tour santa elena

• Cloud Forests

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore the Lesser Known Cloud Forest Reserve

How the santa elena cloud forest reserve is formed..

A walk through the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve reveals a lush garden of mosses, ferns, flowers and epiphytes growing thickly on every tree. Clouds drift in and settle among the slopes, providing the plants with the continuous moisture that they require. Dangling roots and vines sweep across the trails, while the sounds of birds and other creatures echo throughout the forest.

A cloud forest is a high-elevation forest characterized by a persistent, canopy-level cloud cover. These clouds provide the forest with a continual supply of moisture, which supports the fantastic array of plants that live here.

Warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean sweep over the Continental Divide, cooling and condensing to form clouds as they rise. By the time they reach Santa Elena, the clouds are thick and filled with moisture. The forest is thus bathed in a constant supply of mist, which, over the course of a year, amounts to nearly twelve feet of rain.

Who calls this cloud forest home?

Not surprisingly, the Santa Elena cloud forest is abundant with vegetation. The competition for growing space is so intense that the trunks, branches and even roots of trees are almost entirely covered with other plants – epiphytes, lichens, liverworts, bryophytes, mosses and more. Strong winds and water-laden limbs often cause branches to break and fall to the ground. This not only creates light gaps in the canopy, but also provides the forest floor with added nutrients.

Not to be outdone, the insects, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds that live here can be found in fantastic numbers as well. Birds include the three-wattled bellbird, bare-necked umbrellabird, keel-billed toucan, long-tailed manakin, and resplendent quetzal. White-faced and howler monkeys reside here, as do jaguars, agouti, and the three-toed sloth.

A forest of special meaning.

The community of Santa Elena borders the Monteverde Conservation Area. Within this region, 310 hectares (765 acres) have been permanently leased by the Santa Elena community high school. The original vision was to use this land for agricultural research and education in Monteverde. However, the farming proved to be unsuccessful, and in 1989, the land was converted into a cloud forest reserve. Together with Youth Challenge International, a Canadian based non-profit organization, the community established an ecotourism reserve, which officially opened on March 1, 1992.

The reserve was created out of the community’s desire to both preserve the cloud forest and use tourism as a means to benefit community development. Entrance fees go to protecting and managing the reserve, as well as providing higher quality education for the schools of Monteverde.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve of Monteverde is one of the first community administered reserves in the country (in the sense that it is not a national park, but under the protection of the Arenal Conservation Area). It is an excellent example of what people can do to preserve — and learn from — the environment they live in.

More Santa Elena adventures…

Beautiful as they are, cloud forests aren’t the only thing Santa Elena has to offer. The friendly and peaceful town of Santa Elena is extremely pleasant in its own right. In addition to offering you easy access to all kinds of adventures, and in the process, you will be doing a lot of good as you support the local community.

Enjoy fresh produce when you frequent the farmer’s market where family-owned farms sell fruits, vegetables, and coffee that is either organic or uses minimal chemical.

Get one of a kind gifts and contribute to the success of female entrepreneurs when you shop at when you shop at Cooperative de Artesanas de Santa Elena y Monteverde ( CASEM ) — a co-op which provides artisan training and employment opportunities to women.

Hone your foreign language skills when you enjoy an immersive Spanish education at Centor Panamericano de Idiomas ( CPI ). Use your new phrases around the town when you shopping and visiting restaurants.

How to reach this amazing destination.

Getting There: A shuttle can pick visitors up at their hotel and take them to and from the reserve. The shuttle costs $2 each way and requires reservations. Guests can make reservations by calling 2645-6332. The shuttle leaves at 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. It returns at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

• Hours: The trails are open from 7 AM to 4 PM daily.
• Guided Tours: Three-hour guided tours are available. For pricing and tour times, click the reservation link on the right.
• There is a restaurant and souvenir shop at the entrance.
• There are opportunities for both volunteering and researching at the reserve.

Make Santa Elena a part of your Costa Rican getaway by calling us toll-free at +1-888-830-6074 or send us a message .

Tailored, Trusted, and Transformative Travel.

Customer Reviewed  Our family of six was looking forward to this Costa Rica getaway, hoping to rejuvenate from this vacation before heading back to work respectively. As we anticipated, this was a magical experience and I would go back in a heartbeat.

Customer Reviewed  We visited three very different parts of Costa Rica—Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Drake Bay. Tracy at Anywhere.com was wonderful! Very responsive, proactive, and helpful!

Customer Reviewed  I love your country and can't wait to come back. The kindness of the people really stood out in my mind.

• Map of the Area
• Adventure in Big Bend
• Health Conditions
• Spring & Summer Heat Advisory
• Logistics & Planning
• Meeting Places
• Accomodations
• Anthony Bourdain Big Bend Trip
• River Trips Overview
• Youth Groups River Trips
• Santa Elena Canyon
• Rio Grande Lower Canyon Trips
• Boquillas Canyon River Trips
• Dark Canyon / Colorado Canyon
• Devils River
• Big Bend Langtry River Trip
• What To Bring / Wear for River Trip
• Birding Tours
• Dark Sky Camping
• Backpacking in Big Bend
• Offroad Tours
• Ojinaga Tour Guide
• San Carlos Mexico
• Location Scouting in Big Bend
• Working with Studios
• Send a Review
• Tumbleweed Smith Interview 2021
• Redford History
• Guided Tours
• Southern Living Sept 21, 2020
• Donald Judd Double Rainbow
• Wildlife Photos
• Friends of the Ruidosa Church
• Javelina Attacks Girl Saving Dog
• Snake Snack

Santa Elena Canyon River Trips

Santa Elena Canyon is considered the premier river trip in the park, with 1500 ft. sheer canyon walls of limestone rising up from the waters edge. An absolutely jaw-dropping experience, and unique among rivers in North America, a once-in-a-lifetime experience making the float thru this natural wonder.

• Quick Reference
• River Trip Overview (read this)
• Heat Advisory
• Health Conditions/Limitations?
• Meeting Places & Logistics
• What to Bring on a River Trip
• Toilet or Privy
• Fishing the Rio Grande
• Shuttle Rates
• Cancellation
• See our Instagram for Photos

Santa Elena Canyon Trip Options Santa Elena Canyon offers trips from one day to three days depending on the river flow, and side hikes.

At most levels a 2-3 day trip, 21 miles of river start to finish, launching in Lajitas and finishing in the National Park just downstream from the canyon hiking trail. In rare instances during high water events, during the rainy summer season, the entire 21 miles can be floated in a single day. It is difficult to predict these circumstances so it is best to book as a one or two night float.

In winter and springtime, during our dry season, it is also possible to do a single day trip by paddling upstream into the canyon, taking a lunch break, and paddling back out, what we call a “boomerang”. This type of trip is canoe only and requires some effort by the client, dragging the boat thru shallows and paddling against occasional currents. If all you have is one day to experience the canyon and have the energy and effort in you to do this then it is the next-best method of enjoying the beauty of the canyon.

The 2 or 3 day downstream or boomerang overnight is still the preferred method but if the water conditions are right we do offer this. If the entire 21 miles of canyon is what you want to do, be aware that most of the year floating in the big rafts is not feasible due to water levels. Canoes or kayaks are the best craft. Be aware that there are numerous rapids, wall shots, and technical spots on the river that require some coordination, skill and moderate experience.

You don’t need to be an expert boater but being in good physical shape and a positive mental attitude are what it takes to make it thru this, the payback is the feeling of accomplishment you get after navigating thru one of the trickiest stretches of rapids and obstacles in Southwestern rivers. If you start this 21 mile trip a novice you will be an accomplished boater by the end.

The 3 day trip allows for more down time at camp and ample time for side hikes.

The menu for meals are tailored to your dietary preferences.

See the Rates Page for Santa Elena Canyon

Options Santa Elena Canyon 2-Day Overnight trip Santa Elena Canyon 3-Day Overnight trip Single Day Boomerang Santa Elena Single-Day Downstream, raft, canoe or kayak: Price varies depending on group size and water conditions, please remember this option is not available most of the year. Months this is possible are generally Aug. – Oct. but even during these months may not be possible. Inquiring by phone or email is required to discuss feasibility and rates.

