La Fortuna, Costa Rica: Complete Jungle Town Travel Guide

La Fortuna Weather

It’s hard to write about the climate in La Fortuna Costa Rica because this is a jungle. You never really know how the weather is going to be.

If you visit between December and mid-April you will almost without a doubt have dry and hot weather. This is the dry season in Costa Rica and you will have the best chance of having a clear view of the volcano.

The downside is that La Fortuna is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica and every other tourist will also be here at that time.

During the rest of the year, the weather is totally unpredictable. We have visited and had perfect weather every day. We have also visited and had a lot of rain and no views of the volcano.

Even during the rainy season, it tends to stay warm in La Fortuna. I always bring pants and a long sleeve shirt just in case, but usually, I don’t need them.

• Sunrise: Between 5:20 am (December) and 5:50 am (June)
• Sunset: Between 5:20 pm (June) and 6:00 pm (December)
• Average Daytime Temperature: 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 32 °C)
• Average Nighttime Temperature: 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 °C)

Check out our guide to Costa Rica Weather by Month for more info

Pro Tip: If traveling during the rainy season just ignore the weather forecast. They often predict rain all day and that is just not true. 

La Fortuna Transportation

Flights to La Fortuna

Flying into Liberia International Airport or San Jose International Airport are both good options for going to La Fortuna. 

From San Jose to La Fortuna will take you about three and a half hours to drive depending on traffic. 

From Liberia, it will take about two and a half hours to drive.

More and more airlines are starting service to Liberia so check out the rates. It may be cheaper for you to fly there rather than San Jose.

If you haven’t booked your flight yet, we suggest using Skyscanner. We consistently find the best rates through their website.

Check out our guides:

• Liberia International Airport: Guide to Arrivals and Departures
• Renting a Car from Liberia Airport
• San Jose International Airport: Guide to Arrivals and Departures
• Renting a Car from the San Jose International Airport

Transportation to La Fortuna

From either the San Jose or Liberia Airport, there are a few different ways you can get here.

We suggest renting your car with our favorite Costa Rica rental car company, Adobe. They have an office at the Liberia Airport and at the San Jose International Airport. 

We suggest them because they are upfront with their prices, have excellent customer service, and are just overall a great local company.

They have kindly given us a 10% discount plus other great perks to pass on to you. 

⤷ Book Your Rental Car with Adobe and Save 10%

The roads are mostly well-maintained. You do not need a 4×4 to visit here. However, if you plan to visit Monteverde after La Fortuna you may want a 4×4.

We suggest renting at least an SUV with decent clearance for the curvy and hilly roads.

Note: A lot of accommodation options are located on unpaved side roads. I suggest checking exactly where your hotel is located to help you decide the right car for you.

Transportation in La Fortuna

Once you arrive in La Fortuna you will need transportation to get around town and to fun activities.

Here is our opinion on that….

We always suggest renting a car because it gives you the most flexibility to do off-the-beaten-path activities and allows you to stay at a hotel that is not right downtown. 

The downtown area is very condensed and walkable, but most activities are located within a twenty to thirty-minute drive of downtown.

If you opt to take the public bus, private shuttle, or domestic flight; you can always rent a car once in La Fortuna. 

Our favorite rental car company Adobe has an office in La Fortuna and will deliver your car to your hotel for you within 12 miles of their La Fortuna office. 

⤷ Book Your Rental Car with Adobe and Save 10%

You won’t need a car if….

• You are staying at one of the hot springs resorts and don’t plan to leave much.
• You are staying right in the downtown area and plan on booking all activities with transportation included. There are plenty of restaurants in the downtown area that you can walk to. 

So, all in all, we like the flexibility of having a car. However, we understand that it can be scary driving in a foreign country. 

La Fortuna also has taxis if you need to get around for short drives.

Just always make sure that you always take a registered Costa Rican taxi so you are not overcharged.

You can recognize a legal taxi because it is red with a yellow triangle on the driver’s and passenger’s side door.

Downtown La Fortuna

The downtown area of La Fortuna consists of one main long road called Route 142.

