Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Monteverde Institute
LANGUAGE COURSE
homestay incl meals per day US$22)
This nonprofit educational institute offers interdisciplinary courses in Spanish, as well as
more specialized programs in tropical biology, conservation and sustainable development,
among other topics. Courses are occasionally open to the public, as are volunteer oppor-
tunities in education and reforestation.
Tours
Wonder where the whole canopy-tour craze was born? Santa Elena is the site of Costa
Rica's first zip lines, today eclipsed in adrenaline by the nearly 100 imitators who have
followed, some of which are right here in town. You won't be spotting any quetzals or
coatis as you whoosh your way over the canopy, but if you came to Costa Rica to fly, this
is the absolute best place to do it. If you want to explore the treetops without the adren-
aline rush, several of these outifts also have systems of hanging bridges. Transportation
from your lodging is included in the price.
Keep in mind that Monteverde works on a commission-based system, so take all unsoli-
cited advice with a degree of skepticism. When in doubt, it's good to talk to the friendly,
unbiased staff at Pensión Santa Elena if you want the full scoop.
Aventura
CANOPY TOUR
35, bridges US$35/25; 7am-4pm)
Aventura has 19 platforms that are spiced up with a Tarzan swing, a 15m rappel and a Su-
perman zip line that makes you feel as if you really are flying. Aventura's cables and
bridges are laced through secondary forest only. It's about 3km north of Santa Elena on the
road to the reserve, but there's a booking office in town.
Extremo Canopy
CANOPY TOUR
( 2645-6058;
www.monteverdeextremo.com
;
canopy US$40, super cable US$30, bungee US$60,
tarzan swing $35;
8am-4pm)