Please keep in mind that if a one-day float thru the canyon is possible it will still be a long day, starting at 9 am and returning to starting point 5-6 pm or possibly later depending on wind and current.

See the Instagram Video Clips Here and Here

The Santa Elena canyon boomerang 🪃 trip, a lot of effort required but fantastic scenery and Campsites! 4 years ago we took Anthony Bourdain on this overnight trip for an episode of Parts Unknown. A great man with great opinions on life and the world, he will be missed forever.

Photos by Leslie Hopper

Photos by Taylor Reilly

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Costa Rica

Santa Elena Costa Rica Parks in the Cloud Forest

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest is a lesser known reserve than the 'Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve' but it has essentially the same type of forest.  The Santa Elena Reserve is situated a little more towards the Atlantic and has large areas at high elevations. Both reserves share some common borders.  The  Santa Elena Cloud Forest  is run by the Santa Elena High School.  And what is a Cloud Forest..  read more ?

In 2014 Desafio Monteverde Tours donated 2 hidden cameras to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve  -  CLICK HERE  - to read about monitoring wildlife with cameras.

So what is the difference between the two main Cloud Forests? Many argue that the guides are better at the Monteverde Reserve. The admission is cheaper at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest  (but transport to get there is more expensive, so it works out similar). The trails are a little more 'rustic' than in Monteverde but both parks are beautiful and arguably less crowded in high season. The Santa Elena Reserve is only a 20 minute walk from the Selvatura Canopy Zipline tour so if you want to do a guided walk in the park in the morning and a canopy tour in the afternoon - they are conveniently located near to each other.

Desafio Monteverde offers a guided package that includes an English-speaking, qualified naturalist guide (only the best ones are chosen - tried and tested!), all transport to and from hotel and entrance fees.

To book a guided tour in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Please Click Here and we will send you more information or chat with us .

The Santa Elena Reserve has a cafetaria with freshly prepared food at very reasonable prices plus a souvenir shop.

The Santa Elena Reserve also provides one wheelchair accessible trail  -  the trail is about 20 minutes if going slowly and stopping for photos or to read the information posts provided alongside some of the trail.

More Information

• WHAT IS A CLOUD FOREST
• ABOUT MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST
• ABOUT CURI-CANCHA REFUGE

Ecology and Monteverde: A Series of Articles

• The Fascinating Relationship Between Hummingbirds and Flowers.  click here
• Why Trees in a Wet Cloud Forest Get Thirsty!  click here
• The Case of the Disappearing Frogs or Why Cloud Forests Need Clouds AND Forests  click here
• Leaf-cutter Ants the most effective farmers of Monteverde?  click here
• Wild Cats of the Cloud Forest - yes they are out there!  Click here

What to Bring?

Please take in consideration before booking

Please bring your student ID

Recommended for children older than 6 years

For tours for today or tomorrow please chat with us

Private tours can be done at anytime between 7am until 1pm

Have questions or need help?

Booking, prices, questions.

[ Contactenos por precios para Nacionales ]

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Costa Rica Gallery

Santa Elena Reserve Hike

Home » Tours » Santa Elena Reserve Hike

With over 8 miles of trails, 3 scenic viewpoints, and an observation tower, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is an exceptional Monteverde hiking experience. During your hike, observe the variety of moss, flowers, lichen, and bromeliads, which together create the magical cloud forest atmosphere. Since wildlife is more active in the morning it is best to arrive early!

• Passenger Minimum: 2
• Duration: Half-day, departs early in the morning, and returns in time for lunch. Afternoon departures sometimes available.
• Difficulty Level: easy with some inclines
• Includes: transfers, guide, entrance
• What to Bring: closed-toe shoes (required), comfortable clothing, rain jacket or poncho (rainy season), sunscreen, bug spray, hat, or bandana
• Tour Type: nature, active

YOU DESERVE A VACATION PLANNED BY EXPERTS.

Us headquarters, costa rica office.

Barrio La California, Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, Ed #2798 Oficina #8 San Jose, Costa Rica 10104

READ OUR REVIEWS

Dreaming of cooler weather?

• DESTINATIONS
• THINGS TO DO
• PLAN YOUR TRIP

Privacy Overview

This is a necessary category.

Santa Elena Flower Farm & Silleteros Tour

Santa Elena FlowerFarm & Silleteros Tour Details

Starting time: 9am or 2pm

Duration: 4 hours

Locations: Pickup and drop-off from the hotel

Age restrictions: 4+

Price: $130 per person (500,000 COP)

Disclosure: Some links on Medellin-Tours.com may earn us affiliate commission, at no cost to you. Affiliate links are a way for us to earn a commission if you purchase a tour we recommend through Viator for another provider.

What to expect during the Santa Elena Flower Farms and Silleteros tour:

You’ll also get to tour the actual flower farms, guided by the farmers themselves. A popular tourist activity is to learn how to arrange flowers on the silletas , which are what silleteros famously carry on their backs to transport flowers. You’ll learn not only the techniques they use, but also hear about the many traditions of the region’s silleteros .

At some point during the tour we’ll make time for a relaxing lunch, during which you’ll enjoy some regional food and drinks for a taste of authentic Colombian cuisine.

Santa Elena background

Santa Elena is a township of Medellín that’s just outside of Medellín; it’s easy to reach by car or bus, and is almost always sunny and warm. Medellín might be flooded with millions of flowers every year for the Festival of the Flowers, but in Santa Elena, it doesn’t take a festival for the flowers to show up; during the blooming season, they’re always around!

This township is in the mountains, and is actually located within the Arví Nature Reserve. Even though Colombia is known for its flower exports, these flowers aren’t destined for international consumers. Instead, the flowers of Santa Elena are mainly meant for the Festival of the Flowers, plus other buyers in the region.

Silleteros background

As roads and transportation improved, the silletas started being used to carry flowers or vegetables instead of people. Since many silleteros support themselves by growing produce as well as flowers, their silletas are used for whatever has to be brought to the markets. They can hold enormous numbers of blooms; during the festival in Medellín, they support flower arrangements that weight up to 100 pounds!

Highlights of the Santa Elena Flower Farms and Silleteros Tour

Tourist activities in Santa Elena are pretty much all centered around the village’s flower farms, and for good reason – these farms have brought both prosperity and fame to the village.

One of Santa Elena’s most important landmarks, the Silletero monument, is near the entrance of the village. This monument honors the lives and traditions of the Silleteros . It’s composed of three statues; in the middle is a man carrying an elaborate array of flowers on his back, with a woman and a young girl standing on either side of him. The statues look strong and bold, and at the base of the monument is the inscription “When a Silletero passes, it is Antioquia that passes”.

There are countless flower farms around Santa Elena, and many of them offer tours that are guided by the silleteros themselves. Visitors get the chance to walk around the flower fields, listen to the history of the area and the farm, and learn about the lives of the region’s flower growers. The farmers are always happy to answer questions, whether they’re about silletero traditions or how long the flowers take to grow. Each farmer has a deep knowledge of every part of the process, both from their own experience, and from generations of wisdom that they got from their parents and grandparents.

This tour wouldn’t be complete without learning the basics of arranging flowers on a silleta. The flower growers love sharing their knowledge and traditions with visitors, so many tourists enjoy the hands-on experience of putting together their own arrangement. A smaller silleta is typically used, for two reasons. First, a lot of people would have a hard time carrying a full-sized silleta with pounds and pounds of flowers laid out on it. Second, participants only have a limited amount of time to complete their arrangements, so a smaller one makes more sense.

Some people say this is their favorite part of the Santa Elena flower farms and silleteros tour. They get to chat with the silleteros , get up-close and personal with bunches of beautiful flowers, and take pride in the results of their efforts once the arrangement is done. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for some unique, colorful photos!

Something that sets these tours apart from other Medellín tours is that when you book any activity with silleteros , the money is going directly to their small business. Santa Elena isn’t big enough to be full of chain restaurants or large stores, so every peso you spend there will go to real people, rather than corporations. Whether you’re learning how to arrange flowers, or picking up some snacks from a local vendor, you can feel confident that it’s money well spent.

What to bring for the tour

We recommend that you bring along the following items for this tour:

• Walking shoes
• Sun protection, like sunscreen or a hat
• A light jacket, since it gets colder in Santa Elena compared to Medellín
• And last but not least, a camera!

