CITY OVERVIEW
Monteverde population: 6,000
Location: Central Highlands
 SA
Monteverde is located in the Monteverde zone, which consists of
ten small towns with a total population of no more than 6,000.
The school is situated on the continental divide in the Tilaran
Cordillera, at an elevation of 5,600 feet. This region is renowned
for its commitment to the sustainable development of the community
and the conservation of the cloud forest reserves. The reserves
in the area are world renowned.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest
Preserve can be an incredible visual, aural and tactile experience.
Close your eyes in the midst of green and hear the rushing of
waterfalls, the howling of monkeys and the whistles of 400 species
of brightly colored birds. The trees are covered in a lush moss,
and 420 different kinds of orchids peak out of the ferns, vines
and canopy.
If you're lucky, you'll spot
a Quetzal, the beautiful long-tailed bird the Aztecsused as an
image for Quetzacoatl, their feathered serpent god. Jaguars, sloths
and incredible butterflies also make their homes here. (Don't
worry about running across a jaguar. You're most likely to see
the tens of thousands of interesting insects going about their
business, or your guide can point out a tarantula burrow if you'd
like.)
Monteverde has captured the
attention of scientists, educators and nature lovers who come
to see its natural treasures. And the conservation effort all
began with a group of Quakers from Alabama, who came to this area
on the Continental Divide in 1951. Seeking peace and tranquility,
they purchased land and then established dairy farms below the
cloud forest.
The cloud forest preserve
was initiated in 1972 by George and Harriet March, and it now
covers 10,500 hectares. Monteverde is known as one of the most
outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the world, with well-marked
trails for hikes. Bring your rain jacket and prepare to enter
a new and exciting world!
Without a doubt,
Monteverde is an wonderful location to learn Spanish and experience
the finest Costa Rica has to offer!
Much
of the information on our site as it relates to Costa Rica is:
 Courtesy
of Christopher P. Baker and Avalon Travel Publishing.
© 2004 Christopher P. Baker. All Rights Reserved.
Spanish Abroad, Inc. highly
recommends Christopher P. Baker's book: Moon
Handbooks Costa Rica. Click on the image to visit
his website where you can purchase this book or find out more
about the author.
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