Monteverde & Santa Elena

Strung between two lovingly preserved cloud forests, this slim corridor of civilization consists of the Tico village of Santa Elena and the Quaker settlement of Monteverde, each with an eponymous cloud forest reserve. The cloud forests are premier destinations for everyone from budget backpackers to well-heeled retirees.

Costa Rica, Puntarenas province, Monteverde, Butterfly Garden

Getty Images/Hemis.fr RM

Book
Costa Rica Travel Guide
Book

Costa Rica

Shop $28.99 USD
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

Holafly advertisement
Trusted Partner

Stay connected in Monteverde & Santa Elena

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Take your Costa Rica trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to Costa Rica

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

Top places to visit in Monteverde & Santa Elena

Discover the best attractions in Monteverde & Santa Elena from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Monteverde & Santa Elena