Medellin, Colombia

[email protected]

Copyright © 2023 medellin-tours.com All rights reserved.

Forest at Sunrise (Santa Elena Reserve)

Local & Naturalist Guide

Santa elena – monteverde region, night walks.

We offer Night Tours in private preserves, on the Santa Elena Region, English or Spanish.

Keep in mind that 80% of the fauna from Costa Rica is active during the night time.

Sunrise & Sunset

Lookin for a different experience? Maybe landscape photography, or contrasting colours for your eyes?

Join us on an early walk to watch sunrise or to see the change from day to night in the forest.

Natural History Tours

If you aim to know more about our Cloud Forest environment we provide educational tours at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

Learn more about flora and history of the region

Candelita (Myioborus miniatus)

Follow me on Instagram see what we see on our tours!

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Day Hike

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve was founded in 1992 and is managed by the board of directors of the Santa Elena public high school, making it a responsible social-community activity.

This 310-hectare reserve, located on the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica, offers a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as views of the distant Arenal Volcano and its lake on clear days with good visibility. Additionally, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve receives fewer visitors than most other reserves, which makes it ideal for those who enjoy less crowded places.

On this tour, you will learn about the forest’s secrets while enjoying a relaxing tour with a naturalist guide, who will help you spot and identify the many plants and animals you encounter along the way.tour.

Important Notes:  

• We limit tours to a maximum of 9 participants per guide for better enjoyment. 
• Encountering wildlife is not guaranteed. Exploring the reserve with your guide will give you the best chance to spot some of the many species that inhabit the cloud forest, but ultimately you are venturing into the natural habitat of wild animals, whose behavior is impossible to predict with certainty.

Name tourist

Fantastic trip.

is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting

BOOKING FORM

Reserva de Santa Elena

Horseback Riding

Clases de Cocina

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Costa Rica Travel Information

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve: The Lesser Visited Cloud Forest

June 25, 2021 By Sammi 29 Comments

Many people don’t realize there are actually three cloud forest reserves in Monteverde with Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve as the most popular. But if you aren’t keen about being around a lot of tour groups, then you should visit the sister reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve (La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena).

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest is higher in elevation at 1600 meters (5250 feet) and has 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of well maintained trails with beautiful view points and scenery. It is privately run by the Santa Elena Technical Professional High School and protects over 300 hectares (741 acres) of land. Santa Elena Reserve is considerably less crowded than Monteverde and offers equally as nice hiking trails and views.

How to Get to the La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena

Bus: There is a local bus from Santa Elena town to Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. It runs everyday at 630 AM, 830 AM, 1030 AM and 1230 PM and returns at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM and 4 PM. The bus costs $3 per person. Reservations required before 830 PM the day before (many hotels/hostels in town can book this for you). You can also Whatsapp 8346 0748 or 8964 2288.

Driving: The drive from town to the cloud forest reserve is straightforward and luckily, the road isn’t too bad but it does go up some steep hills and it is not paved. You have to drive northeast towards Sky Adventures and past Selvatura Park . You can find it on Google Maps and Waze.

We highly highly recommend to rent a high car (dry season) or a 4wd (rainy season) when visiting Monteverde due to the road conditions outside the town center. You can read more about Monteverde road conditions here.

You will reach a parking lot (free) and you can purchase tickets at the entrance office. There are bathrooms and a souvenir store.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Santa Elena town and is on the Caribbean side of the Continental Division. On Waze and Google Maps, it is called La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena (Spanish).

Entrance Fee and Hours

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest entrance fee is $16 USD for foreigners adults and $7 USD for kids and is open every day from 7 AM to 3 PM.

You can get one of these maps at the entrance office for free. On the map, you can see all the trails, the lengths and different view points.

Something else really nice about Santa Elena Reserve is that they have a handicap trail.

Manuel Antonio National Park and Carara National Park are two other parks that have handicap friendly trails. Unfortunately, not many national parks and reserves in Costa Rica have handicap friendly facilities.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Hiking Trails

As you can see, the reserve has 5 trails of various lengths with the shortest at half a kilometer and longest at 5 (.3 miles to 3.2 miles). We were only able to hike the Encantado Trail because it started pouring down rain otherwise we would have stayed longer.

We recommend doing the Encantado or Cano Negro trails as they have a great view of Arenal Volcano .

Trail Conditions

The trails are all in well maintained conditions. The first entrance is on a concrete path (for the handicap friendly) and it ends when you get deeper into the forest.

Encantado Trail

The Encantado Trail didn’t have that many view points but the scenery was gorgeous.

The trail led us through the cloud forest surrounded by moss covered branches and a beautiful array of towering trees. The intensely thick vegetation made it hard to see the ground as there were layers upon layers of plants, moss and epiphytes sprawled on the ground floor.

Even though it rained, it made the forest feel more magical. The abundant vegetation never ceased to astound us and it felt like we were walking in a fairy tale. Raindrops glistened from every leaf and branch, shining brightly all around us.

We loved our hike in Santa Elena. With such fresh air, incredible greenery and empty trails, it was exactly the break we needed from the intense heat of Guanacaste.

The community who put together the reserve did an excellent job. The signage on the trails is great and the paths were easy to walk on. There are also benches on the trails making it extremely friendly for visitors of all ages.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Animals

We didn’t see any animals when we were there but we heard lots of birds. However, the forest canopy is so dense and thick that it was impossible to pinpoint where they were.

Some of the animals you may see are coatis, agoutis and monkeys. If you’re very lucky, you can see the Resplendant Quetzal which are abundant in Monteverde the months of February – July. We met one couple who went on a guided hike in Santa Elena and saw 2 Quetzals and monkeys.

When it comes to seeing wildlife in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, it’s not quite as easy as Curi Cancha Reserve . Curi Cancha is much more open so it’s easier to see bird. Santa Elena, in our opinion, is best for hiking and enjoying the incredible cloud forest views.

Guided vs Self Guided Tour

We visited Santa Elena Reserve on our own. Even though we love guided hikes and always recommend them, we didn’t feel a need for one this time. We spent most of our time enchanted by the beauty of the cloud forest!

The trails were easy to walk on and because we did a guided walk at Curi Cancha, we didn’t feel like it was necessary for Santa Elena.

But if this one is the only hike you’re doing and you want to learn more about it, then I recommend doing the Santa Elena Cloud Forest guided tour. You can hire a guide at the entrance office but you do need to make reservations at least 1 day before hand (you can do it on their website) and have your own transportation.

Differences Between Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest

We wrote an in-depth post comparing the differences between Monteverde and Santa Elena you can read here. Below is a quick guide to both.

Santa Elena has a couple longer trails but both are well maintained and easy to walk. The Monteverde Cloud Forest does have some more facilities such as hanging bridges, an observation deck, a lodge and there is a waterfall.

Santa Elena doesn’t nearly receive as many visitors as Monteverde. When we visited, the parking lot at Santa Elena was half full and it was all rental cars, no large tour shuttles and vans. We ran into only 3 small families during our entire time in the reserve and for a couple hours, it was just us and the trees.

Monteverde was a different story. The parking lot full with large tour shuttles and rental cars. We always saw people on the trails, mostly tour groups. There were times when we had to step aside as the trail didn’t fit everyone. It was gorgeous but crowded.

Keep in mind that we visited in March, one of the busiest times of the year. If you visit during the shoulder months or low season, you won’t see nearly as many people as we did. You can read more about the best time to visit Costa Rica in this post.

Do You Need a 4×4 to Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve?

Both reserves are easily accessible as they are on Google Maps and Waze. We do recommend a high clearance car for both Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

You can also take the local shuttle bus from town to the reserves and back.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit would be in dry season. Even in March, one of the hottest and driest months of the year and it rained on us! You have a better chance to see the Arenal Volcano view point and not get rained on in dry season. February – July is also the Quetzal mating season so you have the possibility to see the birds.

If you visit in rainy season, you must be prepared for rain any time of day. Since the cloud forests are so high up in elevation, it can rain more frequently.

You can read more about Costa Rica weather in this post.

