Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Take a hike up to the highest peak in the area (1842m) for good views of the surrounding
rainforest and, on a clear day, Volcán Arenal, 20km away to the northeast. The trail begins
behind Hotel Belmar and ascends roughly 300m in 3km. From the hotel, take the dirt road
going downhill, then the next left. Note that this trail does not connect to the trails in the
Monteverde reserve.
Santa Maria Night Walk
NIGHT WALK
2645-6548;
www.nightwalksantamarias.com
;
per person US$22;
tour
5:30pm)
Night walks have become superpopular, perhaps because 80% of the cloud-forest creatures
are nocturnal. Expert guides point out all kinds of wildlife that are active in the evening,
ranging from snakes and spiders to sloths and kinkajous. Flashlights are provided.
Sabine's Smiling Horses
HORSE RIDING
Conversant in four languages (in addition to equine), Sabine will make sure you are com-
fortable on your horse, whether you're a novice rider or an experienced cowboy. Her long-
standing operation in Monteverde offers a variety of treks including a popular waterfall
tour (three hours). And yes, the horses really really do smile.
Horse Trek Monteverde
HORSE RIDING
Owner and guide Marvin Anchia is a Santa Elena native, a professional horse trainer and
an amateur naturalist who offers an excellent, intimate horse-riding experience. Tours
range from scenic half-day rides in the cloud forest to all-day cowboy experiences to
multi-day treks. The horses are well cared for, well trained and a joy to ride.
Caballeriza El Rodeo
HORSE RIDING
Based at a local
finca
(farm), this outfit offers tours on private trails through field and
forest. The specialty is a sunset tour to a spot overlooking the Golfo de Nicoya.
