15 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna’s one of those towns where the list of things to do just keeps going. Everyone points to Arenal Volcano first, it’s the big showstopper. But honestly, that’s just the beginning. There are waterfalls, hot springs, tours, and other great things to do in La Fortuna.

The town itself isn’t massive. You’ve got a central park, some decent restaurants, shops with everything from fridge magnets to coffee beans, and tour companies trying to sell you the next adventure.

Some stuff costs a bit ($18 for the waterfall, $75 for rafting) but other things are free if you’re happy just wandering around or sitting in the park people-watching. That mix of adrenaline and downtime is why many people end up extended their trip to La Fortuna.

Planning a trip to La Fortuna? So, let’s get right into the best activities.

Overview About La Fortuna

La Fortuna is in northern Costa Rica, at the foot of the mighty Arenal Volcano. The town itself is small but busy. There’s a central park, restaurants, shops, and plenty of tour companies.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll run into people heading to a waterfall in the morning and others in flip-flops going to hot springs at night.

Getting to La Fortuna

When coming from San José to La Fortuna, you can either take a public bus, book a shuttle, or rent a car. The drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.

From Monteverde, it’s a bit trickier since there’s a lake in between. Many shuttles use a boat-and-road combo, which saves time. The closest international airport is in San José, while Liberia airport is about 3 hours away.

Local flights land nearby in La Fortuna’s small airstrip, but most people stick to ground transport. You can either rent a car or take public transportation.

Getting Around La Fortuna

Inside town you can walk pretty much everywhere. To reach waterfalls, parks, or hot springs, you’ll need transport.

Public buses connect some areas, but they’re limited. Taxis and Ubers work, though not always cheap. Renting a car or 4WD gives you freedom, especially for spots like Río Celeste or Venado Caves.

Roads are paved but narrow, and it takes longer than it looks on the map. We recommend to plan extra time to move around.

How Many Days to Stay in La Fortuna?

Three full days is usually enough to see the main highlights. The waterfall, a volcano hike, some time in the hot springs, and at least one adventure activity.

If you have four days, you can add a day trip like Río Celeste or the Venado Caves without rushing. More time just gives you flexibility if the weather turns or if you want to slow down a little.

Honestly, La Fortuna is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, so take your time to enjoy it fully.

Best Tours in La Fortuna

15 Top Things to Do in La Fortuna

La Fortuna gives you way more to do than you’d think for such a small town. One morning you can be climbing down to a waterfall, later that night you’re in a hot spring with a beer in hand.

Some things will hit your wallet, others are free, but all of them feel worth squeezing in. This is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, and these are the best activities for 3 days in La Fortuna.

RELATED GUIDE: The 10 Best Arenal Volcano Tours from La Fortuna

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata La Fortuna)

It’s about a 10-minute ride from town, so close enough that you’ll probably underestimate how tough it is once you’re actually there. Entry is $18, paid at the booth, and then you’re sent down this staircase into the jungle. More than 500 steps. I tried counting… got to 517, maybe 518? (honestly, I gave up because my legs already shaking).

On the way down, you’ll hear the usual jungle soundtrack. Birds, buzzing, random rustles in the bushes. I spotted two blue morpho butterflies, which was a small win because I was already drenched in sweat.

The waterfall itself drops 70 meters. Loud, cold, and much stronger than it looks in photos. People swim here, but you stick to the calmer edges or you’ll get tossed around like laundry. I stayed about two hours: quick dip, dried off, took too many photos, and then sat there wondering how the hell I’d climb back up.

Tip: bring water. And shoes that grip. That staircase will punish you on the way back, I felt it in my thighs for two days. Worth it though.

Hike Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano dominates the skyline in La Fortuna. And the park offers the best views. You can visit two sectors: the Volcán area with old lava trails and the Peninsula sector with easier paths and lake views.

Entry’s $15 and the trails take 2–3 hours, depending how often you stop for photos. The paths aren’t brutal, but wear good shoes. We once saw one guy try in flip-flops, and he gave up after 20 minutes. The best trail is probably Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail.

Along the way, you might spot coatis or hear howler monkeys in the distance (a word of warning, you’ll be scared or surprised the first time to hear howler monkeys).

We suggest you to go with a tour guide. Those do cost more but give you deeper insights into the history and ecosystem. It’s only 20 minutes from town, so you can fit it into a half day.

Walk the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

If you want to feel like you’re inside the rainforest, this is it. The trail is 3.2 km long and there are 16 bridges. Six of those are suspension bridges that swing just enough to make you nervous.

