear days, the upstairs balconies overlook the Golfo de Nicoya.

Beanbags are available in the fully wired/wi-fi communal space. The expensive ‘suite’ in the blue house next door is worth it.

Capulín Cabins & Farm

Website: https://cabinascapulin.com/

Experience traditional farm life, trek trails to view birds and monkeys, or relax in a hammock and watch the sky. There are eight cozy cabins with varied sizes, some featuring kitchens and stunning gulf views.

Sirlainey and her Tico relatives generously share their knowledge of the area. The property is north of downtown Santa Elena.

Casa Batsu

Website: http://www.casabatsu.org/

After remodeling their farmhouse, Carlos and Paula added art, jazz, and excellent food, and opened their doors to share their love. Five rooms include pillow-top beds and stunning stone showers.

Enjoy the delicious breakfasts, but reserve dinner for one night (mains US$25 to US$30) to experience Carlos’ exceptional cooking. Batsu is BriBri for hummingbird.

Valle Campanas

Website: http://www.vallecampanas.com/

Four modest huts dot Leo and Reina’s coffee and sugar property. Functional cabins have polished wood, large porches with hammocks, and shiny kitchens.

Guests can follow trails around the grounds to witness a working farm (finca). It provides eggs, milk, honey, and fresh fruits for delicious breakfasts.

Finca Terra Viva

Website: https://terravivacr.com/

This 121-hectare dairy finca provides guests a rural experience and environmental awareness in a lovely wooded setting.

Visit the organic dairy to feed young cows, make cheese, stroll through the forest, and learn about the farm’s environmental efforts.

Horseback, night, and dairy tours are free for guests, but offered for US$30 for others. Terra Viva is located 3km north of town on the way to Reserva Santa Elena.

Monteverde Rustic Lodge

Website: https://sibulodge.com/

Strangely, the Rustic Lodge isn’t rustic. Although the furnishings match the motif, the restored rooms are clean, pleasant, and even luxurious.

In soft earth tones, the 14 rooms feature tile floors, floral drapes, and stained wood. The communal terrace overlooks a lush garden. A peaceful, ambient small.

Website: https://www.jaguarundilodge.com/

A major modification occurred in 2016, replacing all dorms with double rooms and a new name.

Similar to a luxurious mountain lodge, it is conveniently located 200m from town. The local capuchin monkeys may join you to the nearby pub.

Arco Iris Ecolodge

Website: https://arcoirislodge.com/

A hilltop cluster of charming cabins overlooks Santa Elena and the woodlands. Beautiful rooms with stained wood, rainforest showers, and private balconies vary in size and style.

The two-story honeymoon cabin is ideal. Private trails wind through the property, leading to a stunning Pacific view. The meticulous German owner Susana maintains the site.

Hotel Claro de Luna

Website: https://www.hotelclarodeluna.com/

Graceful old mahogany gingerbread-style house in Santa Elena with lush gardens with tropical blooming like heliconias and orchids. Also hidden among the vegetation is a jacuzzi.

Simple but cheerful, the rooms include floral blankets and vibrant paint.
If possible, request a premium annex room because this ancient house is noisy.

Cloud Forest Lodge

Website: https://cloudforestlodge.com/

Escape to the sky at this mountaintop resort, nestled in 28 hectares of prime and secondary forest. Explore pathways, discover bird species, and enjoy stunning gulf vistas.

The timber cabins are cozy and big, but not extravagant. Enjoy the view from your private porch.

The Original Canopy Tour is located at the lodge, 2km off the main road and 4km from Santa Elena. Enjoy a beautiful walk into town, but get your cardio on the uphill return.

Hotel Poco a Poco

Website: https://www.hotelpocoapoco.com/

Poco a Poco has several charms. The spa, naturally. The modern building and great food are also noteworthy. The space is family-friendly, featuring a playground, kiddie pool, and ceramic animals in unexpected locations.

Rooms are elegant, although upper-floor views cost more.
They received four of five leaves in the government’s sustainable tourism assessment.

Los Pinos Cabañas y Jardines

Website: https://www.lospinos.net/

This 9-hectare property features 14 standalone cabañas (cabins) situated throughout the woodland gardens, formerly part of the family finca.

Each cabaña offers solitude, a fully supplied kitchen, and a small terrace. The grounds feature abundant birdlife, a playground, walking routes, and an organic garden.

Fantastic family option. Family cabins offer three rooms, with superior accommodations featuring fireplaces and wraparound balconies.

Additionally, Los Pinos receives five leaves for sustainable tourism. Some cabañas lack essential amenities like storage and hammocks.

Mariposa B&aB

Website: https://www.mariposabb.com/

Situated 2km from Monteverde reserve, this welcoming property features rooms with stained-wood walls, terracotta floors, writing tables, and vaulted ceilings, as well as a kind local family.

Nestled in the woodland, offers a sunny terrace for wildlife viewing or enjoying a cup of local coffee. Traditional Tico breakfasts are outstanding

Hotel Fonda Vela

Website: https://www.fondavela.com/

This lodge, with its unique architecture and 14 hectares of trails, offers conventional rooms and light-filled suites featuring artworks by hotel creator Paul Warren Smith.

This property features a large covered pool, two jacuzzis, flat-screen TVs, ping-pong and pool tables, and is a great place to call home. Approximately 2km from Monteverde reserve.

Hotel Belmar

Website: https://www.hotelbelmar.net/

Every Belmar accommodation has woodland or gulf views. The rooms are bright and decorated with handcrafted furniture and high-thread-count linens.

