How to Spend 3 Days in Monteverde, Costa Rica (Best Things to Do + Tips)

Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering if Monteverde deserves a spot on your itinerary?

I totally get it. When I was planning our trip, Monteverde kept coming up everywhere — cloud forests, hanging bridges, ziplining, wildlife and I couldn’t decide if it would be too quiet or just another overly hyped stop. I’m so glad my husband and I went. Monteverde ended up being one of the most unique and memorable parts of our Costa Rica trip.

This mountain region has the perfect blend of adventure and nature. One moment you’re walking through a misty cloud forest surrounded by towering trees and birds you’ve never seen before, and the next you’re flying through the canopy at an adventure park in Monteverde.

That said, planning 3 days in Monteverde can feel a bit overwhelming at first. Monteverde isn’t a single town, the roads can be confusing, and there are so many things to do in Monteverde that it’s hard to narrow it down. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

In this blog, I’m sharing our Monteverde itinerary, including exactly how to spend 3 days in Monteverde, where to stay, how to get around, and the best things to do in Monteverde, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

I’ll also include practical tips, food recommendations, and answers to common questions to make planning easy. If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of the cloud forest, this guide will show you exactly how to spend 3 days in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Where is Monteverde in Costa Rica?

When people say they’re heading to Monteverde, they’re usually talking about a mountain region in northwestern Costa Rica, not just one town. Monteverde sits high in the Tilarán Mountain Range, at around 4,600 feet above sea level, which explains why it feels cooler, greener, and mistier than most other places in the country.

This elevation is what creates Monteverde’s famous cloud forest. Instead of clouds floating above the trees, they drift through them wrapping the forest in mist and giving the area its magical, almost otherworldly feel.

Monteverde is located roughly:

• 3.5–4 hours from San José
• Around 3 hours from La Fortuna / Arenal
• 4–5 hours from Manuel Antonio

Because of its remote mountain setting, getting to Monteverde takes a bit of effort. Expect winding roads, steep climbs, and slower travel times. But honestly, that’s part of the adventure. Once you’re surrounded by cloud forests, wildlife, and some of the best things to do in Monteverde, you’ll quickly see why it’s a must-stop on any Costa Rica itinerary, especially if you’re planning 3 days in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Now, here’s the part that confused me so much when I was planning our Monteverde itinerary, so let me break it down simply.

The name Monteverde became famous because of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions. Over time, the name stuck and started being used to describe the entire region, not just one specific town.

The town you’re actually going to is called Santa Elena.

Usually, when travelers say they’re “going to Monteverde,” they’re usually referring to the general area around Santa Elena, including the cloud forest reserves and nearby adventure parks in Monteverde. Santa Elena is the true hub of the region and where you’ll find most hotels, restaurants, shops, and transportation.

So ideally, yes you’re traveling to Monteverde but in reality, you’ll most likely be staying, eating, and going through Santa Elena during your 3 days in Monteverde. Just like we did!

Where to Stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica

When I started looking at hotels in Monteverde, I was honestly surprised by how many options there were for such a small region. Do you want to stay close to town where restaurants, cafes, and shops are just a short walk away? Or would you rather wake up surrounded by cloud forest, birds, and misty jungle or mountain views? The good news is that Monteverde has something for every travel style and budget.

Because Monteverde isn’t a single town, where you stay really matters. Most accommodations are either in or near Santa Elena, which is the main hub of the region, or slightly outside town, closer to the cloud forest reserves and adventure parks. Both options are great. It really comes down to the kind of experience you want during your 3 days in Monteverde.

If you stay in or near Santa Elena, you’ll love the convenience. This area is packed with restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, banks, and tour offices. It’s especially ideal if you don’t have a rental car, since many tours offer pick-up from hotels in town. If you’re short on time and following a tight Monteverde itinerary, staying here makes getting around much easier.

This is exactly why my husband and I chose to stay at Jaguarundi Lodge Monteverde. Even though it’s located in Santa Elena, it still felt peaceful and surrounded by greenery. We loved having easy access to restaurants and tours while coming back to a quiet, nature-filled space at the end of the day — the best of both worlds.

Staying outside town offers a different experience, with many eco-lodges tucked deeper into the forest. These places are perfect if you’re looking for total peace, jungle views, and a more secluded cloud forest stay, though you’ll usually need a car to get around.

When it comes to budget-friendly stays, Monteverde has plenty of simple, comfortable hotels that are perfect if you plan to spend most of your time exploring. Places like Camino Verde, Glamping Monteverde,  Jaguarundi Lodge Monteverde, Los Pinos Cabanas y Jardines and Monteverde Villa Lodge offer a great balance of comfort, beautiful surroundings, and thoughtful amenities.

