Exploring La Fortuna: Best Things to Do, Travel Tips & Itinerary

Map of La Fortuna's Attractions

10 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna

1. Hike Around Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano is probably the most famous landmark in La Fortuna. This stunning cone-shaped volcano is what gives this area its features, with its old lava fields, lush rainforest, and a rich ecosystem teeming with wildlife. It really is what put La Fortuna on the map!

The volcano is located within a national park where you can find some of the best hiking trails in the area, taking you through lava fields, beautiful rainforest, and several viewpoints overlooking the Arenal Volcano. Even if the summit is hidden behind clouds as it was during most of my visit, the scenery is still well worth the trip.

There are several trails inside the park, with the most popular being the Las Coladas Trail, which takes you across the lava fields left behind by the volcano's 1968 eruption. This is also where you will get one of the best views of Arenal Volcano and truly appreciate its near-perfect cone shape. It is an absolutely beautiful sight when the summit decides to reveal itself.

The trail eventually splits into two routes: an easier trail and a more challenging one. If you are visiting with a guide, the group will often split as well. Those looking for a more leisurely walk will take the easier trail, where the pace is slower and there is more time to stop and spot wildlife. If you prefer a more active hike, you can take the harder trail, which climbs up and down several hills while passing through the rainforest.

I chose the more challenging route. We did not see much wildlife along the way except a sloth and its baby, but it definitely gave me a good workout. If your main goal is to spot animals, I would probably recommend the easier trail. If you are after a bit more exercise, the harder trail is the way to go.

To get here, you can either drive if you are renting a car, or if not, you can go with an organized tour which should also include a visit to Mystico Hang Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, and more. If you rent a car, be sure to explore the national park some more and visit some other viewpoints like Mirador el Silencio, which will be less crowded than at Las Coladas.

The park is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, and the entrance fee is around 17 USD per person. I recommend arriving as early as possible, as mornings usually offer the best chance of seeing the volcano before clouds begin rolling in. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly at any time of the day.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna?

Budget

Argdivan Hostel

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Mid-Range

Arenal Xilopalo

$$ | Double Room

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High-End

Noah's Forest by Tifakara

$$$ | Double Room

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2. Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall

There are many waterfalls you can visit around La Fortuna, but the most accessible one and the closest to town is La Fortuna Waterfall. This stunning 70-meter waterfall is hidden inside the rainforest, where you can hike down to the base and swim in its refreshing waters.

To get to the waterfall entrance, you can either drive here with your rental car, take an Uber here, as it is not far from town, or go with an organized tour as I did, and they will also visit other places as well with La Fortuna Waterfall being the first stop in the itinerary. You can expect to spend around 2 hours here before you continue your journey.

Once you arrive at the gate, you will have to walk down a staircase with around 500 steps through the jungle to get to the waterfall. The walk down is fairly easy, but keep in mind that you will have to climb all those steps back up afterward 😅, so don't use up all your energy while swimming. Along the way, there are several viewpoints where you can stop and admire the waterfall from different angles.

The entrance fee is around 20 USD per person, and the waterfall is open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM. I recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds, as this is one of the most popular attractions in La Fortuna and it gets busy quickly. Don't forget to bring your swimwear!

3. Relax at Natural Hot Springs 👍 Must Do

After spending your day hiking through rainforests, chasing waterfalls, and exploring volcano trails, there is no better way to end the day in La Fortuna than by relaxing in its famous hot springs. Thanks to the geothermal activity from Arenal Volcano, the area is home to several natural hot springs where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich water surrounded by lush jungle.

There are plenty of hot spring resorts around La Fortuna, ranging from luxury experiences to more budget-friendly options, or even free ones. The most popular free option is El Choyin, which is located just off the road near Tabacón. Although it can get crowded at times, I still found the experience incredibly relaxing.

We came just after sunset, and the water temperature was perfect. As the air started to cool down, the warm water balanced it out perfectly. To be honest, this ended up being one of my favorite experiences in La Fortuna. I had spent the day hiking Arenal Volcano, exploring Mistico Hanging Bridges, and visiting La Fortuna Waterfall on a guided tour, and after making some friends along the way, we just sat in the hot spring, talked, and enjoyed each other's company. It was such a simple but memorable moment.

If you have rented a car and want to splurge a little for a more private experience, some of the most popular hot springs in La Fortuna are Tabacón, Ecotermales, and Baldi Hot Springs. Each offers a different experience, but they all give you the chance to relax in beautiful tropical surroundings.

Most hot springs are best visited in the evening when the atmosphere is more magical, but they can get crowded after sunset. If you want a quieter experience, consider going in the late afternoon before the evening rush.

4. Hike the Mistico Hanging Bridges

For another fun activity you can do in La Fortuna, you might also want to check out Mistico Hanging Bridges. Instead of exploring the jungle from the forest floor, this trail takes you high above the canopy where you can walk across a series of hanging bridges while surrounded by lush rainforest.

