La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena: A Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Discover the serene beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests at Santa Elena Reserve. Hike well-maintained trails and witness incredible biodiversity.
Escape the crowds at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, a protected area bordering the Monteverde region of Costa Rica. Privately managed by a local high school, this reserve offers well-maintained trails, stunning viewpoints, and a tranquil experience amidst the lush cloud forest ecosystem.
A brief summary to La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena
- Tilarán, Guanacaste Province, CR
- +50626455390
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear layers, as the cloud forest can be cool and damp. A light rain jacket or poncho is recommended.
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season.
- Visit on a rainy or overcast day for a more mystical cloud forest experience.
- Consider bringing binoculars for better wildlife viewing, especially for spotting birds.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for changing conditions.
Getting There
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Bus
From Santa Elena town, a local bus runs to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. The bus departs from town at 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 12:30 PM, returning at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. The one-way fare is approximately $3 USD per person. Reservations are required and can be made through many hotels/hostels or by contacting +506 8346 0748 or +506 8964 2288 via WhatsApp.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Santa Elena town. A taxi ride to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve takes around 20 minutes. It is highly recommended to arrange a return trip with the driver, as finding a taxi at the reserve without prior arrangements can be difficult. A one-way taxi fare is approximately $10-$20 USD.
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Driving
The drive from Santa Elena town to the cloud forest reserve is about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) and takes around 20 minutes. The road is unpaved and includes steep hills, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. From town, drive northeast towards Treetopia and past Selvatura Park. Free parking is available at the entrance to the reserve.
Discover more about La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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