Where to Stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica: 6 Standout Stays
Not sure where to stay in Monteverde? Check out our top picks for hotels we think are worth the drive!
Monteverde is known for its world-famous cloud forests, rich biodiversity, and eco-conscious charm but it offers more than just adventure. It’s also home to some great eco-lodges and boutique hotels.
With all the available hotel options, it’s difficult to know where to stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica especially if you’re a first-time visitor. We’re going to tell you which are our favorites and why you should consider them for your stay!
Why can you trust our opinion?
We’re big believers that where you stay can truly shape your travel experience, which is why we love boutique hotels. Even in a place like Monteverde, where nature takes center stage, we find that a thoughtfully chosen stay adds a special layer to the adventure.
To be honest, we weren’t “wowed” by many of the accommodation options in the Monteverde area but there are a select few that we would gladly visit again.
We’re going to give you an inside look on the different areas of Monteverde along with our top picks and why they made the list.
Long Story Short
Best Luxury Hotel: Koora Hotel
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Cloud Forest Lodge
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Understanding the Monteverde Area
Monteverde isn’t just a single town, it’s a region made up of several small communities and natural reserves, each offering a different experience of Costa Rica’s cloud forest. The three main areas to know are Santa Elena, Cerro Plano, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
The Monteverde area is relatively small. The distance between Santa Elena and the Monteverde Cloud Forest is roughly 4 miles and Cerro Plano sits in-between the two.
Santa Elena
Santa Elena is a bustling little town where you’ll find most of Monteverde’s shops, restaurants, and tour operators.
The town has a distinctly local feel, with a mix of backpackers, residents, and visiting nature enthusiasts. It’s a great place for people-watching or booking a last-minute adventure tour.
While there are some shops and restaurants in the downtown area, there really isn’t much else to see or do. If you want to explore, you’ll probably only need an hour or two at the most.
We didn’t find it to be a particularly interesting town but there are some decent restaurants that might be worth your time.
Cerro Plano
Cerro Plano sits between Santa Elena and the cloud forest and offers a blend of convenience and calm. Surrounded by greenery and tucked along quiet roads, it feels peaceful without being isolated.
You’ll find a few small attractions here, such as butterfly gardens and art galleries, and it offers easy access to both town and nature. With its central location and serene atmosphere, Cerro Plano gives visitors the best of both worlds.
This is where you’ll find most of the upscale accommodations such as the ones on our list so they tend to offer a more peaceful experience.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Area
This area refers to the lush, elevated zone near the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It’s all about the natural environment including trails, wildlife, and dense forest canopy.
It tends to be quieter and more remote which is ideal for those who are visiting primarily for hiking, birdwatching, or immersing themselves in nature. Most visitors come for day trips rather than spending extended time in this area.
What to Expect from Hotels in Monteverde
Monteverde is known for its natural beauty, not its flashy resort life, which is part of its charm. Accommodations here tend to reflect the area’s eco-conscious, nature-first philosophy. That means your stay will likely feel more like a cozy mountain retreat than a full-service luxury resort.
Many hotels in Monteverde don’t have air conditioning or televisions in the rooms. It’s possible you may not miss them, however, if these amenities are important to you, be sure to check if these are offered at the hotels you’re considering for your stay.
Many properties here lean toward minimalism and sustainability so you’ll see a lot of wooden interiors and locally sourced breakfasts.
Keep in mind that even the most luxurious hotels in Monteverde don’t fit the mold of traditional high-end resorts. Instead of butlers and infinity pools, luxury here means waking up to the sound of howler monkeys, sipping coffee with views of the cloud forest, and being surrounded by nature at every turn.
It’s a more understated, experience-driven kind of luxury, less about opulence, more about atmosphere.
The 6 Best Places to Stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica
Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a dream destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. Perched in the mountains and surrounded by one of the world’s most biodiverse cloud forests, this region offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity.
While Monteverde offers plenty of lodging options, there are some that truly stand out from the rest.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a wellness retreat, or a nature-filled escape, we’ve curated a list of what we feel are the best places to stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
1. Koora Hotel – $$$$
9.6/10 stars (381 reviews)
Formerly known as Aguti Lodge, Koora Hotel is, hands-down, our favorite hotel in the Monteverde area which is why it’s first on our list. With bungalow-style rooms, a gourmet restaurant and high-end amenities, you can’t go wrong with this hotel.
