Created in 1991, this “protection zone” encompasses more than 30,000 hectares extending down both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes of the Cordillera de Tilarán and encompassing eight distinct ecological zones, most notably cloud forest at higher elevations.

Wind-battered elfin woods on exposed ridges are spectacularly dwarfed, whereas more protected areas have majestically tall trees festooned with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and vines. Clouds sift through the forest primeval.

February through May, quetzals are in the cloud forest. Later, they migrate downhill, where they can be seen around the hotels of Monteverde. Just after dawn is a good time to spot quetzals, which are particularly active in the early morning, especially April and May.

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see birds.