WHAT TO DO IN LA FORTUNA

The green heart of Costa Rica

La Fortuna is located in the middle of the lush rainforest in northern Costa Rica, a place that combines adventure and relaxation in a special way. The small town is best known for its spectacular backdrop around the impressive Arenal Volcano, which rises almost perfectly formed above the landscape.
The town itself is compact, but offers numerous restaurants, small cafés, and tour operators. This makes La Fortuna an ideal starting point for several days of nature experiences.

The Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano is considered one of the most famous volcanoes in Central America. Until 2010, it was one of the most active volcanoes in the country, but today it is dormant and offers safe opportunities for hiking and exploration.
The Arenal Volcano National Park stretches around the volcano and has well-developed hiking trails. Here, paths lead through cooled lava fields, past viewpoints overlooking Lake Arenal, and into dense tropical forests. The most famous hike is the 1968 hike around the Volcano.
With a little luck, you can spot howler monkeys in the treetops or colorful toucans flying back and forth between the branches.

On the 1968 hike you walk over dried lava from the 1968 eruption.

Nature experience at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

A special highlight around La Fortuna is a visit to Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. The extensive nature reserve combines well-maintained hiking trails with spectacular suspension bridges that run high above the forest floor.
As you slowly walk across the sturdy bridges, a whole new perspective on the rainforest opens up. Instead of just walking on the ground, you move at eye level with treetops, orchids, and, with a little luck, even monkeys or sloths. The wildlife is particularly active in the early morning hours.
The trails in the park are well developed and also suitable for families. It is considered easy to moderate and does not require any special fitness level. Sturdy shoes are still recommended, as it can get slippery in the rainforest at any time.
The park is suitable for both guided tours and individual exploration. A guide can help you spot well-camouflaged animals that you would easily overlook on your own.

You can spot a lot of different wildlife in the Park, like a tiny little frog.

The tour offers views of the forest canopy.

Relaxation in natural thermal springs

After an active day in nature, the hot springs around La Fortuna invite you to relax. The water is heated by volcanic activity and is rich in minerals. Many visitors enjoy the combination of warm water, tropical vegetation, and the view of the volcano.
One of the best-known resorts is the Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, which integrates natural river courses into extensive gardens. Those on a budget can bathe for free in the Río Choyen thermal river, which is popular with locals.

A little bit hidden under the main road you’ll find the Río Choyen thermal river.

Hostels often organizes tours with candlelight and drinks in the river.

La Fortuna Waterfall

Another highlight is the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall. Several hundred steps lead down to a turquoise pool at the foot of the waterfall. The cool water provides a refreshing break, surrounded by dense rainforest.
The way back up is challenging, but the view and the experience of nature make up for all the effort.

From above, the waterfall doesn’t look that big.

But once you walk down to it, it’s very impressive.

Day trip to Río Celeste

An unforgettable nature experience is a trip to Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park. From La Fortuna, you can reach the area after about an hour and a half’s drive through rural regions and past small villages. The journey is usually made by rental car or as part of a guided tour. The last few kilometers of the route can be bumpy or unpaved, depending on weather conditions, so a vehicle with sufficient ground clearance is advantageous.
The river is famous for its intense turquoise color. This natural phenomenon is caused by a chemical reaction of volcanic minerals in the water. This creates a distinctive smell, which is overshadowed by the beauty of the colorful water. During the hike through the national park, well-marked trails lead through dense rainforest to a bright blue waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
Upstream, you can also visit the spot where two clear rivers converge and the water turns visibly blue. With a little luck, you may encounter coatis, tropical birds, or butterflies along the way.

The Tenorio Volcano National Park is known for its beautiful Rio Celeste Waterfall.

The Rio Celeste owes its turquoise blue color to a chemical reaction and a physical phenomenon.

The bright turquoise blue color of the Rio Celeste is caused by a natural phenomenon at the confluence of two rivers.

Adventure and sustainability

La Fortuna is a paradise for anyone who wants to combine exercise and nature. Ziplining through the treetops, rafting on wild rivers, and kayaking on the lake are among the most popular activities. Canyoning, waterfall abseiling, and night hikes through the rainforest are also very popular. whether adrenaline junkies or nature lovers, La Fortuna is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
At the same time, sustainable tourism plays a major role. Many accommodations focus on environmentally friendly concepts and support local projects to protect biodiversity.

Best time to travel to La Fortuna

The best time to visit La Fortuna is during the dry season from December to April. However, the region also shows its intense and colorful side during the rainy season. Short rain showers ensure particularly lush vegetation.
Practical tips:

Don’t forget a light rain jacket
Bring insect repellent
Book activities in advance (especially in high season)
Start early in the morning to observe animals

Why a trip to La Fortuna is worthwhile

La Fortuna combines impressive nature, active experiences, and soothing relaxation in a unique environment. If you are traveling to Costa Rica and want to experience the diversity of the rainforest up close, you will find a place full of energy and joie de vivre here. It combines all the best things Costa Rica has to offer and is therefore a must-see.