Top 10 La Fortuna Things to Do: Unmissable Adventures in Costa Rica

La Fortuna, situated in the northern highlands of Costa Rica, is a haven for both adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. La Fortuna is the country’s adventure capital and boasts many activities, including exhilarating zip-line tours and relaxing hot spring baths. This guide outlines the top 10 must-do adventures in La Fortuna, ensuring you fully experience the excitement of this lively destination. When considering “La Fortuna things to do,” this guide has you covered.

Key Takeaways

• La Fortuna is renowned as Costa Rica’s adventure capital, offering thrilling and relaxing activities.
• Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall are must-visit natural attractions.
• Tabacón Hot Springs provides a perfect spot for relaxation amidst nature.
• Mistico Arenal, Hanging Bridges Park, offers breathtaking views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Booking tours in advance is recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on popular activities.

Arenal Volcano

Explore the Arenal Volcano

The Arenal volcano is unmissable when you’re in La Fortuna. I’m talking literally and figuratively. You can’t possibly miss the conical volcano that soars into the clouds and serves as the ever-present backdrop to the town, and you should take a hike around it.

Visit Arenal National Park to See the Volcano

Ok, put on some comfortable shoes and get ready for the hike of your life! Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes, and the national park is built around this well-known “character”!

Arenal Volcano National Park has two sectors – the Arenal Volcano Sector and the peninsula sector. Funnily enough, I did not realize there were 2 areas when I visited, so if you want to make the most of your ticket, read on:

1. The Arenal Volcano sector is the main one (here is the Google map pin), and as you may have guessed, it’s closer to the volcano (the one I visited). Here, you’ll find the most well-known trails, lava rocks, giant trees that survived the eruptions, and the best volcano views. There’s also a viewpoint that’s reachable by car if you don’t want to walk (although I recommend you do).

Hike the Lava Flows

The northern and central Costa Rica mountains are lined up in a row of hissing, steaming, sputtering volcanoes, some of which are open for exploration. Wander among boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles of Volcán Rincón de la Vieja; hike the lava flows and soak in volcanic-heated pools at Volcán Arenal; peer into the steaming crater at Poás and leave footprints in the lava fields of Irazú.

Boldly go where no tourist has gone before (just kidding, it’s a popular spot). But seriously, the Arenal Volcano offers an adventure that’s both thrilling and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re hiking the trails or soaking in the hot springs, this is one experience you won’t want to miss.

La Fortuna Waterfall

Overview

Since the waterfall-chaser, I have loved scaling the rocks around the pool and jumping into the chilly water. Just be careful when swimming where the water plunges into the pool – the current can pull you under the water if you get too close. If you are also a waterfall fan and feeling adventurous, there are many canyoneering tours where you can rappel down cliffs and waterfalls.

Getting There

The Arenal River feeds La Fortuna waterfall and drops about 75 meters before continuing into the jungle. To reach the waterfall, you’ll have to pay the entrance fee of $18 and follow the path around and down about 490 steps before reaching it. You can swim in the plunge pool and bathe in the calm waters here. Further downstream, you’ll find a tiny beach and some rocks to relax on.

What to Expect

Catarata Fortuna drops from 75m (~250ft), located in a biological reserve with an area of over 210 acres. After taking the 540 steps up and down to reach La Fortuna, spending time in the water will feel like heaven! But don’t be scared off. Trust me; this is one of the most accessible trails for getting to a waterfall! I had sneakers and then changed to flip-flops once I arrived, but you can even do the whole hike in flip-flops! (I told you it was accessible).

Tips

At the base of the dormant Chato volcano, the 70-meter La Fortuna Waterfall cascades into the most brilliant blue water pool and is surrounded by lush rainforest. Be warned, there are 500 steps to get down to the waterfall (and to get back up!). You must pay an $18 entrance fee to see the La Fortuna Waterfall… But what outdoor activity don’t you have to pay for in La Fortuna…?

For me, the absolute highlight of my trip to La Fortuna, was Catarata La Fortuna. The waterfall is a lofty 70 m high, and the only way to get to it is to hike down about 400 steps (and then hike 400 steps up on the way back). So, make sure you’re wearing good shoes; it can be a slippery hike if you’re in flip-flops. On the way down, the thundering crash of water hitting water taunts you, but when you finally arrive, the sight of the towering waterfall and a quick dip in its pool make the hike worthwhile.

