Into the Clouds: A Day in Monteverde

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a place that has always intrigued me. As a surfer, I’m used to the vastness of the ocean, but the idea of exploring the treetops of a cloud forest was something entirely different. My wife and I decided to take a break from the waves and head inland to experience the Monteverde Adventure.

We started our day early, leaving the coast behind as we made our way to the lush, green mountains of Monteverde. The drive was long, but the anticipation of what awaited us kept our spirits high. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the cool, misty air of the cloud forest, a refreshing change from the salty breeze of the ocean.

Walking Among Giants

Our adventure began with a walk across the hanging bridges of Selvatura Park. As we stepped onto the first bridge, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The bridges swayed gently underfoot, and the view from above was nothing short of spectacular. We were surrounded by a sea of green, with the occasional burst of color from a passing bird or butterfly.

The walk was peaceful, a chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the forest. We spotted a few quetzals, their vibrant plumage standing out against the lush backdrop. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that Costa Rica is known for.

Soaring Through the Canopy

After our leisurely walk, it was time for the main event: ziplining. I’ve always loved the thrill of catching a wave, but soaring through the treetops on a zip line was a different kind of rush. The lines at Selvatura are some of the longest in Costa Rica, with one stretching a full kilometer.

As we zipped from platform to platform, the adrenaline was palpable. The highlight was the final line, where we zipped into the clouds themselves. It was a surreal experience, feeling the mist on my face as we disappeared into the white.

The tour ended with a Tarzan swing, a fitting finale to an exhilarating day. As we made our way back to the coast, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s adventures. The Monteverde Cloud Forest had offered a different kind of thrill, one that complemented the ocean’s call perfectly.