Explore the forest

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Hike natural trails with lookouts over Arenal and other volcanoes, in a community-run cloud forest reserve.

  • Transport not included
  • Easy to moderate

About this experience

Founded in 1992, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Biological Reserve covers 310 hectares and is managed by the board of the local public high school, which gives your visit a community purpose.

It sits on the Caribbean slope at a higher altitude than the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. On clear days its three lookouts — the Observation Tower and the Observation Platform on the Youth Challenge Trail, and the Caño Negro Lookout — offer views of Arenal Volcano and its lagoon; from the tower you may also see the Tenorio, Miravalles and Rincón de la Vieja volcanoes, and even Lake Nicaragua.

The trails are more natural, with mud and stairs through dense primary and secondary forest, and the reserve receives fewer visitors — a quieter way to experience the cloud forest.

Highlights

  • Three lookouts with volcano views on clear days
  • Managed by the local high school
  • Quieter, more natural trails

What to bring

  • Mosquito repellent
  • Long pants
  • Closed shoes
  • Rain jacket
  • Binoculars
  • Camera

Meeting point

Transport isn’t included in this tour — ask us on WhatsApp how to get there.

Good to know

Booking
Payment is required at least 48 hours before the tour.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour; less than 48 hours before, a 50% charge applies.

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Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve$90 adult · $70 child

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