La Fortuna
Greetings from La Fortuna, Costa Rica’s premiere destination for adventure travel. Located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, La Fortuna features the world-famous Arenal Volcano. Ascending to over 5,000 feet above lush rainforest and spreading farmland, exciting adventures call from the volcano’s base.
Holiday Amid Natural Hot Springs
Though there hasn’t been an eruption since 2010, the fiery mantle blazing deep below Arenal Volcano heats the natural hot springs and pools that bubble up throughout La Fortuna. High-end resorts, rustic lodges, and luxury hotels have been built around the most desirable springs, allowing visitors to soak in the rejuvenating waters of on-site hot springs. Hotel reservations in La Fortuna commonly grant guests full access to these warm mineral pools without ever leaving the hotel grounds. Many of the springs are surrounded by spectacular volcano views.
Hike Volcanic Lands
While it is not permitted for travelers to hike to the summit of Arenal Volcano, exploring the diverse contours of Arenal’s lower slopes, and the lush, expansive rainforests with winding jungle rivers that spread from the volcano’s base provide an unparalleled nature experience.
Hiking the Arenal 1968 Trail or Arenal Volcano National Park provide an opportunity to walk amid long-hardened lava flows while taking in glorious views of Lake Arenal and the soaring volcano. A trip to La Fortuna Waterfall is not to be missed, while the most adventurous might chose the gripping adrenaline of canyoning and rappelling, or the sheer thrill of waterfall jumping that takes place near-by.
Adventure to the tranquil setting of a local coffee plantation, or explore natural stalagmites and subterranean rivers on a spelunking expedition of Venado Caves.
Rushing Rivers and Pristine Rainforests
Exploring the lush landscape of La Fortuna on horseback offers a leisurely way to enjoy the area’s rich, natural beauty. For the thrill-seekers among us, a heart-pounding ATV race through the jungle provides sheer adrenaline. Deep inside the rainforest’s vivid, tropical interior, stroll across picturesque hanging bridges that offer the majesty of the jungle from an aerial view.
Fly like a bird over the rainforest canopy on an exhilarating course of high-elevation zip lines. Rafting adventures provide a heart-pumping ride down the Class II and III whitewater rapids of the Piedras Negras or the Rio Balsa Rivers. The wilder Class IV rapids of the Sarapiqui River grant an even more intense experience. If you prefer a tranquil excursion, kayaking or floating down one of La Fortuna’s more serene rivers offer a peaceful way to enjoy your day.
However you chose to enjoy your nature encounters in La Fortuna, keep a look out for monkeys, sloths, rare birds and other native wildlife that call La Fortuna home. They are never far away!
Enjoy Outdoor Dining
La Fortuna has a wonderful climate that lends itself perfectly to open-air dining. Fine dining can be enjoyed at one of the many hotels and resorts, while mid-priced options offer travelers a chance to experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Be sure to stop by one of Costa Rica’s many “Sodas.” These popular quick-service restaurants offer “casados,” a traditional Costa Rican meal of fish, chicken, or beef, served with sides of white rice, black beans and fried plantains.
Visit Costa Rica’s La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, offering spectacular excursions into the great outdoors.
Explore Featured ADVENTURES
Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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Wildlife
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Half Day Starting From $75
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Easy
Per Person (2 person minimum)
La Fortuna Combo Tour
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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Wildlife
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Full Day Starting From $159
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Easy
Per Person (2 person minimum)
La Fortuna Rafting & Rappelling
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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Whitewater Rafting
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Full Day Starting From $159
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Challenging
Per Person (2 person minimum)
La Fortuna Balsa River Rafting Tour
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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Whitewater Rafting
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Half Day Starting From $79
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Moderate
Per Person (2 person minimum)
Explore Related RESTAURANTS
Explore Related HOTELS
El Silencio del Campo
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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Hotels
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Starting From $182
Per Night/ 2 people (+ sales tax)
Featured Attractions
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Lake
Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
Can you go to La Fortuna Waterfall for free?