What to Wear

We recommend wearing long hiking pants, closed toed hiking shoes and a comfortable shirt that wicks away moisture. In rainy season, make sure to bring your rain jacket and a waterproof backpack or a rain cover. That will be necessary!

When we visited in March, I was very cold, especially as it was raining. I wore my cotton sweater with my rain jacket over it but I did warm up when we started walking and the rain stopped. I wore closed toed hiking sandals and my feet were cold, I wish I had wore socks with them no matter how silly it looked! But after it stopped raining and we warmed up from walking, my feet were fine.

You don’t need mosquito repellent since there are not really any mosquitoes that high in elevation.

Read our Costa Rica packing list article for more tips.

Read About Other Great Places to Hike in Costa Rica

Rincon de la Vieja National Park : A national park in Guanacaste with hiking trails to viewpoints, waterfalls and boiling mud pots

Rio Celeste : The sky blue river inside Tenorio Volcano National Park

Cahuita National Park : A national park on the Caribbean coast with beach and jungle trails

Reader Interactions

June 23, 2024

Hi, this is a great article and really helpful. We are coming to monteverde in feb 2025. Can you tell me if you need to pre-book entrance fee tickets in advance to La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena, if just visiting without a guide? Eg, can we just show up on the day and get in? Didn’t know if they restrict numbers like with other parks.

June 24, 2024

As of today, you don’t need to prepurchase tickets if you are visiting without a guide. They may change things anytime so make sure to check again closer to your trip

December 27, 2023

We are headed to Costa Rica for the first time in Jan. flying into Liberia. If you had to choose Arenal or Monteverde, which would you personally choose to visit?

December 28, 2023

Hello Kim, you can read our Monteverde or Arenal on just your question.

April 8, 2023

Your reviews are so helpful and have provided so much useful information about many locations. Thank you!

James Sumpter says

March 13, 2023

I love your blogs! Thank you so much for all your efforts! We’re heading to Costa Rica in 2 weeks. How much time would you usually set aside for a trip to the Santa Elena reserve?

March 14, 2023

About half a day depending on how many trails you want to walk

January 12, 2022

Hello! Thanks for all the great content! If we are planning on doing Selvatura Park’s hanging bridges should we consider doing a different reserve hike other than Santa Elena the next day? I read that the hanging bridges go through part of the reserve so was curious if we would get a feel for the reserve that way or is it a much different experience hiking on the ground? Or should we hike the Monteverde reserve the next day?

January 13, 2022

If you go to the Selvatura hanging bridges, you will definitely get a very nice cloud forest experience. If you really like hiking and want to hike and see more, the Santa Elena Reserve or Monteverde Reserve are wonderful

Rebecca says

April 22, 2021

Thank you for this great post ! I’ve seen elsewhere that it is easy to get a taxi from Santa Elena town center to Santa Elena Reserve but do you know if taxis are available for the return trip? I greatly appreciate all the work and research you’ve put into your site!

You can ask the driver for their phone number to call him to come pick you up or the Santa Elena office may be able to help call you one. We also did see a couple of Ubers in Santa Elena downtown but I wouldn’t depend 100% on it just in case. I’d definitely ask the taxi driver for their phone number.

Johnny_C says

January 12, 2020

Great site, very very helpful!

My wife and I are planning on a 10-day trip near the end of April, and both La Fortuna/Monteverde are tentatively on the agenda (first time for both of us in CR, and we are probably staying 5-6 cumulative days in those 2 spots).

Question regarding the cloud forests in the Monteverde region – it seems like there’s a hanging bridge in the Monteverde Reserve. Is there one in the Santa Elena reserve as well? We are more inclined on checking out the Santa Elena one (you sold us on it!!), but my wife has a hanging bridge on her bucket list…

We may, however, have the option of checking out the hanging bridge place in Arenal/Mistico. And we will almost certainly be doing the Arenal Volcano hike + Bogarin Trail (not sure if there’s bridges there). Wondering what is your personal preferences among all these (and hey… checking out both Reserves in Monteverde might be an option as well!)

January 13, 2020

Hi Johnny, to be honest I am not positive if there is a hanging bridge in Santa ELena (I am leaning towards no but not 100%) because we only hiked two of the trails and there are several trails in Santa Elena. From the map it looks like there is a bridge on Del Bajo trail but I don’t know if it’s a hanging bridge or normal bridge. They also do have an observation platform with a view of ARenal Volcano on a clear day. I just checked their FB photos and I don’t see any of a hanging bridges.

Bogarin doesn’t have hanging bridges but Mistico Hanging Bridges does. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve has 1 hanging bridge.

December 2, 2019

Is it safe for a solo female traveler to hike the Santa Elena cloud forest?

Hi Len, I would say so, the trails are well laid out, there are maps and signs, an office with a bathroom and small cafeteria and other tourists and tour groups. Just stay on the trail and get a map. It’s not quite as popular as Monteverde Reserve but you won’t be isolated, we passed by a few groups of people in March. I can’t remember if there is cell phone signal in the reserve though.

Bert Sirkin says

July 7, 2019

We’re staying in LA Fortuna for 4 nights, and have a rental car for one day there. Would it make sense to drive from La Fortuna for the day, or are there any tours we could take?

Hi Bert, all tours include transportation so unless you want to have the car to explore on your own, it’s not super necessary.

Dianna says

March 30, 2019

Hi, First, thank you so much for your amazing info on everything Costa Rica! The most in-depth and detailed info I have found.

Couple of questions: We are planning a visit in May; Will Monteverde still be crowded, or would Santa Elena still be better? Is the fauna very different? I’m especially hoping to see wild orchids and other plants growing on the trees.

Whichever one we do, is there any difference between that and the Skywalk? We’re not super interested in zip lines, mainly walking.

March 31, 2019

May is a great time to visit, shouldn’t be too crowded at that time. Either one will be very nice.

Skywalk is just a hanging bridges in the Sky Adventures park. The cloud forest reserves have hiking trails so if you want to just walk, then you can go to the reserve but if you want to experience hanging bridges, then do Skywalk because the cloud forest reserve doesn’t have hanging bridges like Skywalk.

George Walker says

March 24, 2019

Thanks so much for your excellent posts. You have made our trip planning more fun.

March 25, 2019

You’re very welcome! Glad to hear.

February 17, 2019

We were in Santa Elena last week and want to let people know that the observation tower was closed. The forest is amazing! Thank you for all the planning tips – my husband and I are calling you the “Rick Steves” of Costa Rica lol

Burmisoutdoor says

June 28, 2018

This is just STUNNING. The air looks fresh there. Nature is truly priceless so we must treasure it.

June 27, 2018

Hi Shannon, we don’t operate tours. If you’re looking for guided walks to Santa Elena, you can check their website https://www.reservasantaelena.org/

Destination M says

Amazing post. The Cloud Forest in Santa Elena is incredibly breathtaking. This is nature at its finest. I would love to go there.

shannon says

June 26, 2018

Hello, do you have price list of your tours. thank you

Tom Griffiths says

Hey guys… Just wondering if you are aware of the small preserve attached to the Monteverde Inn. We are staying there in December and of course…. I’d love to hear your opinion. 2nd question. We love the Zip line at Sky Trek Arenal. We don’t have a lot of time at either Monteverde or Arenal so I’m wonering which sky trek you prefer. Thanks yet again.

Hi Tom, sorry we have never been there so can’t give any personal experience. But for Sky Trek, I personally liked Arenal better. You get an awesome view of Arenal Volcano and the lake. The cloud forest is cool but the volcano and lake view is unbeatable.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Exclusive deals

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, santa elena canyon.

Last updated: June 3, 2022

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 129 Big Bend National Park, TX 79834-0129

432-477-2251

Stay Connected

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour

A wonderful way to connect with nature intimately with a guided natural history tour in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

QUICK DETAILS

• Hour Glass Duration: 2.5 Hours
• User Ages: For Ages 6+
• Clock Times: 7:30 AM | 11:30 AM | 1:30 PM
• Bus Transportation: Available for an additional fee within the Monteverde region.

✅ What’s Included:

• Entrance Fees
• 2.5-Hour Tour
• Free Parking Onsite

❌ Not Included:

• Food and drinks*
• Transportation**

*Can be purchased at the park.

