One of the coolest things to do in Monteverde is to climb the ficus root bridge, otherwise known as the Ficus La Raiz. It’s a very cool spot near downtown Santa Elena that makes for great photos so if you have an hour to kill in between the Monteverde guided hikes and tours, definitely check out this spot!
In this post you’ll find out how to plan your visit to the Monteverde Ficus Root Bridge.
Monteverde Ficus Root Bridge Map
On Google Maps, it is called “Ficus La Raiz.”
What to Know About the Monteverde Ficus La Raiz (Monteverde Ficus Root Bridge Tree)
- 1000 CRC (~$2 USD) per person entrance fee.
- There is a large parking lot with bathrooms.
- 4×4 not required to get to the trail.
- Easy 5 minute walk down. Has some concrete steps, dirt paths, sitting areas, benches and a handrail the whole way down. There is now a viewing platform.
- You can walk on the bridge a little if you’re careful/adventurous but we don’t recommend going all the way.
- Do NOT touch the roots, steps on them or disturb them.
How to Find the Ficus La Raiz (Ficus Root Bridge)
On Google Maps, it is “Ficus La Raiz.” It is also on Waze as that. You will see a gate with a sign that says “Raiz Parqueo.” Drive through, all the way down and park. Then go to the entrance office by the gate to pay the entrance fee.
The beginning of the trail is right by the parking lot, behind the bathrooms. There is a sign and there are two benches around it, so you can’t miss it.
Once you’re ready, head down to the trail to walk down to the ficus root bridge tree.
The Trail
This trail is very easy and the family has done a great job maintaining it and keeping it clean. There are some concrete and dirt steps, a guard rail, benches, sitting areas and a viewing platform. It takes in total maybe 5 minutes to get down to the river where the bridge is.
There are plenty of sitting areas along the path, even one with a roof, fire pit and grill if you want to enjoy a snack or drink.
Once you get down, the trail to the left goes to the viewing platform.
The other path to the right goes down to the river. Here, you can get a full view of the ficus root bridge in all its glory!
In all, you can spend maybe 20-30 minutes or so here to take pictures, walk along the river and enjoy the views. The Monteverde ficus root bridge tree is a super cool spot for photos and a unique attraction in Monteverde. We see why it’s a spot beloved by locals who want to preserve this interesting tree for as long as they can.
Hopefully this post helped you so that you can visit this awesome ficus root bridge and get some great photos! Please remember not to touch or disturb the roots as the tree is still very well alive.
Read About Other Things to Do in Monteverde below!
Selvatura Park: Nature adventure park with ziplining, hanging bridges, butterfly garden, sloth sanctuary and reptile/amphibian exhibit
Cerro Pinocho: Amazing sunset spot
Curi Cancha Reserve: Private reserve with trails, best for birdwatching
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: The most popular cloud forest with hiking trails
Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena: A private cloud forest reserve with hiking trails
100% Aventura: Adventure park with hanging bridges and ziplining
Costa Rica Vacation Checklist
- First time to Costa Rica? Read our First Time in Costa Rica guide.
- Not sure how to move around Costa Rica? Read our How to Get Around Costa Rica guide to find the best transportation method for you.
- Click the link to get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
- Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
- Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica.
- Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.