The trail is around 3.2 km long and takes about 1.5–2 hours to complete. It is very easy to hike as it is mostly flat and slightly going down. It's only at the end where you will have to hike up a bit, as the "elevator" that was advertised still wasn't built yet when I was there.

Along the way, you will cross several suspension bridges, including a few high above the forest floor, with beautiful views of the surrounding jungle and Arenal Volcano (if the clouds decide to cooperate). People love to take photos at these bridges, and there can be a long queue to get on as they have a limited capacity of 15 people at a time.

Most people will try to take photos on the first bridge, but there are plenty more along the way. I recommend powering through the first few suspension bridges to get away from the crowds, and you should be able to get a photo of yourself on the quieter bridges further along the trail.

Here's a tip: the last suspension bridge before the trail starts going uphill and back out of the park is the longest one, so if you want to take a photo of yourself surrounded by the rainforest, this is the spot to do it.

Keep your eyes on the trees, as you might spot monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and reptiles hiding among the branches. We spotted spider monkeys up in the canopy, a few anteaters, colorful birds that I do not know the names of, and more.

The entrance fee is around 32 USD per person, and the park is open daily from 6 AM to 3:30 PM. It is quite expensive, to be honest, but it was included in the guided tour I joined, so it was worth it. I recommend going early in the morning when the weather is usually clearer and wildlife is more active.

5. Spot Wildlife Along Bogarin Trail

If you want an easy way to spot wildlife without leaving La Fortuna town, the Bogarin Trail is one of the best places to visit. This private nature reserve sits just a short walk from the town center and protects a section of rainforest where you can see some of Costa Rica's most iconic animals.

The trail is relatively flat and easy, so it is great for a family or those who don't want to do a strenuous hike. Along the way, you can look for sloths resting high up in the trees, different species of monkeys moving through the canopy, colorful birds, frogs, and reptiles hiding among the vegetation.

Unlike some other wildlife spots in Costa Rica where you need a lot of patience and luck, Bogarin Trail has become famous because the animals here are easier to spot. The reserve is home to many sloths that have adapted to the area, so your chances of seeing one are quite high.

I recommend joining a guided tour if wildlife spotting is your main goal. The guides know exactly where to look and can point out animals that you would likely walk straight past. They also carry spotting scopes, which make it much easier to see animals high up in the trees.

The self-guided tour is 20 USD per person, and you are free to roam at your own pace, while the guided tour is 45 USD for a 2-hour visit. The tour runs from 8 AM to 4 PM every hour except midday, so you can join anytime. You can book the ticket from its official website.

6. Hike Rio Celeste Waterfall as a Day Trip ☀️ Great Day Trip

If you have an extra day in La Fortuna, one of the best day trips you can take is to the Rio Celeste Waterfall, one of the most stunning turquoise waterfalls you will see in Costa Rica. The waterfall's unreal blue color comes from the Rio Celeste River, which gets its vibrant hue from a natural chemical reaction involving volcanic minerals. I've seen many waterfalls in my life, but I have never seen anything quite as vivid as this one!

The main hike begins from here and takes you through lush rainforest to several highlights, including the famous Rio Celeste Waterfall, the turquoise river viewpoint, and the spot where the river changes color. The trail is around 3–4 km round trip and takes about 1.5–2 hours to complete, although you will likely spend more time stopping for photos along the way.

The waterfall itself is the highlight of the hike. After descending a staircase into the rainforest, you will be greeted by the bright blue water cascading into a pool below. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed here, and the lower part of the staircase was damaged by a landslide and has yet to be fixed, so you can only see it from afar as in the photos above.

Keep in mind that Rio Celeste receives a lot of rain, and the trail can get very muddy, especially during the wet season. Wear proper hiking shoes and bring a rain jacket. Also, try to visit on a clear day; the turquoise color is much more vibrant when there is less rain mixing into the river.

To get here, you can either drive yourself (around 1.5–2 hours from La Fortuna) or join an organized tour, which is what I recommend if you do not have a rental car. Tours usually include transportation, lunch, entry fees, and a guide. Our guide was Annie, and she was the best, very knowledgeable, friendly, and even took photos for us. Some of the photos you see here were taken by her, so thanks, Annie!

The hike is open from 8 AM with the last entry at 2 PM, and you can stay until 4 PM. The entrance fee is 13.56 USD per person. If you are looking for a great day trip to take from La Fortuna, I highly recommend Rio Celeste.

7. Swim in Celeste River

While you cannot swim at the Rio Celeste Waterfall itself, there is a spot nearby where you can dip into the famous blue waters of Rio Celeste up close. This spot along the Celeste River, located outside the park, has several areas where locals and tourists come to cool down and enjoy the scenery for free.

