La Fortuna Costa Rica

La Fortuna is a small town located in the Northern Region of Costa Rica, almost 4 miles away from the Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the top destinations in the country. There are many things to do in La Fortuna that combine nature and adventure. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the volcano, relax in the thermal waters, hike or ride along many nature trails and enjoy a walk around town visiting restaurants and the local souvenir stores. Nearby you will find the Lake Arenal where the best windsurfing and kite surfing in the country takes place as well as several mountain-biking trails along its shores.

Things to do in La Fortuna

Arenal Volcano National Park
The Arenal Volcano National Park stretches 200,000 hectares along the northern mountain range of Costa Rica. Walk on the short trails through some young secondary forests and old lava from previous eruptions of the volcano. These walks are always guided by rangers so you don’t have to worry about safety.

Kayaking
Enjoy a pleasant time kayaking on Lake Arenal with breathtaking views of the volcano. During your trip you may observe different species of birds like the flycatcher, kingfisher and great blue heron.

Mountain Biking
Biking around Lake Arenal is a great way to experience the area's amazing topography such as farmlands, green hills and rivers along the base of the volcano.

La Fortuna Waterfall
One of the best things to do in La Fortuna is visit this 70 meter waterfall located amid lush tropical forest. During the hike you will enjoy the natural beauty of the rainforest as well as the local birds and wildlife.

Hot Springs
There are a number of natural hot springs throughout the area of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Warm and soothing, these springs offer you an ideal way to relax after a day spent exploring the area.

Canyoning
You can rappel down waterfalls, jump into natural pools, descend the canyon walls and hike up through the rainforest.

Canopy tour and hanging bridges
Experience the adrenaline rush in the tree-tops to enjoy the panoramic view of the Arenal Volcano and lake.

Costa Rica Cooking Class and Dinner
Learn about the local food and the agricultural products such as yucca, tiquisque, mamon chino, sugar cane and other interesting foods and learn to cook up some tico-style "picadillos," tortillas" and "guisados" for a delicious sit-down meal.

Coffee and Chocolate Plantation
Learn about coffee plantations and how the beans are grown, harvested and turned into coffee. Then, delight in a delicious demonstration of the chocolate-making process as the rich history of the cacao plant is explained.

La Fortuna tours to other destinations nearby

Peñas Blancas River Safari Float
On this river you will enjoy the sights and sounds of a variety of animals like monkeys, caimans, iguanas, crocodiles, sloths and a wide range of birds. The safari float combines the beautiful nature and wildlife with a peaceful expedition on the water.

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Located 1 hour and 30 minutes away from La Fortuna, this Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places for birdwatching in the country. You can catch a glimpse of the exotic Jabiru Stork, the tallest flying bird found in Central and South America. You may also see wood storks, cormorants, and other varieties of birds.

Sarapiqui Rafting Class III
This river is a mixture of exciting white water rapids and quieter sections for wildlife viewing and relaxation. The Sarapiqui River is surrounded by tropical vegetation as well as farmland and towering trees. You can observe many species of birds such as toucans and hummingbirds. Frequently spotted are monkeys, iguanas, sloths and river turtles

Location and Map

La Fortuna Costa Rica is reachable by car or private transfer. It is located 135 km/84 miles from the Liberia International Airport (LIR) and 114 kms / 70 miles from the San Jose International Airport (SJO). It is an approximately 2 hours and 30 minute drive.