Discovering la Fortuna: A guide to the best activities
We visited La Fortuna during our trip to Costa Rica. This is the best place if you’re looking for adventure. There is something for everyone. You can raft down the river, explore stunning waterfalls, or zip through the rainforest canopy. One of the other best things to do in La Fortuna is sleep in one of the most unique hotels in Costa Rica, Nayara Tented Camp.
We have some great tips for you like the best time to go to La Fortuna or where to stay in the most adventurous town of Costa Rica.
How to get to La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna is located in the north-central part of Costa Rica, about a 4-hour drive from the capital city of San Jose. The easiest way to get there is by car, but you can also take a bus from San Jose or fly to the nearby Arenal Airport (Fortuna’s airport code is ARA).
How to get to La Fortuna by bus from San Jose?
The cheapest and most popular way to get from San Jose to La Fortuna is by bus. Several companies offer daily buses between the two cities, and the journey takes around 4 hours. You can catch a bus from either the Terminal del Caribe in San Jose or the Gran Terminal del Sur in Alajuela. It’s not easy to find the timetables of all the buses in Costa Rica. The best thing to do is get in one of the Facebook groups about traveling with the bus in Costa Rica.
What is the Best time to visit La Fortuna, Costa Rica
The best time to visit La Fortuna in Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and crowds.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, consider visiting during the green season (May-November), when rainfall is more common but rates are lower.
What to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Exploring the Rio Celeste waterfalls
The Rio Celeste waterfalls are one the most popular attractions in La Fortuna. The turquoise waters are a sight to behold, and you can even swim in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls. So what are you waiting for? Go explore one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls!
The Rio Celeste River or Blue River is located in the Tenorio Volcano National Park and about 1 hour from La Fortuna. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you could also choose to go on a Rio Celeste tour, leaving from La Fortuna.
We recommend arriving at the park in the morning before 9 am. The Rio Celeste hike is 3.7 miles (6 km) in total and takes around 3 hours. The trails can get very muddy but it is possible to rent boots at the entrance.
The trail is a natural path and not handicap-friendly. Swimming is not allowed in the Rio Celeste River, but it is possible to take a dip by the bridge, 1km past the park entrance. It is called Rio Celeste Free Pool in Google Maps.
So what are you waiting for? Go explore one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls!
White water rafting in La Fortuna
One of the best things to do in La Fortuna is go white-water rafting! There are plenty of tour operators offering trips down the river, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. Prices vary depending on the operator but expect to pay around USD 50 per person. Most tours last around 2-3 hours and include all the necessary equipment. So if you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, white water rafting is a great option!
Ziplining
Ziplining is another popular activity in La Fortuna. There are a few different companies offering tours, so be sure to do some research to find one that’s right for you. Prices start at around $40 USD per person, and most tours include 10-12 zip lines. Tours typically last around 2 hours, so it’s a great activity if you’re short on time. Soar through the rainforest canopy and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding jungle – it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Hiking Arenal 1968 Trail at the Arenal Vulcano
If you’re a fan of hiking, then you’ll love the Arenal Volcano. There are a few different trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult.
This Arenal 1968 Trail is one of the most popular trails in Costa Rica. The trail is named after the year when a devastating volcanic eruption destroyed the town of Arenal. Today, the trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and volcanoes.
Hikers of all levels can enjoy the trail, as it can be completed in a few hours. The trailhead is located just outside the town of La Fortuna, making it easy to access.
Another famous hike is the Cerro Chato Trail. The most popular trail is the Cerro Chato trail, which takes you to the top of an inactive volcano crater. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip, so be sure to start early. . So put on your hiking shoes and explore one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful volcanoes!
More info on the Cerro Chato trail can be found on this website.
La Fortuna waterfall in Costa Rica
The La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Costa Rica. The waterfall is located just a short drive from the town of La Fortuna, and it is easy to find thanks to clear signage.
The waterfall is situated in a beautiful tropical setting, and it is possible to swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall. The water is refreshing and invigorating, and it’s a great way to cool off on a hot day. But you have to go downstream to find calmer pools with sandy bottoms.
There are also changing rooms and showers available, so you can make a day of it.
The entrance fee for the La Fortuna Waterfall is $18 per person and $5 for children. There is a parking lot with bathrooms, a cafe, and a souvenir store.
Mistico hanging bridges in La Fortuna
The Mistico hanging bridges are one of the most popular tourist attractions in La Fortuna. The bridges are located in the rainforest and offer stunning views of the jungle. There are a total of 16 bridges, and the longest bridge is over 300 feet long!
