The small town of Santa Elena has expanded massively since the Monteverde Cloud Forest gained popularity, and Costa Rica became the destination for biodiversity. Hesitating between exploring the very touristy Monteverde Cloud Forest, or the off the beaten path

Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena, only a few kilometres away, we opted for the latter.

Run by a local organization, hiking its well-maintained tranquil trails is a fantastic way to take in its fenomenal flora and fauna where animals such as jaguars, tapirs, vampire bats, jaguarundis and peccaries live, and birds such as turquise-browed motmots, resplendent quetzals and violet sabrewings can be found.

Marcella & Claire

Travel tips:

• The Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena is a non-profit community-run initiative.
• Check out this interactive map for the specific details to help you plan your trip and more articles and photos (zoom out) about the area!