**Can be added as you book online.

🌿 Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour

Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Masterpiece

Experience the ethereal beauty of the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve on our guided tour in Monteverde, Costa Rica. This 2.5-hour tour runs thrice daily at 7:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM. Remember, we operate strictly on reservations; walk-ins are not entertained.

Instead of the typical fully packed walks in most reserves, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour offers a more profound journey into nature in a less touristy, more authentic manner. Immerse yourself in two and a half hours of discovery, wandering through lush trails and uncovering the secrets of this vibrant ecosystem.

Equipped with knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the cloud forest’s unique flora and fauna. Expect to see many plant species, hear the calls of exotic birds, and perhaps spot the elusive quetzal.

🌳 “Nature’s Symphony”

  On my recent trip to Monteverde, I embarked on the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour, which was a transformative experience. The sheer variety of plant life, the chirping birds, and the serene atmosphere were nature’s symphony playing just for me. From the moment we set foot in the reserve, our guide was a fountain of knowledge, sharing stories and facts about every little detail. The commitment to conservation and education was evident, making the experience even more rewarding . “ – Margot Lewis | July 2023

🍃 Why Choose This Cloud Forest Tour?

Less touristy:.

While many popular destinations can be crowded and feel commercialized, our Santa Elena Reserve Cloud Forest Tour offers a more secluded and intimate experience. We limit the number of visitors each day to ensure that every tour feels personal and you can truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings without the distraction of large crowds.

Eco-Friendly:

Our commitment to the environment is paramount. We believe in sustainable tourism, so we practice and promote eco-friendly measures. From using minimal-impact trails to educating visitors about the delicate ecosystem, we ensure our operations leave the smallest footprint possible. Choosing our tour means supporting a venture that cares deeply about conservation and the future of our planet.

Beautiful Scenery:

The Santa Elena Reserve is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes. The scenery here is unparalleled, from misty cloud forests to panoramic vistas. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you to the most picturesque spots, ensuring you leave with memories and photographs that will last a lifetime.

🚌 Transportation Available

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is on the highest elevation point of Monteverde, about 15 minutes from Monteverde’s main town, Santa Elena. After booking online, you will get a confirmation email with the Google Maps location with driving instructions to get here.

If you don’t have a car to get to us, you can add transportation as an extra when you’re booking online. Type in the name and address of your hotel or Airbnb, and we will happily pick you up 30 to 60 minutes before the tour starts. We’ll also take you back there after the time ends.

✅ Flexible Cancellation

Our flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour day. You can easily cancel online, directly from your confirmation email —no need to talk to someone, and no questions asked.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour generally operates under most weather conditions (including rain). However, if there is challenging weather (such as a thunderstorm), we will contact you to reschedule or refund you.

📅 Planning Your Adventure

Are you ready to leap? Book your Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve Tour now and secure your spot for an experience that will connect you deeply with nature’s wonders. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a complete beginner, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

🎟️ Booking Your Tickets

Limited slots are available for security and quality purposes. Don’t miss your chance to feel a deep nature connection through the breathtaking beauty of Monteverde, Costa Rica. Your extraordinary experience awaits. Book online now to reserve your spot and prepare for an experience you’ll remember for years.

What Adventurers Say

A once-in-a-lifetime experience! The Santa Elena Reserve is a true gem, and the tour was both educational and breathtaking. Highly recommend.

Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, and the views? Simply spectacular! This tour was the highlight of our trip to Costa Rica.

I appreciated the eco-friendly approach of the tour. The cloud forest is mesmerizing, and the entire experience felt intimate and well-organized.

It's not every day you get to walk through such pristine nature. The forest was spectacular, and the scenery was just stunning.

I loved how the tour wasn't overcrowded like other popular spots. The peaceful atmosphere allowed me to truly connect with nature. A must-do!

Related Tours

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Selvatura Park Hanging Bridges

• For All Ages
• Most Scenic Location
• 8:30AM | 11AM | 1PM | 2:30PM

Featuring the most scenic and natural but hilly 3 km (1.8 mi) trail with eight incredible bridges offering fantastic cloud forest views above the canopy, Selvatura offers the best hanging bridges in Monteverde for nature lovers and well-conditioned avid hikers .

Sky Walk Monteverde Hanging Bridges

• Most Accessible Location
• Every Hour from 7 AM to 3 PM

Featuring three easy, paved trails with distances between 1 km (0.6 mi) and 2.5 km (1.5 mi) and six beautiful bridges spread across, Sky Walk offers the best hanging bridges in Monteverde for families with young children and mobile-impaired users .

Visiting the Magical Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

This post will share everything you need to know about visiting the magical Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica. We’ll cover the trail options, wildlife and important visitor info.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links, that may earn me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For full information, please see our disclaimer here . While all efforts have been taken to ensure the information included in this post is correct and current, travel information such as opening hours, business operations and prices change frequently. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers.

Table of Contents

About the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve was unlike anything else we experienced in Costa Rica.

Wandering through the dense canopy, the sunlight almost completely concealed with thick clouds hanging in the air. Mosses, ferns and epiphytes covering every surface. Listening to the moisture dripping, the wind rustling through the canopy and birds singing was truly magical.

La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena in Spanish, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is located in Monterverde, Costa Rica.

The Monteverde area, with its main town Santa Elena, is one of the few places in the world with cloud forests. Drawing visitors from all over the world, the moist and misty forests are one of the most unique sights in Costa Rica.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is one of a handful of cloud forests in the area.

Often overshadowed by the more popular Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, this lesser-known cloud forest is just as beautiful, and I would argue even more special and mystical.

Sitting at an altitude of over 1,700 metres (5,575 feet), the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve protects an area of 310 hectares (765 acres).

Not one of Costa Rica’s official national parks, the protected area is managed by the local community. The Santa Elena Community High School has a permanent lease on the area, and profits go back to the reserve, and to improve education in the Monteverde area.

In this post I’ll share more about our experience at the forest, why we think this is a better choice than the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and everything you need to know to plan your own visit to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve quick facts

• 📍 Location : Google Maps
• ⏰ Opening hours : 7 am – 4 pm, Monday – Sunday
• 💰 Entrance fee : $18 USD foreign adults, $9 USD foreign children
• 🚙 How to get there : self-drive 20 minutes from town with free parking, or take a shuttle organised by a local transport company

Why are there cloud forests in Monteverde?

Cloud forests cover less than 1% of the world’s forest area. Declining at a rapid rate, these special and unique ecosystems are becoming less common as the climate warms.

Monteverde in Costa Rica is one of the few places in the world where you can see cloud forests.

But why does cloud forest occur here?

Well, Monteverde sits at the top of the Tilaran Mountain Range on the border of the Continental Divide, which splits the Americas between the Pacific Coast and the Atlantic Coast.

The area’s high altitude, between 1,400 – 1,800 metres above sea level (4,200 – 5,900 feet) means the weather is much cooler. Warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean cool and condense into clouds as they sweep over the mountains. These thick clouds are filled with moisture and hang over the elevated forests.

The result? Cloud forests.

With a year-round humidity of 100% and over 3,000 ml (118 in) of rain, these moist forests are constantly bathed in clouds.

This creates the perfect environment for a wide range of tropical plants. Epiphytes, mosses, lichens, bromeliads and orchids grow from every surface, covering the forest floor, tree trunks and even roots.

The forest is full of life, and dense green everywhere you look. It was truly one of the most beautiful ecosystems I have ever seen.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve v Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

Visiting a cloud forest is the primary reason most people come to Monteverde, ourselves included!

The majority of tourists choose the more popular Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, simply because they don’t know there are alternative options, or they think the Monteverde forest is the best.

Neither of the cloud forests is ‘better’ than the others. Both have their benefits and downfalls.

We decided on the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, but Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve might be right for you.

I’ll run through a few key factors and explain the differences at each forest, explaining why we chose Santa Elena, so you can choose which option is best for you.

