Selvatura Park is the largest of the adventure parks near Monteverde and its hanging bridges are the signature walk. Eight interconnected bridges, from tens of metres to well over a hundred metres long, are strung between towers and tree platforms along a trail of about three kilometres. The walk takes you from forest-floor level up into the canopy, where epiphytes, bromeliads and mosses crowd every branch, and where birds are often at eye level. The trail has steps and slopes, so it takes between an hour and a half and two hours at a gentle pace, with plenty of stops for photographs. The park is a mix of nature and adventure: besides the bridges, it has a canopy zip-line course, a sloth habitat, a hummingbird garden, an insect exhibition and a herpetarium, and many visitors build a full day around it.
Choosing your ticket
The walk is sold as a standalone bridges ticket, as a guided walk with a naturalist, and in combinations with the zip-lines or the exhibits. A guided walk is worth the extra if you want help spotting birds, but several visitors report that the basic ticket is self-guided, so check the booking page for what your option includes.
The park runs several start times a day, and hotel pickup is offered on some tickets. The zip-line course runs in the morning, so if you want both, start early with the canopy and walk the bridges afterwards. The canopy tours are not accessible to wheelchairs, and the bridge trail is steep in places.
What to expect on the day
Cloud forest weather changes quickly, so bring a light waterproof jacket and wear closed shoes with grip; the park recommends long trousers and hiking boots for the zip-lines. Mornings are best for birds and for clearer views, and the bridges can be busier when tour buses arrive around midday.
The bridges sway a little, which is part of the fun, but people with a strong fear of heights may prefer the shorter, lower sections. Combine the walk with a visit to the sloth habitat and the hummingbird garden in the same park, and leave time for lunch at the on-site restaurant.
What to expect
The experience
A self-paced walk across eight suspended bridges on a forest trail of about three kilometres, with a guided option for wildlife spotting.
Best time
The first start time of the day for clearer air, quieter bridges and active birds; zip-line riders should do the canopy first.
How long
About two hours for the bridges, plus extra time if you add the sloth habitat, hummingbird garden and exhibits.
Tips
Wear closed shoes with grip, bring a rain jacket, and check whether your ticket includes a guide before you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want a canopy walk with minimal effort.
- Families
- Great for families with children who can manage steps; the sloth habitat and hummingbird garden keep younger ones interested.
- Couples
- Go early for mist, birdsong and bridges almost to yourselves.
- Pair with
- The Selvatura sloth habitat and hummingbird garden, then a night walk or coffee tour later in the day.
- Time needed
- Half a day for the bridges and exhibits; a full day with the zip-lines.
Good questions
How many bridges are there at Selvatura?+
The trail links eight suspended bridges over about three kilometres. They range from fifty to well over a hundred metres in length.
Is the walk guided?+
It depends on the ticket. Some options include a naturalist guide and others are self-guided, so check the booking page before you buy.
How long does the walk take?+
Plan on around two hours at an easy pace, with time for photographs. Allow longer if you add the park's exhibits.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, if they can climb steps and follow safety rules; many families do the walk. Keep a close eye on small children on the bridges.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes with grip, long trousers if you are also ziplining, and a waterproof jacket. It can be cool and wet even when the weather looks clear.
