Discover the Enchantment of Santa Elena
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Santa Elena, Costa Rica, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and stunning natural wonders.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Puntarenas Province, Santa Elena is a captivating destination that offers tourists a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Famous for its cloud forests and rich biodiversity, Santa Elena is a gateway to exploring the stunning flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Visitors can engage in thrilling outdoor activities, from zip-lining through the treetops to embarking on serene hikes along well-marked trails. The charming local community, with its warm hospitality, invites travelers to discover local crafts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant traditions, making Santa Elena a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of Costa Rica.
A brief summary to Santa Elena
- Santa Elena, Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Don't miss the local artisan market for unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
- Try the local coffee; some farms offer tours and tastings.
- Dress in layers; mornings can be chilly while afternoons warm up.
- Consider guided tours for hiking and canopy experiences to enhance your adventure.
Getting There
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Bus
From La Fortuna, head to the main bus terminal located near the central park. Look for the bus heading to Monteverde. The buses usually leave every hour, so check the schedule for the next departure. Once on the bus, enjoy the scenic views as you travel towards Monteverde. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Get off at the Monteverde stop, which is the main town area. From there, you can either walk or take a local taxi to Santa Elena, which is about 10 minutes away.
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Shuttle Service
Various shuttle services operate from La Fortuna to Monteverde. You can book a shuttle through your hotel or a local travel agency. The shuttle will pick you up from your accommodation in La Fortuna. The ride will take around 3 to 4 hours, and you'll be dropped off in the main area of Monteverde, from where you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride to Santa Elena.
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Tour Package
Consider booking a tour package that includes transportation to Monteverde. Many tour companies in La Fortuna offer day trips that cover transportation, guided tours, and activities in Monteverde. This is a convenient option, as it takes care of all logistics. You will be picked up from your hotel in La Fortuna and taken directly to Santa Elena as part of the tour.
Discover more about Santa Elena
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in nature at this eco-friendly lodge, steps from Monteverde's cloud forest and local attractions. A tranquil escape awaits.
Monteverde Chamber of Tourism / Cámara de turismo Monteverde
0.3 km
Your gateway to exploring Monteverde's cloud forests, adventure activities, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Tree House Restaurante
0.4 km
Dine amidst nature at Monteverde's iconic Tree House Restaurante, where Costa Rican flavors meet a magical, arboreal ambiance.
Ficus La Raiz
0.4 km
Discover Monteverde's hidden gem: a natural bridge formed by the roots of a magnificent ficus tree, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of Monteverde from Casa Jungle, a cozy bed and breakfast in the heart of the cloud forest. Book your stay today!
Root tree
0.4 km
Discover a natural wonder: a living bridge formed by the roots of a ficus tree in the heart of Monteverde's cloud forest.
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting world of Costa Rican butterflies and insects in Monteverde's premier ecological and educational center.
Historias Lodge
0.8 km
Experience the charm of Monteverde at Historias Lodge, a family-run bed and breakfast close to nature and town amenities. Book your stay today!
Chira Glamping Monteverde
0.8 km
Experience the ultimate blend of luxury and nature in Monteverde's cloud forest at Chira Glamping. Book your unforgettable escape today!
Monteverde Jungle Living Tree Houses
0.8 km
Experience Monteverde's cloud forest from unique treehouse accommodations, close to nature and local attractions.
Valle Escondido Nature Reserve
0.9 km
Explore Monteverde's hidden gem: Hike through lush trails, discover diverse wildlife, and witness stunning waterfalls at Valle Escondido Nature Reserve.
cerro plano Monteverde
0.9 km
Discover Cerro Plano in Monteverde: Serene viewpoints, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning cloud forest scenery await.
Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm
0.9 km
Discover Monteverde's hidden valley: Nature trails, organic farm, and stunning Pacific views at this eco-friendly hotel and reserve.
NightWalk Guided Tours.
1.0 km
Experience the magic of Monteverde's rainforest at night with expert-led tours, unveiling a hidden world of nocturnal wildlife and natural wonders.
RESERVA AGUTI
1.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and stunning biodiversity of Reserva Aguti, a must-visit nature preserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frog Pond Ranario
0.1 km
Experience the magical world of amphibians at Frog Pond Ranario, a vibrant attraction in Monteverde's lush cloud forest, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Faro Travel Costa Rica
0.2 km
Explore the wonders of Monteverde with Faro Travel Costa Rica, your trusted guide to adventure in the heart of the cloud forest.