Tickets are $32, and we recommend planning out 2–3 hours. You can walk it solo, but a guide will spot stuff you’d never notice. For example, tiny red frogs, a camouflaged snake, or even a sloth if you’re lucky. I don’t always recommend tours in Costa Rica (a lot are overpriced), but this one? Worth it.

The bridges sway more than you expect. I saw a teenage girl freeze up in the middle while her dad kept laughing—kind of cruel, but also hilarious. You’ll probably grip the rails tighter than you’d admit.

Bring your camera, and if you hate heights, just know the views do pay you back. Pura Vida, nerves included.

Relax in Natural Hot Springs

After a day of hiking or ziplining, you should just enjoy the hot springs. There are different options, including the free hot springs.

Tabacón is the fancy one, with landscaped pools and a dinner buffet. But it’ll run you about $80 (yep, for hot water). Still, once you sink in, you’ll forget about the price.

EcoTermales is quieter and more intimate. Baldi has more pools and slides, so it’s fun if you’re with kids. And then there’s the free option: a public river near Tabacón where locals and travelers hang out.

It’s busy at night but it’s still pleasant. Bring water shoes, a towel, and a small bag that’s easy to keep dry. You can expect to stay 2–3 hours, sometimes more if you go after dinner. It’s the perfect way to unwind and I bet you’ll sleep like a baby afterwards!

Swim and Rope Swing at El Salto

El Salto is a natural swimming hole just outside town. It’s free, and you can walk there in about 20 minutes or grab a short taxi.

The water’s clear and icy cold, perfect after baking in the sun. There’s a rope swing where you can launch yourself in, plus rocks to jump from if you’re feeling brave. I chickened out on the highest one, but saw kids half my size doing flips.

Families and locals love it, so you’ll often see kids practicing flips. Don’t worry, it’s much less dangerous than it looks like.

That being said, the water can be strong after heavy rain, so use common sense. Bring a towel, maybe some snacks, and don’t take valuables unless you can keep an eye on them. An hour or two here is perfect on a hot afternoon. It feels more authentic than the bigger attractions, and you’ll probably leave with a big smile.

Explore La Fortuna Town

Downtown La Fortuna is small. It’s not the prettiest town in Costa Rica, but it works, and it’s the perfect base for some of the best things to do in Costa Rica. The central park’s neat and there’s this church that lines up perfectly with views of Arenal Volcano. Great photo if the sky’s clear.

You’ll find the usual: sodas serving casados, bakeries selling sweet bread, a couple ice cream shops. I grabbed gallo pinto at Soda Viquez one morning, plate was only about $5 and it filled me up for hours. Shops sell coffee, souvenirs, fridge magnets, the whole “I went to Costa Rica” starter pack.

Honestly, you don’t need a full day in the center of La Fortuna. A few hours, maybe dinner after rafting or zip-lining, and you’ve ticked it off. At night, the main strip wakes up a bit, people out at bars or haggling tour prices for the next morning.

It’s friendly, easy, and everything you need’s right there. But don’t expect charm, this isn’t a colonial town or anything. It’s just practical. The best of La Fortuna is outside, but it’s still worth checking out the town.

Day Trip to Río Celeste

Río Celeste feels like something out of a story, but it’s real. The drive from La Fortuna takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and unless you rent a car, the easiest way is with a guided tour.

Once you’re in Tenorio Volcano National Park, the hike to the waterfall is about 3–4 hours round trip. The highlight here is the bright blue waterfall, with the volcanic minerals mixing in the river.

On a sunny day the water looks fake, like someone poured blue Gatorade into the river. The trail passes the popular hot springs and Los Teñideros, the spot where two rivers meet, and suddenly the water changes color. It’s wild to see in person.

The trail can get muddy in the rainy season, so wear proper shoes and maybe bring spare clothes. Entry is $12, and swimming isn’t allowed, but trust us, it’s a nice day trip from La Fortuna.

Discover Venado Caves (Cavernas de Venado)

If you’re after real adventure, the Venado Caves is an awesome option. They’re just about 45 minutes from La Fortuna, in a small village. Tours run around $28 and include all gear plus a guide.

Inside it’s pitch dark, dripping wet, and honestly a little freaky at first. You’ll crawl through passages barely wider than your shoulders, wade chest-deep in cold streams, and see bats hanging over your head like tiny umbrellas. Not for the claustrophobic.

The whole tour takes about 2 hours, and you’ll come out soaked and muddy. If you have old clothes, it’s a good idea to wear them. It’s not for the claustrophobic, but if you don’t mind squeezing through tight spots, it’s one of the most unique things to do in La Fortuna.

