Monteverde , Costa Rica

Monteverde Butterfly Gardens Tour

Active

(83 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our tours are a little over an hour in length, and include the following:
An introduction to Costa Rica bugs, and an orientation to the Gardens
An up-close experience with a variety of insects and arachnids
A look at our rearing chamber, where caterpillars are becoming butterflies
A stroll through our 3 unique gardens, full of spectacular butterflies.
The most valuable part of every admission to the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is a tour with one of our dedicated and passionate guides.
Available in English or Spanish our tours will take you through each section of the insectarium and gardens. With our guide at your side, you will see and learn far more than you ever would by yourself. Our guides love bugs!
Our guide will provide lots of interesting information as the tour progresses. Once the tour is over, you are welcome to continue exploring on your own for as long as you'd like. Pay your entry once and keep coming back as long as you are in Monteverde!

Available options

Monteverde Butterfly Gardens Tour

What's included

Professional guide

Photo opportunities

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Here at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, we have been teaching people about Costa Rica's insects and arachnids for over 30 years. We have made it our mission to change the way people think about these small, misunderstood creatures. This may seem like a daunting task, but our bugs and tour guides can win over even the most skeptical visitor! With up to 30 species of butterfly in 4 different habitats, over 20 species of live insects and arachnids in our nature center, an active leaf-cutter ant colony and the best guides in the business, we truly have something for everyone!

What's not included

Transportation to/from attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

78 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Cerro Plano, 20 minute walk or short cab ride from downtown Santa Elena

About Monteverde

Monteverde is renowned for its lush cloud forests, biodiversity, and eco-tourism. It offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and sustainable living, making it a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers.

Top Attractions

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity and stunning cloud forests.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Selvatura Park

An adventure park with zip-lining, butterfly gardens, and reptile exhibits.

Nature/Adventure Half day Moderate

Coffee Tour

Learn about the coffee-making process and taste locally grown coffee.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs and tortillas.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Casado

A typical Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, beans, meat or fish, salad, and plantains.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Coffee

Locally grown and renowned for its high quality.

Drink Vegetarian, Vegan

Popular Activities

Ziplining Hiking Canyoning Hot springs Beach relaxation Yoga Coffee tours Local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April (dry season)

This is the dry season with less rain and clearer skies, making it ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Monteverde is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of overcharging

Getting there

By air

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 140 km (87 miles) from Monteverde

By bus

San José, Puntarenas

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but infrequent. Schedules can be unpredictable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber is not available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Elena Central Monteverde

Day trips

Arenal Volcano

135 km (84 miles) • Full day

A stunning volcano with hot springs, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park

160 km (100 miles) • Full day

A beautiful national park with beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Monteverde Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the cloud forest early in the morning for better visibility and fewer crowds.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring a rain jacket and sturdy shoes for hiking in the cloud forest.
Try local coffee and tropical fruits for a true taste of Costa Rica.
Respect the environment and follow eco-friendly practices.