Costa Rica Wild Tours
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Monteverde at Costa Rica Wild Tours, where adventure meets nature in a breathtaking cloud forest experience.
Ecological Sanctuary
0.3 km
Explore the Ecological Sanctuary in Monteverde, Costa Rica: A blend of wildlife conservation, organic farming, and culinary experiences awaits you.
Jardín de Orquídeas Monteverde
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of over 400 orchid species in the serene Jardín de Orquídeas Monteverde, a must-visit oasis in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Nasua Tours Monteverde
1.0 km
Unleash your sense of adventure at Nasua Tours Monteverde, where stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity await every traveler.
Night walk Monteverde Finca Lantana
1.0 km
Explore the magical night walk at Finca Lantana in Monteverde, Costa Rica, where the rainforest comes alive under the stars with stunning sights and sounds.
Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ficus Trails Night Tour Monteverde
1.2 km
Discover the magical world of the Ficus Trails Night Tour in Monteverde, where nocturnal wildlife and stunning landscapes await every traveler.
Kinkajou Night Walk
1.3 km
Explore the night at Kinkajou Night Walk in Monteverde, Costa Rica - a top nature preserve showcasing the wonders of nocturnal wildlife.
Monteverde Coffee Tour
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Monteverde Coffee Tour and discover the art of coffee-making in Costa Rica's breathtaking cloud forest.
Jeep Boat Jeep Tour
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Monteverde with the Jeep Boat Jeep Tour, an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders.
Catarata Los Murciélagos / Monteverde Waterfall
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Catarata Los Murciélagos, a stunning waterfall in Monteverde, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife.
The Bat Jungle
1.6 km
Discover the fascinating world of bats at Monteverde's Bat Jungle, a unique and educational wildlife experience in Costa Rica's cloud forest.
Children's Eternal Rain Forest Bajo del Tigre
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking biodiversity of Children's Eternal Rain Forest in Monteverde, a top nature preserve showcasing Costa Rica's rich ecosystems.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante El Jardín
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurante El Jardín in Monteverde.
Morphos La Cabaña
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Morphos La Cabaña in Monteverde.
Restaurante Parrillero
0.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Parrillero - where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary tradition.
Soda La Amistad
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Amistad in Monte Verde—an affordable gem amidst stunning landscapes.
Otocuma Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Otocuma Bar & Restaurant in beautiful Monteverde—where taste meets nature.
Tiki’s Seafood Monteverde
0.3 km
Discover Tiki’s Seafood in Monteverde - where fresh seafood meets the stunning beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests.
Restaurante Sabor Tico
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Sabor Tico in Monteverde – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Restaurante Boca2 café Monteverde
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Boca2 Café Monteverde, where local flavors meet exceptional espresso in a cozy setting.
Restaurante Mar & Tierra
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Mar & Tierra in Monteverde - where flavor meets nature.
The Green Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican cuisine at The Green Restaurant in Monteverde – where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking.
Natu restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Natu Restaurant in Monteverde: A culinary delight offering vibrant dishes and innovative cocktails amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Gusticos Monteverde
0.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Gusticos Monteverde – a culinary treasure nestled in the heart of lush Monteverde.
Marisqueria y Restaurante Manolo's
0.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Marisqueria y Restaurante Manolo's in Monteverde - where every meal is a celebration of fresh coastal flavors.
Shaka Lounge Monteverde
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Shaka Lounge in Monteverde – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking cloud forest views.
Rest. La Soda Coati
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst Monteverde's breathtaking landscapes at Rest. La Soda Coati.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
W.G Nova
0.3 km
Discover rare literary treasures at W.G Nova, a unique book store nestled in the heart of Monteverde's stunning cloud forests.
Elegance Store
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion and local flair at Elegance Store in Monteverde, a shopping destination that embodies Costa Rican style.
Bueno Bonito Y Barato
0.3 km
Explore the unique charm of Bueno Bonito Y Barato, a jewelry store in Monte Verde, Costa Rica, known for its beautiful craftsmanship and affordable treasures.
Tienda Cosiros
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at Tienda Cosiros, where local craftsmanship meets unique fashion in the heart of Monteverde.
Metamorfosis Botique
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Metamorfosis Boutique, where local artistry meets sustainability in the heart of Monteverde.
