Monteverde is a magical world of mist-draped forests and incredible biodiversity. High in Costa Rica's Tilaran Mountains, where the Continental Divide runs through the trees, it's one of the world's leading examples of conservation and a must for nature lovers.

Walk the hanging bridges and trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Reserve, where moss and orchids cover every branch. Join a guided walk to spot sloths, monkeys, tree frogs and hummingbirds, and with luck, the dazzling resplendent quetzal. Take a guided night walk to see the forest come alive after dark, soar over the treetops on some of Costa Rica's best zip lines, and visit a local farm to learn how coffee and chocolate are made.

Fly into San Jose or Liberia, then drive about three to four hours on winding mountain roads; the last stretch is part of the adventure. Bring layers, as the cloud forest is cool and often misty. I'll arrange transfers, a lodge in the forest and expert naturalist guides, and pair Monteverde with Arenal and the beaches.