La Fortuna is a small town in northern Costa Rica, best known as the gateway to Arenal Volcano. Visitors come for rainforest walks, hot springs, waterfalls and wildlife experiences. The surrounding area mixes farmland, forest and volcanic landscapes, with many attractions spread beyond the town itself.
The town is compact and easy to understand, while most outdoor activities require transport. You can use La Fortuna as a base, choosing a mixture of walking, wildlife watching and slower activities. Weather can obscure the volcano, so avoid planning your whole visit around a clear view.
How many days: 4
Four days gives you time to explore the main volcanic landscapes, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, experience the hot springs and take a wildlife-focused excursion. A shorter visit is possible, but you will have less flexibility around rain and cloud.
Combine Arenal Volcano trails with nearby viewpoints, then devote another day to the waterfall and hot springs. Use the remaining days for hanging bridges, forest walks or a trip towards Lake Arenal. Leave space between activities because travel and weather can affect plans.
What to do in La Fortuna
- Hike the Arenal Volcano trails
- Follow designated trails through forest and older lava-flow landscapes around Arenal. The volcano is not a summit hike, and you should respect restricted areas and official safety guidance.
- Swim near La Fortuna Waterfall
- Visit the waterfall below the town and descend the maintained access route to its base. Swimming is only suitable in designated areas when conditions permit.
- Relax in the hot springs
- Experience naturally heated mineral water associated with the volcanic landscape. Choose a suitable bathing area and follow its safety instructions, particularly around water temperature and slippery surfaces.
- Walk across the hanging bridges
- Explore rainforest paths and elevated suspension bridges in the Arenal area. Move slowly and look into the canopy for birds, monkeys and other wildlife.
- Explore Lake Arenal
- Travel towards the large reservoir west of the volcano for views across the water and surrounding hills. Activities on the lake depend on weather and local conditions.
- Look for sloths in the forest
- Join a guided wildlife walk or visit suitable forest habitat around La Fortuna. Sloths can be difficult to spot, and sightings should never be treated as guaranteed.
- Explore a private rainforest reserve
- Walk marked trails through protected rainforest habitat near Arenal and observe the forest at different heights. Stay on marked routes and avoid touching plants or wildlife.
- Follow a local wildlife trail
- Explore a forested wildlife area close to La Fortuna town. Watch for birds, reptiles and mammals while keeping a respectful distance from animals.
- Explore the El Castillo area
- Visit the quieter countryside southwest of Arenal, where roads pass through farmland and forest. It is useful for seeing a different side of the volcanic landscape.
- Try a guided night walk
- Explore suitable forest habitat with a guide to look for frogs, insects and other nocturnal animals. Wear closed footwear and avoid using bright lights directly on wildlife.
What to eat and drink
- Casado
- Order rice, beans, salad, plantain and your preferred protein at a local soda. It is a dependable choice after walking or exploring the surrounding countryside.
- Gallo pinto
- Start with rice and beans mixed with seasoning, commonly accompanied by eggs and plantain. It is widely served as a traditional Costa Rican breakfast.
- Patacones
- Try twice-fried green plantain pieces served with beans, sauces or other toppings. They work well as a snack to share.
- Sopa negra
- Choose this black bean soup, often served with egg and other accompaniments. It is a simple traditional option when you want something lighter than a large plate.
- Fresh tropical fruit
- Try pineapple, papaya, watermelon or other available fruit. Choose freshly prepared portions from a clean food establishment.
- Costa Rican coffee
- Try coffee from Costa Rican growing regions and compare brewing styles. Ask for it without added flavourings if you want to taste the coffee itself.
Getting around
La Fortuna town is small enough to explore on foot, but the waterfall, volcano trails, lake and many forest attractions are outside the centre. Taxis, organised transfers or a hire car are useful for reaching them.
Public buses connect La Fortuna with other regional destinations, but they are not a convenient way to reach every attraction. Confirm routes and connections before relying on them for a full day of activities.
Roads around Arenal can be winding, and rain may reduce visibility. If driving, avoid unnecessary travel on unfamiliar rural roads after dark. Domestic flight options and onward transport arrangements should be checked directly with the relevant providers.
Good to know
- Rain is possible throughout the year, even during the drier season.
- Arenal Volcano is frequently covered by cloud.
- Wear shoes with grip for muddy or uneven forest paths.
- Carry insect repellent and lightweight rain protection.
- Never enter restricted volcanic areas or unmarked trails.
- Check the official site for park access and reservation requirements.
- Wildlife sightings depend on conditions and cannot be guaranteed.