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Curi-Cancha Reserve: A Cloud Forest Sanctuary

Discover Monteverde's hidden gem: Curi-Cancha Reserve. Explore diverse trails, spot rare birds, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the cloud forest.

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Curi-Cancha Reserve, located in Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a 205-acre private reserve offering a tranquil ecotourism experience. Established in 1997, it protects diverse habitats, including virgin rainforest, secondary growth forest, and open pastures, making it a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife observation. With a limit on daily visitors, Curi-Cancha provides a more intimate connection with nature compared to other reserves in the area.

A brief summary to Curi-Cancha Reserve

Local tips

  • Arrive early to see the most bird activity. Birds are less active in the afternoon.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced bird and wildlife viewing.
  • Wear layers and a rain jacket, as the cloud forest weather can be unpredictable.
  • Consider a guided tour to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Check the Curi-Cancha Reserve website for a bird checklist to help identify species.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Santa Elena, the local white Monteverde bus is a popular option. It departs from the center of town. The bus costs $1 USD per person each way. Tell the driver you want to get off at Curi-Cancha Reserve. From the bus stop, walk uphill roughly 300 meters (0.2 miles) to reach the main entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Santa Elena. A taxi ride to Curi-Cancha Reserve takes about 8 minutes and typically costs $8-$10.

  • Walking

    Curi-Cancha Reserve is walkable from Santa Elena, approximately a 45-minute walk. From Santa Elena, walk towards the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. The road turns to gravel shortly after the El Establo Hotel. Continue on this road, and you will see a sign for the reserve on your left. Turn left and walk another minute to the entrance.

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Discover more about Curi-Cancha Reserve

Curi-Cancha Reserve, whose name means "golden enclosure" in Inca, is a privately-owned wildlife refuge in the heart of Monteverde, Costa Rica. In 1970, the Lowther family purchased the land and allowed the forest to regenerate for 45 years. It officially became a wildlife refuge in 1997 and opened to the public in 2011, offering tours and conservation education. The reserve encompasses 205 acres (83 hectares) of protected land, showcasing a blend of virgin rainforest, regenerating secondary forest, and open pasture. This varied landscape fosters incredible biodiversity, with over 200 bird species identified, including the Resplendent Quetzal, Three-Wattled Bellbird, and Keel-billed Toucan. Mammals such as armadillos, coatis, sloths, and monkeys also inhabit the reserve. The Curi-Cancha Reserve features approximately 4.3 miles (7 km) of well-maintained trails, catering to various fitness levels. These trails wind through different habitats, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna. The reserve limits the number of daily visitors to minimize impact and ensure a peaceful experience. Visitors can explore the reserve independently or opt for a guided tour to enhance their understanding of the cloud forest ecosystem.

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