15 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna is one of the most scenic towns in Costa Rica. It`s in the inland province of Alajuela, in the northern region of the country, and despite its small size, it`s one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica. Here, visitors will find all types of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a worthwhile stop on the itinerary.

In our case, we came to La Fortuna with the aim of viewing the famous Arenal Volcano and hiking through its pathways of solidified lava. However, once there, we found many other activities available in La Fortuna, so we’re eager to return.

In this guide, I’ll share the 15 top attractions in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, as well as hotel recommendations to help you plan your trip.

1. Arenal Volcano, an incredible place to visit in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

One defining characteristic of La Fortuna is the silhouette of the Arenal Volcano visible in the background. Surrounded by greenery, this monumental volcano appears to be looking down from above. Its most destructive eruption on record took place in 1968, claiming over 70 lives. Do not worry, though, because the volcano has been dormant since 2010.

Nowadays, this impressive volcano represents one of the main sights to see in La Fortuna. The best approach to witnessing this natural phenomenon is by visiting Arenal Volcano National Park, one of Costa Rica`s most highly rated national parks. In addition to the spectacular perspectives of one of Costa Rica’s most renowned volcanoes, you’ll discover several lovely routes here, creating a hiker’s paradise.

The park is partitioned into two sectors: the Volcano Sector has three diverse trails that investigate the lava streams, while the Peninsula Sector veers into the surroundings of Lake Arenal. It’s worthwhile visiting both sectors, and you can accomplish it in one day, even combining your adventure with another amazing place: the La Fortuna Waterfall.

For those not planning to hire a vehicle in Costa Rica, I suggest taking this trip from La Fortuna’s town center. In addition to the volcano and waterfall, it visits some natural hot springs in the area where you can relax and unwind.

2. La Fortuna Waterfall, a must-see in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

As mentioned previously, the La Fortuna Waterfall represents another premier attraction in La Fortuna and merits inclusion on your itinerary. Reaching nearly seventy meters (230 feet) in height and enveloped in lush greenery, it stands among the finest waterfalls found within Costa Rica.

While you must go down 500 stone steps to reach the base of the waterfall, it’s worthwhile for a refreshing swim. In addition, there are some rest areas along the way, and if you’re fortunate, you may spot some native animals of Costa Rica, like howler monkeys or toucans.

Also, be aware that entrance to the waterfall costs $18, which is independent of Arenal Volcano Park. For $2 more, you can buy a express admission pass. Vehicle parking here is free, and the waterfall is only a 10-minute drive from the center of La Fortuna. If you don’t have a car or don’t want to drive, this excursion is a great substitute. You’ll visit three beautiful places in La Fortuna: the waterfall, the volcano, and the hot springs.

3. Soak in the hot springs, one of the best activities in La Fortuna

Relaxing within the warm mineral-rich waters arising from deep underground at the hot springs in La Fortuna is highly recommended during your visit, especially after exploring the area all day long. Thanks to the volcanic activity of Arenal Volcano, there are several springs full of earth`s inner depths that provide a therapeutic experience. Therefore, if you are unsure of activities in La Fortuna, soaking your body in the comfortably warm waters cannot be beaten.

To do this, you have two options. The primary is to stay at one of the paid thermal complexes in the area or purchase a daily pass. There are various complexes, but I recommend the , which has over 20 hot springs.

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more natural setting, check out the Chollín Hot Springs. They’re in a wilder space, so there aren’t any services in the surrounding region. Also, they can get pretty crowded, especially on weekends, so try to visit early.

The second choice involves participating in this full-day tour that was described previously. It is the most efficient means to see the most notable attractionsin La Fortuna: the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and the hot springs.

4. Hanging bridges of Místico Park, a place you cannot miss in La Fortuna

If you’re looking for activities in La Fortuna that the whole family can enjoy, I recommend visiting Místico Park and touring its elevated bridges. Here, you can stroll a network of suspended trails while taking in views of the forest near Arenal Volcano. There are 16 bridges in total, strategically placed to fully immerse you in the incredible landscape. The entire route spans about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), so it will take approximately two hours.

