Selvatura Park is best known for its hanging bridges and wildlife exhibits, but its zip-line canopy tour is a major attraction in its own right. The course strings a series of cables of varying length through and above the cloud forest canopy, starting with shorter, gentler lines to build confidence and moving on to longer runs with wide views over the treetops. Guides travel with the group, fit the harnesses and helmets, explain the braking technique and clip you on and off at every platform, so even people who have never zip-lined before are looked after. The park is organised for large numbers of visitors, with a clear check-in, equipment fitting and transport to the start, and the tour has a strong reputation, with a rating of 4.7 from more than five hundred travellers. The setting is part of the appeal: the forest around the platforms is damp and mossy, orchids and bromeliads cling to the branches, and the mist can drift through the trees while you wait your turn, which is a very different experience from zip-lining over open farmland.
Who it suits
The canopy tour is a good all-round choice for first-timers, couples, friends and families with older children, because the early lines are short and the guides are used to nervous beginners. It is less extreme than the big-line tours elsewhere in Monteverde, but it is more scenic and better organised than many smaller operators. If you want the thrill of a very long, fast flight, consider the extreme zip-line tour on another day, and if you want a quieter, more intimate course, the Original Canopy Tour is a smaller alternative in the forest.
Choosing a ticket
The course is sold on its own and in combination with the hanging bridges, the exhibits and the gondola-style transport at other parks, so compare the packages before you choose. A combination of the canopy tour and the bridges makes a full day at Selvatura and is the most efficient way to see the forest from both above and below. Check the age and weight limits, the minimum height for children and whether transport from your hotel is included.
Practicalities
Wear closed shoes with good grip, long trousers or leggings that you do not mind getting dirty, and a light waterproof layer, because the weather changes quickly at altitude. Keep your hands off the cable, follow the guide's braking instructions and secure phones and cameras with a strap or leave them in a locker.
Arrive a little early for check-in, since the equipment fitting takes time, and book ahead in the drier months when the park is busiest. Afterwards, the park cafe and the other exhibits make it easy to turn the tour into a relaxed half day.
If the weather turns, the park has covered areas where you can wait out a shower, and the guides will tell you whether the lines are running. Many visitors say the best moments are the quiet pauses on the platforms, when the mist moves through the branches and the forest sounds fill the air, so take a moment to look around between lines rather than rushing to the next cable.
What to expect
The experience
A guided zip-line course through the forest canopy at Selvatura Park, with harness fitting, a safety briefing and guides at every platform.
Best time
Morning, before the afternoon cloud and rain, and earlier in the day for the best light.
How long
Roughly two to three hours, including fitting and transport.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and long trousers, bring a light waterproof layer and secure phones and cameras.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time zip-liners who want a well-organised course in a beautiful forest setting.
- Families
- Good for older children who meet the minimum age and height, with short, gentle early lines.
- Couples
- A fun shared activity with plenty of photo opportunities.
- Pair with
- The Selvatura hanging bridges, the sloth habitat or the hummingbird garden.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a full day with the bridges and exhibits.
Good questions
Is the canopy tour suitable for beginners?+
Yes, the first lines are shorter and gentler, and guides explain the braking technique and clip you on at every platform.
Can I combine it with the hanging bridges?+
Yes, combination tickets are sold that pair the canopy tour with the hanging bridges and other exhibits at the park. Compare the packages before you buy.
Are there age and weight limits?+
Yes, there are minimum ages, heights and weight ranges, so check the limits for your ticket before you book.
What should I bring?+
Bring closed shoes, long trousers, a light waterproof layer and a strap for a phone or camera. Keep valuables in a locker if one is offered.
How is it different from the Original Canopy Tour?+
Selvatura is a larger park with a wider range of activities and a higher volume of visitors. The Original Canopy Tour is a smaller, slower forest experience.
