The Monteverde Canopy

Getting into the rainforest canopy to study it was a genuine research problem, and Monteverde is where a good deal of the solution was worked out: biologists here rigged rope systems to reach the upper layers in the 1970s and 1980s, and the recreational version followed, spreading from Costa Rica across the tropics. Today several operations around Santa Elena run zip line circuits, hanging bridge walks and aerial trams through the cloud forest, at different levels of intensity from a gentle bridge stroll to a kilometre-long cable and a controlled rope drop. The bridges are the better option for anyone who actually wants to look at the forest.

What you actually see

• The hanging bridges - a slow walk at canopy level, best for wildlife.
• The zip line circuits - cables between towers across the valleys.
• The aerial tram - a seated option through the canopy.
• The origin - canopy access techniques developed here for research.

When to go

December to April is drier, though Monteverde is misty year-round and zip lines run in cloud, which is part of the experience. Morning tours are less windy. Book ahead in high season, particularly for the larger operations.

Honest expectations

Zip lines are an adrenaline activity, not a wildlife one: you see very little forest at speed, and if you want to see animals the bridges are the option. Safety standards vary between operators and the cheapest are not the ones to choose. Wind and lightning close the cables. Weight and age limits apply and are enforced.

Nearby

The Monteverde and Santa Elena reserves are minutes away; Santa Elena village is the base.