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Monteverde Butterfly Gardens: A Fluttering Paradise

Discover the enchanting world of Costa Rican butterflies and insects in Monteverde's captivating and educational gardens.

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Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Costa Rican insects and arachnids at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens. Explore four climate-controlled butterfly habitats, a fascinating leafcutter ant colony, and a medicinal plant garden, all while learning about these often-misunderstood creatures.

A brief summary to Monteverde Butterfly Gardens

Local tips

  • Visit on a sunny day between 10 AM and 3 PM for the best butterfly activity.
  • Take the guided tour to learn more about the butterflies and other insects.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the hilly terrain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors and unique species.
  • Consider that your entry is valid for multiple days, allowing you to return as long as you are in Monteverde.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Monteverde Butterfly Gardens are located 700 meters south of the Escuela Cerro Plano. From downtown Santa Elena, it's approximately a 20-minute walk. Be aware that the walk involves a steep hill. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Santa Elena. A taxi from downtown Santa Elena to the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens typically costs between $5 and $20, depending on the specific location within Santa Elena. The ride is short, and drivers are familiar with the route.

  • Public Transport

    The public bus is a budget-friendly option for reaching the gardens. The Monteverde public bus travels from Santa Elena, with multiple stops along the route. Check the bus schedule, as it has limited departures throughout the day. The bus fare is approximately $1.20, payable in cash (USD or Colones).

Unlock the Best of Monteverde Butterfly Gardens

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Discover more about Monteverde Butterfly Gardens

The Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, locally known as "Mariposario", has been captivating visitors since 1989. Founded by biologist Jim Wolfe and his wife Marta, the gardens aim to educate and inspire appreciation for Costa Rica's diverse insect population. Unlike other butterfly exhibits, the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens breeds all of its butterflies on-site, ensuring a natural and sustainable environment. The gardens feature four distinct, climate-controlled habitats, each replicating a different Costa Rican ecosystem, from the hot lowlands to the high-altitude cloud forests. These carefully designed environments house over 50 butterfly species, including the mesmerizing Blue Morpho, the transparent Glass-Wing, and the Zebra-Wing. One can also observe a leafcutter ant colony under glass, showcasing the ants' fascinating leaf-carrying behavior. The medicinal plant garden highlights the traditional uses of local flora, adding another layer of educational exploration. Visitors can also explore a biodiversity center that displays live insects and arachnids native to the Monteverde area, offering an up-close look at these creatures and their behaviors. Knowledgeable guides provide tours in English and Spanish, sharing insights about the insects and their habitats. The experience is designed to be interactive and engaging, making it suitable for all ages. The best time to visit is during sunny hours, typically between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when the butterflies are most active.

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