Yes, you can go to La Fortuna Waterfall for free. This stunning waterfall is located near the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica, and it is a popular tourist destination.
How hard is the La Fortuna waterfall hike?
The La Fortuna waterfall hike is a challenging but rewarding experience. The hike is approximately two miles long and includes some steep terrain. The hike starts with a steep climb up the mountain, which can be quite difficult for some hikers. Once at the top, the trail winds through the jungle before reaching the waterfall. The trail can be slippery and muddy, so it's important to wear the proper footwear and be careful. The view of the waterfall is worth the effort, though, and the cool water will be a welcome respite after the hike.
What to wear to La Fortuna?
When heading to La Fortuna, it is important to dress appropriately for the climate and the activities you plan to do. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for the hot, humid weather. Shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops are great for keeping cool, while a light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings. For outdoor activities such as hiking and zip-lining, comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty are essential. A swimsuit is also a must for taking a dip in the hot springs or swimming in the lake. Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun.
What is the best month to visit Arenal Costa Rica?
Arenal Costa Rica is an amazing place to visit any time of the year, but the best month to visit is usually April or May. During this time, the weather is usually warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the day. The rain is usually light and scattered, and the humidity is usually low. April and May are also the driest months of the year, so you won’t have to worry about getting wet too often. Additionally, these months offer some of the best views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rainforest.
Can you swim in the La Fortuna Waterfall?
Yes, you can swim in the La Fortuna Waterfall. This majestic waterfall is located in Costa Rica and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. The waterfall is surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest and cascades down from a height of 70 meters into a large pool of crystal clear water. The temperature of the pool is perfect for swimming and you can even take a dip beneath the falls for an unforgettable experience.
Is La Fortuna Costa Rica safe for tourists?
La Fortuna Costa Rica is a popular destination for tourists and is considered to be a very safe place to visit. The town is located in the northern region of the country which is largely rural and has a low crime rate. The local police force is well trained and equipped to handle any type of emergency. Additionally, the town has a strong tourism industry that is monitored by the government to ensure the safety of visitors. (View Full Blog Post)
Does it rain every day in La Fortuna Costa Rica?
No, it does not rain every day in La Fortuna. La Fortuna is located in the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, and it is known for its tropical climate. The rainy season in La Fortuna runs from May to October, and during this time, the area receives an average of 12 to 13 inches of rain each month. However, the rest of the year is characterized by sunny and dry weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. During the dry season, there are occasional showers, but they are typically short-lived and don't last more than a few hours.
Is la Fortuna waterfall worth visiting?
Absolutely! La Fortuna Waterfall is definitely worth it. The waterfall is located in the heart of the rainforest, making it a breathtaking natural wonder. It's a great place to go for a swim, take a hike, and admire the natural beauty. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a great place to take photos. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and the view from the top is spectacular. The sound of the waterfall is soothing and the water is crystal clear. It's an experience that you won't forget and one that is absolutely worth it.
Is la Fortuna Costa Rica worth visiting?
Yes, La Fortuna Costa Rica is definitely worth visiting. It is a beautiful destination with plenty of activities to partake in. From the Arenal Volcano National Park to the La Fortuna Waterfall, there is something for everyone. You can go hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, or swimming in the nearby hot springs. The area is also home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the country, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the nightlife. ( View Full Blog Post )
How many days do you need in la Fortuna?
Visiting La Fortuna is an unforgettable experience that shouldn't be rushed. Depending on your interests and the type of vacation you are looking for, you will need to plan accordingly. Generally speaking, if you are looking to explore the area, relax, and enjoy a few activities, three to four days in La Fortuna should be enough to get a good feel for the area. You can use the first day to explore the town and its attractions, the second day to take a tour of the Arenal Volcano, and the third day to go rafting, zip-lining, or take a relaxing hot springs soak. (View Full Blog Post)
How far is it from Jaco to Arenal / La Fortuna?
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are approximately 3.5-4 hours from Jaco.
