When Riley E. first laid eyes on the Monteverde Cloud Forest, it was still early – the kind of early when mist still clings to the hills and the clouds blur the line between forest and sky. Riley had always dreamed of seeing the cloud forest, but didn’t expect just how personal Ocotea Tours & Transfers would make the experience, from the very first moment.
The day began early – 6:50 a.m., to be exact. Riley and their group were the first to be picked up. Still, everything ran like clockwork. “Organized and professional,” Riley later wrote, impressed by how smoothly the early morning unfolded.
That sense of calm, capable hospitality carried through the entire experience. With the rain already settling into the canopy, the Ocotea team remained both efficient and unfazed – exactly what’s needed on a misty Monteverde morning.
Jorge, their guide, brought just the right energy: informed and engaging, yet never hurried. Even as visibility dipped and sightings were fewer than usual, he kept the group captivated. And then, at the final stop – an open-air hummingbird gallery where iridescent birds darted and hovered just feet away – the day ended on a quiet, unforgettable note. Despite the weather, Riley’s tour had offered something rare: a moment of stillness, wonder, and genuine care.
For many nature lovers, spotting a resplendent quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno) is a lifelong dream – a lifer, as we say in the bird world. Native to the disappearing montane cloud forests of Central America and listed as a Near Threatened species, this elusive bird is never a guaranteed sighting – even in Monteverde. That’s what made a special moment with Ocotea guide Juliano so memorable for Tom B. and his wife.
They had joined Ocotea for a tour of the cloud forest and were guided by Juliano, whose quiet determination to track a quetzal carried them slowly through the misty trees and trails for nearly 20 minutes. He whispered updates as they moved, attentive to the faint clues from the canopy above.
“He seemed to be genuinely delighted when we saw the quetzal,” Tom shared. And we know the feeling: Finally spotting the quetzal feels like a rare, shared triumph. It’s something you never forget.
Others echo the experience. Jordan R. recalled watching two female quetzals with their guide, Bernie, who gently suggested they wait in case the male – sole owners of that “resplendent” tail! – appeared. “He asked us if we wouldn't mind waiting,” Jordan said. “The male showed up, and it was absolutely worth the wait… Bernie took a photo with our smartphones through his spotter scope, and it was the best snapshot we got on the trip.”
It’s these patient, personal moments – born of deep local knowledge and love for the forest – that define Ocotea Tours & Transfers’ approach to guiding.
Asher J., a conservation professional, found a kindred spirit in his guide Oscar during a birdwatching tour. Moved by his commitment to conservation, Asher wrote, “his personal passion for the endemic and migratory birds and his conviction in ensuring that my friend and I saw not only the birds but understood the context for their wellbeing… It was a phenomenal experience!”
Other guests echoed this sense of deeper connection. Elizabeth M. appreciated Axel’s thoughtful nature and ability to take stunning photos through his scope. Even when wildlife was scarce – as it can be in the wild, where nothing is guaranteed – she said that “the tour felt valuable it was still well worth it to hear all about the history of Costa Rica and the Curi Cancha reserve. We still did see a bunch of birds, a tarantula, butterflies, agouti, and coatis, which was exciting!”
At Ocotea Tours & Transfers, every story we hear seems to speak to something more than sightseeing. Because we take the time. We imbue care into every step. We provide space to breathe, listen, and learn. Whether it’s accommodating a last-minute need, offering a slower pace for birdwatching, or giving our guests time to linger at a scenic overlook, our approach is always thoughtful – and always real. Because we’re real people and we really care about you, our guests.
It’s no surprise, then, that review after review mentions the same thing: our guides.
“[Bernie] was engaging, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic,” said Crystal. “He clearly cares about the forest and all it has to offer.” Dustin called him “incredible… He went above and beyond,” and said his ability to set up the spotting scope and capture images through it was “astounding.” Div called Bernie “absolutely spectacular… amazing at pointing out animals I would have never seen otherwise” and added that he was “super knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and friendly.”
Kara, a solo traveler, felt equally supported. “I really appreciated the dedication to making sure I could spot the wildlife and birds,” even in the rain, she wrote. “My guide had all of the equipment we needed and was incredibly knowledgeable about the wildlife and the forest.”
For Bud, who had a private tour, it wasn’t just about wildlife – it was about the passion we carry within us. “[Guide] Danny was both personable and very knowledgeable... His expertise of the local birds, animals, and plants was extremely impressive, and you could tell he cares very deeply for the local environment. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone.”
Though every tour brings a different face and a different voice, the pattern is clear: Ocotea’s guides are storytellers, conservationists, and caretakers of both the forest and our guest experience.
For many of you, these tours won’t be mere highlights of Monteverde – they will be highlights of an entire trip. As Jordan put it, “This tour was one of the biggest highlights of our 9-day stay in Costa Rica.” Kathy T. concurs: “Exceptional… One of the best [things] we did.”
We know – it’s the details that make it. The moments when one of our guides sees something in the distance and makes sure you see it too. The quiet pride in sharing a part of our home. The way we at Ocotea create room for nature to speak – and for you to listen.
Riley, Tom, Kara, Bernie, Oscar, Juliano, and all the rest – they’ve all walked these trails. They’ve spotted these cloud forest treasures. Their stories now live in the rustle of leaves, the flutter of a quetzal’s tail, and the buzz of hummingbird wings.
Now, it’s your turn.
Book a tour with Ocotea or contact our team for personalized trip planning.
We can’t wait to welcome you.