For a more elevated experience, Monteverde is also known for its stunning eco-lodges and boutique hotels. Places like Senda Monteverde, Hotel Belmar , Cloud Forest Lodge , Cala Lodge and El Establo Mountain Hotel are ideal if you want your hotel to be part of the experience, with sweeping views and nature-focused design.

One quick tip before you book: hotels in Monteverde fill up fast during Costa Rica’s dry season, especially between December and April, so I highly recommend reserving your stay early. Also, keep in mind that many hotels are built on hillsides, which means you may need to walk uphill to reach your room. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s good to know in advance, especially if you’re carrying luggage or arriving after a long travel day.

How to Get to Monteverde, Costa Rica

Getting to Monteverde is actually part of the adventure. The region is located in northwestern Costa Rica, high in the mountains, and the journey there is filled with winding roads, lush green landscapes, and small local villages. It’s one of those drives where you’ll want to keep your camera handy — even if it takes a little longer than expected.

Monteverde is about 3.5 to 4 hours from San José and roughly 3 hours from La Fortuna, depending on road and weather conditions. Because it sits in the mountains, the final stretch of the drive is slower and more rugged, but that’s all part of what makes Monteverde feel so special once you arrive.

When I was planning our trip, I debated whether to rent a car, take a shuttle, or try public transportation. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice really depends on your travel style and how packed your Monteverde itinerary.

Driving to Monteverde

We chose to rent a car, and honestly, it gave us the most flexibility throughout our trip. Having our own car made it easy to stop along the way, adjust our schedule, and explore Monteverde at our own pace — which was especially helpful since many attractions are spread out.

The drive itself is very scenic, but it does come with a few challenges. As you get closer to Monteverde, you’ll encounter winding mountain roads, steep climbs, and occasional rough patches. Most roads are paved until the final stretch, which can become bumpy and muddy during the rainy season, so it’s something to be mentally prepared for.

There are two main routes to reach Monteverde: Route 145 and Route 606. Based on my experience, take 606 route to Monteverde — it’s fully paved and much easier to drive. The alternative routes suggested by Google Maps or Waze were gravel and unpaved (at least at the time I’m writing this), which can make the drive slower and rougher. Technically, you don’t need a 4×4 just to reach town using 606 route.

However — and this is important — many of the roads leading to cloud forest reserves, viewpoints, and adventure parks are unpaved and uneven. Because of that, I still strongly recommend renting a 4×4, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season or staying outside Santa Elena. It makes driving far less stressful and gives you peace of mind.

Renting a car is the best option if you want maximum flexibility and plan to visit nearby cloud forest reserves, adventure parks in Monteverde, or continue your journey to places like La Fortuna or Manuel Antonio.

We visited Monteverde as part of a 10 day Costa Rica Road trip, and if you’re planning something similar, my Costa Rica road trip itinerary breaks down how to combine multiple destinations without feeling rushed.

Shuttles to Monteverde

If driving in a foreign country isn’t your thing, shared or private shuttles are a very popular and stress-free way to get to Monteverde. Shuttles typically pick you up directly from the airport or your hotel or meeting point and drop you off at your accommodation or drop off point in Santa Elena.

This was the option we seriously considered because it’s comfortable and allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about directions or road conditions. Travel time is usually around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

Shuttles are best if you don’t want to drive and prefer a door-to-door experience (almost), especially if you’re only spending 3 days in Monteverde and want to save energy for activities.

Public Bus to Monteverde

Public transportation is the cheapest way to get to Monteverde, but it’s also the longest and least convenient. There’s no direct bus, so you’ll need to transfer — usually via San Ramón before continuing on to Santa Elena. The full journey can take 5 hours or more and requires careful timing.

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and don’t mind a slower pace, the bus is doable. But for a short trip, it can eat up valuable time that could be spent exploring the best things to do in Monteverde.

My recommendation : If your trip is short, I recommend either renting a car or taking a shuttle. Both options save time and make your 3 days in Monteverde, Costa Rica much smoother and more enjoyable.

Many people visit Monteverde after La Fortuna, and I’ve shared everything you need to know, including hot springs, waterfalls, and activities in my La Fortuna / Arenal travel guide.

How to Get Around in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Once you’re in Monteverde, getting around is fairly straightforward, but it’s a little different than beach towns or compact cities in Costa Rica. Monteverde is spread out, the roads are steep, and attractions aren’t all clustered in one place, so having a plan makes a big difference, especially if you’re only spending 3 days in Monteverde.

