Full Monteverde Cloud Forest Experience: Zipline, Hanging Bridges & Wildlife
Spend a day in Monteverde’s cloud forest combining canopy ziplining, hanging bridges and curated wildlife exhibits. This guided experience balances adrenaline and natural history while offering clear logistics for travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a waterproof shell
Cloud forest weather changes quickly—carry a lightweight rain jacket to stay comfortable between platforms.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Trails and platforms can be wet and rooty; hiking shoes or trail runners improve traction and safety.
Use binoculars for birding
Early morning offers the best chance to spot quetzals and toucans—binoculars make brief sightings count.
Follow harness instructions
Listen to staff during the safety briefing and double-check clips and straps before each run on the zipline.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning hanging bridges when fog threads through the trees for quieter bird activity
- •Butterfly garden feeding displays and the small on-site frog ponds that reveal glass frogs at dusk
Wildlife
- •Three-toed sloth
- •Resplendent quetzal
Conservation Note
Stick to designated trails and follow guide instructions—supporting park fees and local conservation initiatives helps fund reforestation and biodiversity monitoring.
Monteverde’s protected forests were shaped in the mid-20th century by settlers who prioritized conservation, creating a research hub and ecotourism model.
What to Bring
Waterproof rain jacketEssential
Protects against frequent cloud forest drizzle and keeps you dry on platforms.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on muddy trails, suspension bridges and zipline platforms.
Gloves with grip
Light gloves improve comfort on cables and during brief rope interactions on the canopy course.
Compact binoculars
Helps pick out birds and tree frogs high in the canopy during quiet stretches.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The combined tour runs about five hours total, including guided exhibits, hiking and the canopy/zipline circuit.
Is this suitable for children?
Children are typically allowed but age and height restrictions may apply for certain zipline elements—check operator policies and book accordingly.
Do I need prior zipline experience?
No prior experience is required; guides provide safety gear and instruction and staff assist at platforms.
Are admission and exhibits included?
Yes—this full experience includes access to hanging bridges, canopy, butterfly garden, sloth habitat and reptile/amphibian exhibits as part of the package.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Santa Elena, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness: able to walk uneven trails, climb short stairs to platforms, and handle short bursts of adrenaline on ziplines.
Ready to Explore Santa Elena?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now