Curi-Cancha Reserve

Monteverde, Puntarenas, 300 m Northeast of the Monteverde Cheese Factory.

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Hours

Open daily

Tours without a guide available 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Three hour Natural History tours at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Night tours starting at 5:30 p.m.

Cost

We can't list all the tour prices, but here is a sample of what you can expect at Curi-Cancha Reserve:

  • Adult Self-Guided Tour (4 hours): $25
  • Children (5-20) Self-Guided Tour (4 hours): $15
  • Adult Natural History Tour (3 hours): $55
  • Children Adult Natural History Tour (3 hours): $45
  • Children (0-4): Free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

Phone(506) 4002 4560
WebsiteVisit Website

About

Imagine a lush paradise where the melodies of rare birds fill the air and the atmosphere invites the soul to dance with nature. Curi-Cancha Reserve is that dance floor, a 237 acre sanctuary situated in the heart of Monteverde.

The history of Curi-Cancha Reserve began in 1970 when the Lowther family purchased land owned by Hubert and Mildred Mendenhall. The Lowthers renamed the property Curi-Cancha, which is Inca for "Golden Enclosure."

For 45 years, the Lowthers let the land and forest re-grow, and in 1997, Curi-Cancha was legally designated a Refugio de Vida Silvestre under MINAE. In 2011, Curi-Cancha Reserve opened to tourists, offering tours and lessons in conservation.

The biodiversity at Curi-Cancha Reserve is evident in every nook and corner. Visitors will see various plant species, such as majestic oaks and delicate orchids. The reserve is also a sanctuary for over 200 species of birds.

With its doors open to a limited number of visitors daily, Curi-Cancha Reserve ensures an intimate experience with nature, encouraging a deeper connection and appreciation for the wonders of our natural world.

Curi-Cancha Reserve: Fun Facts & Cool Features

As its Incan name implies, Curi-Cancha Reserve is a "Golden Enclosure" waiting to be discovered.

Among its most incredible features is that it is a bird watcher's paradise. Be sure to bring binoculars to get glimpses of the Resplendent Quetzal, Three-Wattled Bellbird, Blue-Crowned Motmot, and Orange-bellied Trogon, to list a few.

Animal lovers may spot Costa Rican mammals like armadillo, coati, agouti, kinkajou, ocelot, two-toed sloth, and three species of monkeys.

After hiking the reserve's vast trails, eat at regional eateries like Vida Hermosa and Koko Gastro Bar. Relive your adventures at the reserve while savoring Costa Rican fare and sipping refreshing beverages.

Adventurers can relish navigating well-maintained trails weaving under canopies teeming with life. On clear days, the forest reveals panoramas of the Pacific Ocean in certain areas.

Orchid enthusiasts are in for a treat, with numerous species adorning the cooler cloud forest areas. The blossoms are a kaleidoscope of color and a testimony to the area's rich biodiversity.

While self-guided tours are available, the reserve offers guided tours that shed light on the area's rich biodiversity.

Visiting Curi-Cancha Reserve is a decision no nature lover or avid explorer would regret on their Costa Rica vacation. It's not just a visit but an adventure that educates, inspires, and rejuvenates, making it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the best of Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from San Jose to Curi-Cancha Reserve:

  • Begin your journey from San Jose and merge onto Route 1, heading northwest towards Puntarenas.
  • Follow Route 1 for about 100 kilometers until you reach the Interamericana Highway.
  • At the signs for Sardinal, make a left onto Route 145, following signs for Monteverde and Santa Elena.
  • In Sardinal, turn right onto Route 606, continuing towards Monteverde.
  • The road will become winding and steep as you ascend into the cloud forest; continue for approximately 35 kilometers.
  • Once in Monteverde, follow the signs directing you to Curi-Cancha Reserve within the community of Santa Elena.
  • Address: 300 m noroeste Fabrica de Quesos Monteverde, 60109, Costa Rica

Local Tips

  • Check the list of prohibited activities on the website to ensure a safe and rewarding visit.
  • Reserve your tickets online for entry, as daily visitors are limited.
  • Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot wildlife.
  • Wear closed, comfortable shoes and long pants, and bring a waterproof jacket. Carry water, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
  • There are 6 miles of trails; come prepared.
  • Stay on the trails to protect the reserve's ecosystems and for your safety.

Location

Monteverde, Puntarenas, 300 m Northeast of the Monteverde Cheese Factory.

Frequently Asked Questions

The dry season, roughly December through April, brings sunny days and is ideal for beaches. The green season, May through November, offers lush scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices, with rain usually falling in the afternoon.

Most visitors fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport near San José or Daniel Oduber in Liberia. Liberia is closer to Guanacaste's beaches, while San José puts you near central regions and mountain destinations.

There are several distinct regions to choose from within Costa Rica. Whether looking for peaceful relaxation to heart-pounding activities, and from inner wellness to outdoor adventure, Costa Rica is an ideal destination.

  • Puntarenas is one of the most popular tourist destinations and home to Monteverde Cloud Forest. The Nicoya Peninsula, known for great surf, wildlife refuges, and as a global “blue zone” (where many live exceptionally long, healthy lives) is part of both Puntarenas and Guanacaste.
  • Guanacaste is renowned as the cradle of Costa Rican folklore, showcasing tropical dry forests, lowland mountains, and pristine beaches.
  • The Central Pacific Coast is a top destination for surfing, fishing, and further exploration into the Manuel Antonio National Park.
  • Central Valley is home to Costa Rica’s capital San Jose and offers some of the best museums in the country, including that of Costa Rican Art and the National Theatre.
  • The Caribbean side of Costa Rica, encompassing about 130 miles of coastline, combines nature reserves and Afro-Caribbean culture into a distinct tropical vibe.
  • The Arena Volcano towers over the Northern Plains region, where you can take in waterfalls, rivers winding through lush forests, and natural hot springs.
  • Ecotourism abounds in the South Pacific part of Costa Rica, which is home to the Corcovado National Park and Isla del Caño Biological Reserve

A rental car gives you freedom to explore remote beaches and small towns. Roads can be rough in places, so a 4x4 helps. Shuttles and domestic flights work well if you prefer to skip driving.

Definitely! Kids love the wildlife, gentle beaches, and easy adventures like wildlife tours and hanging bridges. Many rentals offer space, pools, and kitchens that make traveling with family comfortable and simple.

Costa Rica is roughly the size of the state of West Virginia. The country spans 19,730 square miles, with just about 630 miles of coastline on the Pacific side and 130 on the Caribbean.

More questions

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