La Fortuna Costa Rica: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025

If you’re planning a visit to La Fortuna, Costa Rica, get ready to immerse yourself in nature. La Fortuna is all about hiking through misty rainforests, spotting wildlife from hanging bridges, plunging into waterfalls, and soaking in volcanic hot springs. Whether you’re swimming at the base of a waterfall or floating down a river while trying to spot Toucans, every day here is packed with nature, adventure, and ridiculously beautiful scenery.

I spent three days in La Fortuna, splitting my time between adventure-filled tours, peaceful moments in nature, and plenty of hot spring soaks (a combination I could get used to).

If you’re wondering what to do, where to stay, or what the best restaurants are in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, this guide has everything you need to know. Plus, I’ve got some tips on how to avoid crowds, what you need to book ahead, and what’s actually worth your time and money.

La Fortuna Costa Rica Quick Guide

What’s it like in La Fortuna, Costa Rica?

La Fortuna is one of those towns that exists almost entirely because of nature—and honestly, that’s what makes it so great. Located in northern Costa Rica, about three hours from San José, this little town is the gateway to Arenal Volcano and known for natural hot springs, waterfalls, and some of the best adventure activities in Costa Rica.

You don’t come to La Fortuna to hang out in town all day—you come here to explore, sweat, swim, and soak in hot springs until you turn into a raisin (or is that just me?).

That being said, the town itself is cute, small, and very tourist-friendly. There’s a main square with a park, a church, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and tour offices (you can’t walk two minutes without seeing a sign for ziplining, white-water rafting, or a sloth tour).

You don’t really need to stay “in town” in La Fortuna. I’ll share more on my favorite places to stay later on, but I wouldn’t worry about picking somewhere centrally located. La Fortuna is all about getting out into nature, not being in town.

Arenal Volcano: The Star of the Show

If you’ve seen photos of La Fortuna, chances are they feature Arenal Volcano—because it absolutely dominates the skyline. Standing at 5,437 feet, Arenal is one of the most iconic volcanoes in Costa Rica, thanks to its perfect cone shape and history of dramatic eruptions. 

It was one of the most active volcanoes in the world up until 2010, and (thankfully) it’s no longer erupting. The top of the volcano was hiding in clouds most of the time we were there, but it was still an amazing natural backdrop. 

La Fortuna, Costa Rica Weather: When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Since La Fortuna is in the rainforest, expect humidity, warm temps, and the occasional downpour—no matter what time of year you visit.

• Dry Season (December – April): Best time for clear skies and volcano views, but also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. I’m typically a fan of shoulder season travel, but I think it’s worth it to visit during dry season so you aren’t rained out of any activities.

• Rainy Season (May – November): Lush, green landscapes, fewer tourists, and cheaper hotels—but expect daily rain showers. The upside? It rarely rains all day, so you can still enjoy some activities.

I visited in February and the short showers each day were totally navigable. 

Best Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

There are so many options of things you can do in La Fortuna that I felt overwhelmed when I was planning. It turns out, you can’t really go wrong. I’d recommend one activity or tour in the morning, one activity or tour in the afternoon, and plenty of time for hot springs. Here are my favorites that I would highly recommend:

Mistico Hanging Bridges: Walk Above the Rainforest

One of the best things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica is walk through the Mistico Hanging Bridges. This 2-mile loop takes you across six massive suspension bridges high above the rainforest canopy, where you’ll get insane views of Arenal Volcano and the jungle below.

If you’re even remotely interested in rainforest scenery, this is a must-do. I have a complete guide to the Mistico Hanging Bridges here. 

You can visit on your own (I did), but spotting animals without a guide is hard. If you’re trying to see wildlife, I’d recommend going with a guide so you actually see the sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds hidden in the trees. If you’re looking to stroll and see the views, you can easily do a self tour. 

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re not doing a tour, you have to buy tickets in advance and you’ll want to get there before 8 AM to beat the tour groups. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck behind large, slow-moving crowds.

📍 Location: 25 minutes from La Fortuna
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🎟 Tickets: Book ahead online (you can’t buy tickets at the gate) for a self-guided visit or tour with a guide.
🚐 Recommended 5-Star Tour: Hanging Bridges Guided Tour at Mistico Park

La Fortuna Waterfall: My Favorite Stop in Arenal

This is one of the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica, and it lives up to the hype and is definitely one of the best activities in La Fortuna (and probably my favorite). It plunges 200 feet straight into a bright turquoise pool, surrounded by dense jungle.

You can swim right up to the base of it, but the current is intense! I could only make it a few feet before getting pushed right back to the edge.