To get to the Mistico hanging bridges, you can take a shuttle from La Fortuna for $5 per person. The shuttle will drop you off at the entrance of the park, and from there you can follow the trail to the bridges. The trail is well-marked and takes about 15-20 minutes to walk.
The Mistico hanging bridges are open daily from 6 am to 4 pm. The entrance fee is $26 per person.
Canyoning in La Fortuna Costa Rica
Canyoning in La Fortuna Costa Rica is an adventure activity that involves rappelling down waterfalls and swimming in natural pools. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
To get to the canyoning site, you’ll need to take a short hike through the rainforest. The entrance fee is $45 per person, and tour operators typically include equipment rental and a professional guide.
Some of the best tour operators for canyoning in La Fortuna are White Water Rafting & Adventure tours and Desafio Adventure Company.
Doing a chocolate tour in La Fortuna Costa Rica
If you love chocolate, then a chocolate tour in La Fortuna Costa Rica is a must-do! Learn about the history and process of making chocolate, from cacao beans to finished products. Taste fresh cacao straight from the pod, and see how creative locals use chocolate in their dishes.
Most tours include a visit to a working plantation, where you can see all the steps of production. You’ll learn about fermentation, drying, roasting, winnowing, and grinding the beans. Some tours will also take you to a local factory to see how commercial chocolate is made.
Tours typically last 3-4 hours and cost around $45 per person. Many tour operators in La Fortuna offer chocolate tours, so it’s easy to find one that fits your schedule.
So what are you waiting for? Book a chocolate tour and indulge in this delicious treat!
Hot springs La Fortuna Costa Rica
One of the most popular activities in La Fortuna is visiting the hot springs. There are several different hot springs resorts to choose from, each with its own unique features. Prices range from $15-$50 per person, depending on the resort you choose.
Most of the resorts offer transportation from your hotel or resort, so you don’t have to worry about renting a car or getting lost.
If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or evening, hot springs are a great option and definitely worth checking out while you’re in La Fortuna. Check out this tour where you can do hot springs, hanging bridges, a waterfall, and a hike.
Horseback riding in La Fortuna Costa Rica
Horseback riding is a popular activity in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. The horseback riding tours take you through the stunning landscapes of the Arenal Volcano National Park. You can trot along the forest trails, ride through jungle paths, and cross over rivers. The best part is that you get to experience all of this while on the back of a gentle and well-trained horse.
Horseback riding is a great activity for all ages and levels of experience. Whether you are an experienced rider or a complete beginner, there are tour options available to suit your needs. Most tours will last for around 2-3 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the surrounding area.
The cost of horseback riding tours varies depending on the length of the tour and the number of people in your group. However, you can expect to pay around $50 per person for a 2-hour tour.
There are many different companies offering horseback riding tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. However, we recommend using Arenal Horseback Adventures. This company offers both private and group tours, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs. They also have a great reputation for providing a safe and enjoyable horseback riding experience.
So, if you are looking for an activity that will allow you to explore the stunning landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, then horseback riding is a great option.
Where to SLEEP in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Where to stay in La Fortuna
This budget hotel has a direct view of the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake. It is located 6,5 km / 4 miles from the national park and a 25 min drive from the town of La Fortuna. This is the best budget option with a splendid view of the region.
Nayara Tented Camp is located in Arenal National Park. The hotel is part of Nayara Gardens and was chosen as the number 1 hotel in Central America by Travel and Leisure magazine.
Yes, this is probably the best place to spend your night in Arenal. But that comes with a price so be prepared to pay some extra bucks for this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
This luxury resort offers spectacular views of the Arenal volcano and valley. They have 28 hot spring pools, a spa, and a fitness center. They have no less than 5 restaurants, so you’re spoiled for choice. And it’s a fantastic place for families.
Selina is situated in Fortuna, 6 km / 4 miles from La Fortuna Waterfall. It is a 3-star hotel with a restaurant, free parking, and a bar. They have continental breakfast available. Selina is a great place for digital nomads!
Kalambu Hot Springs is 5 km / 3 miles from the accommodation, while the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park is 20 km / 12 miles from the property.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a great place to visit if you are looking for an adventure. There are many different activities to do, such as horseback riding, hiking, and ziplining. In addition, the town has a friendly atmosphere, delicious food, and beautiful tropical flowers. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to La Fortuna today!
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