If you have a rental car, that’s honestly the easiest way to get around. This is what we did, and it gave us complete flexibility. We could move between Santa Elena, cloud forest reserves, and adventure parks on our own schedule without worrying about pickup times. Just keep in mind that roads here are narrow and can be bumpy, so drive slowly and don’t plan to rush from place to place.

If you don’t have a car, taxis are widely available and commonly used in Monteverde. They’re reliable and easy to arrange through your hotel or by calling a local taxi service. Since distances aren’t huge, taxi rides are usually affordable and a popular choice for getting to cloud forest reserves, restaurants outside town, and adventure parks in Monteverde.

Another convenient option is tour transportation. Many of the best things to do in Monteverde like ziplining, hanging bridges, and guided nature walks include hotel pick-up and drop-off. This makes it very easy to explore without worrying about transportation, especially if you’re staying in Santa Elena like we did.

Walking works well within Santa Elena itself. The town is small, and you can easily walk between restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and tour offices. However, walking long distances outside town isn’t always practical due to steep hills, uneven roads, and limited sidewalks.

My recommendation? If you’re staying in Santa Elena and planning to book tours, you can get by without a car using taxis and tour shuttles. But if you want maximum flexibility or plan to explore on your own, a rental car makes your Monteverde itinerary much smoother and more relaxed.

Best Things to Do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

There are so many incredible things to do in Monteverde, it can feel a little overwhelming when you start planning, especially if you only have 3 days in Monteverde. Between cloud forests, wildlife tours, and adventure parks, it’s hard to know where to begin.

Monteverde doesn’t have “town hopping” like some destinations. Instead, the experiences here are all about nature, wildlife, and adrenaline. I’ve shared a full Monteverde itinerary in this guide (refer below), but if you’re short on time, these are the absolute must-do experiences I recommend prioritizing.

Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

If there’s one place that defines Monteverde, it’s the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. This is the iconic, misty cloud forest you’ve probably seen in photos — moss-covered trees, drifting fog, and a feeling like you’ve stepped into another world.

The trails are well maintained and range from easy to moderate, making them accessible for most travelers. You can explore independently, but a guided walk is worth it if you want to spot wildlife and actually understand what you’re seeing. This is one of the most peaceful and magical things to do in Monteverde, especially in the early morning.

Go Ziplining Through the Cloud Forest

Ziplining is one of the most popular things to do in Monteverde, and doing it here feels extra special thanks to the cloud forest setting. There are several great options in the area, including 100% Aventura Monteverde, Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, and Selvatura Adventure Park.

We went ziplining at Selvatura Park, one of the largest and most popular zipline parks in the region. Their course includes 13 zipline cables and a Tarzan swing, with the option to pay extra for the Superman-style zipline, where you fly face-down like a superhero. The park sits at one of the highest altitudes in the cloud forest, so the views are absolutely incredible — misty treetops, deep valleys, and endless greenery below.

It’s worth noting that Selvatura is very popular, and large tour buses do visit the park. Booking in advance and aiming for an early time slot helps make the experience smoother.

Walk Above the Clouds on Hanging Bridges

If you want stunning views without the adrenaline rush, the hanging bridges are a must. These suspension bridges take you high above the forest floor, offering a totally different perspective of the cloud forest.

Walking across them felt peaceful and immersive, with clouds drifting through the trees and birds flying at eye level. You can really see every layer of the rainforest from up there, and while the bridges sway slightly, they feel very safe. This is a great experience to pair with ziplining or wildlife walks in your 3 days in Monteverde itinerary.

Experience the Forest at Night on a Night Walk

One of the most unique experiences in Monteverde happens after dark. A guided night walk lets you see a completely different side of the cloud forest, when nocturnal animals come out and the forest feels alive in a whole new way.

Walking through the trails with just a flashlight felt thrilling and a little eerie in the best way. During our tour, we spotted frogs, sloths, sleeping birds, stick insects, and even a tarantula. If you want something memorable and slightly adventurous, this is one of the best things to do in Monteverde.

Go Birdwatching at Curi-Cancha Reserve

For wildlife lovers, Curi-Cancha Reserve is one of the best places in Monteverde for birdwatching. It’s quieter and less crowded than the main cloud forest preserve, with a mix of dense forest and open areas that attract a wide variety of species.

Curi-Cancha is especially famous for being one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, even without seeing one, the reserve is full of life. We saw hummingbirds, toucans, an owl resting in a tree, and even a small green snake curled up on a branch. It’s a calm, rewarding experience and a perfect addition to a well-paced 3 days in Monteverde.

