Los Angeles Cloud Forest Reserve

This 800-hectare reserve provides the same experience as Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve without the crowds or the quetzals. The reserve is part of the Villablanca finca, a cattle ranch owned by former president Rodrigo Carazón. It begins at 700 meters’ elevation and tops out at 1,800 meters (when the clouds clear you can see Volcán Arenal). The hills are covered with thick cloud forest, with the calls of howler monkeys emanating from its shrouded interior. Bird species include bellbirds, trogons, and aricaris. Laureles trees have been planted to lure quetzals. Three species of monkeys abound, and other mammals such as ocelots, jaguars, and jaguarundis are present.

Two short trails (1.5 and two km) have wooden walkways with nonslip surfaces. A third, hard-hiking trail (plan on six to nine hours) descends past the waterfalls and natural swimming pools of the Ríos Balsa and Espino. Rain ponchos, flashlights, and umbrellas are provided. A canopy tour is offered using a 300-meter-long cable slung between seven treetop platforms ($38.50 per person).

No bags are allowed on the trail, as fanatical horticulturists have been stealing orchids. Guided hikes cost $20–24 pp depending on season ($12–15 self-guided). Horseback rides cost $12 per hour.