• 📍 Location – Santa Elena sits at a slightly higher altitude (1,700 metres / 5,575 feet vs. 1,500 metres / 5,000 feet), so there is a better chance that it will be cloudy and misty, which is exactly what you want when visiting a cloud forest.
• 💰 Cost – a big reason that we chose Santa Elena over Monteverde was the cost. Santa Elena is $18 per person, whereas Monteverde is $25 per person. You don’t have to pay for parking at Santa Elena, but at Monteverde, it is $5 unless you get lucky and snag one of the few free parks on the road. We saved a total of $19 by choosing the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.
• 👩🏼‍🤝‍👨🏻 Crowds – the Monteverde forest is much busier and more popular than Santa Elena. Hordes of tourists pile out of tour buses, and the trails are crowded, taking away from some of the magic. So many people don’t even know the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve exists, so there are far fewer visitors. We passed no more than three people within 3 hours on the trails. I think this makes the experience more magical and mystical, to enjoy the forest in peace and solitude.
• 🌉 Hanging bridges – many people choose the Monteverde forest because it has one long hanging bridge inside the reserve. The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve doesn’t have any suspension bridges. Having visited the Mistico Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna , we felt this alone didn’t supersede the crowds and costs. If you aren’t visiting any other suspension bridges, this may be a pull factor for Monteverde.
• 🥾 The trails – Santa Elena has more trails than Monteverde, with a total of 12 km / 7.5 mi. Monteverde has approximately 10 km / 6.2 mi of trails open to the public, and the trails are mostly man-made concrete. If you’ve got kids or mobility issues, Monteverde would be a better choice. But if you love hiking and immersing yourself in nature, we prefer the more rustic trails in Santa Elena. Whilst well-made and clearly marked, most trails are natural and unpaved. They can get muddy, but it felt like a more authentic natural experience, rather than the manicured paths at Monteverde.

How to get to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is located 7 km / 4.3 mi from the town of Santa Elena. It is easily accessible via a number of different transport methods.

It takes around 20 minutes to drive from the centre of Santa Elena to the cloud forest. Put ‘ La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena ‘ in your map.

As with all the roads around Monteverde, it is a mix of paved and unpaved roads, most littered with enormous potholes.

We had no issues in our Nomad America Troopy , but a 4×4 isn’t absolutely necessary. If you drive slowly and carefully, and dodge the crater-sized potholes you can do the trip in any car.

A 4×4 is recommended around Monteverde though, especially in the wet season as the roads are so poor.

There is a large car park at the front of the reserve which is free to use.

🚌 By shuttle bus

A private company, Transportes Alfaro, runs a shuttle bus multiple times per day from Santa Elena town to the forest and back.

You need to organise the shuttle in advance, and you can contact them via Whatsapp +506 8346 0748 to book.

The trip is $8 USD per person round trip.

Town – Cloud Forest

Cloud Forest – Town

If you haven’t coordinated the shuttle, you can take one of the taxis around Santa Elena. I would highly recommend getting the driver’s number, so you can contact them to pick you up when you are finished.

The forest is quite remote, and it’s highly unlikely you would find a taxi without prior organisation.

The staff at the reserve would probably help you call the driver.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve opening hours

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is open Monday – Sunday, 7 days a week from 7 am – 4 pm.

I’m pretty sure they don’t allow any entries after 3 pm, but you would definitely want more than an hour to explore the forest anyway.

It is possible to enter the reserve outside the standard visitor hours, by taking their sunrise (4:50 am) or sunset (4:50 pm) guided tour. More below.

When to visit the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

There aren’t too many holiday activities where you want it to rain, but the cloud forest is one of them!

If you can plan your visit for a rainy or overcast day, you’ll get a much more foggy and mystical experience.

We got so lucky, and it was drizzling the entire time we were in the forest. It made the experience so special, and we felt we got to see the forest as it should be!

The reserve is open year-round, and you can visit in the dry season (November – April) or the wet season (May – October).

The Monteverde area doesn’t tend to follow the same exact seasons, and given the type of ecosystem, it can rain anytime.

This reserve is nowhere near as possible as the Monteverde Cloud Forest, but I’d still suggest going early in the morning and avoiding weekends if possible for the best chance of exploring the trails in peace.

How long to spend at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

We spent approximately 3.5 hours hiking the trails around the forest.

We opted for some of the lengthiest trails, so you could definitely do a shorter loop if you wanted.

Alternatively, you could easily stay longer and complete all the trails in a day.

If you’re wondering if it’s possible to visit the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve and squeeze in another Monteverde activity in one day, I’d say the answer is definitely yes.

Allow a half day for the cloud forest, and you could easily squeeze in ziplining or another tour in the afternoon.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve entrance fee

The cost to enter the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is $18 USD for foreign adults and $7 USD for foreign children between 7 – 12 years old, free under 7 years old.

Locals have cheaper prices.

You can pay in cash in USD, Costa Rican Colones or via credit card.

If you are just planning a self-guided walk in the reserve, you don’t need to pre-book your ticket. You can simply turn up on the day and buy your ticket at the information centre.

If you would like to take a guided walk, you need to contact the reserve at least one day in advance to book the tour. You can contact them at [email protected].

Guided tours at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

A guide is not mandatory for visiting the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

You can simply pay your entrance fee and do a self-guided walk on the trails. This is the option we went for.

However, there are guided tours offered each day for visitors who want to know more about the cloud forest and spot more wildlife.

A guide is invaluable for seeing birds, insects and other animals hiding in the dense forest.

Standard guided tours run for 2.5 hours, and are capped at 10 participants so the group isn’t too big or noisy.

The tours cost $35 USD for foreign adults and $25 USD for children. I believe this is in addition to your entrance fee.

The tours currently run at:

⏰ Check current tour times here

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve also offers two really unique tours – a sunrise and sunset tour.

Both options allow you access to the reserve outside normal visitor hours, and you can enjoy the golden hour from the top of their lookout tower.

Their sunrise tour, ‘Coffee in the Clouds’ starts at 4:50 am, and you will have a coffee at the top of their observation tower, watching the sun come up and hopefully lighting up Arenal Volcano!

Their sunset tour ‘Sounds of the Cloud Forest’ starts at 4:50 pm, watching the sunset from the observation tower. You’ll then have a guided walk through the forest as night begins to fall. Many nocturnal critters really come alive at night!

Both tours are $28 USD per person.

If you want to take a guided tour, you must make a reservation with the reserve in advance. You can email them at [email protected].

This ensures they have enough guides available, and try to coordinate a guide who speaks your language.

The trails at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

There are five different trails at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, each colour-coded. They range from short (0.5 km / 0.3 mi) to quite lengthy (5 km / 3 mi).

Most trails branch off other trails, so to complete a loop, you’ll traverse sections of 2 – 3 trails. This means you can expect to walk longer than the distances outlined for each trail.

The trail closest to the visitor’s centre, Mundo Joven, is completely paved and accessibility friendly.

The pavement ends as you get deeper into the forest, and the majority of the trails are natural and unpaved.

They are well made and easy to follow, but because of the moisture in the forest can be slippery and wet in parts. Expect mud, but it makes the experience so much more natural and you feel completely connected to the environment around you.

I will note that at times the map felt like it didn’t correlate to the signs we were seeing on the trail. You won’t get lost as such, but there were a few points where I think we ended up on different trails than what we anticipated.

The staff at the visitor centre are really helpful and can give some recommendations on routes based on how long you would like to walk.

We did a large loop on the Caño Negro Trail, part of the Encantado Trail and the Youth Challenge Trail. Our watch clocked our route as 8 km / 5 mi, and we spent about 3 hours hiking.

I’ll briefly run through the features of each of the trails below to help you decide which you want to hike.

Mundo Joven

• 🥾 Distance – 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
• 🌈 Colour – brown
• 🔋 Difficulty – easy

This short trail is where you will start at the entrance, and it connects with a number of other trails. Most people will walk on this, and it is flat and paved the entire way. This is the best trail for those with accessibility issues.

Youth Challenge

• 🥾 Distance – 1.4 km / 0.9 mi
• 🌈 Colour – green
• 🔋 Difficulty – moderate (some incline and decline)

The Youth Challenge Trail passes through the highest point in the park and is where you will find the two main lookout points.

There is a lookout platform and a lookout tower where you climb a pretty steep metal staircase for some seriously elevated views.

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Arenal Volcano in one direction and the Nicoya Peninsula in the other!

However, it’s more than likely you won’t have a clear day – we saw nothing but thick fog and cloud. It was just as spectacular though!