As this is a privately owned attraction, one must purchase an admittance ticket ($26/person) to enter. The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., although they also organize nighttime tours to view wildlife. If self-driving is not preferred, you can join the day tour previously suggested or this excursion, which replaces the hot springs with Místico Park, a more child-friendly attraction.

5. Lake Arenal, another tourist attraction near La Fortuna, Costa Rica

LakeArenal is another location worthy of a visit in La Fortuna. When the governing body constructed a hydroelectric plant in the Arenal Valley, they dammed the river and fashioned this man-made lake. The facility is one of the most groundbreaking engineering feats in Costa Rica, supplying energy to 40% of the nation.

This lake is the second largest lake in Central America, covering 90 square kilometers (35 square miles). Although the formation of the lagoon in the 1970s displaced 2,500 people across two communities, they were able to improve their living standards with better housing, infrastructure, electricity, and wastewater administration.

As a primary allurement located near La Fortuna, Lake Arenal lies merely 20 minutes from downtown and offers magnificent perspectives. One can travel alongside the road paralleling the lagoon and enjoy the varied vistas.

Beyond the magnificent panoramas, there are numerous activities one can partake in, such as taking a kayaking tour of Lake Arenal, allowing an hour to traverse the water while observing native birdlife. Nourishing fruit is provided to sustain hikers, though regional restaurants offer more filling fare. Another enjoyable option involves taking a stand-up paddleboard tour suitable for all ages, affording a distinctive perspective of the scenic lake.

6. Go ziplining in Arenal Mundo Aventura Park, something fun to do in La Fortuna

If you’re open to experience, there are plenty of fun activities in La Fortuna, Costa Rica to enjoy. One that I strongly suggest is zip lining at Arenal Mundo Aventura Park. Here, visitors can choose from seven zip line options suitable for varying ages and intensity levels, allowing you to go with children, companions, or family.

As you soar through the air, you’ll get amazing sights of the forests, canyons, and waterfalls of this 560-hectare park. For me, this is one of the most thrilling things to do in La Fortuna, so don’t hesitate to book your excursion here, which includes pick-up from your hotel in La Fortuna.

7. Visit the town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Though self-evident, with such various exciting activities available in La Fortuna, sightseers risk neglecting to stroll through the charming streets of the town. Indeed, the community of La Fortuna has progressed far beyond its original small village scale, yet its traditions and attractions still captivate visitors.

You can easily get lost exploring the interesting streets of La Fortuna or simply sit outside observing locals’ everyday lives. Despite newer places and tourist attractions, some older sites still remain standing, such as the Church of San Juan Bosco and Parque de La Fortuna, which forms the central part of the town.

On clear days, the outline of the Arenal Volcano towers over the town’s buildings, creating one of the most identifiable images associated with La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

8. Rafting, an adrenaline-pumping activity in La Fortuna

One of the most notable occasions during my trip was white-water rafting in La Fortuna, CostaRica. It was an action-packed experience filled with excitement, even though my cousins and I had never rafted before, we absolutely loved it. The instructors’ explanations were comprehensive, we had all the necessary safety equipment, and there were rescue kayaks available in case of emergency. While there are many destinations to go rafting in Costa Rica, La Fortuna has three rivers that offer varying degrees of challenges: Balsa, Toro, and Peñas Blancas.

We opted for this river excursion, which endured 2.5 hours and went along Degree II and III rapids. After a brief guidance, one of the guides joined us on the raft, while another awaited us with dry towels at the end. They also invited us to eat at a local restaurant so we wouldn’t need to go back to the hotel with an empty stomach. It was a adrenaline-filled activity, but we felt entirely risk-free, so I strongly recommend it if you’re a newcomer.

On the flip side, if one has prior experience and seeks a more stimulating journey, this tour through Level III and IV rapids may prove a better fit.

9. Cerro Chato, an attraction in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, for beautiful views

CerroChato is another iconic attraction in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, that shouldn’t be missed. If you’ve already hiked the tracks of the Arenal Volcano and you want more, I suggest taking the route to the crater of this inactive volcano.

Be aware that this route is highly challenging, so I only suggest it if you’re in good physical condition. If it has rained recently, the trail will be full of mud, and the forest section will be quite narrow and intimidating. However, the most difficult part of the trail is the final slope to the crater, around 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level. The climb to the top is tough, but your effort will be rewarded with an incredible view of the surrounding landscape. You can even cool off in the crater’s lake.

