Monteverde Biological Reserve

The Monteverde Biological Reserve is the most famous cloud forest in the world, and one of the most important private reserves in Costa Rica. Nature-lovers from around the world visit the reserve to study and enjoy the abundant biodiversity of its ecosystems.

This reserve is owned by the Tropical Scientific Center (CCT), which was founded in 1962 by Dr. Leslie Holdridge, Dr. Charles Lankester, Dr. Joseph Tosi, Dr. Robert Hunter, Wesly Kerper, Frank Jirik and Dr. Fernando Castañeda.

Between 1964 and 1972, other renowned pioneers in biology and conservation of natural resources became associated with CCT, including;   Alexander Skutch, Rafael Lucas, Luís Fournier, George Powell, Robert Wilson, and others. Today this institution is comprised of 50 associates, all of whom are renowned scientists and professionals in a variety of areas.

The Monteverde Biological Reserve consists of a marvelous cloud forest which is home to a wealth of biodiversity. It has become one of the most popular and post important tourist destinations in Costa Rica. It is possible to observe over 2000 plant and tree species, 490 species of butterflies, 100 species of mammals and more than 100 species of reptiles and amphibians.

This reserve has international fame as one of the most prominent tropical rainforests in America, once home of the Golden Frog, an endemic frog species that is deaf and dumb.  Currently, this species is catalogued as extinct, since it has not been observed since 1989. Its extinction is thought to be a result climates changes caused by global warming.

The Monteverde Biological Reserve is home to species like the quetzal, the black turkey, the coati, the bellbird, and a large variety of hummingbird species.

The northern sector of The Monteverde Biological Reserve, near the town of Santa Elena, is prepared to receive visitors. Services include lodging, trails, souvenir shop, and cafeteria.