Koora Hotel is located in Cerro Plano so it’s in a quieter area but not too far from Santa Elena. When I say not too far, it’s literally a 5 or 10 minute drive.
We love how the hotel was built to allow maximum viewing of the surrounding area from almost every location. If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxed getaway, this is where you need to be.
The hotel itself sits adjacent to the Aguti Reserve so guests have access to approximately 2.5 miles of trails.
Rooms
The hotel has a total of 26 rooms including suites which are located in the main building. In addition, there are bungalow-style rooms which you’ll find hidden among the trees as you make your way along a winding path through the property.
We actually really like the bungalows because they offer a bit more privacy compared to the ones located in the main building. Truthfully, you can’t go wrong with either one. All rooms offer balconies so you can take in the spectacular views from any of them.
There are five different room categories including some with multiple bedrooms which is perfect for families. If you’re interested in a Gulf of Nicoya view from your room, you’ll want to book either a Junior Suite or Family Suite.
For those of you that want a truly luxurious experience, book their Forest Signature Suite which has a private plunge pool.
When booking your room, the hotel offers packages that include either breakfast, half-board or full-board.
The half-board and full-board options may not be necessary if you plan to explore the area since there are some great restaurant options nearby. If your trip is more of a wellness retreat, the half-board and full-board options probably make sense.
Television and Air Conditioning
Koora Hotel recently invested in adding both air conditioning and televisions in all their rooms and suites. If these are must-have amenities for you, Koora is probably your best option.
Dining
The hotel has one restaurant, Kiré, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Known for its seasonal dishes which use locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant delivers fresher, more flavorful meals while supporting the local community.
The vibe here is definitely tranquil. With its floor-to-ceiling windows which create an open-air experience, you’re able to take in the beautiful views while dining.
There are some tables outside in addition to the ones inside but we highly recommend trying to snag one of the outside tables for breakfast. The views are stunning.
The restaurant also offers a small bar area which is a great place to relax with a drink before or after dinner.
Facilities
If you’re looking to disconnect from the real world, the hotel offers a wellness program which includes services such as massages and yoga classes.
You also don’t need to travel far to explore nature trails. Guests staying at the hotel have access to the Aguti Wildlife Reserve which offers over 2.5 miles of trails.
Why We Love Koora Hotel
- Centrally located between Santa Elena and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Beautiful rooms with amazing views
- Peaceful location
- Access to Aguti Wildlife Reserve
- Air conditioning and televisions in the rooms
- Room service is available if you want to dine on your private balcony
Best For
- Families that would like something a little bigger than a standard hotel room
- Adventure enthusiasts who want to be close to everything
- Anyone looking for a wellness getaway
- Eco-conscious travelers who value sustainability without sacrificing comfort
- Couples looking for privacy and romantic views of the cloud forest
- Wildlife lovers since it’s located next to the Aguti Wildlife Reserve
- Travelers seeking a boutique hotel with a quiet, upscale setting
Pricing
Typically, pricing will run between $350 to $1,200 per night based on double occupancy. Rates vary according to the time of year you visit and the chosen room category.
All rates include breakfast but you also have the option to include half-board or full-board which will add to the price.
2. Senda Monteverde Hotel – $$$$
9.4/10 stars (57 reviews)
Senda Monteverde is another boutique hotel that you can’t go wrong with. Located only a stone’s throw from Koora Hotel, it includes everything you’d need for a peaceful getaway including access to the Aguti Wildlife Reserve.
Rooms
Senda Monteverde has a total of 24 rooms and suites. The property itself has a different layout compared to Koora Hotel.
Rooms are located along either side of a path that winds its way through the property in somewhat of a horseshoe shape. The path begins and ends at the main parking lot.
The rooms are like little bungalows, many of which have two side-by-side so if you’re traveling as a family, it’s an ideal set up if you’re able to get them together.
Some rooms sit a bit higher on a small hill and others are set closer to the path.
The setup doesn’t really allow for the same amazing views from the rooms as Koora Hotel.
