Armchair Traveler: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (Costa Rica)

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Costa Rica is famous for its national parks and protected areas, which cover more than a quarter of the country. The most difficult question facing travelers is which of its many protected areas to visit. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, in the country’s northwest, should be high on any list. The cloud forest — a wet forest where clouds often drop down to the tree canopy — is known for its abundance of wildlife. The most famous of these animals is a bird named the resplendent quetzal, which, like its name, is resplendently colored. Join a tour to search them out in avocado trees and learn their many unique calls. With 400 bird species, the cloud forest will delight bird lovers, but lovers of all animals will love it, too. You’ll see spider monkeys and sloths aplenty, as well as colorful frogs — hundreds of species in total. The reserve highlights its closeness to the clouds with several suspended bridges that trace their way through the forest canopy. With an experienced local tour guide, you can hike through the forest as high as 60 meters above the ground. If you crave a more exciting visit, there’s a lot to shout about. Dangle from ziplines surrounded by lush green forest leaves. Some tours offer a “Tarzan swing” experience that will get your heart racing. For something different, take a guided tour of the countryside around the reserve. Explore a private farm growing coffee, chocolate and sugar cane. Learn how the area supports important export crops and manages to exist peacefully with the wildlife of the reserve. (T) This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.