Thirty tree species within its border have been identified as previously unknown and the area is rich in diverse wildlife. The forest is managed by the Monteverde Conservation League and it borders the Monteverde Preserve.

But what is most magical about these woods is the fact that it was inspired by a fourth-grade students’ Children’s Rainforest Campaign in Sweden in 1987. It is now the largest private preserve in Costa Rica at over 50,000 acres.

There are two small private complimentary ecological endeavors in the area. Finca Ecologica, an Ecological Farm ( 506/645-5363 ) with a forest, waterfall and fields, is great for birding and has guided tours available.

The Reserva Senduro Tranquillo (Quiet Path Reserve, 506/ 645-5010) is a 200-acre reserve belonging to the Lowther family. It has excellent bi-lingual trail guides. Up the hill from the Cheese Factory.

There are some good hotels near town and in the area, For a link to Hotels in Monteverde and Santa ElenaClick here