How to Spend 3 Days in Monteverde, Costa Rica

If you’re planning 3 days in Monteverde, this is exactly how my husband and I spent our time and honestly, it felt perfectly balanced between adventure, wildlife, and soaking in that magical cloud forest atmosphere without feeling rushed.

There are so many amazing ways to experience Monteverde that planning 3 days in Monteverde can feel a little overwhelming at first. Between cloud forests, wildlife reserves, adventure parks, and night tours, it’s hard to know how to fit it all in without rushing.

After spending time here, I can confidently say that 3 days is the sweet spot. It gives you enough time to experience the best of Monteverde at a relaxed pace, mixing adventure with nature and a few slower moments to soak it all in.

Here’s exactly how I recommend spending 3 days in Monteverde, Costa Rica, based on our trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Santa Elena + Night Wildlife Tour

After arriving in Santa Elena (aka Monteverde), we checked into Jaguarundi Lodge Monteverde, and it instantly became one of my favorite stays of the trip. The lodge is tucked into a quiet, green part of town, surrounded by trees and wildlife, but still within walking distance of restaurants and cafés — truly the best of both worlds.

The cabins are rustic yet cozy, with large windows that make you feel completely immersed in the cloud forest. After settling in and grabbing dinner in town, we kept the evening low-key before heading out for one of the most unique experiences in Monteverde.

That night, I joined a guided night wildlife tour, and it completely exceeded my expectations. Walking through the forest with just a flashlight felt thrilling and slightly eerie. In just a couple of hours, we spotted sloths, frogs, sleeping birds, stick insects, and even a tarantula. Seeing Monteverde come alive after dark was unforgettable and the perfect way to kick off our Monteverde itinerary.

Day 2: Adventure Park Thrills in the Cloud Forest

On our second day, we dedicated the entire day to Selvatura Adventure Park, and it was absolutely worth it. I booked the full-day pass so we could experience everything the park offers, and honestly, you need a full day here.

We started with ziplining, flying through the cloud forest on 13 zipline cables, some over 1,000 feet long. Because Selvatura sits at one of the highest altitudes in the cloud forest, the views are spectacular — misty treetops, deep valleys, and endless greenery below. Right before the final zipline is the famous Tarzan Swing, where you step into a brief free fall before swinging high over the jungle. It’s terrifying for a moment and unforgettable right after.

For even more adrenaline, you can add the Superman-style zipline, where you fly face-down like a superhero. It’s intense, wild, and perfect if you’re craving maximum excitement. Just keep in mind that Selvatura is very popular and large tour buses do visit, so booking ahead is essential.

After the adrenaline rush, we slowed things down with the hanging bridges. Walking high above the forest floor felt peaceful and immersive, giving us a completely different perspective of the cloud forest. We could see every layer of the rainforest, hear bird calls, and watch clouds drift between the treetops.

We also visited the sloth habitat, butterfly garden, and reptile exhibit, which added a fun and educational element to the day. By the time we left, we were happily exhausted — muddy shoes, messy hair, and a camera roll full of memories.

Day 3: Cloud Forest & Birdwatching

We started our third day early at Curi-Cancha Reserve, one of the best places in Monteverde for wildlife and birdwatching. It’s quieter and less crowded than the main cloud forest preserve, with peaceful trails winding through forest and open meadows.

Curi-Cancha is especially well known for being one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal. We booked a guided walk to increase our chances, but even without seeing one, the experience was incredible. We spotted hummingbirds hovering over flowers, toucans flying overhead, an owl resting in a tree, and even a small green snake curled up on a branch (a moment that was both wow, nature is beautiful and okay, that’s a little scary at the same time).

If you still have time and energy later in the day, you can also visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve for that classic misty, cloud-filled scenery. This is the classic Monteverde scenery — dense, misty forest, moss-covered trees, and clouds drifting through the canopy.

We kept the rest of the afternoon relaxed and enjoyed dinner back in Santa Elena. It was the perfect way to wrap up our 3 days in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Where to Eat in Monteverde, Costa Rica

For such a small mountain town, there’s a great option of cozy cafés, local Costa Rican spots, and a few restaurants that feel perfect for a relaxed date night after a long day of exploring. Most restaurants are centered around Santa Elena, which made it super convenient since that’s where we stayed.

For breakfast or a casual start to the day, Orchid Coffee was one of our go-to spots. It’s great for strong Costa Rican coffee, fresh smoothies, and light breakfast plates. If you’re heading out early for a cloud forest walk or wildlife tour, this is an easy and reliable stop.

