Arenal Hanging Bridges, Suspension bridges in Arenal, Costa Rica.
Arenal Hanging Bridges is a network of suspension and fixed bridges that spans several kilometers through a tropical rainforest, connecting trails at various heights. The system combines walkways suspended high above the forest floor with solid fixed bridges linking different sections.
The bridges were originally built as a tool for researchers to access remote forest areas between mountain ranges that were difficult to reach on foot. Over time, they were opened to the public and became a popular way for nature enthusiasts to explore the canopy.
The pathways connect visitors with how local people understand and relate to the rainforest, as guides share knowledge about plants and traditional ecological practices encountered along the way. This creates a direct experience of how communities view their natural surroundings.
Plan your visit for early morning when visibility is best and wildlife activity is highest, and wear sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on potentially wet surfaces. Staying on marked trails and following park rules is important for safety and to protect the forest environment.
From the elevated walkways, visitors can see tree-dwelling animals like monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat in a way that would be nearly impossible from the forest floor. This overhead perspective reveals the hidden world of the canopy ecosystem.
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