COSTA RICA - Monteverde

The Monteverde region is known around the world for its conservation efforts and lifestyle centered around respect for nature. Santa Elena is the area’s main service center with various shops and tourism companies; other important towns are San Luis and San Gerardo. Though its main attraction is the Monteverde Biological Preserve, the region also features a variety of natural places, picturesque paths, flora- and fauna-watching opportunities, natural landscapes and more. Owing to the area’s attractions and environment, activities are centered around natural history and adventure; possible activities include bird- (especially the resplendent quetzal), wildlife- and nature-watching, hiking, canopy tours, trips to suspension bridges and visits to butterfly and frog gardens.

Situated in the Tilarán mountain range, Santa Elena is a very distinctive community: a mix of rural area and developing city, of paved streets and gravel roads. At an altitude of 1,330 meters, the town enjoys cool temperatures; its irregular topography makes for pleasant scenery.

The Quakers came to the Monteverde area in the fifties in the hopes of following their traditional way of life. They undertook agricultural

and livestock activities, and eventually formed a dairy cooperative that has also benefited the area's Costa Rican residents. The Quaker community built a school and shared education with Santa Elena's Costa Ricans, thus enabling a bilingual culture that today is a strength in serving the nature-loving tourists who visit the area. Though it is true that few of the original colonists remain, a number of their customs and practices have been maintained, including Quaker Meetings, which involve varied commentaries and readings on world peace. With great vision, the Quakers protected the high zone of the Tilarán mountain range; today, it is one of the country's most visited protected areas, where the beauty of the region's flora and fauna may be enjoyed by all.

This event takes place during the first months of the year to take advantage of the dry season and high season for tourists. Different musical groups advocating music in harmony with nature are invited from around the country.

Located in San Luis, this is an impressive 300-meter waterfall. Getting to it requires a short hike on which visitors can enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

The main attraction here is observing how cheese is made and buying dairy products such as ice cream and other sweets. The factory's hours are Monday to Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

makes various handicrafts and souvenirs out of wood and other materials, as well as clothing, for tourists to purchase.

Monteverde

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Biological diversity in the mist