You’ll want good water shoes/sandals for navigating the slippery rocks to get in (I recommend Tevas because they are sturdy, supportive and lightweight).

There are about 500 steps to get down to the waterfall but they’re completely paved and have motivational signs and spots to sit along the way. It took us about ~10 minutes down and ~15 minutes back up.

🌧 La Fortuna Waterfall Weather Tip: If it’s been raining heavily, they’ll close the swimming area due to strong currents. I don’t think it’s worth it if you can’t swim in the pool. 

📍 Location: 10 minutes from La Fortuna
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🎟 Tickets: Pre-book tickets online here, but consider skipping it if it’s raining
🚐 Recommended Tour: Not needed! You can do this on your own 🙂 

Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike on Lava Fields

Arenal Volcano is what put La Fortuna, Costa Rica on the map. The volcano erupted in 1968, destroying a town and creating the lava fields you can now hike through. While you can’t hike to the top, you can explore trails that cut through old lava flows and dense jungle, with some of the best views in Costa Rica.

If you’re going on your own, download Alltrails and check out the Las Coladas trail. It’s an easy, scenic hike that gets you great volcano views without too much effort. If you’re looking for a tour or don’t have a car, you can book a combo tour that includes Arenal National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Mistico Hanging Bridges in one day.

📍 Location: 20 minutes from La Fortuna
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🎟 Tickets: $15 at the entrance
🚐 Recommended 5-Star Tour: Arenal Volcano, Hanging Bridges & Waterfall Tour

Safari Float Tour: Spot Wildlife on Easy Water

Not every adventure in La Fortuna requires hiking (thankfully). If you want to see wildlife without breaking a sweat, a safari float tour is perfect. You’ll float down a calm river in an inflatable raft while a guide points out animals hidden in the trees. I did this with my boyfriend and my friend did one with her 70+ year old parents, so it’s very accessible.

On my safari float tour, we saw toucans, howler monkeys, iguanas, a crocodile, and even a baby owl. The tour wrapped with a lovely local snack buffet—passion fruit juice, tamarind juice, plantains, yucca bread, and fried cheese. It was a top day for me. 

📍 Location: 20 minutes from La Fortuna, but they’ll pick you up
⏳ Time Needed: 3 hours
🚐 Recommended 5-Star Tour: I loved this half day tour. Say hi to Mei for me!

Canyoning in La Fortuna: Rappel Down Majestic Waterfalls

For an adrenaline-packed adventure in La Fortuna, canyoning is a must. I first went canyoning in Vietnam a number of years ago and it’s pretty amazing to move through the waterfalls (though its maybe not for the faint of heart!).

On this particular tour, you’ll hike into the rainforest near Arenal Volcano, where you’ll rappel down five stunning waterfalls, ranging from 50 to 230 feet high.

The guides are bilingual and safety is a priority, so it’s totally fine for beginners. The tour also wraps with lunch, which you’ll definitely have earned.

📍 Location: 30 minutes from La Fortuna, but they’ll pick you up
⏳ Time Needed: 5 hours
🚐 Recommended 5-Star Tour: From La Fortuna: Canyoning & Rappelling Waterfalls in Arenal

Ziplining in La Fortuna: Soar Over the Jungle Like a Superhero

Ziplining is everywhere in Costa Rica and La Fortuna is a great place to do it thanks to its scenery. Soaring over the rainforest with Arenal Volcano in the background is as epic as it sounds, and the sheer speed you move at makes it impossible not to smile (or scream).

Most zipline tours take you across multiple cables, some stretching over half a mile, giving you insane views of waterfalls, jungle canopies, and rivers below. 

If you want to go all out, you can pair ziplining with whitewater rafting, tackling Class III-IV rapids after a morning of flying through the treetops. If you’re an adventure traveler, this should probably be on your list. 

📍 Location: 15–30 minutes from La Fortuna
⏳ Time Needed: 3–6 hours (depending on the combo)
🚐Recommended 5-Star Tour: Ziplining tour here or Ziplining and Rafting Combo here

Beyond all the amazing activities La Fortuna offers, you absolutely need to make some time for the La Fortuna hot springs.

The Best Hot Springs in La Fortuna

After a full day of hiking, swimming, and sweating, what’s the best thing you can do? Soak in a volcano-heated hot spring.

The hot springs were pretty much my entire reason for visiting La Fortuna, so you better believe I was looking for the best ones. Here are three ways to experience them, depending on your budget:

Luxury Hot Springs

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – If you want the most beautiful hot springs in La Fortuna, this is it. The natural, river-fed pools are surrounded by jungle, and it feels completely wild. It’s pricey (~$89 for adults and $47 for kids), but worth it if you want a high-end experience.