Because of the altitude, this trail is quite steep in parts. It’s not hard or long but be prepared for hills. It’s paved or gravel most of the way.

• 🥾 Distance – 2.6 km / 1.6 mi
• 🌈 Colour – yellow

This trail traverses the centre of the cloud forest and is a great option if you want to get away from the visitor centre, but aren’t up for the length of the other two trail options. There are a few small rivers and bridges on the way.

• 🥾 Distance – 3.4 km / 2.1 mi
• 🌈 Colour – blue
• 🔋 Difficulty – moderate

The Encantado trail skirts around the western edge of the reserve. The trail conditions are quite rustic, and there are muddy and slippery sections.

The forest here is incredibly dense, and we felt like we were walking in the middle of a cloud the entire time.

We only did a portion of this trail (the section that connects with the Caño Negro Trail) but it was probably our favourite part of the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

• 🥾 Distance – 4.8 km / 3 mi
• 🌈 Colour – red

The Caño Negro Trail is the longest in the reserve. This trail alone is 4.8 km / 3 mi, but you must connect with a portion of the Youth Challenge Trail and the Encantado Trail, so it’s really more like 7 km / 4.3 mi minimum to complete a loop.

This is probably the quietest area of the reserve, as most people don’t opt for the lengthy hike.

We didn’t come across any other visitors on this trail, and the seclusion was magical. We barely spoke on the trail, we just enjoyed the sounds of the forest. Birds, water dripping onto the foliage and the trees creaking in the wind.

There are a few pretty bridges to cross, and there is a lookout point where the forest clears and you can see out to Arenal Volcano on a clear day. We had an incredibly cloudy day, so we didn’t see any views, but we were just fine with that! I would prefer cloud any day.

Although this is the longest option, we didn’t find it hard at all. There are some small inclines, but nothing strenuous, and because it is not hot, you don’t feel as tired.

Wildlife at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Before you get excited about all the wildlife you can see in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, I have to burst your bubble.

The cloud forest is not primarily a wildlife-watching experience.

That doesn’t mean you won’t or can’t see some unique animal and bird life in the forest, but it’s not very common. The forest is incredibly dense, and combined with the thick layer of clouds and frequent rain, it’s not ideal conditions for spotting wildlife.

If seeing some of Costa Rica’s famous wildlife is your priority, Manuel Antonio , Corcovado or Cahuita are better parks to visit.

The cloud forest does host plenty of life and you may get lucky, although I would suggest going in with low expectations about animals – the forest is magical enough on its own though, so you won’t be disappointed!

There is a lot of birdlife in the cloud forest, and you will hear beautiful bird songs as you hike. It can be difficult to find the source of the sound though.

One of the most renowned birds in Costa Rica can be found in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve – the resplendent quetzal.

Very elusive and hard to see, these colourful creatures are best spotted during their breeding season, between February to June. The reserve has set up a quetzal nesting zone on the Encantado Trail.

We thought we got lucky and finally saw one (we didn’t see a single quetzal after 6 months of searching all over Central America!), but it was a trogon. Similar, but not quite the same!

If you’re lucky you could see a howler or white-faced capuchin monkey. There are also coatis in the reserve, and we had one wander across the trail in front of us.

There are plenty of creepy crawlies around, and we saw a lot of centipedes. It’s not uncommon to see tarantulas either.

Amenities at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

There is a visitor centre at the entrance to the reserve, with maps and some information about the forest. This is where you buy your ticket and start the trails.

The bathrooms are just next to the visitor centre. There are no other amenities along the trails.

There is also a small café in this area, and this is the only place you are allowed to eat in the reserve.

What to wear

The cloud forest is a cool and wet environment. You need to be prepared for rain, or at least drizzle, with a raincoat.

We would recommend closed-toe hiking boots or runners for the muddy trails.

I wore long pants and a raincoat and I was very happy for the warmth! It is much, much cooler than other areas in Costa Rica.

What to bring with you

I’ll start with what you can’t bring with you.

No single-use plastic or food is allowed to be brought into the reserve. If you want to eat, you can do so on the picnic tables in the car park, or at the café inside the reserve.

Onto what you should bring with you:

• 🥾 Comfortable walking shoes – the trails are often muddy, so closed-toe runners or hiking boots are best.
• 🧥 Raincoat – if you’re lucky, it will be raining or at least drizzling inside the forest.
• 🎒 Waterproof bag – to protect your belongings and electronics from rain. We had our waterproof backpack, and also a small dry bag which I actually wrapped around my camera while it was hanging around my neck, so I could still use it but cover it up again quickly from the rain.
• 💧 Water – in a reusable bottle. You won’t be as thirsty as hikes in hotter areas, but you’ll still need water for lengthier hikes.

Where to stay in Monteverde / Santa Elena

There is a plethora of beautiful properties in the Monteverde area.

If you don’t have a car, you’re best based in the town of Santa Elena, with easy access to restaurants and transport.

If you’ve got your own wheels, the world is your oyster! There are some gorgeous hotels, Airbnbs and house rentals dotted all over the mountains.

Here’s a quick list of some of our recommended options for a range of budgets:

• $15 USD + per night check prices and browse photos here
• $75 USD + per night check prices and browse photos here
• $90 USD + per night check prices and browse photos here
• $250 USD + per night check prices and browse photos here
• $400 USD + per night check prices and browse photos here

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a magical, mystical place, unlike anything we have ever seen before. We are so happy we chose this option over the busier and more developed Monteverde Cloud Forest, and we hope this post has prepared you for your visit.

More Monteverde guides

• Best things to do in Monteverde

Sally Rodrick

Sally Rodrick is the voice behind Sally Sees. She has spent 12 months travelling in Mexico and Central America, and has her sights firmly set on South America. Sally helps thousands of readers discover the magic of Latin America. Sharing detailed guides to inspire and equip them with the knowledge they need to plan their own epic adventures in this incredible part of the world.

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

The comments.

Your site is really really awesome. Though we started initially with some other sites, we stomped upon yours and thereafter used it extensively to plan our upcoming short visit to CR end of May. Our heartfelt thanks for all the great details.

Kriba I can’t thank you enough for your kind words. I’m so, so glad my site has been helpful for you! If you’ve got a cloud forest visit on your itinerary, it sounds like you’ve got a great trip ahead of you! Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions. Enjoy! Sally

Explore Monteverde’s orchids with us!

450 species in the same place

More than 120 different ones in bloom every day

32 years of sharing passion and knowledge

Our collection started on a sunny morning 32 years ago, when “Papo” was walking through the forest and saw a small plant with a colorful miniature flower. From that moment on, the passion and amazement for orchids began to grow.

Over the days, he continued to “rescue” more and more orchids that the wind stripped from the trees in Monteverde.

15 years later, he decided to open a space to the public to share his passion and knowledge, so that everyone would have the privilege to observe and appreciate these detailed and colorful flowers up close.

Today, the Monteverde Orchid Garden has a wide exhibition of more than 450 different species in a serene place, where you can be amazed by more than 120 different types of flowers, in bloom every day of the year.

We are more than a botanical garden!

Let yourself in the different colors, smells, textures and sounds that Monteverde gives you. Enjoy a moment of peace and wonder. Live nature intensely!

RELAX AND ENJOY

A peaceful place in down town of Santa Elena, Monteverde

EXPLORE MINIATURE ORCHIDS

Discover the smallest orchids in the world.

CONNECT WITH NATURE

Take a pause and breathe

Costumer´s Reviews

Privacy Overview

• Two Day Santa Elena Canyon Sample Itinerary
• Two Day Colorado Canyon Sample Itinerary
• Two Day Temple Canyon
• 3 Day Santa Elena
• 3 Day Boquillas Canyon
• 3 Day Temple Canyon
• 7 to 21 Day Lower Canyon
• Big Bend National Park
• Big Bend State Park
• Saddle Paddle
• Lower Canyons
• Lower Canyons Aerial Views
• Santa Elena Canyon
• Hot Springs Canyon
• Santa Elena Canyon High Water
• 4 Day Boquillas Canyon

Canoeing Santa Elena

This itinerary is intended as an example only. Your trip may vary somewhat depending on weather and river conditions, your guide and your group's interests. Itineraries may be subject to change, please call our office for additional information.

