La Fortuna is the gateway to Arenal Volcano and one of Costa Rica's most popular destinations. As locals, we drive guests to and from this town every single day. Here's what we recommend to anyone visiting for the first time.
1. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park
The park offers several easy hiking trails with views of the volcano cone. Best in the morning before clouds roll in. Entry fee is around $15 USD per person.
Tip from us: Tell your driver you want to stop at Mirador El Silencio on the way — free viewpoint, postcard-perfect photo of the volcano.
2. Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Tabacón and Baldi are the most famous, but Eco Termales is a quieter local favorite with smaller crowds. Most resorts also have their own hot springs included for guests.
3. Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
A 500-step descent leads to a 70-meter waterfall where you can swim. Wear good shoes — the climb back up is no joke.
4. La Fortuna Town Square
The town center has a beautiful park, the famous La Fortuna church, and several great sodas (local restaurants). Try the casado — typical Costa Rican plate with rice, beans, plantain, salad, and your choice of meat.
5. Hanging Bridges at Mistico Park
Walk through the rainforest canopy on suspension bridges. Great for spotting birds, sloths, and frogs. Allow 2-3 hours.
6. Coffee or Chocolate Tour
Don Juan Tour is the most popular and includes coffee, sugarcane, and chocolate processing — all on a working family farm.
7. Río Celeste (Day Trip)
Two hours from La Fortuna, this turquoise river is one of Costa Rica's natural wonders. We can drive you there and back as part of a Discovery Transfer.
8. Night Frog Tour
Yes, really. Guides take you to nearby wetlands to spot dozens of colorful frog species. Magical and very tropical.
9. ATV / Quad Bike Tours
For adrenaline lovers, several companies offer ATV tours through trails with volcano views. Half-day or full-day options.
10. Tilapia Fishing Lake
Catch your own tilapia and a local restaurant cooks it for you on the spot. Great for families with kids.
Getting There
La Fortuna is about 3.5 hours from SJO airport (San José) and 3 hours from LIR (Liberia). The drive itself is scenic — we recommend doing it during daylight if possible.
Most travelers stay 2-3 nights in La Fortuna before continuing to other destinations like Monteverde or Manuel Antonio.