You need to book this ~1-3 months in advance. I was too late so I couldn’t go and I am still devastated. You can check availability and book tickets here. 

Baldi Hot Springs – With 25 thermal pools, waterslides, saunas, and a swim-up bar, Baldi is one of the most family-friendly hot springs in La Fortuna. It’s great if you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, with plenty of pools to choose from, including hotter, quieter spots for relaxation and fun slides for kids (or adults who love a good thrill). You can reserve a ticket here.

The Springs Resort & Spa – The Springs is another luxury hotel that’s known for its two-day hot springs pass. This resort offers multiple levels of thermal pools, waterfalls, swim-up bars, and unbeatable views of Arenal Volcano. Plus, the resort has an on-site wildlife sanctuary, making it a great option if you want to mix in some animal encounters with your hot spring soak. You can check availability and book tickets here.

Free Hot Springs in La Fortuna

El Choyin & El Salto – Completely free! These natural hot springs are just off the road, tucked into the jungle. No fancy amenities, just warm volcanic water and locals hanging out.

You can park on the side of the road to get in, and be ready for a “parking attendant” to ask you for a tip (which is honestly worth it for peace of mind). Just don’t leave anything valuable in the car. I always throw everything in a backpack and then head out.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

I stayed in two hotels during my time in La Fortuna, a more central budget option and a mid-range luxury option that had hot-springs on site. Honestly, I loved both and would gladly return to either. I will say, I wouldn’t worry too much about being close to town – there’s not too much to see and I would prioritize a beautiful hotel in nature over centrality to La Fortuna itself.

Luxury Option: Tabacon or Nayara Springs

If you’re looking for the best hotel in La Fortuna, these two resorts are on another level.

Nayara Springs – Considered one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica, Nayara Springs is pure jungle luxury. Each private villa has its own thermal plunge pool, the service is five-star, and the setting is completely secluded, surrounded by tropical rainforest. It’s adults-only, making it a perfect option for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. Check the latest prices and availability here.

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – If you want direct access to the most famous hot springs in La Fortuna, staying at Tabacón gives you unlimited entry to its natural, river-fed thermal pools.

The resort itself is beautifully designed, and while it’s more lively than Nayara, it still offers plenty of secluded spots for relaxation. If hot springs are your priority, this is the best option. My cousin’s wife described the massage here as “life changing”. Check the latest prices and availability here.

Mid-Range Luxury: Arenal Manoa Resort & Spa

If you want a resort-style stay with its own hot springs, Arenal Manoa Resort Hotel & Hot Springs is an amazing mid-range luxury option. This is where I stayed for my “splurge” portion of the trip, and it was worth it. 

The property is huge, with multiple thermal pools spread throughout, so you can always find a quiet spot to relax – and they offer a great happy hour. The landscape is gorgeous, the rooms are modern and spacious, and the views of Arenal Volcano are perfect. There’s also wildlife everywhere—I saw so many colorful birds everywhere I looked.

One of the best parts? The breakfast buffet. It’s insanely good—tons of fresh fruit, made-to-order eggs, Costa Rican gallo pinto, pastries, and enough coffee to fuel a full day of hiking and exploring. Check the latest prices and availability here.

Budget (But Still Great): Hotel Roca Negra del Arenal 

I booked Hotel Roca Negra del Arenal as my budget choice and ended up completely obsessed with it. The gardens are stunning, the pool is lovely, and the hot tub is actually hot (which, trust me, is not always the case at budget hotels).

But the real star? The views of Arenal Volcano. Waking up and stepping outside to that jaw-dropping volcano backdrop every morning was unreal. Check the latest prices and availability here.

The Best Restaurants in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Honestly, one of my favorite parts of any vacation is the food. I didn’t do anything too fancy for my time in La Fortuna, but I have a few favorites I’d recommend:

Soda y Restaurante Rodríguez – Authentic, Laid-Back Costa Rican Food

This place is so much more than a restaurant—it’s an experience. It’s a big, open-air, super casual spot where the food is great, the portions are huge, and there are literal farm animals wandering around. You’ll probably share your meal with a few dogs, some cats, and maybe even a giant pig (not joking).

The best part? You get to paint your own little wooden sign with a quote or drawing, and they hang it up in the restaurant. The walls are covered in years’ worth of colorful, random traveler wisdom, and it’s a fun little tradition to leave your mark. If you can find mine, please send me a picture!