Tabacón Hot Springs

Overview

There are tons of hot springs in the area, but we went to Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa—one of the most famous ones—and loved it! You’ll be surrounded by small hot spring waterfalls, palm trees, and various plants (a mini jungle)!

Visiting Options

They have different options for visiting – daytime, evening, or full-day. I do not recommend choosing just the evening time because, in the daytime, you’ll see the super lush greenery around and can take lots of cool pictures!

Pricing

Here is a list of the hot springs in the area from most to least expensive:

Tabacón Thermal Resort – An upscale resort that offers separate deals for its thermal pools. The eco-friendly resort has 5 springs and a cold river.

• Full day with 2 meals – US$110
• Full day with 1 meal – US$89
• Early or Late (10 am – 2 pm or 6 pm – 10 pm) with food – US$75
• Room (hot springs included) – from US$440 per night

Natural Beauty

Situated on 900 acres of lush tropical reserve, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is home to the best naturally-flowing mineral hot springs in Costa Rica. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better natural hot springs experience worldwide!

Other Hot Springs

Among the most popular hot springs in the area are:

• Baldi Hot Springs Hotel
• Tabacón Resort
• The Springs Resort & Spa
• Paradise Hot Springs
• Ecotermales Hot Springs

We also offer a La Fortuna Highlights 4 in 1 with Tabacón Hot Springs Tour, which combines activities into a Full Day tour and concludes with a hot springs visit.

Day Pass

While hotel guests at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa visit for free, anyone can purchase a day pass for $80+. There’s also a day pass option that includes a 3-course meal (this is what my friend and I chose, and it was delicious – such a treat!).

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

Explore the Canopy

Exploring the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park will be your favorite thing to do in La Fortuna! There’s something extraordinary about seeing the rainforest from above. You get a fascinating look at the rainforest’s heart and a close-up view of its vibrant ecosystem. Mother Nature has put on a show!

Guided Tours

At Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, you can go alone or hire an expert nature guide to walk with you. If you opt for the guided tour, I guarantee you’ll see many more creatures than you’d notice (these guides are like hawks spotting their prey!), and you’ll learn so much about the rainforest ecosystem. If you want to hire a guide, book your Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park experience in advance, as there’s limited availability.

Stunning Views

The views of Arenal Volcano don’t disappoint either! La Fortuna Center is only 31 minutes away from this fantastic park, which is only 20.4 km away. So, if you’re wondering about the best time of year to visit Costa Rica, any time is perfect for this adventure.

Visiting Costa Rica’s Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park is a must-do. The city of Monteverde has two good hanging bridges attractions as well: Selvatura Park and Sky Adventures (Monteverde Park). What else is there to do in La Fortuna?

Arenal Natura Ecological Park

Welcome to the Arenal Natura Ecological Park, where nature meets adventure in the quirkiest ways possible! This park is a must-visit for anyone looking to get up close and personal with Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity. Whether you’re a fan of slithering snakes or fluttering butterflies, there’s something here for everyone. And guess what? The best time of year to go to Costa Rica is whenever you’re ready for some fun!

Wildlife Exhibits

Prepare to be amazed by the variety of wildlife exhibits. You’ll find it all from the tiniest frogs to the most majestic reptiles. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous red-eyed tree frog—it’s like meeting a celebrity but slimmer.

Guided Tours

If you’re unsure where to start, join one of the park’s guided tours. The knowledgeable guides will take you through the park’s highlights, ensuring you don’t miss a thing. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on the best time of year to travel to Costa Rica for wildlife spotting.

Adventure Activities

Are you feeling adventurous? Try the ziplining experience that takes you over the lush canopy. It’s not just a ride but a journey through the treetops you’ll never forget. And if you’re wondering about the best time of the year to visit Costa Rica, it’s whenever you’re ready to soar!

Relaxation Spots

After all that excitement, you’ll need a place to unwind. The park offers several relaxation spots to sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty around you. It’s the perfect way to end your visit, especially if you’re pondering the best time of year to visit Costa Rica for wildlife.

A trip to Arenal Natura Ecological Park is like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, but with more laughs and fewer commercial breaks.

Venado Caves

Explore the Depths

The Venado Caves, located just outside La Fortuna, are a series of underground caves and caverns waiting to be explored. Formed by tectonic plate shifting and erosion by underwater rivers some 15-20 million years ago, these caves are a testament to the earth’s unbridled power. Ready to see some cool limestone stones and stalactites? I sure am!