That being said, the property and rooms are beautiful and well-equipped with luxury amenities such as plush bedding and pillows, rainfall shower heads, organic toiletries and cotton robes.
Television and Air Conditioning
You won’t find air conditioning or televisions in any of the rooms at Senda Monteverde so if you’re a diehard lover of either one, this might be a deal-breaker for you. They do have ceiling fans which help to circulate the air a bit.
Dining
Their restaurant and lounge, El Sapo, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Only the freshest local ingredients are used and they make many things in-house such as bread and dressings.
Just outside El Sapo, you’ll find a cozy seating area with fire pits, a great place to enjoy after dinner drinks.
If you’re here at sunset on a beautiful day, the views from the patio are worth a few minutes of your time.
Facilities
One of the things that impressed us about Senda Monteverde were the number of cozy nooks and common areas throughout the property where you could sit with a cup of coffee and read or have a quiet conversation. It definitely contributes to the tranquil atmosphere.
There are also some on-site activities such as private nature trails and a yoga studio, perfect for quiet reflection.
Forgot your rain boots? Not to worry, they offer complimentary pairs for anyone that wants to explore no matter the weather.
Why We Love Senda Monteverde
- Centrally located between Santa Elena and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Peaceful location
- Access to Aguti Wildlife Reserve
- Complimentary use of rain boots and walking sticks
- Evening bonfires with hot chocolate is a nice touch
Best For
- Families
- Luxury-minded travelers who appreciate stylish, modern design with a local touch
- Foodies will enjoy the great on-site restaurant with locally sourced ingredients
- Honeymooners and couples looking for intimate and well-appointed spaces
- Nature lovers will enjoy easy access to private trails and nearby reserves
- Anyone that can live without air conditioning and television
Pricing
Rates at Senda Monteverde typically run between $450 and $1,200 per night depending on the season and room category. This includes a full a-la-carte breakfast every morning.
3. Hotel Belmar – $$$$
9.1/10 stars (241 reviews)
Hotel Belmar is yet another property located in Cerro Plano. This hotel is a little further away from the downtown area of Santa Elena compared to Koora and Senda Monteverde but it’s still relatively close. It’s probably a 10-minute drive instead of 5 minutes.
This property is located in a quiet residential area. It’s an older hotel compared to Koora and Senda Monteverde but you’d never know it since the property and rooms have been thoughtfully updated over the years.
The hotel blends seamlessly into its surroundings with its use of warm-toned woods like cedar and teak. You’ll notice right away that Austrian chalets were the inspiration for the design of the hotel and it definitely has that vibe.
Rooms
Hotel Belmar offers a wide range of room options, all with beautiful hardwood floors and many with panoramic views of the cloud forest and valley.
One thing to note is that this hotel doesn’t have an elevator so if anyone in your party has mobility issues, it’s something to consider.
Cotton bathrobes, organic bath products and feather free pillows are just some of the luxury amenities they offer.
Television and Air Conditioning
Like Senda Monteverde, Hotel Belmar does not have air conditioning or televisions in the rooms.
Dining
Hotel Belmar is a decent sized hotel offering three dining options. Celajes Restaurante and Lounge is located in the main building with windows looking out towards the valley.
The hotel also has the Belmar Tap and Beer Garden, a more casual option for food and drinks. It’s set apart from the main building and overlooks a small pond. You can either eat on the deck outside or inside however, there are only a couple of tables inside versus several outside.
In addition to the beer garden and restaurant, you can grab quick bites and drinks from the juice bar and tea room. Here you’ll find sandwiches, tea, smoothies and more.
Facilities
Some of the on-site amenities include a hot tub which is great to use on the frequent cool nights. You can also enjoy the garden area and outdoor terrace.
To round out the amenities, you can also indulge in massage therapy and yoga classes which will help you to completely disconnect from the outside world.
Why We Love Hotel Belmar
- Centrally located between Santa Elena and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Peaceful location
- Multiple dining options available
- Rustic vibe
Best For
- Travelers who want character and charm with its alpine-meets-Costa Rica lodge style
- Eco-luxury travelers will enjoy the on-site organic garden
- Wellness seekers will love the yoga studio and juice bar
- Adventurous food & drink lovers will love the creative farm-to-table restaurant and craft brewery
- Families and couples will appreciate the different room types and lots of on-site experiences
Pricing
Rates will typically run between $350 and $1,400 per night depending on the season and room category. Rates include breakfast.
