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Monteverde Cloud Forest & Night Walk
Departing La Fortuna, you'll travel along Lake Arenal before ascending to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Nestled in the Pacific highlands, Santa Elena serves as the gateway to this renowned wildlife refuge. Known for its charming wooden houses and cool climate, Santa Elena resembles a tropical Switzerland. This unique environment creates a cycle of warm sunshine and frequent drizzle, making Monteverde the world's most famous cloud forest. Cloud forests receive their name from their high altitude, where the forest reaches up through the clouds. After settling into your accommodation in Santa Elena, the afternoon is free to relax or explore. Visit the Monteverde Cheese Factory, established in 1953 by the area's Quaker settlers, to sample their renowned cheeses and ice cream, particularly the famous Monte Rico. In the evening, join your guide for a night walk through the forest to spot nocturnal creatures like insects and brightly colored dart frogs with their distinctive calls. This experience offers a unique blend of peacefulness and thrill amidst the cloud forest's darkness. Alternatively, during weekends, explore the town's nightlife with your guide and visit a local dance venue *(weekends only)*.