As Costa Rica's coastline turns to lush slopes and reaches higher and higher towards the sky, you'll enter the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Described by National Geographic as the 'jewel in the crown of cloud forests', the trees are home to a menagerie of rare and elusive creatures... And in the middle of it all is Senda. Built as an unpretentious mountain home, the lodge takes every chance to showcase its spectacular vistas, whether it's from your private terrace or on a walkabout through the grounds as howler monkeys call overhead and butterflies pass in a flurry of colour. And how about going zip-lining in the very forest it was invented?
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Overlooking the misty forest or the Gulf of Nicoya, Senda's rooms and suites are spread across a collection of bungalows. Pretty textiles are draped across the large, cloud-like beds and each room opens onto a private terrace for the best views - although the panoramic windows ensure the views are never far away... In the bathrooms, you'll find solar-heated rainfall showers and organic toiletries and thoughtful touches throughout include walking sticks, flashlights and gumboots, and hot water bottles. Size-wise, the Senda Suites are the largest with two en-suite bedrooms and spacious living area.
The food really is that good and it's unlikely you'll want to eat anywhere else. Why not pick up some skills with a cooking class? And look out for Senda's themed evenings too.
Senda is fantastic for families with a Mini Explorers menu for kids, on-site hikes, and swings in the garden. Visit the state-of-the-art interpretation centre for fascinating interactive talks.
The road to the hotel is very windy and steep, but this tends to be the case across Costa Rica. Just be prepared!
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Senda Monteverde can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Costa Rica trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Costa Rica trips featuring Senda Monteverde or get advice and suggestions from one of our Costa Rica specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Senda Monteverde start from around $260, or US$260, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Do go chasing waterfalls in Costa Rica’s well-protected cloud forests, resplendent in unique flora and fauna.
