Spend a day hiking the trails of a 205-acre (83 hectares) nature preserve. The Curi-Cancha Wildlife Refuge is 50 percent old-growth forests, 45 percent secondary growth, and 5 percent open pasture, making it an oasis for hundreds of species of birds. Look for other animals like armadillos, coatis, agouti, cuchi cuchi, ocelot, two-toed sloths, and three species of monkeys within the preserve as well. A professional guide will share history and information about the area.
Highlights
- Spend a day in a protected wildlife refuge
- Explore the area with a professional guide
- Opportunity to see wildlife in their natural environment
- Entrance fees and hotel pickup/drop-off included
What You Can Expect
In 1970 the Lowther family bought the property of Hubert and Mildred Mendenhall and called it Curi-Cancha, the name derives from “gold enclosure” in Inca. At that time the property was about half pastures and half jungle or virgin tropical forest. In the next 45 years, the Lowthers did not clear any areas and THIS allowed most of the pasture areas to be restored to the forest. In 1997, thanks to the effort of Julia Lowther, the property was legally designated as Wildlife Refuge under the MINAE and in 2011.
Curi-Cancha Reservation opened the tourists in their current form. Curi-Cancha Reserva is located in the Arenal-Tempisque Conservation Area in the heart of Monteverde. Protects 83 hectares (205 acres) of 50% virgin forest, 45% secondary growth, and 5% open pasture. The altitude ranges from 1,450 meters to 1,615 meters, with 40% less montane forest and 60% pre-montane humid forest. Seven kilometers of nature trails allow visitors to explore the flora and fauna of the cloud forest.
Curi-Cancha is a paradise for birdwatchers.
The Quetzal, Three-Wattled Bellbird, Momotus Momota, Orange Belly Trogon, and many others are seen frequently. In fact, more than 200 species of birds have been observed to make their home in Curi-Cancha. Frequently sighted mammals include armadillos, coatis, agouti, cuchi cuchi, ocelot, two-toed sloth, and three species of monkeys: howler, white-faced capuchin, and spider monkey.
Inclusions
- Entrance fees
- Local taxes
- Bottled water
- Local guide
- Professional guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Exclusions
- Lunch
Additional info
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- A minimum of 2?people per booking is required
- Not recommended for participants with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant women
- A moderate amount of walking is involved
Ticket info
You can present either a paper or mobile ticket for this activity.
Local operator information
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Ticket. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
Schedule and Pricing
Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible – we 100% guarantee it. Your currency is set to USD.
Departure point
We pick up at the Monteverde and Santa Elena hotels.
Departure time
Schedule of hike in the reserve
8:00 a.m.
13:00 p.m.
Duration
3 hours (approx.)