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Reserva Natural Monte Alto: A Guanacaste Highland Escape

Discover cool mountain trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning orchids at this refreshing Guanacaste nature escape near Hojancha.

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Escape the Guanacaste heat at Reserva Natural Monte Alto, a lush, 924-hectare protected forest near Hojancha. Discover diverse ecosystems, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife, including over 200 bird species and a stunning array of orchids. Founded in 1994, the reserve protects vital water resources and offers a cool, refreshing change of scenery.

A brief summary to Reserva Natural Monte Alto

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (December to April) for pleasant weather and accessible trails.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching opportunities.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfortable exploration of the trails.
  • Consider visiting the idyllic town of Hojancha before or after your hike for a traditional Costa Rican meal.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Nicoya, head northwest on Route 150 towards Hojancha. Continue through Hojancha until you see signs for Reserva Natural Monte Alto, about 8 km from the town center. Follow the dirt road to the reserve entrance. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Nicoya to Hojancha from the Nicoya bus terminal; the trip takes about 1 hour. From Hojancha, you can walk approximately 8 km to the reserve or hire a taxi. A taxi from Hojancha to the reserve typically costs $10-$15.

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Discover more about Reserva Natural Monte Alto

Reserva Natural Monte Alto, nestled in the mountains near Hojancha in Guanacaste Province, offers a refreshing escape from the region's heat and dust. This 924-hectare (2,283 acre) protected area boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, transitioning from tropical humid forest to very humid premontane forest due to its elevation of 450 to 900 meters above sea level. Founded in 1994, the reserve arose from the community's need to protect the headwaters of the Rio Nosara, which had suffered from deforestation. Local farmers joined forces to reforest the area, leading to the creation of the Fundación Pro Reserva Forestal Monte Alto. Today, the reserve stands as a testament to their vision, with over 60% of the area reforested by 2022. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails, including the popular Orchid Trail, showcasing over 80 species of native orchids and bromeliads. Birdwatchers will delight in the chance to spot over 200 species of birds. The trails lead to scenic viewpoints, including Cerro Romo, the highest point in the region, offering panoramic views of the Nicoya Peninsula. Monte Alto provides lodging in a rustic cabin for those wanting an immersive experience. The reserve also features a meeting room and dining facilities, making it suitable for groups and educational activities. The reserve has been awarded the Blue Flag Ecological Program award.

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