4. Cloud Forest Lodge – $$$
9.3/10 stars (248 reviews)
The Cloud Forest Lodge is located in a fantastic location. Only a short distance from downtown Santa Elena, the lodge is positioned high on a hill which affords it some of the best views of the cloud forest and beyond. This is not considered a luxury lodge but it’s a great mid-range option.
Rooms
All the Cloud Forest Lodge suites are located in multiple buildings, all with balconies. You have your choice of 3 types of suites ranging in size from 710 to 860 square feet. They’re amazingly spacious.
Each room offers amenities such as bathrobes, hairdryers and coffee makers.
Dining
The Endémica Restaurant is where you can grab a leisurely breakfast, lunch or dinner. The menus have a wide selection of options such as brioche french toast with jam for breakfast or shrimp and spinach tortellini with goat cheese for dinner.
Whether you’re seated by the window or outside on the terrace, you’ll enjoy sweeping valley views and maybe even a few hummingbirds with your morning coffee.
The restaurant also has bonus features such as a rooftop viewing area where you can sip drinks while taking in the fabulous view and a cozy fireplace in the lounge area where you can enjoy drinks before or after dinner. This was our favorite spot when we visited.
Facilities
In addition to the restaurant, you’ll find the Original Canopy Tour on-site which is convenient for anyone looking for a little adventure. If it’s not your thing, grab a seat at the rooftop seating area and watch others as they whiz by!
Why We Love Cloud Forest Lodge
- Centrally located
- Rooftop deck
- Private balconies
- Rustic vibe
- On-site canopy tour
Best For
- Travelers on a mid-range budget looking for access to nature without big crowds
- Birdwatchers and hikers will love the that it’s located right in the forest with private trails
- Families or small groups who want space and a peaceful setting
- Low-key travelers who prioritize nature over luxury amenities
Pricing
Rates here will typically fall between $250 and $500 per night depending on the season and room category. Pricing includes a full breakfast.
6. Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
8.8/10 stars (257 reviews)
The Monteverde Lodge & Gardens eco-lodge is located within a private cloud forest reserve and offers breathtaking views throughout the property. It’s located within walking distance of Santa Elena and only 15 minutes away from the entrance to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
Monteverde Lodge is also not considered to be a luxury lodge but its location, grounds and amenities make it a great option for families or mid-range budget travelers.
Rooms
The 31 updated rooms and suites feature in-room amenities such as coffee makers, bathrobes and hair dryers.
The Mountain Gem Suites and Quetzel Suites also feature outdoor bathtubs so you can enjoy a long relaxing soak while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Televisions and Air Conditioning
The rooms at Monteverde Lodge & Gardens do not have televisions however this is one of the few hotels in the area that does offer air conditioning.
Dining
The hotel’s on-site restaurant is El Jardin Restaurant features a mix of American, European and Costa Rican cuisine including black risotto and beef tenderloin.
If you’d like, you can dine outside by the swimming pool or under their roof-covered terrace.
Facilities
One of the best features of this hotel is the heated outdoor swimming pool which is rare in this area.
Guests can also wander the beautiful gardens at the hotel as well as nature trails that are part of the private reserve that surrounds the hotel.
Why We Love Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
- Sprawling Gardens
- Rooms with private balconies or patios with a view of the forest
- Location close to the reserves
- Rooms with air conditioning
- Outdoor heated swimming pool
- Room service
Best For
- Relaxed Adventurers
- Birdwatchers and nature lovers will enjoy the great gardens and proximity to reserves
- First-time visitors will appreciate the easy to access, central but quiet location
Pricing
Rates will vary depending on the season and room category but they’ll typically range between $350 and $900 per night including breakfast.
Tips for Visiting Monteverde
There are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Monteverde including seasonal and weather considerations. Here are a few tips.
- Book in advance (especially Dec–April) – Many of the hotels in the Monteverde area are boutique hotels so they have a limited number of rooms. If you’re visiting during peak travel times, be sure to book as far in advance as possible. Popular room categories will sell out especially those that are designed to accommodate families.
