This beautiful reserve came into being in 1972, when the Quaker community, spurred on by the threat of encroaching squatters, joined forces with environmental and wildlife organizations to purchase and protect an extra 328 hectares (811 acres) of land. This fragile environment relies almost entirely on public donations to survive. Today, the reserve totals 10,500 hectares (25,946 acres).
Visitors should note that some of the walking trails are very muddy, and even during the dry season (late December to early May) the cloud forest is wet. Many trails have been stabilized with concrete blocks or wooden boards and are easy to walk on, though unpaved trails deeper in the reserve turn into quagmires in the rain.
Because of the fragile environment, the reserve will allow a maximum of 160 people at any given time. So as not to miss out, get there before the gates open, or better (and wetter), come during the off season, usually May through June and also September through November. Taking a night tour, or staying overnight in one of the lodges, will maximize your chances of spotting wildlife.
