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Valle Escondido Nature Reserve: A Monteverde Sanctuary

Explore Monteverde's hidden paradise: Hike lush trails, discover waterfalls, and encounter diverse wildlife at Valle Escondido Nature Reserve.

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Discover a hidden gem in Monteverde, Costa Rica at Valle Escondido Nature Reserve. Explore lush trails, spot diverse wildlife, and witness cascading waterfalls in this tranquil sanctuary dedicated to conservation and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Valle Escondido Nature Reserve

  • 700 suroeste Escuela Cerro Plano Puntarenas Monteverde, Monteverde, Puntarenas Province, 60109, CR
  • +50626455156
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and uneven in some areas.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, as Valle Escondido is home to over 50 bird species.
  • Consider a guided night tour for a unique perspective on the reserve's nocturnal wildlife.
  • Visit the on-site farm-to-table restaurant for fresh, organic cuisine grown on the adjacent Hidden Valley Farm.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as Monteverde's cloud forests can experience rain and mist.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station in Monteverde, take a local bus towards Santa Elena. Inform the driver you wish to visit Valle Escondido Nature Reserve. The bus will drop you off near Escuela Cerro Plano. From there, walk approximately 700 meters southwest down the road until you reach the entrance of the reserve. The bus fare typically costs around $1-2 USD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from accommodations in Monteverde. A taxi directly to Valle Escondido Nature Reserve will cost approximately $10-$15 USD, depending on your starting location.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby, walking to Valle Escondido Nature Reserve is a pleasant option. From the center of Monteverde, head south on Route 606 for approximately 1.5 km. Turn left onto the road leading to the reserve. The walk takes about 30 minutes and offers views of the surrounding nature.

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Discover more about Valle Escondido Nature Reserve

Valle Escondido Nature Reserve, nestled in the cloud forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica, offers visitors an immersive experience in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. This 44-acre private reserve protects a unique transitional forest, bridging the gap between lower elevation forests and true cloud forests. Founded in 1977 by David Savage and the Mata family, Valle Escondido opened as one of the first hotels in Monteverde in 1984. Today, it stands as a testament to sustainable tourism, combining a nature preserve with an organic farm. The reserve boasts well-maintained hiking trails that wind through pristine primary and secondary forests. As you explore, keep an eye out for over 50 species of birds, butterflies, endemic trees, and mammals like coatis, agoutis, and capuchin monkeys. Several waterfalls cascade through the reserve, with three visible from the trails. For those seeking a unique perspective, Valle Escondido offers guided night tours, providing a glimpse into the nocturnal wildlife of Monteverde. Valle Escondido is committed to conservation and sustainability. The adjacent Hidden Valley Farm employs regenerative agriculture and permaculture design, providing fresh, organic produce for the on-site farm-to-table restaurant. The reserve also offers wheelchair-accessible trails, ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty of Monteverde's natural environment. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, Valle Escondido Nature Reserve promises an unforgettable encounter with Costa Rica's rich ecology.

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