Monteverde Canopy Zipline & Butterfly Garden at Selvatura Park
Fly through Monteverde’s cloud forest on 13 zipline cables, test your nerve on a Tarzan swing, then slow down among hummingbirds and a 2,700 m² butterfly greenhouse. This combined Selvatura Park experience pairs adrenaline with intimate wildlife viewing in one convenient tour.
The Experience
Before You Go
Expect wet footing
The cloud forest is damp year-round—wear grippy, closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect against underbrush and equipment straps.
Hydrate before you go
Bring a 1–2L water bottle and drink beforehand; there are short walks between platforms but limited opportunities to refill mid-tour.
Bring a light rain shell
Cloud forest showers can arrive suddenly; a packable waterproof keeps you warm and protects camera gear without slowing you down.
Secure loose items
Use the provided tethering or leave phones in a locker—action cameras on a chest mount work best for hands-free shots.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning trails near the hummingbird garden for unobstructed photo ops
- •Short side-trail viewpoints beyond the final platform with valley glimpses and fewer visitors
Wildlife
- •Resplendent quetzal
- •White-faced capuchin monkey
Conservation Note
Selvatura participates in habitat protection and reforestation; visitors are encouraged to stay on platforms and paths to minimize disturbance and support ongoing research fees.
Monteverde’s protected cloud forests were set aside by local conservationists and scientists in the 1970s and became a model for community-led ecotourism in Costa Rica.
Photographer's Notes
- • Highest zipline platforms for valley-scale shots
- • Butterfly greenhouse interior for macro wing detail
- • Hummingbird garden near the waterfall for close-up action
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet platforms and comfort during short forest walks between lines.
Light rain jacketEssential
Protects against sudden cloud forest showers and keeps you warm on exposed platforms.
Long pantsEssential
Protects legs from harness straps and undergrowth during platform walks.
Small daypack with water and insect repellentEssential
Carries hydration and bug spray needed for the trail and butterfly house.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The operator lists a 240-minute window for the activity; expect roughly 3–4 hours including transfers, briefing, the zipline sequence and visits to the butterfly and hummingbird gardens.
Are there weight or age restrictions?
Restrictions apply for safety—very heavy weights may be limited for certain lines and the Tarzan Swing; contact the operator with exact weights and ages when booking.
Is this suitable for people afraid of heights?
The course requires negotiating platforms and flying between them; if you’re uncomfortable at elevation it may be challenging, and the Tarzan Swing is optional.
Do you provide pickup from hotels?
Yes—pickups from Monteverde hotels are offered but you must indicate your hotel and confirm pickup time at least 24 hours ahead.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes, but secure it—phones are best kept tethered or in lockers; chest or helmet-mounted action cameras are ideal for hands-free footage.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; tours may be canceled by the operator for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Monteverde, Puntarenas
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and comfort with heights are required; expect short hikes and repeated climbs up platforms.
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