If undertaking this mountain excursion, one must initially register and pay the entrance fee of $15 at the Paradise Mountain Lodge Hotel. This La Fortuna volcano hike takes roughly 6 hours to fulfill, and waterproof clothing and footwear should be worn as rain frequently occurs

10. Cueva del Venado, one of the best places to visit in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Visiting the Cueva del Venado is another fun activity to do in La Fortuna. Initially, I was somewhat reluctant to take this underground tour, but I was pleasantly surprised. In addition to hanging stalactites and rising stalagmites, we saw marine fossils and corals, remnants of these ancient limestone caves that were once beneath the sea. Without question, it`s one of the most unique places to visit in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

The caves are safe to enter, although you must book a guided cave tour with a certified guide. Our guide, Pedro, was passionate about the area and offered us lots of information while highlighting striking details along the way. He was also very considerate with us, especially in the sections where we had to crouch or crawl to pass through. Be aware of that if you have claustrophobia!

Naturally, the excursion incorporated all the gear and equipment necessary for our safety, such as a protective suit, helmet, and flashlight.

11. Visit a cocoa production farm, an interesting excursion to do in La Fortuna

Visiting a cocoa production farm is another interesting option to consider in La Fortuna, and it’s also quite enjoyable. Not only will you gain more knowledge about the local culture, but you’ll also get to eat some delicious chocolate! We joined this experience, where we learned various facts regarding cocoa, together with its origin and history. Of course, we sampled an assortment of chocolates.

This excursion in La Fortuna, Costa Rica begins with exploring a farm, where visitors will get an up-close experience observing the production process. The guide will divulge the various secrets of cocoa cultivation and processing, and participants can assist in gathering the fruit, allowing it to dry, and grinding its seeds. Another fascinating part of this tour is the brief historical lesson about chocolate’s importance and traditions in Costa Rica and ancient civilizations.

I thoroughly enjoyed this tour, especially since it took place in a wild natural setting. The excursion lasts only an hour and a half, so if you have some free time while passing through La Fortuna, I strongly advise taking it.

12. Canyoning in the Perdido Canyon, another exciting thing to do in La Fortuna

The whitewater tour through the Perdido Canyon was another La Fortuna activity that I was eagerly anticipating. Whitewater activities are among the most thrilling things to do here, so they are perfect for those seeking adventure. Basically, this sport involves descending rocky walls, commonly along a riverbed. On this tour in La Fortuna, we moved through six different cascades, rendering it quite distinctive.

The morning begins with a 4WD trip to a nearby mountain town, where you’ll meet your guides. They’ll give you safety instructions and teach you some methods before accompanying you down the canyon. Do not worry; the tour includes high-quality climbing equipment such as a professional harness, helmet, and gloves to guarantee you stay safe at all times.

After completing a sequence of descents, jumps, and climbs using specialized equipment, you’ll walk back to the beginning along a lovely nature trail. To finish up, you’ll visit the Canyon Café, where you can change into dry clothes and enjoy a meal.

13. See sloths on the Bogarin Trail, a must-do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

The prominent Bogarin Trail is a well-known natural path just a few minutes from the town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, so you can get there by automobile or on foot. What makes this place so popular is its wealth of wildlife, like various kinds of birds, lizards, frogs, and Costa Rican sloths.

The primary route within the trail is 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) long, though shorter routes branch off from it. That said, hiking the path is considered an straightforward activity in La Fortuna for all ages as the route is level and well-maintained. There are even rest areas where one can take a break and picturesque bridges where photographs can be taken.

Of course, the best way to make the most of your visit is by hiring a natural science guide. They’ll be able to spot wildlife hidden in the forest that your untrained eyes may miss.

14. Nighttime frog safari, another cool tour in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Concerning creatures found in Costa Rica, did you realize that most species are nocturnal? After sunset, life in the jungle and woods completely changes, and some varieties become much more energetic and simpler to observe. Because of this I highly recommend this night safari, one of the most famed excursions in Costa Rica.

