Costa Rica Travel – Chirripó is a very popular tourist destination for active travelers. Unfortunately, it takes advanced planning and great physical skill to make the hike to the highest peak, which is 12,533 feet high.
For those who haven’t made reservations months in advance, or for those who don’t have the time, money, or ability to make the trek, there is now another way to see the Talamanca Mountain Range.
The Cloudbridge reserve is 700 acres of reclaimed farmland that has been redeveloped into jungle and now is home to pumas and jaguars! It offers the same elevation and views as Chirripó does, without the need to climb. In this cloud forest you will see mossy figs and wild orchids. Occasionally, quetzals are spotted.
The project of making the Cloudbridge Reserve started in 2002, when cattle farms were turned into an ecological research base. Visiting volunteers and researchers planted at least 4,000 trees per year since then.
The clear pastures were effectively turned into a mountainous jungle with a few beautiful waterfalls. Hidden cameras throughout the reserve have spotted jaguars and other rare cats.
One of the best parts is that it’s free to get in. Guides are available for a voluntary donation. They are knowledgeable about the wildlife in the reserve. If you’d like, you can rent a cabin on the property for a few days. It’s about four hours from San Jose and four-wheel drive is necessary.
For more info, contact Cloudbridge
