I debated on which cloud forest(s) to visit in Monteverde, and I am SO glad we chose Santa Elena! I'd heard that it was maybe a bit more challenging than the others, but it really wasn't bad at all. Definitely some inclines and your legs get a workout, but so very worth it. It had the most unique look of the cloud forests we visited. Also, the crowds were very low in comparison. I really felt like I was alone in the jungle! Just amazing. The trees are so beautiful and it is just LUSH green everywhere. Definitely visit Santa Elena! We were so happy we went here.

Our family did a guided tour with tour from the reserve first thing in the morning. It was very informative and so beautiful. Monteverde reserve was fully booked, but Santa Elena was wonderful because it wasn't crowded at all, and I'm sure the nature information and plant life is the same. Paths are easy to walk, and after the tour ended, we continued to wander by ourselves. Beautiful lookout, too, if you get clear weather!

Elena turned out to be a much less crowded version of nearby Monteverde. Lovely, varied, undisturbed. Our guide, Ariel, was probably the best guide we met in all of Costa Rica. An absolutely wonderful experience (note: The road there is rough!)

Did a self guided tour, as I had joined a guided tour in Monteverde cloud forest the previous day. I took the 6:30 am shuttle and was amongst the first visitors to start hiking the trails for the day. First stop was the observation tower however Arenal Volcano was visible only at the tip. It was still an all-round good view. I walked all the trails one by one at slow pace. The last one was the longest one the Red trail and I could finish it in 2 hours at leisurely pace. I think it doesn't require 3.5 hours as indicated. I was almost skipping it assuming it would be cutting it too fine for the 4 pm close. All the trails are amazing and doable by anyone with reasonable fitness and with good shoes. I was wondering whether it would be worthwhile going to Santa Elena having visited Monteverde the previous day, and it was absolutely worth it, and enhanced the cloud forest experience and feel good.

We had a great guided tour with Walter who was very knowledgeable of all the various plants, insects, birds and wildlife in the area. He brought a telescope with us on the tour and has an eagle eye for spotting wildlife. He showed us tarantulas and bird’s nests and even camouflaged stick bugs. If you love birds, this is the place for you - especially if you want to see a quetzal! Also, great to know that all the money goes to support the local high school.

The Sounds of the Forest Tour was exceptional, much better than the other night time tour I did in Monteverde. Starting in late afternoon and continuing until early evening, you get to see the cloud forest both during daylight and at night, with a stop at their observation platform for 360-degree panoramic views. On top of all of that, our guide was friendly and informative. Truly, a great experience!

This is the newest preserve in the Monteverde area and is less crowded than the other two. It has several interesting hiking trails. They are all well marked and easy to follow. The forest is beautiful. At some points you can see the Arenal volcano in the distance. The cafe at the park is ok but not great. The road from Santa Elena to the park is very rough.