Once a common sight all over Costa Rica, the ox cart can still be found
in rural areas. The famous colorfully painted models that can be purchased in Sarchi are a
national symbol. We met up with this one on the road to Monteverde.
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Monteverde offers the perfect combination of wildlife and an interesting
population. As a matter of fact this area is almost the perfect model for
nature and people coexisting harmoniously. In the early 1950s a small group of
Quaker dairy farmers from the U.S. settled on the mountain. The Quakers, with
their peaceful ways, and respect for the environment, were a perfect match
for the hard working, gentle Costa Ricans already living here. Since that
time, several reserves have been founded where you can walk for hours in the
splendor of the cloudforest. Above is a picture of an orphaned coatimundi awaiting
re-release into the wild after being rescued by a local
environmentalist.
Many artists, researchers and educators either
make their homes here or are frequent visitors. An alternative school, an
institute for cloudforest education, a woman's arts cooperative, an orchid
"museum" (farm?) and a butterfly farm can also be found here. Many varieties
of accommodations are available to make the weary traveler feel welcome.
Hotels range from small to medium sized, from upscale to basic hostels.
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