After a morning of activities, we loved grabbing lunch at Sabor Tico. This is a classic place to try traditional Costa Rican food like casados, rice and beans, plantains, and fresh juices. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and it’s perfect if you want something filling before an afternoon adventure.

For dinner, Tree House Restaurant is one of the most popular spots in Monteverde and for good reason. Built around a massive tree, the setting alone makes it worth a visit. The menu is diverse, with Costa Rican dishes, burgers, pasta, and cocktails, making it a great option if you’re traveling as a couple or in a group with different tastes.

If you’re craving something a bit more upscale but still relaxed, Monteverde Brewing Company is a solid choice. They serve craft beer brewed locally along with hearty comfort food. It’s a fun place to unwind in the evening, especially after a full day at an adventure park in Monteverde.

For something quick and casual, there are plenty of small bakeries and soda-style eateries around Santa Elena where you can grab empanadas, pastries, or fresh bread. These little stops are perfect between activities and add to the local experience.

One quick tip: Monteverde restaurants tend to close earlier than beach towns, especially on quieter nights. If you’re following a packed 3 days in Monteverde itinerary, it’s a good idea to plan dinner a bit earlier or make reservations when possible.

FAQs about visiting Monteverde, Costa Rica

If you’re planning 3 days in Monteverde, these are some of the most common questions I had while planning our trip — along with what I learned from experience.

Is 3 days in Monteverde enough?

Yes, 3 days in Monteverde is the perfect amount of time. It gives you enough space to explore the cloud forest, enjoy wildlife experiences, and spend a full day at an adventure park without feeling rushed. Anything less can feel a bit tight, especially once you factor in travel time.

Do I need a car in Monteverde?

A car isn’t absolutely necessary, but it does make things easier. We had a rental car and loved the flexibility it gave us. That said, if you’re staying in Santa Elena, many tours include hotel pick-up, and taxis are easy to arrange. If you’re not comfortable driving on steep, narrow roads, shuttles and taxis work just fine.

What’s the best time to visit Monteverde?

The best time to visit Monteverde is during the dry season, from December to April. You’ll get clearer trails and better visibility in the cloud forest. The rainy season, from May to November, brings fewer crowds and lush landscapes, but you should expect more rain and muddier trails. We visited in July, and afternoon showers were very common. Not a deal-breaker, just something to plan around by scheduling outdoor activities earlier in the day.

Is Monteverde good for couples?

Absolutely. Monteverde is perfect for couples who love nature and adventure. My husband and I loved the peaceful jungle stay, adrenaline-filled ziplining, cozy cafés, and quiet evenings surrounded by nature. It’s romantic without being overly touristy.

Can you visit Monteverde Cloud Forest without a guide?

Yes, you can visit on your own, but I highly recommend a guided tour if wildlife spotting is important to you. Guides know exactly where to look and will point out animals you’d likely miss on your own. We learned so much from our guide, especially at Curi-Cancha.

Is Monteverde expensive?

Monteverde doesn’t have to be expensive but it can be, depending on how you plan your trip and what experiences you choose. When I visited, I found that basic costs like food, accommodation, and transportation were pretty reasonable. You’ll find plenty of mid-range hotels and local sodas (small Costa Rican restaurants) that won’t break the bank. Eating typical Costa Rican meals like casados, gallo pinto, or fresh juices at local spots in Santa Elena was affordable and delicious.

Where the costs start to add up is with guided tours and adventure activities, especially things like ziplining, guided cloud forest walks, or full-day passes at an adventure park in Monteverde. These experiences are unforgettable, but they’re not cheap. For example, ziplining courses with multiple cables and extras like the Superman ride can be one of the pricier parts of your itinerary and night wildlife tours and birdwatching guides also come with a premium.

So basically, Monteverde can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it.

Final Thoughts on 3 Days in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde ended up being one of the most unique stops on our Costa Rica trip. Between misty cloud forests, incredible wildlife, and adrenaline-packed adventures, it offers something completely different from the beaches and lowland rainforests.

In case, you’re debating whether to include Monteverde in your Costa Rica itinerary, I’d say go for it — especially if you can spend 3 days in Monteverde. That extra day makes all the difference and allows you to slow down, explore deeply, and truly appreciate what makes this place so special.

I hope this Monteverde guide has helped you plan your trip! And if you’re continuing your Costa Rica road trip, you can check out my full guide on ‘how to spend 10 days in Costa Rica’.

And, If you enjoy travel vlogs, I’ve shared my Costa Rica trip on YouTube as well, where you can see what each place actually looked and felt like.