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About Curi-cancha Reserve

In 1970 the Lowther family purchased the property of Hubert and Mildred Mendenhall and named it Curi-Cancha, the name derived from “Golden Enclosure” in Inca. At that time the property was approximately 1/2 pasture and 1/2 virgin rain forest. In the ensuing 45 years the Lowthers cleared no areas and allowed the majority of the pastured areas to re-grow into forest.

In 1997, through the efforts of Julia Lowther, the property was legally designated a Refugio de Vida Silvestre under MINAE and in 2011 Curi-Cancha Reserve opened to tourists in its current form.

Curi-Cancha Reserve is located in the Arenal-Tempisque conservation area in the heart of Monteverde. It protects 83 hectares (205 acres) of 50% virgin forest, 45% secondary growth, and 5% open pasture. The altitude ranges from 1450 meters to 1615 meters with 40% Lower montane wet forest and 60% Premontane wet forest. Seven kilometers of natural trails allow visitors to explore the flora and fauna of the tropical cloud forest.

Curi-Cancha is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Resplendent Quetzal, Three-Wattled Bellbird, Blue-Crowned Motmot, Orange-bellied Trogon, and many others are frequently seen. Indeed, over 200 species of birds have been observed making their home in Curi-Cancha. Frequently sighted mammals include armadillo, coati, agouti, kinkajou, ocelot, two-toed sloth, and three species of monkey: mantled howler, white-faced capuchin, and spider monkey.

Visitors are welcome to browse the trails by themselves or take a guide to enhance the experience. Guided birding tours are also available with guides who have particular expertise in finding and identifying local birds.

Curi-Cancha Reserve is devoted to sustainable practices designed to keep the reserve a healthy habitat for the animals. Our main goal is to protect the flora and fauna and at the same time provide a first rate and environmentally responsible service to our guests.

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