Top 9 Things to Do in La Fortuna – Expert Guide

Are you searching for the best things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica? Continue reading to uncover the hidden gems of this tropical paradise.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano La Fortuna, this town is an oasis of peace and adventure, offering a unique blend of thrilling experiences and tranquil moments. Famous for its 1968 spectacular eruption and the soothing hot springs that followed, La Fortuna invites both thrill-seekers and nature lovers to explore its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic silhouette of Arenal Volcano.

In this guide, you will discover the top activities that make La Fortuna a renowned destination on your journey through Costa Rica. From trekking on cooled and solidified lava flows to relaxing in mineral-rich waters, get ready for an ideal vacation that combines the thrill of adventure with the serenity of nature’s embrace.The Best Activities in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

1. Hiking Around Arenal Volcano La Fortuna

Exploring Arenal Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the most outstanding experiences when visiting La Fortuna, Costa Rica. With the volcano still active, the area around it has become a major attraction not only because of the majestic natural scenery but also due to its rich and diverse ecosystem.

The national park has two opposing entrances, making it convenient for visitors to choose the most suitable path. The Arenal 1968 trail is particularly popular for its ease and the spectacular views it offers. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Arenal Volcano, the crystal-clear waters of the lake, and the surrounding pristine forest.

When you choose to hike at Arenal Volcano National Park, you not only enjoy the fresh air but also have the opportunity to witness the diversity of the wildlife. Just a 30-minute drive from La Fortuna, this area is an ideal destination for a full day of exploration and relaxation.

2. Hot springs costa rica la fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is renowned for its stunning natural hot springs, where tourists can relax and enjoy the health benefits of mineral-rich hot waters. Many of these hot springs are formed by the heating of groundwater due to the activity of the nearby Arenal Volcano. The hot springs offer not only a relaxing space but also spectacular mountain landscapes and lush vegetation.

For those seeking a closer experience with nature and do not want to spend too much, La Fortuna also offers free hot springs like El Chollin. Located not far from luxury resorts, El Chollin is the ideal spot to enjoy the natural mineral hot waters in the peaceful and soothing atmosphere of the tropical forest. With no entrance fee, it provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the warm waters and melt away all fatigue without worrying about the cost.

The hot springs that charge a fee are often associated with resorts and hotels, offering much more upscale services. The two most famous resorts in La Fortuna are Tabacon and Baldi Hot Springs. They provide a luxurious resort experience with amenities such as restaurants, spas, and other relaxation facilities.

Tabacon Hot Springs, located right at the foot of Arenal Volcano, is perhaps the most prominent wellness resort here, offering a hot springs experience in a luxurious atmosphere. You can purchase an entry ticket for 89 USD for a full day, or opt for a package that includes a meal for 159 USD. This is an ideal choice if you do not wish to stay overnight but still want to enjoy this high-end relaxation, including amenities like lockers, changing rooms, and towels.

Book your tickets online here.

Sometimes, the cost of staying overnight at this resort is not much more than the daily ticket price, so consider this option if you want to fully enjoy the experience.

3. Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

The Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park in Costa Rica is truly a gem for those looking to experience the thrill of walking high above the tropical forest floor. As you traverse the hanging bridges, you will enjoy stunning views of the lush landscape below and breathe in the fresh, cool air, creating a memorable experience.

Getting to the park can be challenging without a car, as it is not located near the center of La Fortuna, and typically Uber drivers are reluctant to make this trip. To overcome this, renting a car is the best option, allowing you to move at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a taxi for about 30 USD, or even better, join a guided tour from La Fortuna that includes transportation. This way, you save both time and effort, ensuring you do not miss out on this exciting adventure.

The hanging bridges at Mistico are built to high safety standards, suitable for all ages, from children to the elderly. This makes the park an ideal choice for families eager to explore the natural landscape safely.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fee Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The entrance fee is 28 USD per person, not including a guide. The park is about a 30-minute drive from the La Fortuna area.

4. La Fortuna Waterfall

Nestled amidst the lush, dense forests of the Arenal Volcano National Park in northern Costa Rica, La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that you simply cannot miss. With an impressive height of about 70 meters (230 feet), the waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool, creating a truly majestic scene.

To reach the waterfall, you will descend approximately 600 steep steps through the rainforest. Along the path, vibrant flowers and the echoing sounds of birdsong will make you feel as though you are stepping into another world. At the bottom, you will find a stunning pool at the base of the waterfall, surrounded by large rocks and lush greenery, forming a secret paradise that everyone wishes to explore.

Swimming at the base of the waterfall is one of the favorite experiences for visitors here. However, for safety reasons, it is important to be cautious with the strong currents and slippery rock surfaces. Those who cannot swim or have small children should choose shallow water areas and always be mindful of their surroundings.

La Fortuna Waterfall is only about 5.5 km from the town center, roughly a 10-minute drive. It is open from 7 AM to 5 PM, and it is recommended that you arrive early to avoid crowds, as this is a very popular destination. The entrance fee is 18 USD per person.

