TERRA VIVA spans 300 acres and is a privately owned estate managed by a Costa Rican family.

Our mission with this remarkable land is to integrate the protection of the Cloud Forest, encompassing over 150 acres of a Private Reserve, with educational opportunities for students and the general public. We invite guests to participate in a range of activities, from short visits to extended stays. Alongside preservation efforts, our focus extends to recreation, utilizing the vast outdoor spaces for enjoyment, and encouraging progress among neighboring communities through our innovative dairy operation that emphasizes healthy and environmentally friendly practices..

Situated in the tranquil area of Monteverde, adjacent to the Santa Elena Reserve and just 3 kilometers from town, 60% of the land is composed of primary forest, 30% serves as pasture for the dairy farm, while the remaining portion is dedicated to forest regeneration. TERRA VIVA also offers comfortable accommodations for up to 30 guests, providing them with an enriching experience through its various offerings:

• Private Wildlife Reserve
• Paths and trails for observing wildlife cutting through cloud forest, streams, with ocean views and beautiful scenery
• Mountain water springs
• Opportunity to participate in some dairy-related activities.

Founder Federico Muñoz, a distinguished Costa Rican biologist and ecotourism pioneer, possesses extensive expertise in Costa Rican reptiles and amphibians. His knowledge has enabled the publication of the most comprehensive online resources about these creatures in Costa Rica. He also co-authored the Field Guide of Amphibians and Reptiles of Costa Rica. With over 25 years of experience leading expeditions across Latin America and Africa, Muñoz has developed a deep understanding of the conservation status of natural heritage both in our hemisphere and globally. His dedication keeps him actively engaged in the sociopolitical discussions surrounding the future of the rainforest.

Co-founder Gaudy Picado, is one of the few true Monteverdean, she was born and lived all her life in Monteverde, educated under the Quaker lifestyle.  Since she was a child she learned from her father Nacho the love and care for the domestic animals, particularly for the cows, for which today she is the “doctor” of the cows of Finca Terra Viva. 

Gaudy is a World Traveler,  she is an enthusiastic hiker and outdoor activities person. Her travels have allowed her to know and appreciate the customs of many Latin American, North American,European, African, Asian peoples, both urban and indigenous worlds.  Her environmentalist passion has been the fundamental force to transform Finca Terra Viva into a Carbon Neutral operation.  Gaudy always finds time to meet, chat and pass tips to see Monteverde from her unique perspective to our visitors.

LITTLE HISTORY MONTEVERDE

Monteverde was first inhabited in the 1930s by Costa Rican families who dedicated themselves to open spaces and subsistence farming. In 1950, 4 pacifist Quakers from Alabama were jailed for not participating in the war against Korea. As soon as they were released they looked for where to live in peace outside the United States along with other families in their community.

Costa Rica being of interest because at that time this country had already abolished the army, besides being very green and potentially very productive. In 1951, 44 Quakers from 11 families arrived in this particular area and coined the name Monteverde. They brought their sense of friendship and cooperation. The Cheese Factory was founded in 1953. Today it produces 2 tons of cheese a day. There are 180 producers, mostly Costa Ricans.

MEETING OUR COWS

NIGHT ENCOUNTERS

CLOUD FOREST CONSERVATION