During this nighttime venture in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, you’ll hike through a protected section of the rainforest near the Arenal Volcano and Burio River. This place represents the sole natural frog sanctuary in the country, so I definitely recommend registering and trying your luck at observing some creatures in their natural habitat.

The activity begins at 5:45 p.m. and lasts 2 hours. During this time, you may spot up to 28 distinct frog species, some of which live exclusively in Costa Rica. Your guide will assist you in observing them more easily and will provide a flashlight so you can illuminate your way in the dark. Without question, it is one of the premier things to do in La Fortuna.

15. Río Celeste, a spectacular place near La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Finally, the Río Celeste is an extraordinary place to visit near La Fortuna, Costa Rica. While it’s located 68 kilometers (42 miles) from the town center, carving out time in your itinerary to see this magnificent natural paradise is worthwhile. You can sign up for this day trip from town, which includes a volcanic hike past this gorgeous river. During our trip, we actually didn’t visit Rio Celeste from La Fortuna, but we reserved a hotel near the , which is adjacent.

Costa Rica’s Rio Celeste is renowned for its distinguishing turquoise-blue hue, which one needs to see to trust. It also has a magnificent waterfall that will leave you at a loss for words. To get there, you must traverse a 1.5 km (2.5 miles) path, which involves 250 steps. It may appear demanding, but I’ll mention that if you take it slowly, it’s not difficult in the slightest. Once you achieve the base, you can contemplate the majesty and beauty of this place.

We opted to extend the walk one additional kilometer (1.6 miles) to see the Borbollones, an area where the water appears to simmer due to the high volcanic temperatures. We also viewed the Blue Lagoon, which was my favorite part thanks to its spectacular hue resulting from high colloidal silica content. The last section of the walk was where the Buena Vista River meets the Quebrada Agria River. This area is known as the Teñideros due to the unique phenomenon that takes place here: the water’s bright blue color suddenly vanishes.

Where to stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna offers lodging possibilities to suit all tastes and budgets, even if you want to travel economically, so you won’t have trouble finding a suitable option. If you still haven’t decided where to spend your time in Costa Rica, check out my recommendations for places to stay in La Fortuna for a pleasant visit:

• Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort: This hotel is considered as one of the most prestigious accommodations options in Costa Rica. Guests can pick from varied room classifications such as suites with a balcony, hot tub, and impressive panoramic views. Moreover, there is a wellness spa where visitors can indulge in relaxing beauty treatments. For dining, two restaurants are available serving gourmet as well as authentic local dishes.

• TheSprings Resort & Spa at Arenal: This luxury hotel provides an ideal option for those seeking accommodation with refined rooms. Its elegant rooms include dreamy balconies with forest views, while the modern thermal complex has therapeutic hot springs with mineral-rich waters. Situated 2 kilometers from the town of La Fortuna, guests can enjoy a tranquil stay without being far from activities. In addition, it includes three restaurants serving Italian, Indian, and Japanese cuisine

• Selina La Fortuna: This offers an economical choice for limited budgets. It’s one of the top-rated hostels in Costa Rica, providing rooms with 6, 8, and 10 beds, as well as private rooms for two people. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a shared kitchen, and a garden with sun loungers. You’ll also find a restaurant within the complex where you can savor dishes at low-cost rates. We decided to stay here and we enjoyed it.

• RyA del Volcán Equipped Apartments: For a home away from home, consider these apartments in Costa Rica, situated just 3 kilometers from town. Guests can select between 1 or 2 bedroom units, and each accommodation features a sofa bed in the living room. These modern and comfortable lodgings include a small kitchen with a toaster, microwave, and coffee maker. Additionally, the complex offers reliable Internet access, perfect for anyone needing to work remotely.

Map of La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Finally, here is a map showing the location of places in and around La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where you’ll find all the spots and lodging mentioned earlier. It’s also wise to refer to our touristic maps of Costa Rica to assist with planning your itinerary.

I hope this guide to La Fortuna in Costa Rica convinced you to feature this place in your travel plans. I’m certain you’ll enjoy its natural areas and tourist attractions as much as we did. As always, feel free to leave a comment below with any questions you have about visiting La Fortuna. I’m happy to help!

Pura Vida!