- Weather considerations (dry season vs. green season) – Be sure to pack for varying weather conditions especially if you’re visiting multiple locations. Monteverde tends to be cooler and much more windy than beach areas. It’s also more likely to rain or mist here as opposed to other places.
- Transportation to/from hotel – If you’re not renting a car, consider booking a private transfer. These are available from San Jose to Monteverde or Liberia to Monteverde. You can do this online in advance or by contacting your hotel.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Monteverde is from March through the first part of May. This is technically the driest and least windy time of year.
The rainy season, or “green season” runs from mid-May through October. September and October are, historically, the wettest months.
In addition to the rain, Monteverde is known for its high winds. Generally, November through February is when the winds are at their highest.
That being said, we’ve visited Monteverde in March and it was rainy, cold and windy the entire time. Just know that regardless of what it’s supposed to be like at a particular time of year, Monteverde’s location and elevation make it susceptible to rain, wind and cooler temperatures at any time of year.
Getting To Monteverde
There are a few transportation options to get you to Monteverde. We recommend either a rental car, shared shuttle service or a private transfer. We’ve used all three of these options so here’s our thoughts about each one.
Rental Cars
We love renting cars in Costa Rica because it gives us the freedom to explore at our own pace. If you plan to go this route, there are a couple of things you should know.
- Roads Can Be Challenging – The journey to Monteverde begins on paved, frequently used roads, but eventually shifts to a winding dirt road through the mountains. This route can be difficult to navigate year-round but particularly during the rainy season. We highly recommend renting a 4×4 to ensure you have something that can handle the challenging conditions. You can read more about driving in Costa Rica here.
- Lack of Signs – Many roads in Costa Rica are not marked with road signs. This makes navigating the roads even more difficult.
- Parking Can Be Challenging – Parking at hotels isn’t usually a problem, however, it can be difficult to find parking in some of the small hilltop towns.
Shared Shuttle Service
If you’re not feeling up to the challenge of driving in Costa Rica, a shared shuttle is another great option to get you to Monteverde.
Shared shuttles are available between most main tourist destinations within Costa Rica as well as the San Jose airport and Liberia airport.
This option is more economical than a private transfer. The downside is that you’ll need to make multiple stops to pick up and drop off other passengers which adds to the transfer time.
If you’d like to book a shared shuttle from San Jose, click here. If you need a shared shuttle from Liberia, click here.
Private Transfers
If you’d prefer a more direct route, consider booking a private transfer instead. You’ll have direct door-to-door service.
In addition, you can build in stops along the way as long as you arrange this in advance. Often, you driver will provide information on the local area as well which gives you a more personalized experience.
Private transfers are also available between all main tourist destinations including San Jose airport and Liberia airport. You can book a private transfer from San Jose here. If you’re flying into Liberia, you can book a private transfer here.
Our Top Picks For Tours In Monteverde
Our Favorite Canopy Tour: The Original Canopy Tour
Our Favorite Coffee Tour: Don Juan Coffee Tour
Our Favorite Night Tour: Monteverde Night Tour
FAQs
Is it worth staying in Monteverde, Costa Rica?
It’s definitely worth staying in Monteverde if you enjoy hiking and adventure travel and don’t mind doing activities in rain, mist or wind.
Is it better to stay in Monteverde or La Fortuna?
Monteverde and La Fortuna are two completely different experiences. If you would like more of a warm rainforest and hot springs experience, La Fortuna is for you. If you prefer biodiversity and eco-tourism with a cooler climate, you’ll definitely enjoy Monteverde.
How many days should I spend in Monteverde, Costa Rica?
We recommend spending 2 to 3 nights in Monteverde. That’s plenty of time for you to enjoy some activities and restaurants in the area.
In A Nutshell: Where To Stay In Monteverde, Costa Rica
Monteverde is a unique destination offering plenty of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you enjoy hiking, zip lining or bird watching, there’s plenty to see and do as long as you don’t mind the challenging weather conditions that can pop up.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica, there are several amazing boutique hotels in the area offering a range of experiences from rustic to luxury.
Whether you’re just looking for a relaxing getaway or filling your days with one adventure after another, you’re bound to find one that fits your needs. Whichever one you choose, it’ll be a unique experience that you’ll always remember.
