One Week in Monteverde Cloud Forest

What You Should Know Before Going On A Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour

Why go on a Night Walk in Monteverde Cloud Forest?

On your vacation to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, you are likely to go on (or have the option to go on) a nighttime walking tour of the park. At first, this may seem odd or a little scary -- however, it is incredibly common to go on night tours in the jungle, and very safe.

Night tours are recommended for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it is usually the only way to catch a glimpse of the incredibly impressive nocturnal wildlife that Monteverde has to offer. Sloths, snakes, certain insects like giant walking stick bugs, tarantulas, and armadillos are just some of the creatures you will have a much better chance of seeing at night. Night walks are also a great way to beat the crowds, as they usually consist of less than 10 people.

Tips for going on a Night Walk in Monteverde

• Dress warmly, the temperature can drop into the low 60’s at night.
• Similarly, it can (and will) rain, or drizzle throughout the night. Your tour won’t be cancelled, so wear closed toe shoes and bring a rain jacket or poncho.
• You will not need a lot of bug spray, especially if you are wearing long sleeves and pants. However, you may want to put a little around your neck and wrists.
• Bring a camera! But be aware that flash photography may not be permitted, depending on your tour and the animal you are looking at. 
• Follow your guide’s advice and remain quiet to best ensure you get to see the animals!
• You will be provided a flashlight and taught how to look for animals, however, some people prefer bringing their own, or a headlamp.

What’s the difference between a Rainforest and Cloud Forest?

There are a few differences between your typical rainforest and a cloud forest. To begin with, a cloud forest is at a much higher elevation, making them cooler. Cloud forests also have a varying terrain, with undulating peaks and valleys, this contributes to how rainwater is accumulated and the moisture in the air.

Because of the bumpy landscape, the rivers in a cloud forest are like mountain streams: clear water, with rocky riverbeds (in a rainforest, rivers are larger, slower, and have silty beds.) Because of all of these reasons, there is also a difference in the types of animals that live in each!

Suspension Bridges and Skywalks

One particularly unique feature to many of Costa Rica’s tropical jungles is the implementation of various suspension bridges, or skywalks. Monteverde is no exception, and has six bridges in total, spanning a cumulative length of nearly 1,000 feet. These trails offer a unique glimpse into the upper canopy of the forest, where 90% of organisms are found.

For any current (or prospective!) botanists, a trip to the canopy is the only way to see Costa Rica’s population of rare orchids. Most of the orchids in Costa Rica are epiphytes, meaning they don’t have root systems that grow into the earth, and instead grow on another plant.

There is a maximum number of people allowed on each bridge, so booking a reservation is usually required. Going on a Costa Rica tour makes this whole process easier, where a guide can help you navigate your itinerary and the parks system.