Guided Tours

You can drive and visit the Venado Caves alone, but if you want to spot some wildlife and learn more about the caves’ history, I’d recommend a guided tour. This one is one of the best-rated online. Just ensure you don’t get scared by the inhabitants of the caves, bats, and marine spiders. You’re visiting their home, so I’m sure they’ll make you feel welcome!

Practical Information

• Location: 1 hour away by car from La Fortuna town
• Price: $28 for the entrance or $75 with a guide and transportation

The underground world of La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano is just as exciting as what you’ll see above!

Cerro Chato Volcano

Hiking the Cerro Chato Volcano is not for everyone, but if you feel confident enough and want to visit Arenal Volcano’s little brother, stick around for a few minutes!

Fun Fact: The last eruption of Cerro Chato created the gorgeous waterfall La Fortuna!

Many people overlook Cerro Chato, although it’s located near Arenal Volcano. If you’re into hiking, I think you’ll love it here!

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa

Overview

Nestled on 860 acres of private rainforest, the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa offers exceptional service and tropical-chic design. This place is a nature lover’s paradise with jaw-dropping views of the Arenal Volcano and an on-site bird sanctuary boasting around 500 different bird species.

Activities

Whether you’re into hiking, bird-watching, or just lounging by the pool, this lodge has you covered. The front desk can arrange a variety of tours to nearby attractions. And let’s not forget the sun terrace, perfect for soaking up some rays while surrounded by a tropical forest.

Spa and Relaxation

After a few days of hiking and walking, take a day off at the spa and relax with a massage. We both enjoyed excellent massage treatments at the resort. There’s also a large pool and jacuzzi for you to unwind in.

Amenities

• Swimming pool
• Games room
• Sun terrace
• On-site bird sanctuary

Take a break from your adventurous days and enjoy the serene environment of the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Booking Information

Check availability and rates on popular booking sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com. This lodge offers a unique experience that combines luxury with the raw beauty of Costa Rica’s rainforest.

Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest lake, is man-made. In 1979, a dam was created, and the lake was enlarged to produce hydroelectric power for the country. In addition to being a great source of green energy, the lake is also the epicenter of water-based fun in the area. It is considered one of the world’s best windsurfing and kite surfing areas. So, if you’re looking for something a little more beginner-friendly, I recommend kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding on the deep blue water.

Windsurfing and Kite Surfing

Lake Arenal is one of the world’s top three places for windsurfing, together with Lake Garda in Italy and George River in Columbia, US. The waters are just perfect for this sport! You can also try kayaking, fishing, SUP, or going on a boat ride – all kinds of water activities you can think of!

Fishing and Boating

If you’re itching to get back into the water, why not try standup paddleboarding on Lake Arenal?

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year to visit Costa Rica and enjoy Lake Arenal is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is perfect for all water activities!

Lake Arenal is not just a pretty face; it’s a powerhouse of fun and energy, literally!

Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Center

Meet the Residents

At Proyecto Asis, visitors have a good chance of seeing animals (some endangered) that are rare in other parts of the country, including peccaries, tapirs, crocodiles, tiny squirrel monkeys, and more. Note that the best wildlife watching happens at dawn and dusk, necessitating an overnight stay in the park.

Guided Tours

While many locals find this park a little contrived and not completely wild, it is still an excellent way to witness endemic bird species, including toucans (we spotted two species), sloths, frogs, snakes, and howler monkeys. When visiting, I highly recommend getting the service of a guide because the animals are tough to spot, especially the sloths. Alternatively, you can also keep an eye out for what other guided groups are looking at.

Conservation Efforts

Proyecto Asis is a wildlife shelter and environmental education center near La Fortuna. The center is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing local wildlife. Its conservation efforts are commendable, and visitors can learn a lot about the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.

Visiting Proyecto Asis is not just an adventure; it’s an educational experience that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for wildlife and conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks! La Fortuna is more than just a destination; it’s a playground for adventurers, thrill-seekers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle like Tarzan, soaking in hot springs like a relaxed sloth, or hiking up volcanoes like a modern-day explorer, there’s something for everyone in La Fortuna. Among the top “La Fortuna things to do,” you’ll find countless opportunities for excitement and relaxation. So pack your bags, book those tours in advance, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica’s ultimate adventure capital. And remember, if you didn’t take a selfie with a sloth, did you even go to La Fortuna? Happy adventuring!

Frequently Asked Questions