8:00 AM:      You’ll load up in our van for the hour long ride on Ross Maxwell Scenic drive to the end of Santa Elena Canyon which is the put in for this trip. Once at the put in, with two people per canoe (or three if you have a small child), you’ll be paddling upstream into Santa Elena Canyon where the walls reach skyward 1500 feet.  Depending on water levels there may be areas where you’ll need to walk your canoe for a short distance due to sand bars or strong currents.

PRICE:            For prices see our price list .

Note:  Your trip fee includes guides, boats, PFD's (personal flotation device), lunch, drinking water, shuttles to and from the river, and all miscellaneous river gear.  You are welcome to bring sodas, beer, or other canned beverages in a small cooler. 

Day Trips: On all one day trips lunch is served with selections of deli meats, chips and dips, crackers and cookies, fruit, etc.  For those who have special dietary needs, preferences, etc. arrangements can be offered to accommodate you. 

If you enjoy your trip, gratuities for your guide are always appreciated.

Home | Contact Us | Employment | Links

Copyright © 2011 - 2019 Big Bend River Tours , all right reserved.

Santa Clara University

Women's Volleyball 6/18/2024 2:02:00 PM

Broncos On Tour - Amsterdam Day Two

Took the scenic route ?? #StampedeTogether | #SCUBroncos pic.twitter.com/7xRxEWOtZ2 — Santa Clara Volleyball (@scuvolleyball) June 18, 2024

Well, that was fun ?? Some ?? after our first competition #StampedeTogether | #SCUBroncos pic.twitter.com/lPWvDTiqIT — Santa Clara Volleyball (@scuvolleyball) June 18, 2024

Thanks for having us, Armixtos ?? #StampedeTogether | #SCUBroncos pic.twitter.com/UrDpL1KYJA — Santa Clara Volleyball (@scuvolleyball) June 18, 2024

Players Mentioned

#21 Elena Radeff

Thanks for visiting !

The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy.

We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here.

Thank you for your support!

was not found

Wake Up Informed. Subscribe to Voice of OC's Free Newsletter, The Morning Report  Today .

Voice of OC

Orange County's Nonprofit Newsroom

Is Orange County About To Enforce Anti-Camping Laws Again? 

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

A new U.S. Supreme Court ruling is once again letting a host of municipalities – including Orange County – begin enforcing their anti-camping laws.

Now, it’s opening questions on what the future of government-funded shelters and homeless response efforts looks like.

Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner, who also chairs the board, praised the decision on Friday morning, noting that it gives elected officials “the responsibility … and obligation to deal with homelessness.” 

He said officials don’t plan on cutting funding to shelters or similar programs, but that if state funding were pulled due to this year’s state budget deficit, they could see cuts to various programs. 

“Those would be driven by financial issues, not this decision,” Wagner said. “We are committed to doing anything we possibly can, but I don’t know if we will have all the resources to continue doing all we have been.” 

In a Friday text message, OC Supervisor Katrina Foley said the decision will help county officials. 

“Enforcement of anti-camping ordinances is not meant to criminalize homelessness, but rather a critical tool to encourage individuals on our streets and parks to accept the services within our system of care. Encampment prohibitions ensure safe and accessible sidewalks, parks, and public spaces, and in some cases prevent wildfires, litter and destruction of nature preserves,” Foley said.

She added, “The Supreme Court’s decision today allows the county and our impacted cities to continue efforts to move people from encampments to shelter, treatment, wraparound care, and ultimately permanent supportive housing.”

Supreme Court Justices’ ruling in the Grants Pass v. Johnson case reverses the 9th Circuit Court of Appeal ruling in Martin v. Boise, which mandated that cities provide shelter beds before they can push homeless people off the streets. 

The Boise decision has faced strong pushback from both Republican and Democrat leaders for years, with figures such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom calling for the ruling to be reexamined, claiming it hamstrings their ability to curb homelessness. 

“Encampments are dangerous – period,” Newsom said in a March news release , announcing the state signed onto the Supreme Court case. 

“The United States Supreme Court can establish a balance that allows enforcement of reasonable limits on camping in public spaces, while still respecting the dignity of those living on our streets,” Newsom said.  

The governor praised the decision in a Friday statement. 

“This decision removes the legal ambiguities that have tied the hands of local officials for years and limited their ability to deliver on common-sense measures to protect the safety and well-being of our communities,” Newsom said.

Now, the Supreme Court ruling opens the door for cities to both close their shelters and enforce anti-camping laws. 

Justices sided with city leaders in Grants Pass, Oregon in a 6-3 ruling – saying it was within a city’s rights to criminalize sleeping in public, but not criminalize homelessness itself.

The country’s highest court also found that the Eighth Amendment was never intended to protect homeless people in this way. 

“The Cruel and Unusual Punishments Clause focuses on the question what ‘method or kind of punishment’ a government may impose after a criminal conviction, not on the question whether a government may criminalize particular behavior in the first place,” wrote Justice Neil Gorsuch, the author of the majority opinion.  

To read the opinions, click here . 

Gorsuch also noted that the anti-camping rules weren’t targeted at homeless people because they applied to everyone. 

“The public camping laws prohibit actions undertaken by any person, regardless of status,” Gorusch wrote. “It makes no difference whether the charged defendant is currently a person experiencing homelessness, a backpacker on vacation, or a student who abandons his dorm room to camp out in protest on the lawn of a municipal building.” 

He concluded by warning judges against legislating their own solutions to homelessness. 

“A handful of federal judges cannot begin to ‘match’ the collective wisdom the American people possess in deciding ‘how best to handle’ a pressing social question like homelessness,” he wrote.

Eve Garrow, a policy analyst with the Southern California branch of the ACLU, said this decision could throw California’s cities back into a “race to the bottom.”

“Local governments may just have a field day when it comes to targeting unhoused people now that they’ve been unleashed from this constitutional protection,” Garrow said in a Friday interview. “No place is safe when pretty much every city is criminalizing being unhoused.” 

She noted one defense for homeless people is the necessity defense that they have nowhere else to go, but they can’t use that until they’ve already been arrested and brought before a judge, and they could easily be recharged any time. 

“It doesn’t prohibit someone from being criminalized or charged, being jailed, it just provides them with a defense,” Garrow said. “That’s a small comfort.” 

In 2018, Orange County officials began evicting the Santa Ana Riverbed homeless encampment until a federal lawsuit was filed and U.S. District Judge David Carter blocked the evictions . 

[ Read : Lawsuit Seeks End to Santa Ana Riverbed Homeless Evictions; County Says It Won’t Stop ]

Carter then regularly toured the riverbed encampment and mandated a host of protections for homeless people – like providing motel rooms for them while county and city officials scrambled to build homeless shelters. 

[ Read : Federal Judge Walks Entire Length of Santa Ana Riverbed Homeless Camp For Firsthand Information ]

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who dissented along with Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Jackson, said this ruling absolutely amounted to “cruel and unusual” treatment of the homeless. 

“Sleep is a biological necessity, not a crime,” Sotomayor wrote. “For people with no access to a shelter, that punishes them for being homeless. That is unconscionable and unconstitutional.”

“The majority focuses almost exclusively on the needs of local governments and leaves the most vulnerable in our society with an impossible choice,” she continued. “Either stay awake or be arrested.”  

Foley noted that moving forward, the county has to keep developing housing to get people off the streets. 

“In order to truly solve the moral dilemma of homelessness, enforcement must accompany an aggressive housing first policy and a commitment to develop necessary housing units, so no one is faced with the choice between a tent, a jail cell, or the security of a home.”

Noah Biesiada is a Voice of OC reporter and corps member with Report for America, a GroundTruth initiative. Contact him at [email protected] or on Twitter @NBiesiada.

Can you support Voice of OC with a donation?

You obviously care about local news and value good journalism here in Orange County. With your support, we can bring you more stories like these.

About Voice of OC : Mission | Editorial Policies  | Contact Us | Funding  | Privacy Policy

Join the conversation:  In lieu of comments , we encourage readers to engage with us across a variety of mediums. Join our  Facebook discussion. Message us via our  website or staff page . Send us a  secure tip . Share your thoughts in a community opinion piece .