Spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, hummingbirds, toucan barbetts, macaws, umbrella birds, mot-mots, quetzals, Andean cock-of-the-rocks, kinkajous, spectacled bears, deer, jaguar, puma, pepsis wasps, 100s (1000s?) of species of butterfly and moth, rhino beetles, tarantulas, lizards, amphibians, snakes of every colour, dipertocarp, epiphytes, glorious fungi, trees, trees, trees… any effort to list even the highlights of the biotic diversity falls short. One of the best parts of nature viewing here is how often you’ll see things that nobody told you about anyway, possibly because nobody has seen them before.

Getting out on the trails is always a good idea. Nearby highlights include the Cascada, a beautiful 10 meter waterfall and swimming hole (bring your rubber boots for the many river crossings!), and the Observatorio, which sits at 1710m and gives a view over the first section of the reserve on a clear day. Currently a trail is being developed to the highest peak in the area at 2710m.

Los Cedros is high enough to be frequently enclosed within the clouds, giving it a special sense of mystery and depth, and creating exceptional photographic possibilities. Light pierces the hillside canopy at interesting angles, and wherever the canopy is open the views are spectacular. Los Cedros’ endless roll-call of birds, flowers, insects, trees and other exotic plants provide a wealth of subjects. Any point-and-shoot cameraperson will find plenty to point and shoot at, and serious photographers should consider bringing a lot of memory cards.