Costa Rica - Santa Elena Cloud Forest

Santa Elena cloud forest was arguably a better experience than that of Monteverde. It felt a much more organic and primordial experience than its much more commercial counterpart. The paths were rugged and became increasingly challenging particularly del Bajo, an hour and a half hike along dank narrow trails with plenty of obstacles underfoot to keep you focused.

The view from the Tower along the xxx trail were magnificent with the volcano at Arenal emanating from the forest canopy spreading across the breadth of the landscape.

Ocassionally the cloud would clear the cone of the volcano revealing wisps of smoke from the crater.

The last time Arenal erupted was in 2010 but has been relatively dormant since.

There were plenty of trails to negotiate.  The highest point was five and half thousand feet above sea level.