Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is located high up in the Talamanca Mountains. This is one of Costa Rica's most visited attractions. The meaning of Monteverde is "Green Mountain". The surrounding area of Monteverde also includes several other cloud forest reserves including Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

Most visitors to the Monteverde region come for the breathtaking beauty of the cloud forests and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is actually home to over 100 species of mammals and 400 species of birds. This is a birdwatcher's paradise, with numerous species that are endemic to this region.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is also home to a healthy population of Resplendent Quetzals. These birds were once revered by the Mayan Indians to have mystical healing powers. Only chiefs and high priests of the tribe were allowed to adorn the long tail feathers of the male quetzals.

The entrance fee to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve was recently raised to $13 for foreign visitors. It is however, highly recommended to go with a professional guide, as the animals that inhabit the Costa Rica rainforests and cloud forests camoflauge very well to their surroundings.

Due to the elevation, visitors to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve should be prepared to face cool and damp weather. Hiking boots, long pants, and at least a sweatshirt (rain jacket or poncho is recommended as well) are recommended.