The water gets its incredible turquoise color from the same volcanic minerals that create the famous waterfall inside the national park. Swimming in this vivid blue river surrounded by rainforest is a pretty unique experience and a great way to end your Rio Celeste day trip.

Just keep in mind that swimming might not be possible if the current is too strong. The river can also lose its bright blue color after heavy rainfall, as more sediment flows into the water. Flash floods can happen here quite quickly, so do not attempt to swim if you notice strong currents or rapidly rising water.

If you join this organized tour, they will usually stop here after the waterfall hike so you can go for a swim before having a late lunch at a local restaurant. If you have rented a car and driven to Rio Celeste Waterfall, don't forget to stop by here as well. You can park along the side of the road, which is what many locals were doing when I visited.

8. Hang Out at Parque de La Fortuna

Nature around La Fortuna is undoubtedly incredible to explore, but don't forget to spend some time discovering the town itself. La Fortuna has a laid-back atmosphere, with the impressive Arenal Volcano towering over it (when the clouds decide to reveal it). Take some time to slow down and enjoy a stroll around Parque de La Fortuna, the main park located right in the center of town.

The park is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, shops, and a beautiful white church, with Arenal Volcano often looming in the background. The church is really nice to see, while the park itself is filled with benches where you can sit, relax, and enjoy some time people-watching.

I especially recommend coming here in the evening when the temperature cools down and the town becomes more lively. You will often see locals hanging out, families spending time together, and travelers returning from their adventures. If you have some downtime and want to rest your legs after all the hiking you have done, be sure to come and relax at Parque de La Fortuna.

9. Go Ziplining

If you have a day to spare and are looking for a fun adventure, you might want to consider going ziplining through the rainforest canopy. Instead of hiking through the jungle, you get to fly above it, with incredible views of the surrounding rainforest, waterfalls, and (if the clouds clear) Arenal Volcano in the distance.

You can join one of the many zipline experiences, which will take you to a private rainforest area where you can zipline through more than 12 cables through the rainforest. The experience should take about 2.5 hours, and they will often pick you up and drop you off at your hotel once done.

It's an easy half-day hike that you can do from La Fortuna. One thing to keep in mind is that there is quite a bit of walking and climbing involved between the zipline platforms, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a little workout. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket as the weather around Arenal can change quickly.

10. Go Whitewater-Rafting

Another awesome adventure which came highly recommended to me by my friend is to go whitewater rafting on the Balsa River, which will allow you to see the beautiful rainforest of La Fortuna from a different perspective while navigating your way through the river current with a professional guide.

This tour my friend recommended will take you down a section of the Balsa River with Class II and III rapids, which are both exciting and quite accessible. It is still beginner-friendly if it is your first time rafting. The trip includes transportation from La Fortuna, safety instructions, equipment, and ends with a traditional Costa Rican lunch.

Don't worry if you have never rafted before. The guides are very experienced and will explain everything you need to know before getting on the river. Just be prepared to get wet! Bring a change of clothes, secure shoes that can get soaked, and leave anything valuable behind.

What to Eat and Drink in La Fortuna

1. Eat Local Food at Soda Víquez

One of my favorite restaurants that I frequented while I was in La Fortuna was Soda Víquez, a small local restaurant located not far from Parque de La Fortuna. They serve a great selection of traditional Costa Rican dishes that are delicious and much more affordable than many other places in town.

They often serve typical Costa Rican Casados, which are a classic meal consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and an optional protein such as chicken, beef, pork, or fish. I ordered the breaded sea bass fillet, and it was excellent.

A meal here should cost around 3,500–6,000 CRC (7–13 USD), and the restaurant is open from 11 AM to 9 PM every day. It can get quite busy during dinner time, so I recommend arriving a little earlier to avoid waiting for a table.

When to Visit La Fortuna?

La Fortuna is a fantastic destination to visit year-round. Thanks to its tropical rainforest climate, temperatures stay warm throughout the year, usually ranging between 22–30°C (72–86°F). The weather can be unpredictable, though, so don't be surprised if you experience sunshine and rain on the same day.

The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to visit. You will have a better chance of clear views of Arenal Volcano, drier hiking trails, and plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities. This is also the busiest time of year, so expect higher accommodation prices and be sure to book well in advance.

The green season (May to November) brings lush rainforest scenery, fuller waterfalls, and fewer tourists. Rain usually falls in the afternoon or evening, leaving the mornings clear enough for hiking. This would be the perfect time to visit waterfalls here and there are quite a few of them. Hotel prices are often lower during this time too, which is perfect if you are traveling on a budget.

