Resplendent Quetzal Picture by Richard LaVal
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve is owned and administered
by the Tropical Science Center (TSC). The Center, established
in 1962, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization with headquarters
in San José, Costa Rica. The objective of the Center is to conduct
and support scientific research and education, particularly in relation
to the understanding and rational management of tropical environments.
Established in 1972, the Monteverde Preserve covers over 10,500
hectares, more than 90% of which is virgin forest. It contains an extremely
high biological diversity, including over 2,500 plant species (among them
420 different kinds of orchids), 100 species of mammals, 400 bird species,
120 reptilian and amphibian species, and thousands of insects.
General Entrance
Visitors can enter the Preserve on a natural history walk, or on their
own.
There are over 20 kilometers of trails, as well as three refuge areas
with basic living accommodations (water,gas stove, bunk beds).
Olingo Picture by Richard LaVal
Natural History Walk
The walk includes a nature tour hosted by expert guides, lasts about
three
hours. It also includes a slide show with pictures taken by renowned
photographers and long-time Monteverde residents M. and P. Fogden.
Bird Watchers Tour
Various options for bird watchers are offered. During the all
day tour. More than 80 species can be observed.
Night Tour
The night tour is conducted by a select group of local guides
trained in the nocturnal activity of the cloud forest. Reservations
for the night tour should be made a day in advance (506) 645-5112.
Golden-eyed leaf Frog Richard LaVal
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Long-tailed Manakin Richard LaVal
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For more information contact:
Centro Cientifico Tropical
Tel: (506) 645-5122
Fax: (506) 645-5034
mailto:montever@sol.racsa.co.cr,crhp@westnet.com
Tropical Dendrology and Birding courses
lasting two weeks, are offered every year.
Visit our Website: http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/9148
or
Contact: Dr. Humberto Jiménex Saa: hjimenez@sol.racsa.co.cr
Fax: +(506) 253-4963 Phone: +(506) 253-3267 / 253-3308
Funds obtained through the above activities are the principal source
of income
for the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve. Not only are funds
used for
management and protection, they are also used to support an environmental
education program that is being implemented in 15 local schools.
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