The Monteverde Butterfly Garden also known as the Mariposario, is one of the Monteverde’s most visited attractions. Situated in Cerro Plano, which lies between the town of Santa Elena Monteverde Reserve, this garden is comprised of four climate –controlled butterfly gardens, a medical plant garden, a biodiversity center, and a live leafcutter ant colony. Here visitors can observe some of the most fascinating and beautiful insects in all of the tropics. This butterfly garden is one of the most sought after tourist attractions in the Monteverde area, it was founded by the Biologist Jim Wolfe and his wife. It was created to educate visitors on not just butterflies but on Costa Rican insects in general through a hands-on experience. Visitors can see the butterflies and insects up close, while learning about their habitats and breeding methods. It has four different gardens which represent different Costa Rican habitats, ranging from high-altitude cloud forest to hot lowlands. In each of the gardens, you will learn more about each habitat and its respective habitat. In the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, you will be able to see over fifty butterfly species, seven White-face capuchin monkeys, Agoutis, Coatis, Toucans, Motmots and other species around the three-acre property. Visitors can explore the gardens on their own of go on a 1.5 hour volunteer-led tour which is a great option for those who want to learn more about Costa Rica’s bug life and have an up-close experience in the various exhibits around the garden.