A Local Monteverde Guide's Perspective

The Guides from Ocotea Tours & Transfers are some of the best in the industry. We were lucky enough to sit down with one of these guides, Berni Picado, to talk to him about his years of experience guiding guests through the wonders of Monteverde’s forests.

With over 15 years of experience as a certified naturalist guide, Berni has been part of the Ocotea team since its founding, serving both as a skilled guide and trusted driver. His passion for the natural world is evident in every tour, but his true specialty lies in birdwatching—a lifelong fascination he shares with enthusiasm and expertise.

Monteverde is renowned for its stunning biodiversity, but what truly brings this magical place to life is the expertise and passion of the local guides like Berni. These individuals dedicate their lives to sharing Monteverde’s treasures with visitors from around the world, offering a unique perspective shaped by years of experience and deep-rooted love for the region.

In this article, let’s explore a day in the life of one of Ocotea Tours and Transfers' exceptional guides. Berni takes us through what it takes to be a professional guide in Costa Rica and the wonders of a day in their life.

The Intensive Training of a Costa Rican Guide

Berni was born and raised in Monteverde, where his early education at the Monteverde Friends School helped shape his deep connection to the cloud forest. He later completed his secondary studies in the United States through a foreign exchange program, ultimately earning a Bachelor's Degree in Forest Ecology.

Becoming a professional guide in Costa Rica is no small feat. It requires dedication, extensive knowledge of plant and animal species, and a strong commitment to conservation. Guides must complete rigorous training programs that cover a wide array of topics, from biology and ecology to the history and culture of Costa Rica. Many guides specialize in specific areas, such as birding, amphibians, or plants, allowing them to provide in-depth insights during tours.

The certification process involves both theoretical and practical components. Prospective guides must demonstrate proficiency in identifying species, explaining ecological relationships, and even managing group dynamics.

Language skills are also crucial, as many visitors come from countries where Spanish is not the primary language. Guides like Berni often speak fluent English and may even learn additional languages to better connect with international tourists.

This training results in a cadre of highly knowledgeable and passionate individuals who are as skilled at storytelling as they are at spotting a quetzal high in the canopy.

A Day in the Life of a Monteverde Guide

No two days are ever the same for a guide in Monteverde. A typical day usually begins early, with Berni leading a sunrise birdwatching tour to catch species like toucans or motmots in their most active hours. He leads a mid-morning hike through the cloud forest, pointing out flora and fauna- such as capuchin monkey and coatimundis along the way. Afternoons for the guides may be reserved for private tours, catering to guests with specific interests, such as photography or botanical studies. After an afternoon break, Berni will be back to meet new visitors for an evening tour.

As the sun sets, Berni switches gears and prepares for a nocturnal tour which brings a completely different set of challenges and rewards. Armed with flashlights and a wealth of knowledge, Berni introduces visitors to the cloud forest’s night shift—frogs, bats, and the occasional kinkajou. Guides must be prepared for anything, from unexpected weather changes to thrilling wildlife encounters.

Guiding Through the Seasons: Adapting to Monteverde’s Rhythms

Monteverde's dynamic seasons add a unique layer to a guide’s experience, offering something different to explore year-round. The dry season (December to April) sees clear skies and sunny days, making it an ideal time for wildlife observation. With the lack of rain, many animals are more active and visible, drawn to water sources that guides know like the back of their hand. It’s also a prime time to witness the migration of certain bird species, like the dazzling resplendent quetzals returning to breed in the cloud forests. For Berni, the dry season means lots of tours and long hot days of sunshine with lots to show his guests.

During the green season (May to November), Monteverde transforms into a lush wonderland. Rain showers breathe life into the forest, and seasonal flowers like orchids and bromeliads burst into bloom. Guides like Berni might lead visitors to waterfalls that swell with rainfall or point out epiphytes thriving in the humid atmosphere. The misty ambiance of the cloud forest intensifies, creating a magical experience for hikers and wildlife watchers alike.

Guides are skilled at tailoring tours to match these seasonal shifts and adapting to the varied weather conditions. For him, the green season means morning tours where the sun is shining overhead and afternoon tours under a waterproof poncho. Whether it’s pointing out migratory birds during the dry season or explaining how amphibians thrive in the damp green season, they ensure every guest leaves with an unforgettable connection to Monteverde’s natural rhythms.

Wildlife Encounters in Monteverde

Monteverde is a haven for biodiversity, and guides are the key to unlocking its secrets. On any given tour, visitors might encounter a wide array of species, from vibrant hummingbirds to stealthy ocelots. One of the most sought-after sightings is the resplendent quetzal, a bird so striking it’s considered a symbol of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Other highlights include troops of playful capuchin monkeys, colorful dart frogs, and the occasional glimpse of a three-toed sloth.

Guides also shine when it comes to the small details. They’ll point out the symbiotic relationships between plants and insects or explain the role of fungi in the forest’s nutrient cycles. These moments of insight transform a walk in the woods into an educational adventure.

“In nature, everything has a role to play in the bigger picture. The more we begin to understand the interconnected nature of our ecosystems, the more we realize the importance of conservation- and conservation of EVERY species. Sometimes the tiniest creature is the building block that supports an incredible variety of other creatures.”

It Takes a Special Person to Become a Guide

Guiding in Monteverde is a calling. Through their expertise, passion, and storytelling, guides like Berni create unforgettable experiences that connect visitors to the heart of Costa Rica’s cloud forests. 

Whether spotting rare wildlife, learning about the forest’s intricate ecosystems, or simply marveling at the beauty of nature, a guided tour in Monteverde can help get you up close and personal with the part of Monteverde you are most interested in seeing without affecting the natural environment.

The impact of skilled guides extends beyond the tours themselves. Their ability to inspire visitors fosters a deeper appreciation for conservation and the natural world, leaving a lasting impression on all who explore Monteverde.

When you’re ready to explore Monteverde, consider booking a tour with Ocotea Tours and Transfers. Their knowledgeable guides, like Berni, are eager to share their love for this remarkable place with you.