Costa Rica - Part 3 - National park(s)

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Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena

As the tree house was located inside the Monteverde national park, we felt the visit to one of its many reservas is a must. 
- what was considered: Monteverde, Selvatura and Santa Elena (after narrowing down other options and tours for various reasons)
- what we knew we did not want: guided tour, too many people there
- what we hoped for: rainforest at its best - animals and plants 
what do you think? was this a good choice?

 The decision-making process: at that moment we were really grateful for the connection to the online world and for the existence of the TA. We crossed Monteverde off the list and were considering Selvatura and Santa Elena. I wanted to go to Selvatura because of the hanging bridges. Telchac wanted to go to Santa Elena because of no hanging bridges as it meant untouched rainforest and fewer people. Sound judgement won and Santa Elena it was.  


When we arrived there were 2 tourist minibuses (for comparison we met approximately 4 - 5 regular buses that were heading to Selvatura). We met some people (the majority of them chose the shortest path) but as we decided to do the Caño Negro hike there really were no people.

The Caño Negro hike is approx. 4,8 km long which took us about 3h. You can see the Arenal Volcano if (you're lucky and) the weather is good. No animals seen and I don't blame them - I'd also be tucked at home with this weather if I were them.
drizzle, oh mighty drizzle

 Overall this was the perfect choice as after that, we were heading to Guanacaste. In Guanacaste, there's dry forest but in Santa Elena, you can experience the real rainforest. Despite the weather (well, it's called rainforest) we enjoyed it a lot! 
Useful tip: dress sensibly, the weather may change at any moment so be ready and wear layers!


Did my best to keep it short and include as many pictures as possible. :) Thanks for reading, next week - Guanacaste - CU there!