Air Activities:
Canopy Tours
There are more than four different companies offering canopy tours in Monteverde. Some also include raised suspension bridges that span deep gullies, tarzan swings and/or observation towers. Tours last from 2-3 hours. There is also an aerial tram tour available.
Land Activities:
Bird and Wildlife Watching
Monteverde is known for its rich biodiversity, especially when it comes to birds. More than half of all the bird species found in Costa Rica can also be found in the Monteverde area. Most of the private reserves in Monteverde offer guided day and night hikes. Special, private bird watching tours can be arranged by calling the Monteverde Guide Association. Contact them at or ask at any hotel or tour office.
Coffee Tours
Several fincas in the Monteverde area have developed interactive tours of their plantations. A discussion of the history of coffee in Costa Rica and Monteverde serves as the tour’s introduction, followed by a tour of the plantation's facilities.
Some farms still use traditional techniques for parts of their processing, like sun drying of the husked beans and wind screening to blow away the dried husks.
Many small farms in the area produce coffee as part of the Cooperative Santa Elena. There are 84 small coffee farms that contribute to the Café Monteverde brand of coffee, all of which are committed to growing coffee in environmentally sensitive ways. Most of the Café Monteverde is exported as part of the Fair Trade market, but some is reserved for sale in local markets and at their coffee shop.
Horseback Riding
With its mild climate and lush mountains, Monteverde is a paradise for horseback adventures. There are local families that provide fantastic horseback trips through their coffee and guava plantations, on winding trails with scenic vistas. Half and full-day trips can be arranged. Riding is not permitted in any of the private reserves.
Hiking
Trails through both the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and several other private reserves are ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Hiring a local guide is a sure way to spot hidden animals and learn about the local ecology.
Mountain Biking
Sturdy mountain bikes and additional biking equipment are available for rent in the Monteverde area. Experienced bikers will enjoy the bumpy dirt trails and stunning scenery.
Shopping:
Vitosi
A department and hardware store, contains a gift shop, household goods, books, jewelry, sunscreen and more - all at good prices with a great selection.
Souvenir Camino Verde
This shop has some of the best prices on Costa Rican souvenirs and books and a great selection, too. Located next to the Camino Verde Info Center.
Cooperative Santa Elena
Located in the Monteverde Village across from Stella’s Bakery, this is the official coffee shop of Monteverde brand coffee. It has the best prices on coffee, whole bean or ground. Here they offer nicely packaged coffee for export and a less expensive coffee meant for local sale in less luxurious packaging.
Water Activities:
Swimming
Refresh your body after a long hike or horseback ride in the cool waters of waterfalls. Several tour companies offer trips to the San Luis Waterfall, towering 70 meters high.
Festivals:
The Monteverde Music Festival is held annually throughout January and February and sometimes into March. It features a diverse mix of musicians from all over Costa Rica who promote music in harmony with nature. Concerts are held both inside and outdoors.
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