Normally, we focus on Monteverde as a tourist destination but this amazing place is so much more. It’s a hub for education and research into many aspects of ecology, biodiversity, flora and fauna, microclimates, interconnectivity, and the effects of global warming.
Monteverde is also located in Costa Rica, a country that is at the forefront of the development of sustainable practices and green energy… so it should be no surprise that you will find news articles about a variety of topics on Global News networks.
In this post, we have put together some information about current events within Monteverde, and Costa Rica. In some cases, because we are so proud of what is going on, and in some cases because the health and happiness of our forests can have a global impact, and so they need to be shared.
Current Events in Monteverde
Let’s start in our own backyard, shall we? As an important hub for studies on biodiversity, entomology, zoology, botany, and ecological sciences (among other things) we are proud to report that there are always new and interesting programs available for those who want to learn more about nature.
Expanded Programs for International Students
University of Georgia Campus Programs
In 2019 the University of Georgia Campus located near the Monteverde Cloud Forest was sold to the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE). This non-profit organization started in 1947 has spent the last 75 years promoting intercultural exchange and helping build bridges to support a more global community.
What does this mean for Monteverde? It means the ability to offer more programs geared to educating the next generation in those all-important topics, in the hope that future generations will be able to restore and improve the country’s natural resources and reverse the effects of global warming, while at the same time, putting more boots on the ground and more minds on the problems.
In fact, a group of international students is currently taking part in the Summer Tropical Ecology and Conservation course where they will study the local ecosystems and do independent research projects which will help them understand the interconnectivity that helps our forests thrive. But that’s not the only course that CIEE offers. To learn more, click here!
The Audubon Camp
Another organization that offers young people the chance to explore and learn is the Hog Island Audubon Camp. They provide an amazing opportunity for teens aged 15-20 to explore biology and conservation efforts as well as to take part in reforestation programs. The program runs every two years and registration is underway now for the 2024 camp.
Increased Access for Travelers with Disabilities
For the last few years, Costa Rica has been working to make its tourist destinations more accessible, and that’s no mean feat when you consider the geography of the country itself. And as a recent article in the Costa Rica Star explains, there are more improvements planned.
They have implemented lots of changes to ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty and majesty of our home including:
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The first universal access trail in Carara National Park features cement trails with ramps for those with limited mobility, including wheelchairs, braille signs, and carved wooden sculptures for those with limited vision, and an audio guide for those who are hearing impaired.
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Retractable floating docks(made from recycled materials) amphibious wheelchairs, and specially designed accessible bathrooms and changerooms in Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste, and Jaco, Puntarenas.
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Accessible trails at both the Poas and Irazu Volcanos,
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An aerial tram in Jaco with views of both rainforest and the Pacific Coast.
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Treetopia Monteverde, which was formerly known as the Sky Adventure Park is home to one of only 5 cable cars in Costa Rica and the only one in Monteverde which offers disabled and low-mobility visitors a way to enjoy the spectacular sights of the cloud forest safely and easily.
Costa Ricans Doing Their Part
Of course, there is more going on in the rest of Costa Rica that’s worth mentioning, for instance.
Healing the World
Many people are unaware that one of Costa Rica’s main industries is developing and exporting medical equipment. It’s part of the reason why the country has thriving Medical and Dental Tourism Industries.
With well-educated professionals and the latest state-of-the-art technology available, many Costa Ricans are making great strides in medical advancements, and international companies such as Edwards Life Sciences are investing. This investment will support research and development of Cardiac Implantable Products, like high-tech heart valves that save lives around the world.
Saving Our Oceans
The Sea Sheppard Research Vehicle has arrived and will be gathering data about the presence of microplastics, pollution, and rising ocean temperatures. 7% of the world's marine biodiversity is in Costa Rica’s waters. Hence, it is vital to develop outreach programs that will connect with and educate local communities and school children about marine conservation. To do that, they will be organizing field trips where students can snorkel and see these creatures firsthand.
Connect Ocean is doing an amazing job of educating the community about the ocean, its creatures, and its importance to the well-being of the planet. This is important because the more we learn to respect and love the underwater world, the more likely we are to take an interest in ensuring that all of its creatures are protected and allowed to flourish. To do this, they employ hands-on teaching methods in the subjects of diving, marine biology, reef building, citizen science, ecosystem management and conservation, and more!
Students can come for a variety of programs including after-school, half or full-day, or even internship programs, so there is something for everyone.
Calendar of Events
There are also lots of special dates in the fall (Sept.-Dec.) That might be of interest to you, and here are just a few.
October 1: Day of the Healthy Oceans and Fisheries
October 4: National Bird Day
October 4: World Animal Day
October 5: Inter-American Water Day
October 7: World Habitat Day
October 12: World Tree Day
October 13: International Day for Disaster Reduction
October 21: World Energy Saving Day
October 31: World Cities Day
October 31: National Masquerade Day (Costa Rica)
November 1: World Ecology Day
November 6: International Day for the Prevention of the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
November 9: National Natural Parks Day
November 17: Latin American Environmentalist Day
November 21: International Clean Air Day
November 21: World Fisheries Day
December (the first fortnight) - bird count.
First Thursday of December "Monteverde brilla" - (it's similar to the national "festival de la luz", the Monteverde version).
December 5: World Volunteer and Environmental Citizen Day.
December 5th: National Coral Reef Day
December 5: World Soil Day
December 11: International Mountain Day
December 15: Creation of the United Nations Environment Program
December 24: The Anniversary of The Ocotea Boutique Hotel’s Opening
If one of these events happens to coincide with your vacation plans and you want to know more about them, just drop us a line at reservations@ocoteahotel.com or call the front desk at either of these numbers…
+506 4002-2599 (Costa Rica)
1-866-379-5133 (International)
Lots to See and Do
Whether you are coming to Costa Rica because you’re an environmentalist, nature-lover, or “adventure tourist,” there is always plenty to see and do in Monteverde.
Still, I hope you take a moment while you are here to unwind and soak up the “ahhhhhh”, because the soothing pura vida atmosphere that we enjoy isn’t something you find very often and it’s well worth the trip all on its own.
