If you're looking to hike through the Cordillera de Talamanca but aren't quite ready for the intensity of Cerro Chirripó, the Cloudbridge Nature Reserve has numerous trails ranging from moderate to strenuous, offering extensive picturesque landscapes. It's a perfect way to enjoy the remarkable natural beauty of San Gerardo de Rivas at your own pace and at any level of fitness.
About the Reserve
Cloudbridge is a 2.8-sq-km privately owned nature reserve dedicated to the conservation of primary forests and the reforestation of the cloud forest. Over 15 years, 50,000 native trees were planted, focusing on conserving existing old trees on the property. It's also a research and education center, where scientists and volunteers from around the world come to study the unique cloud forest ecosystems and learn replicable techniques to combat climate change. Every type of hiker can enjoy the land: there are leisurely 600m trails with scenic waterfalls and rugged 8km treks through the cloud forest where Ticos and visitors train for summit Chirripó.
Best Trails for Trekking
One of the simplest and shortest trails is the Waterfall Trail, a 1km route leading to the "Memorial Garden" and to the three different waterfalls so you can experience the gorgeous terrain without a demanding hike. You'll also pass by the Jardin de Meditación, which has a fun labyrinth path made of stones. Take a moment to sit, relax, breathe and spin around in the labyrinth. This trail, in particular, can be quite slippery during the rainy season because of mossy rocks, but it is relatively doable for families with older people and small children, especially during the dry season.
For those who want something more challenging, there's a steep hike up Sendero Principal to Mirador del Valle (Valley Lookout) with panoramic mountain views. It's the starting point for longer trails that are less demanding and more rustic. The Sendero Montaña is a strenuous hike offering steep ascents up zigzagging grassy paths, but you're rewarded with awesome views of clouds rolling up the valley. The Cloudbridge North Trail winds through the Río Uran valley, past the only remaining pasture in the Cloudbridge valley. It clearly reflects how much reforestation has been done in the area, thanks to the reserve. Check with the Welcome Center before you head in that direction because parts of the trail are susceptible to landslides.
Hire a Tour Guide
Guided tours are available for individuals and small groups in English and Spanish, and sometimes French and German, but should be booked a minimum of 48 hours in advance. You can choose a 3-4 hour general tour or specialized versions focusing on primary forest, birdwatching or even nocturnal wildlife. If you're bringing a larger group, definitely inquire about their specialty topics, which include cloud-forest flora and fauna, the local history of reforestation, and global climate.
Spend the Night
Three cabins (sleeping between one to four people) are also available for rent for those who want to stay on the property for a minimum of two nights. The two cabins at the reserve's entrance have electricity and wi-fi, while the remote Galivan cabin, a one-hour hike from the reserve's entrance, does not.
