Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Good Afternoon Adventurers,

Today our next featured destination is within the forests of Costa Rica.  Within the tropical forests of Costa Rica rests the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.  The location itself is to educate people about the ecological benefits of tropical forests.  The question is, what makes a cloud forest?  A cloud forest is one that has near 100% humidity year round and because of the air and wind patterns, it creates an everlasting "cloud" that covers the area.

The reserve boasts about 8mi (12km) of trails that have many hanging trails with portions that include overlooks to view a larger portion of the reserve (when visibility is high).  When stopping in at the visitor center, hikers can pick up ponchos and rain boots to stay dry (you are in a cloud).  The reserve suggests visiting in the morning when the wildlife is most active, in either case, it is quite the experience.

The price of the trip is $14, and $7 for students, a fair price for the preservation of the forest and the experiences that visitors will have (tour prices are extra).

"It is the journey, not the destination, that makes the adventure"