Costa Rica is more than just sand and sun

[Danny Solano Alvarez]

When most people think about Costa Rica they imagine wonderful beaches. However, visitors should also discover the mysterious cloud forest. In case you love scenic location and wish to enjoy spending your time out in wild, then you must certainly visit this place. It is waiting to be found.

You can do it by visiting Monteverde and Santa Elena.

Many locals of the region can trace their roots back to the US. During the 1950’s a few Quakersmoved here from Alabama to honour one of their most important religious beliefs: to avoid any sort of violence. They thought Costa Rica was the best option due to its peaceful national government and also because they could raise their cattle.

Today animal lovers will get crazy around here. There are plenty of chance to see some of the 30 types of local frogs; 40 species of snakes, in addition to other reptiles; a big number of bats; and a considerable amount of butterflies, mammals and insects. The whole time you’re here, keep your eyes open for great wildlife, especially the colourful bird species that call this area home.

One of the best things is that you can visit this place any time of the year. However, if you’re planning to have a backpacking adventure, the best moment is from mid-October to mid-December. During this time the temperature is ideal and you will go mad with the sunny weather.

You can also choose one of the One Day Tours in Monteverde. Some of its most important attractions can be done in just one day. Amongst them, one can highlight the Monteverde Cloud Forest Train. It has bewitched people from all over the world with its beautiful and cheerful steam engine. The red and black replica of this old fashion train can transport you to the past and make you feel like a movie star. You can witness the magnificent landscape whilst enjoying an exhilarating ride in a carriage suited with wooden benches.

It is the perfect way to refresh you and your family, to get away from the city and connect with nature in an old-fashioned and glamorousway. This ride through tunnels, over rail bridges passing through mountains and primary forest make Monteverde worth a visit. At the very end you will have a unique view of Lake Arenal, Arenal Volcano, the extinct volcano Cerro Chato as well as the majestic San Gerado waterfalls. It is the perfect location to experience a memorable event of life.

By Andres