La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, and for good reason! It offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and a beautiful natural ambiance. Nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano, this charming town is known for its lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to unwind in paradise, La Fortuna has something for everyone. It is definitely a must-visit when traveling to Costa Rica.

How to Get to La Fortuna

La Fortuna is about 3 hours from San José, making it easily accessible from the capital. You can get there by car, or shuttle. Alternatively, flights from San José to Arenal (via a small plane) are also available, significantly reducing travel time.

If you fly into Liberia (Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport), the drive to La Fortuna takes about 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Liberia is a popular arrival point for travellers heading to the northern Pacific region of Costa Rica and provides another convenient access point to La Fortuna. From Liberia, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or book a private transfer to reach the town. I booked a private shuttle from the airport.

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Regardless of which direction you're coming from, be prepared for the drive. The road to La Fortuna is long and windy! If you get car sick, I suggest taking some ginger or something to better prepare yourself for the journey. Once you arrive in La Fortuna, the town itself is easily walkable, and most accommodations offer transportation to nearby attractions.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

Luxury: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: For a luxury experience with access to natural hot springs, Tabacón offers the ultimate relaxation. The resort also features beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
Mid-Range: Arenal Waterfall Lodge: Nestled in the lush rainforest near the famous La Fortuna Waterfall, this charming lodge offers a unique experience with easy access to hiking trails and the waterfall. Get the natural beauty and comfort with rooms overlooking the rainforest and views of the volcano.
Budget: Selina La Fortuna: For a budget-friendly option, Selina La Fortuna is a great choice! I chose to stay here to save without sacrificing comfort. This stylish hostel offers shared dorms and private rooms and features a social atmosphere, pool, co-working space, and organized tours. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travellers, solo travellers and digital nomads. I would recommend a unique stay and choose the Teepee!

When to Visit La Fortuna

I think the best time to visit La Fortuna is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is sunny, and the trails are easier to navigate. However, if you don’t mind rain, the green season (May to November) offers fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and more vibrant waterfalls.

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How Long to Stay in La Fortuna

If you’re planning a trip to La Fortuna, I’d recommend staying at least 4 days to fully experience this destination and what it offers. This gives you time to explore the volcano, visit the waterfall, enjoy the hot springs, and add in some adventure with zip-lining, hiking to find sloths, or enjoy a cooking class in the rainforest. For those looking to add it to a longer trip (like a two-week Costa Rica adventure), a 4-day stay is perfect to get a taste of the area and its highlights.

I stayed four nights while visiting Costa Rica - check out the itinerary here.

Best Things to Do in La Fortuna

Visit Arenal Volcano National Park: A trip to La Fortuna wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Arenal Volcano. While it’s an active volcano, it’s perfectly safe to visit and explore its surroundings. Hike the park’s trails, where you can witness volcanic rock formations, wildlife, and incredible views of the volcano itself.

La Fortuna Waterfall: Just a short drive from the town center, this majestic 70-meter waterfall is a must-see. Take a hike down to the base to swim in the natural pool or enjoy the stunning view from the top. It’s a great spot for a family outing or a romantic escape.

Hot Springs: After a day of adventure, relax in the natural hot springs heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano. Tabacón, Baldi, and EcoTermales are some popular hot spring resorts, offering relaxing thermal pools in a lush jungle setting.

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Zip Line Canopy Tour: For my adrenaline-adventurous friends, a zip line tour through the rainforest canopy is a must (no thank you!). You’ll zipline above the treetops and get a bird’s-eye view of the region’s wildlife, waterfalls, and rainforest.

Lake Arenal: Explore Lake Arenal by kayak, or paddleboard. The lake provides stunning views of the volcano, and it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the area's natural beauty.

Take a Cooking Class with a Local Family

During my time in La Fortuna, I had the opportunity to book a cooking class with a local family in the heart of the jungle. This experience highlighted the flavours of Costa Rican cuisine while offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

The experience begins at a small, rustic restaurant surrounded by lush rainforest. It was an easy cab ride from my hostel. After a warm welcome and introductions over a refreshing drink, you'll go on a short tour of the restaurant's organic garden, learning about the crops, aromatic plants, and sustainable farming practices. The best part is that you'll even get to pick fresh ingredients that will later become the heart of your meal!

As you take a guided walk through their jungle trails, you’ll have the opportunity to spot frogs, birds, and even sloths living in their natural habitat. (Sadly, I didn’t see a sloth)

After your walk, you’ll prepare a refreshing mojito in the kitchen before diving into the hands-on cooking session. Under the guidance of your hosts, you’ll learn to create a traditional Costa Rican dish using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients produced by the family and their neighbours.

The experience wraps up with a delicious meal, where you'll enjoy the meal you just cooked in a cozy, jungle setting. This class is perfect for anyone looking to connect with local traditions, enjoy the flavors of Costa Rica, and experience the warm hospitality of a local family.

Go on a Sloth Tour in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see sloths in their natural habitat, and I was on a mission to see a sloth! At Sloth Tours, they offer an unforgettable opportunity to do just that. This easy guided hiking tour takes you through a 30-acre rainforest property (don’t worry, the trail is designed for all fitness levels - flat and easy!).

Led by a guide, you can explore approximately 3.5km of trails, keeping an eye out for sloths. The area is home to an average of four to six sloths, and the guide will help you spot them high up in the trees, where they lounge and feed in their slow, endearing manner.

The other cool part is that you’ll also encounter other wildlife along the way, including colourful birds, vibrant frogs, fascinating insects, and more. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy.

La Fortuna is a destination that delivers everything you want from your travels in one place. From exploring the Arenal Volcano to soaking in natural hot springs, it’s a spot that promises unforgettable experiences. Plan your trip to La Fortuna and let this Costa Rican paradise captivate your heart and soul. Get on pura vida schedule!

Exploring La Fortuna, Costa Rica: