Curi-Cancha Reserve

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.

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

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): $20
• Children (5-20) Self-Guided Tour (4 hours): $12
• Adult Natural History Tour (3 hours): $50 
• Children Adult Natural History Tour (3 hours): $42
• Children (0-4): Free

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