The private balconies offer stunning sunsets, with the views improving with elevation. Additional benefits include yoga sessions, spa services, and a stunning restaurant with stunning views.

This eco-resort has earned five leaves from the Certificate of Sustainable Tourism program. Belmar utilizes sustainable methods such as solar-heated water, biodigested energy, and rainwater harvesting.

Trapp Family Lodge

Website: https://trapphotelmonteverde.com/

Modern luxury in the cloud forest. The 20 spacious rooms include high oak ceilings, large bathrooms, and stunning views from picture windows facing gardens or cloud forests.

The Trapp family maintains their warm hospitality regardless of the weather.
Four out of five leaves in sustainable tourism rankings.

This location is the closest to the Monteverde reserve, less than 1km from the entrance. The drawback is its remote location. An expensive restaurant has a nearly finished breakfast-only nook.

Where to Eat in Monteverde?

Here are some of the best places to have a drink or grab a bite in Monteverde:

Orchid Coffee

Website: https://www.facebook.com/orchidcoffeecr/

Feeling peckish? Go right to this beautiful Santa Elena cafe, which is packed with art and light. Take a seat on the front porch for a taste of bliss.

The coffee shop offers a diverse menu, including standard and unorthodox breakfast items, crepes, salads, and sandwiches.

Taco Taco

Website: https://www.facebook.com/tacotacomonteverde

This taco booth serves delicious Tex-Mex tacos, burritos, and quesadillas with shredded chicken. Options include slow-roasted short rib, roasted vegetables, and battered mahimahi.

The only challenge is deciding what to eat (although you can’t go wrong).

Choose from two locations: the original deck in front of Pensión Santa Elena is ideal for people-watching, while the new two-toned terrace restaurant next to SuperCompro provides more comfort.

Raulito’s Pollo Asado

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pollo.raulitos

Scrappy street dogs and chatty taxi drivers compete for attention at this porcelain-countered wonder. Enjoy golden, crispy spit-roasted meat with rice, fries, salad, or gallo pinto (blended rice and beans).

You can enjoy an icy horchata (rice milk and cinnamon drink) while still earning beer money. It is a local institution, similar to the adjoining church.
It also serves cheap yet full breakfasts.

Sabor Tico

Website: https://www.restaurantesabortico.com/

Ticos and tourists alike enthuse about this small restaurant. Try unique dishes like olla de carne (beef soup), chorreadas Ticas (fried corn cakes with sour cream), and tamales (usually served around the holidays).

Gallos, which are soft tortillas with fillings of your choice, are a great lunch option instead of the more full casados. The old location, open from 7am to 9pm, is opposite the soccer field.

Soda La Amistad

Website: https://www.facebook.com/sodalaamistadpuravida/

This family-run soda shop is a popular destination for those vacationing on this side road. The menu includes normal, excellent casados, burgers, spaghetti, and a list of handy translations.

Herbivores will love the vegetarian selections, which include one burger and a casado. These ladies are knowledgeable and offer affordable services.

Bon Appetit!

Website: https://www.facebook.com/mtv.bonappetit/

This restaurant on the outskirts of town is ideal for a post-activity dinner due to its minimalist decor, high ceilings, friendly service, and spacious tables.

The menu offers both cheesy pizza and carnivorous options, including the tenderloin with red wine. Children can enjoy little dishes of panini, burgers, and chicken fingers.

El Jardín

Website: https://www.monteverdelodge.com/menus/

Possibly the ‘finest’ dining in the vicinity. The menu is diverse and focuses on local flavors. These are not your standard tipica platters, with beef tenderloin on a sugarcane kebab and pan-fried fish with orange sauce.

The environment, with windows overlooking the trees, is beautiful, and the service is excellent. Romantics might choose a private table in the garden. Well worth the drive off the main road.

Tree House Restaurant & Café

Website: https://www.treehouse.cr/

There’s a delicate line between hokey and pleasant. This restaurant, built around a 50-year-old higuerón (fig) tree, is sure to make you grin.

The menu includes well-prepared but pricey traditional dishes including ceviche, sopa Azteca (Mexican tortilla soup), and burgers.

Excellent service. The facility offers a dynamic atmosphere for dining, wine, and live music.

Cold? Try the Chocolate Tree House, a wicked combination of coffee and chocolate-flavored liqueurs.

Stella’s Bakery

Website: https://stellasmonteverde.com/en/

A bakery for birders. Enjoy strong coffee and tasty pastries in the morning or warm soup and baked bread in the evening.

Huevos rancheros, served with passion fruit cheesecake for dessert, is a satisfying dish. Keep a watch on the bird feeder, which draws tanagers, mot-mots, and emerald-green toucanets.

Café Caburé

Website: http://www.cabure.net/

This Argentine cafe, located above the Bat Jungle, offers a variety of inventive and delectable dishes, including sandwiches on baked bread, fresh salads, and more sophisticated options like sea bass in almond sauce or filet mignon with chimichurri.

Save room for dessert: the chocolates are works of art. There’s hot chocolate, an Argentine brownie, and, yep, the cafe’s Chocolate Tour.

Bar Amigos

Website: https://baramigos.com/

This Santa Elena institution has picture windows that overlook the mountainside, creating a ski lodge ambiance. However, the screens show DJs, karaoke, and billiards, as well as sports.

This is a popular party spot for both Ticos and visitors. The chifrijo, a rice and pinto bean dish with fried pork, fresh tomato salsa, and corn chips, is surprisingly delicious.