Tip: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip because the steps down to the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Don’t forget to bring swimwear, a towel, a hat, and especially plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

5. Rio Celeste

Just a 1.5-hour drive from La Fortuna, Tenorio Volcano National Park is the ideal destination for a day trip, known for its magnificent and diverse natural beauty. This area attracts tourists not only with its lush tropical landscapes but also with the Rio Celeste, a river that shines with a milky turquoise blue. This unique coloration results from a chemical reaction between sulfur and calcium carbonate in the water.

A notable feature along this river is the Teñideros, where two streams merge and change the water to its distinctive turquoise blue, creating one of the most impressive natural scenes in Costa Rica.

This location is also perfect for hiking, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and explore the richness of the ecosystem. Additionally, the area is famous for the Rio Celeste Waterfall, a stunning waterfall where turquoise waters cascade into a natural pool, forming a precious gem of the park.

6. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal in Costa Rica is an ideal destination for exploring on the water. Participating in a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour offers a unique perspective on the majestic Arenal Volcano and the surrounding scenic landscapes. You will be instructed in paddleboarding techniques by a local guide, who will also provide insights into the area’s notable features as you move past significant points on the lake.

Paddle through the tranquil waters of Costa Rica’s largest lake, admiring the imposing Arenal Volcano and the lush tropical forests. Glide over secret spots of the lake, and if you wish, you may have the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the clear waters during breaks.

Check availability for SUP tours on Lake Arenal.

Tip: For the best experience, we recommend booking your paddleboarding tour in the early morning or during sunset. These times offer cooler temperatures and calm waters, enhancing your adventure.

7. El Salto Rope Swing in Costa Rica

El Salto, just a 15-minute walk from the center of La Fortuna, is a thrilling destination for those looking to experience an adrenaline rush, jumping from high above into the cool waters below the waterfall. Located right next to a bridge, this spot is known for its peaceful river, a small waterfall, and a rope swing, creating an excellent relaxation area for both locals and tourists.

All you need to do is grab the rope, launch yourself from the high rocks into the refreshing water below. This is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day, and you can also relax and sunbathe on the surrounding rocks.

On weekends, this place becomes more lively with locals and tourists coming here to perform flips and showcase their swinging skills. The allure of El Salto lies not only in the adventurous activity but also in the beautiful natural scenery and the fact that this experience is completely free.

8. Canyoning Tour

La Fortuna is renowned not only for its volcano and hot springs but also as the ideal destination for those passionate about canyoning. If you’re seeking a thrilling experience during your trip, canyoning is an activity you simply cannot miss.

Your adventure begins with a short 4×4 truck ride from the center of La Fortuna to the canyon’s entrance. From there, a brief walk leads you to the rappelling points. During this adventure, you will rappel down majestic waterfalls and deep gorges, immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of the wild nature.

Under the guidance of professional instructors, you will explore some of the best canyoning spots that La Fortuna has to offer. This activity is suitable for everyone, from beginners to thrill-seekers, providing everyone the opportunity to enjoy and explore nature safely.

9. Horseback Riding Tour

Taking a ride on horseback along the winding trails of La Fortuna, you will experience ultimate relaxation. Whether greeting the sunrise or soaking in the sunset, each moment offers wonderful experiences.

It is the local people, with their passion and extensive knowledge of the land, who have created these impressive horseback riding tours. Choosing between a private tour and a small group tour not only provides comfort but also allows you to easily adjust the pace to suit your abilities and personal preferences.

Each ride is not just a journey but a discovery. From riverbanks with views of the majestic volcano to pristine white sandy beaches, each horseback ride opens up a new perspective on La Fortuna. To ensure you don’t miss any moment of this fantastic adventure, book one of the most popular horseback riding tours in advance.

La Fortuna places to stay

If you have your own vehicle, you’ll discover the finest accommodations and campsites just a short drive from the village center. For those without personal transport, La Fortuna offers a variety of excellent lodging options to suit different budgets. If soaking in hot springs is a highlight of your visit, consider booking a hotel where hot springs are included in your stay.

To fully experience all the top things to do in La Fortuna, we recommend spending 3-4 days in the area. Arenal is not only one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica but also boasts a wide range of tourist attractions, despite being a highly touristy area.

The Ideal Time to Visit La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a fantastic destination in Costa Rica, with the best weather conditions and activities available during the dry season from December to April. During this period, the weather is less rainy, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable, creating ideal conditions to explore volcanoes, waterfalls, and enjoy the natural hot springs.

During my visit in August, the rainy season, I found that it was not the ideal time. High rainfall limited outdoor activities, and some restaurants and attractions were closed; additionally, the increased mosquito population during the rainy season was a significant nuisance.

Furthermore, I recommend avoiding the peak travel months of December and January, when tourist crowds can diminish your experience at popular sites and increase the cost of your trip. Instead, consider visiting at the end of the dry season, like March or April, to enjoy the best weather without the crowds.