Monteverde Outdoor Center
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor adventure at Monteverde Outdoor Center, where nature meets exploration in Costa Rica's stunning cloud forests.
Santa Elena Coffee Shop (Café Monteverde)
0.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Café Monteverde, a must-visit stop for all coffee enthusiasts in Santa Elena.
Marlene's Trail Foods
0.3 km
Discover fresh, nutritious delights at Marlene's Trail Foods in Monteverde, the perfect stop for health-conscious travelers seeking local flavors.
Outlet
0.3 km
Explore Monteverde's General Store for unique souvenirs and local treasures that reflect the spirit of Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Tienda Moda Americana
0.3 km
Explore Tienda Moda Americana, the premier clothing store in Monteverde for unique Costa Rican fashion and souvenirs.
Centro Comercial Monteverde
0.3 km
Explore the lively Centro Comercial Monteverde—your go-to shopping destination for local crafts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture in Costa Rica.
Brillante Souvenir
0.3 km
Explore Brillante Souvenir in Monteverde for authentic Costa Rican gifts and unique handmade treasures that reflect the region's rich culture.
UTOPÍA TIENDA
0.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Costa Rican fashion at UTOPÍA TIENDA in Monteverde, your destination for vibrant and artisanal clothing.
Tienda Dicoma
0.3 km
Explore Tienda Dicoma in Monteverde for unique Costa Rican gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your travels in a vibrant cultural hub.
Bazar mega asia
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Bazar Mega Asia in Monteverde, a shopping haven offering unique local crafts, diverse cuisine, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante la Gallera Monteverde
0.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Restaurante la Gallera Monteverde, the perfect bar for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Bar Amigos
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Elena at Bar Amigos, a lively grill and live music bar with great food and entertainment.
Beer Garden Monteverde
0.4 km
Discover the lively Beer Garden Monteverde, a top bar in Costa Rica offering craft drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning nature.
Alisson Hotel and Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience a perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Alisson Hotel and Restaurant in beautiful Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Monteverde Brewing Company
1.3 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rica at Monteverde Brewing Company, where craft beer and local cuisine unite in a breathtaking setting.
Belmar Craft Brewery
1.5 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican brewing at Belmar Craft Brewery, where every sip tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.
La Taberna
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of La Taberna in Monteverde, a bar where local culture meets refreshing drinks and stunning views.
Hotel Fondavela
2.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Monteverde at Hotel Fondavela, offering cozy accommodations and exquisite dining in the heart of the cloud forest.
Howlers Bar & Grill
14.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Cheny's Restaurant
18.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Cheny's Restaurant in Quebrada Grande, a culinary gem in Guanacaste Province.
Lava'68 Cafetería
19.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería, a vibrant restaurant in Alajuela Province serving delicious local and international dishes.
Arenal Volcano
21.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano, a must-visit natural wonder in Costa Rica, surrounded by lush landscapes and thrilling adventures.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
22.3 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Restaurante La Tortuga Arenal
22.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante La Tortuga Arenal, where tradition meets culinary excellence in a charming setting.
Bar Tilawa
23.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tilarán at Bar Tilawa, where local flavors and friendly vibes create the perfect escape.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monteverde Gastroclub
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo
1.3 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo, where nocturnal wildlife and breathtaking views await.
Night Walk Santamaria´s
1.4 km
Experience the enchantment of nocturnal wildlife at Night Walk Santamaria's, a premier nature preserve and campground in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Night Walk Tour
1.8 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at night with the Monteverde Night Walk Tour - a must-do for nature lovers and adventurers!
Volcán Look Disco
24.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco, a premier bar in San Carlos offering an energetic atmosphere and delicious drinks.
Tamarindo Chill
25.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Tamarindo Chill, where delicious drinks and a laid-back atmosphere await.
Cha
25.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Cha, a lively bar offering delightful cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
25.7 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of La Fortuna at Bar Patrón, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
25.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Magma Club
25.8 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
La Fortuna Pub
25.9 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a vibrant local hotspot in Costa Rica offering a wide selection of beers, live music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Amsterdan The Club
26.0 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
CHARLIES CR
26.1 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Fusion & Club
26.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Fusion & Club, where Latin American cuisine meets an electrifying dance floor.
Lava Lounge
26.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Lava Lounge, La Fortuna's culinary gem, perfect for food lovers and music enthusiasts.
