8 bEST THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA, COSTA RICA
Things to do in la fortuna
The paradisiacal town of La Fortuna boasts some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating activities. Our La Fortuna travel guide features a curated list of the best things to do. Here you’ll find all the information and inspiration you need to decide which activities to include in your Costa Rica itinerary, and to plan the perfect trip there.
We’ve got you covered on everything: how to get there, top things to do, accommodation options for all travel styles, mistakes to avoid, and essential travel tips. This is 8 best things to do in La Fortuna.
La Fortuna waterfall
The majestic beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall will have you in awe. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the country. Located in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-visit destination and definitely at the top of our list. The waterfall stands at an impressive height of 75 meters, making it one of the tallest and most magnificent waterfalls in Central America. Read here everything about La Fortuna Waterfall.
Tip | La Fortuna Waterfall get’s extremely crowded, purchasing your ticket online and getting there early is a must to beat the crowds. Tour busses start arriving by 10AM.
Club Rio Adventure
Club Rio Adventure Center offers eight different adventure activities, perfect for all ages. The convenience of having everything in one location just makes it better. Some of the featured tours and activities include River Tubing, Inflatable River Kayaking, Horseback Riding, Rock Climbing and Rappelling, Nature Tours, Hot Springs, and River Fishing.
They offer a multi-adventure package that includes up to two activities, a hot springs pass, and lunch. We had a blast horseback riding across the property and through the river in the early morning. River tubing became one of the highlights of our trip. After picking your adventure, don’t miss the beautiful, secluded hiking trails and natural hot springs.
Tabacon Hot Springs
Tabacon hot springs stands out as one of the most enriching experiences we’ve had in Costa Rica. Nestled in the lush rainforest, it offers a perfect blend of nature and luxury. The hot springs, fed directly by the Arenal Volcano, provide a unique and rejuvenating experience. Having visited twice, we would without a doubt run back time and time again to immerse ourselves in its serene ambiance, indulge in the spa services, and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Beyond exploring over 20 different natural hot springs, our day at Tabacon was spent wandering through lush gardens in search of wildlife. We were thrilled to spot numerous reptiles, the warm grounds provide an ideal environment for them. Read a short guide on Tabacon hot springs here.
Mistico Hanging bridges
Mistico hanging bridges is something out of a story book. This place had us memorized and we did it in the rain, twice. Such a cool experience to be in the rainforest and walking above it all. As we walked along the hanging bridges, we were surrounded by breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano and its lush surroundings. The misty rain only added to the mystical atmosphere and made us feel like we were in a different world.
As you explore the park, you can observe the distinct layers of the rainforest, from the treetops and understory to the forest floor. The tallest bridge here stands at an impressive 55 meters high with unbeatable views of the Arenal Volcano. If you’re seeking a rainforest walk in Costa Rica, we highly recommend adding Mistico to your itinerary. It’s hands down one of our favorites. Check out our guide for everything you need to know about Mistico Hanging Bridges.
Wildlife Safari float at Penas Blancas River
Just a quick 25-minute drive from La Fortuna, Rio Penas Blancas offers an amazing tour experience. Instead of noisy motorboats, you’ll be on rafts that let you get closer to the animals without bothering them. With no loud engine, you can fully soak in the jungle sounds—chirping birds, howling monkeys, and the flowing river make for a serene vibe.
The two-hour boat ride is perfect for a half-day morning adventure, leaving you plenty of time for more fun later. You can choose between a morning or afternoon tour. Morning pick-up is around 7 AM, and the afternoon pick-up is around noon, depending on your hotel. On the tour, you might spot monkeys, caimans, iguanas, crocodiles, sloths, and tons of bird species. Ultimately the Penas Blancas river safari experience will always have something unique to offer as no two experience will ever be the same.
Visit Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes, even though it hasn’t done much in the last 50 years. Its energy still makes La Fortuna, also known as El Arenal, a magical place to visit. You can explore the area by hiking, horseback riding, or crossing hanging bridges. There are three main spots for hiking near Arenal Volcano: Arenal Volcano National Park, Arenal 1968 Private Reserve, and the Arenal Observatory Lodge and Spa.
We’ve tried all three, and the Arenal Observatory Lodge and Spa is one of our favorite hotels in La Fortuna. The Smithsonian rooms have amazing views of the stunning Arenal. For hikes, Arenal Volcano National Park is our top pick because the trails are easier and totally worth it. If you’re up for a challenge, the Arenal 1968 hike is tougher but also includes water sports.
Just a heads-up: you might visit La Fortuna and not get a clear view of the 5,358-foot-high volcano due to the weather. We’ve been there twice for four days each time and only caught a glimpse of it. But don’t let that get you down; La Fortuna has plenty to do, rain or shine.
Tenorio National Park
This park, one of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets, is a hiker’s paradise. Tenorio National Park, famously known for the stunning Rio Celeste, lies about an hour from La Fortuna in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range. The Rio Celeste’s mesmerizing blue color is due to sulfur emitted by volcanic activity, which reacts with calcium carbonate to create its vivid hue.
The park offers a variety of trails that wind through lush rainforest, past bubbling hot springs, and cascading waterfalls. In addition to its natural beauty, Tenorio National Park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, tapirs, and a multitude of bird species. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours to learn more about the park’s unique ecosystem or choose to explore by themselves.
TIP| If you have the time in your itinerary, we would recommend spending the night in Bijagua. That way the next day you can enjoy the park first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. One of our favorite hotels in Costa Rica, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel, is located in Bijagua, which is reason enough for us!
Ziplining through the rainforest
We went ziplining in Monteverde because our time in La Fortuna was packed with adventure. We chose Sky Adventure, a Costa Rican family-owned company that’s been around for over 25 years.
The staff were super friendly and professional, ensuring our safety and making the experience unforgettable. Sky Adventure offers a variety of packages, from thrilling ziplining to a peaceful aerial tram ride through the rainforest, with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and lake. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife added to the magic, making it a perfect mix of excitement and natural beauty.
Where to eat in la fortuna
After exploring the many dining options, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite restaurants that promise not only delicious meals but also unforgettable dining experiences.
Don Rufino – This restaurant brings the best of local and international cuisine together.
Organico Fortuna – Great organic & healthy food with a variety of vegan options.
Pollo Fortuneño – Great local inexpensive option with known for their tasty roast chicken.
Herbario Restaurant – Tasty options from tropical ceviche, tenderloin and sea bass. You’ll find something for everyone.
Tucanes at Tabacon – Ideal spot for date night: enjoy a la carte dining, gourmet cuisine, and international dishes.
where to stay in la fortuna
When planning a trip to the beautiful town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, picking the right place to stay can really enhance your experience. Located in the heart of the Arenal region, La Fortuna has a wide range of lodging options to fit different tastes and budgets. From luxurious resorts with stunning views of the majestic Arenal Volcano to cozy eco-lodges nestled in lush rainforest, the choices are both diverse and abundant.
We’ve done the legwork for you, sifting through reviews and scouting locations, and we’re excited to share our top picks for the best places to stay in La Fortuna. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventurous escape, or a peaceful retreat, La Fortuna offers accommodations that combine comfort with the natural beauty of the area.
At Casa Bohem, we truly care about who and what we recommend. The links you see on our page could be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission without any additional cost to you. Rest assured, our recommendations come with careful consideration and integrity.