You’ll probably laugh a lot too. It’s a mix of nerves and fun. Few people back home can say they’ve crawled through caves in Costa Rica!

Go Ziplining in La Fortuna

Ziplining is one of those fun activities in La Fortuna you won’t forget. Several companies operate here, with Sky Adventures and Arenal Mundo Aventura being the most popular.

Some of the lines are over 600 meters long, you’ll be up there long enough to scream, laugh, and then scream again before you even hit the end. And all the while, Arenal Volcano looms in the corner of your eye. Hard to beat that view.

Kids as young as six can often join, and that’s a nice activity if you travel as a family.

The first line might make your stomach flip, but once you’re flying through the air, the fear melts away and it’s pure fun.

White Water Rafting

La Fortuna is big on rafting, and you’ve actually got two rivers to pick from. The Balsa River is where most people start. Class II–III rapids, bouncy enough to get your heart up but still safe if it’s your first time or you’re coming with kids.

If you want to crank things up, the Sarapiquí River’s your spot. Class III–IV rapids, tours running $75–$85 with everything bundled in. Guides, helmets, transport, lunch, and more. It’s half a day out. Not exactly cheap, but this is Costa Rica, and you didn’t fly here to save every penny.

On the water, you’ll paddle hard, get slammed with waves, and probably end up laughing every time the raft bounces off a rock. The calmer stretches are sneaky good, too. That’s when guides start pointing out wildlife. You might spot an iguana stretched out on a log or a toucan perched high above.

Canyoning/Waterfall Rappelling

If you want a proper challenge, canyoning does the trick. Strap on a harness, head deep into a jungle canyon, and rappel straight down waterfalls with water blasting in your face. It’s not something you just “try on your own,” so you’ll need to book a tour.

Everything’s included: gear, guides, and food afterward. The first rappel is the one that messes with your head. You’re literally told to lean back and walk off a cliff. Your brain says “no way,” but then the rope holds, and suddenly you’re sliding down a waterfall with water hammering your helmet.

Between rappels, you’ll scramble up rocks, wade through streams, and sometimes leap into pools that are deeper than they look. By the end, you’ll be soaked, scratched, muddy. But you’ll love it.

It’s tough, but don’t overthink it. Even first-timers manage fine. If you’ve ticked rafting or ziplining off the list and want something bigger, canyoning is the next level of adrenaline.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding around La Fortuna gives you a totally different pace. Tours usually last 2–3 hours so it’s easy to fit in your itinerary for La Fortuna.

You’ll ride through open fields, forest paths, or up hills with views of the volcano. Some tours even combine horseback riding with a stop at La Fortuna Waterfall!

If you’re new to riding, don’t worry. Guides are great at pairing beginners with calm, gentle horses. Along the way, you’ll pass local farms and maybe see wildlife too.

Horseback riding around La Fortuna is the opposite of ziplining. It’s slow, steady, and quiet. The clip-clop rhythm is kind of hypnotic, and you’ve got time to actually look around instead of racing past everything.

Have Fun at Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal is huge and full of options. You can kayak along the shoreline, paddleboard in calm areas. You can also take a boat ride across the water.

On windy days, windsurfing and kitesurfing are big here, though those are better if you’ve tried them before.

Kayaking or SUP at sunset is especially nice, with the volcano glowing in the background. The lake is about a 20–30 minute drive from La Fortuna.

You can also use it as a shortcut if you’re heading to Monteverde, since the jeep-boat-jeep transfer saves time compared to driving all the way around. Whether you’re after sport or just a chilled-out cruise, Lake Arenal is worth adding to your list.

Wildlife Watching Tours

La Fortuna is a dream for wildlife lovers. During the day, you might see sloths, monkeys, toucans, and iguanas. At night, it’s a completely different world. Frogs, snakes, and insects that you’d never notice on your own suddenly come alive.

Night walks are surprisingly fun, even if you’re not a huge animal person. Guides carry powerful scopes, so you can see details you’d miss with your own eyes.

Bring bug spray, a flashlight, and a bit of patience. The moment you see a sloth curled in a tree or hear frogs croaking in the dark, you’ll realize why these tours are worth it.

Please note: We have tarantulas in Costa Rica, especially in the rainforest, so keep that in mind if you’re scared.

Coffee & Chocolate Tours

Costa Rica takes its coffee and chocolate seriously. La Fortuna has several small farms where you can see the process up close. The guided tours last about 2 hours and you’ll learn (and taste) both coffee and chocolate. A must-do, especially if you have time and spend 2 weeks in Costa Rica or more.

You’ll walk through the fields, see how coffee beans and cacao pods are grown, and learn the steps that take them from plant to cup or bar. The fun part is tasting.

Most tours let you roast beans, grind cacao, and sample the results. It’s interactive and family-friendly, and the guides usually share personal stories that make it more than just a lesson. By the end, you’ll probably have a bag of coffee or chocolate in your hand to take home.

Hotels in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has all kinds of places to stay, from budget hostels to fancy resorts with volcano views. Most are close to the main road or Arenal Volcano National Park, so you’ll never be far from restaurants or hot springs.

• Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Big resort with hot springs, water slides, and a spa. Great if you want to relax after exploring.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: One of the best spots for volcano views. It’s inside the national park area and has its own hiking trails, pool, and restaurant.
• Arenal Poshpacker: Clean, affordable, and right in town. Perfect if you’re looking for something simple but comfortable.

You’ll find plenty of options, but book early if you’re coming during the dry season because La Fortuna gets busy fast.

FAQs about Things to Do in La Fortuna

Last but not least, let’s answer some questions that we always receive at Costa Rica Trip Itinerary, and we’re confident these will be helpful for your trip.

What is the Best Time to Visit La Fortuna?

The dry season lasts from December to April, and that’s when you’ll get the clearest skies and the best chance of seeing Arenal Volcano without clouds. It’s also the busiest season, so expect more people at popular tourist spots.

The rainy season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers but also greener forests, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Even in the wettest months, mornings are often dry and sunny, so you can plan activities early in the day.

If you don’t mind a bit of rain, visiting outside peak season can actually be more enjoyable, for instance if you plan 10 days in Costa Rica.

Are There Free Things to Do in La Fortuna?

Yes, you don’t need a huge budget to enjoy La Fortuna. El Salto, the rope swing spot just outside town, is free. The public hot springs by the river near Tabacón are also free, though they can get crowded in the evenings.

Walking around town costs nothing, and it’s a nice way to see local life, grab a cheap meal at a soda, or take photos of the volcano from the park.

That said, most national parks and waterfalls charge an entrance fee, usually between $12 and $18, so plan for that if you want to do more structured activities.

What to Pack for La Fortuna?

The weather can change quickly, so bring a rain jacket even if you’re visiting in the dry season. Quick-dry clothes help a lot because you’ll sweat on hikes and probably get wet in waterfalls or rivers.

Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals are a must for trails. A swimsuit is needed for hot springs, El Salto, and waterfall pools. Don’t forget insect repellent for evenings and forest walks, and sunscreen for when the sun breaks through.

A small waterproof bag or dry bag is handy if you plan to be near water often. A reusable water bottle will also come in handy since it gets hot and humid.

Is La Fortuna Good for Families?

Yes, it’s very family-friendly. The hanging bridges are exciting for kids without being too hard, and the Balsa River rafting is safe and fun for beginners. Many hot springs have shallow pools or areas designed for children.

Horseback riding tours often welcome families too. Some of the more extreme adventures like canyoning or the tougher rafting rivers may not be suitable for younger kids, but there’s plenty else to do.

Plus, kids usually love spotting sloths, monkeys, and colourful frogs, so wildlife tours are always a hit.

Can You Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde or San Jose?

Yes, but it takes time. Daily buses and shuttles run from La Fortuna to San José and Monteverde. The trip to San José takes about 4 hours by bus or 3.5 hours by shuttle or car.

Monteverde is trickier because of Lake Arenal. The fastest option is the “jeep-boat-jeep” service, which combines a boat ride across the lake with road transfers on each side, and that takes about 3.5 hours.

Driving the whole way around the lake takes longer, but is doable. Either way, connections are regular and easy to arrange, so you don’t need to worry about being stuck.

Conclusion – Best Things to Do in La Fortuna Costa Rica

La Fortuna’s not just about the volcano. In a small area you can swim under a huge waterfall, cross wobbly bridges, soak in hot springs, or even crawl through caves.

One day it’s ziplining, the next it’s coffee on a farm you just toured. Big sights like Arenal Volcano National Park are there, but the small stuff, like swinging into the river at El Salto, sticks too.

What’s nice is the balance. Splurge on fancy hot springs one night, then swim for free the next morning. Go all in with rafting or canyoning, or take it slow with a walk and a casado in town.

Three days in La Fortuna covers the basics, but if you stay longer you’ll find extras like Río Celeste or Lake Arenal. Best move? Keep plans loose, and you’ll hear about new things once you’re there.