Monteverde
Nestled up in the Costa Rican highlands straddling the Continental Divide and with panoramic views of the impressive Gulf of Nicoya on the Pacific Coast, discover a verdant gem in the form of a quaint, alternative living town called Monteverde. This small, picturesque mountain top village is home to the beautiful Hotel Poco a Poco, dedicated to sustainable tourism with all the comforts of a luxury property.
Monteverde, which fittingly translates to “Green Mountain,” is one of Costa Rica’s little treasures, and it never ceases to amaze with its diverse wildlife, adventure in nature experiences, and beautiful scenery. It is also home to the cloud forest, one of the world´s most delicate and climate-sensitive ecosystems.
A group of Quakers, pacifists and conscientious objectors in the early 50s escaping the Korean War, funded Monteverde. They chose Monteverde to settle, thanks to its cooler climate and fertile soils that offered the perfect blend to begin dairy farming. They also became protectors of the surrounding forests, the beginnings of many private reserves embracing conservation and preservation.
A place founded on the cornerstones of peace and protection is bound to become a special place, and Monteverde is that. So, if you love mesmerizing views of the lowlands below, hiking through rainforests shrouded in mist, experimenting in adventure, or just relaxing in quiet contemplation of this mountaintop haven, Monteverde is your place to make memories.
Monteverde in Costa Rica boasts 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity in the different forests that cover the mountaintop. Situated at 4,662 ft (1,440m) above sea level, Monteverde is natures backyard with seven life zones and endless hectares of evergreen forests. These lush wonderlands are home to 2,500 species of plants, including 420 orchids, 425 varieties of birds, over 120 types of mammals, 60 species of amphibians, and 100 kinds of reptiles.
In an effort to protect the forests and their temporary and permanent inhabitants, Monteverde is a network of private reserves and parks that allow eager nature-lovers to explore the forests from different perspectives and interests. They cater to avid birdwatchers, hiking enthusiasts, animal explorers, and close-to-nature thrill seekers, and they always surprise and delight their visitors. The forests are alive with animals from the Resplendent Quetzal and the iconic Sloth to the Blue-Jeans Frog.
While Monteverde may be best known for its cloud forest and rich biodiversity, it also attracts adventure seekers that like to push their adrenaline levels to the maximum. With a variety of activities filled with thrills and excitement, Monteverde brings adventure in nature to new heights.
Legendary bungee jumping and ziplining, pristine hiking trails through the cloud forest, walking on clouds over hanging bridges, the experience in Monteverde is real and is the setting for the most authentic outdoor adventures. The breathtaking scenery, lush forests inhabited by vibrant birds and wildlife, and adventurous spirits unite to create endless opportunities for the thrill of the ride at the top.
Sustainable tourism is the foundation of the town’s philosophy, and this is a community effort that comes from the heart. Monteverde is a haven for eco and sustainable tourism done right! Conservation of the environment, economic well-being for the community and the businesses, and cultural preservation compose and nurture the Monteverde soul.
Hotel Poco a Poco is an active community member belonging to various sustainability initiatives, which is a product of Monteverde´s commitment. Awards, including the Sustainable Tourism Certificate and the Ecological Blue Flag, recognize the ongoing efforts to ensure Monteverde´s sustainability heartbeat remains strong and vibrant.