I visited in February, which is technically the dry season, but it was cloudy on most days, with rain almost every afternoon. To make matters worse, the summit of Arenal Volcano stayed hidden behind the clouds my entire visit. I only caught a glimpse of it on my last day as I was leaving La Fortuna 😅. Typical luck! So no matter when you visit, be sure to pack a rain jacket. The weather here is unpredictable, and you never know what you'll get. You just have to make the best out of it.

How to Get to La Fortuna?

From San José: Direct buses operated by Transportes San Carlos run daily between San José and La Fortuna. You can catch the bus from the Terminal Atlántico Norte. The journey takes around 5–6 hours and costs approximately 3,725 CRC (8 USD). There is typically one direct bus departing at 8:40 AM each day. I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early, and be sure to bring cash, as it is the only accepted payment method.

The bus will arrive at the La Fortuna Bus Terminal, which is located right in the center of town. From there, most hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies are within walking distance, while accommodations outside of town can easily be reached by taxi.

From Monteverde: The fastest and most popular way to travel between Monteverde and La Fortuna is the famous Jeep-Boat-Jeep transfer. The journey takes around 3 hours, costs approximately 33 USD, and usually departs at 8 AM with hotel pickup included.

The trip consists of a van ride, a scenic boat crossing over Lake Arenal, and another van to La Fortuna. You can also book a shared shuttle if you prefer to stay on the road the entire way. Compare available options on Bookaway.

From Liberia: Shared tourist shuttles and rental cars are the easiest ways to get from Liberia to La Fortuna. The journey takes around 3.5 hours on well-maintained roads. The shuttle will pick up at your hotel, or even at the airport, which is very convenient. You can find shuttle services on Bookaway.

From further away (Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero, etc.): If you are traveling from another tourist destination, I recommend booking a shared shuttle. They are much faster and more convenient than piecing together multiple public buses, which will mean that you will have to spend a night in San José. Not ideal.

Shared transfer is the way to go and you can find and compare shuttle services here. I took Interbus from Quepos to La Fortuna, and the journey went smoothly - we even arrived earlier than expected. Highly recommended.

By Rental Car: If you want the freedom to explore the area at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent option. The roads to La Fortuna are generally in good condition, and driving in Costa Rica is fairly straightforward. You can compare car rental prices here.

How to get Around La Fortuna?

On Foot: If you are only planning to explore La Fortuna town, walking is all you need. The town center is compact and easy to navigate, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, and supermarkets within a short walk of one another.

By Tour: This is the best way to get around La Fortuna if you do not plan to rent a car. Many tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won't have to worry about transportation. You can often book tours through your accommodation, and they may even offer a discount, especially if you pay in cash. Most of the attractions I mentioned in this guide can easily be visited as part of an organized tour.

By Taxi or Uber: Taxis are easy to find throughout La Fortuna, and Uber also operates in the area, although availability can vary depending on the time of day. Getting to an attraction is usually not the problem, it's getting back that can be tricky, as it is often difficult to hail a taxi or find an Uber once you are outside town.

Because of that, I don't think it is the most reliable way to get around. I would recommend joining an organized tour instead if you are not renting a car.

By Rental Car: Renting a car is by far the easiest way to explore La Fortuna. It gives you the freedom to visit attractions whenever you like without relying on bus schedules or tour pickups. The roads around La Fortuna are generally in good condition, and most major attractions have parking available. You can compare car rental prices here.

How many days to spend in La Fortuna?

I recommend spending 3 full days in La Fortuna. That gives you enough time to visit the area's main highlights, such as Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, the Hanging Bridges, and one of the many hot springs, while still leaving room for an adventure activity like visiting Rio Celeste Waterfall, ziplining, or white water rafting.

• Day 1: Visit La Fortuna Waterfall, explore Arenal Volcano National Park, hike Mystico Hanging Bridges, and relax in the hot springs.
• Day 2: Go ziplining, white water rafting, or canyoning, and spend the evening exploring La Fortuna town.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Rio Celeste Waterfall.

Is it Safe in La Fortuna?

Yes, La Fortuna is one of the safest places to visit in Costa Rica. It is a well-established tourist town with a relaxed atmosphere, and I felt completely comfortable walking around during the day and in the evening. As with anywhere else, it is still a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

If you are planning to hike or explore the rainforest, be mindful of the wildlife. While most animals will avoid people, snakes, spiders, and other creatures do live here, so always stay on marked trails, watch where you step, and avoid reaching into vegetation where you cannot see. I never had any issues, but it is always better to be cautious.

The weather can also change very quickly in La Fortuna. A sunny morning can turn into a heavy downpour within an hour, so always carry a rain jacket or a small umbrella, even if the forecast looks good. Many of the trails can become slippery after rain, so wearing proper hiking shoes is highly recommended.

If you are driving, take extra care at night. Roads outside the town are often narrow, winding, and poorly lit, and heavy rain can reduce visibility. Other than that, La Fortuna is an easy and safe destination to explore, whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.