🍽️ Must-try: A casado—Costa Rica’s classic plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of m​​eat.

Café y Rest Raúl Castaño Fortuna Mirador – Best Volcano View in La Fortuna

If you want the best front-row seat to Arenal Volcano, Café y Rest Raúl Castaño Fortuna Mirador is the spot. Sitting on the terrace here is an absolute must—the view is completely unobstructed, and you’ll feel like you’re staring at a postcard. 

🍽️Must-try: I had a delicious chicken sandwich that I can definitely recommend!

Cafeteria y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal – Best Coffee & Great Volcano Views

This is a perfect stop after La Fortuna waterfall or hiking Arenal national park. It’s just off the road and has a great volcano view.

Their coffee menu is wild—they have iced blended coffee drinks that are basically dessert, plus all the classics if you like your caffeine less sugary. I could have easily spent half a day here, just soaking up the view.

🍽️ Must-try: Get a milkshake coffee (thank me later) and a refreshing salad with chicken. 

Saffron Indian Food Bar & Grill – Unexpectedly Great Indian Food

You wouldn’t think you’d find incredible Indian food in the middle of a Costa Rican jungle, but La Fortuna is full of surprises. If you’ve hit your limit on rice, beans, and plantains (which can happen after a few days), Saffron is a perfect switch-up (plus my boyfriend just loves butter chicken).

🍽️ Must-try: Butter chicken and garlic naan—comfort food perfection.

Sloffee Coffee – The Coziest Coffee Spot in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

If you love good coffee, strong espresso, and jungle backgrounds, you’ll love Sloffee Coffee. It’s a tiny, artsy coffee shop with a chill vibe, great service, and great coffee (also on the way to Arenal national park). There are tons of animals in the nearby trees, so you can spot wildlife while you sip an iced latte. 

🍽️ Must-try: Cold brew, plus whatever pastry they recommend that day.

What to Pack for La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Packing for La Fortuna is all about being prepared for adventure, rain, and humidity. I have an essentials packing list here on Amazon for you, but here’s what you definitely want to bring:

La Fortuna, Costa Rica: FAQs

How far is La Fortuna from San José?

About 3 hours by car. The roads are mostly paved and in good condition, but expect some winding sections as you get closer to town.

What’s the best way to get to La Fortuna?

You can drive, take a shuttle, or use the public bus. Driving is the most flexible option, shuttles are easy and convenient, and the bus is the cheapest but takes 5+ hours.

Can you drink the tap water in La Fortuna?

Yes! Tap water is safe to drink, though if you have a sensitive stomach, a filtered water bottle isn’t a bad idea.

What are “sodas” in Costa Rica?

Sodas are small, family-run restaurants serving affordable, traditional Costa Rican food. If you want a big, delicious meal for cheap, eat at a soda.

What currency do they accept in La Fortuna?

Both Costa Rican colones and US dollars are widely accepted. You’ll usually get change in colones. Credit cards work almost everywhere, but bring some cash for taxis, small shops, and tips.

What’s the best way to book tours in La Fortuna?

I always book through Get Your Guide—easy online booking, great tour selection, and free cancellations on most activities.

Do you need a car rental in La Fortuna?

You can use taxis and Ubers, and the central town is fairly walkable, but I honestly appreciated having a car. I have a complete guide to driving in costa rica here and a specific post on how to get from La Fortuna to Santa Teresa. You don’t need a 4×4 in La Fortuna for any of the main sights.

Are there taxis or Ubers in La Fortuna?

Taxis, yes. Uber, kind of. There are a few Ubers, but they’re unreliable. Taxis are the best option, but agree on the price before getting in.

How’s the Wi-Fi in La Fortuna?

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafés, but speeds vary. Our hotels all had great wifi.

How many days do you need in La Fortuna?

Three days is perfect for doing 3-6 activities. If you want more chill, hot springs time, you could do 4 or 5. You probably won’t need more than that. 

La Fortuna Costa Rica: Is It Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt. Whether you’re swimming in waterfalls, walking over the rainforest on mistico hanging bridges, spotting wildlife on safari tours, or soaking in volcanic hot springs with a drink in hand, La Fortuna delivers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s the kind of place where every day feels like an adventure, and every evening ends with an epic sunset over Arenal Volcano.

If you’re looking for a destination that’s thrilling, beautiful, and uniquely Costa Rican, La Fortuna is it. Book the trip, pack your rain jacket, and get ready to fall in love with this adventure-packed jungle paradise.

Cheers to your next adventure—and Pura Vida!