In the center of town, this road has several restaurants, shops, hotels, a cute central park with a church, and an intersection to go towards the La Fortuna Waterfall.

As you continue west on this road towards the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal you will pass all of the hot springs and most of the nicer hotels and resorts.

The Arenal Volcano

The main draw of La Fortuna is the impressive Arenal Volcano.

This is a stratovolcano and is one of the few volcanoes in Costa Rica that you can easily visit. It was once highly active, but it entered a resting phase in 2010. 

This volcano serves as a backdrop for the town of La Fortuna, but on a cloudy days you might not even know it is there because it gets so fogged in.

There are several places you can enjoy the volcano view, but it is not possible to hike to the top of the volcano.

However, there are a few great hikes around the volcano including one trail called the 1968 trail which goes up one of the old lava trails.

Check out the Arenal Volcano National Park Guide for details on how to visit

The La Fortuna Waterfall

The La Fortuna waterfall is an impressive fall that plunges from 70 meters high into a crystal-clear pool.

Depending on the current water level you can sometimes even swim under the fall.

Just as a warning, be prepared to walk down over 400 steps to get there, which means walking back up 400 steps after. 

Admission is $20 for people age 9 and up. You can pre-book your tickets below.

There is free parking, a bathroom with changing rooms, and a cafe on site.

We have a complete guide to visiting the La Fortuna Waterfall for more info which includes what to wear, how to swim here, day tours, and more!

Pre-Book Your La Fortuna Waterfall Entrance Tickets

The Arenal Hot Springs

Another draw of La Fortuna is the several hot spring facilities located at the base of Arenal Volcano.

These hot spring parks are great because they cater to a variety of budgets and interests.

For example, there are adult-only hot springs, family-friendly places, and places that are great if you want a party vibe.

There are even several hot springs that have hotel or resort facilities. This is great because it allows you to have hot spring admission included in your stay.

• Favorite High-End Hot Spring Resort: Amor Arenal for couples | The Springs Resort and Spa for families
• Mid-Range Hot Spring Hotel: Paradise Hot Springs

Check out the 14 Best Arenal Volcano Hot Springs to plan your visit

Zip Lining in La Fortuna

Another must do activity in La Fortuna is zip lining. There are several zip lining parks throughout this area. Some are better for families with young kids and some are best for adrenaline seekers.

SkyTrek offers zip lining and a tram with amazing views. 

Ecoglide which has great volcano views and a Tarzan swing.  

Arenal Mundo has nice views of the La Fortuna waterfall to zip over.

Check out the guide to the 4 Best Arenal Zip Lining Companies for more info

Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal is a large man-made lake located west of La Fortuna. It serves a stunning foreground to the Arenal Volcano.

This is a great place to enjoy multiple water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing. It is also a nice place to just enjoy the view.

There are also many great restaurants and hotels on these shores.

Check out our guide to Lake Arenal for more info on planning your visit

Things to Do in La Fortuna

There are so many things to do in the surrounding area. A few of our favorite activities are:

Visit the Hanging Bridges

The best hanging bridges in La Fortuna are at Mistico Park.

The trails are relatively easy (but awesome) and this place can be reached in about 15 minutes from downtown La Fortuna. 

If you would like to book a guided tour, there are plenty of options.

• Mistico Park Guided Tour: General group tour. Most popular option.
• Bird-Watching Tour: Starts at 6 am. Great for nature lovers.
• Twilight Walk Tour: Starts at 4:30 pm. See the sun go down over the volcano.
• Nocturnal Walk: Starts at 6 pm. See night active wildlife.
• Full Day Combo Tour: also includes a visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano National Park

Otherwise, you can just drive there on your own and get admission tickets.

Check Out Our Guide to the Mistico Hanging Bridges for More Info

Learn How Chocolate is Made

Have you ever wondered how chocolate is made from growing the beans to producing this treat?

At Rainforest Chocolate Tours you can find out!

This is one of those activities that people of any age will enjoy and be able to participate in. Plus it includes all the chocolate you can eat!

Check Availability and Book Your Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Go Fishing

On Lake Arenal, it is possible to go kayak fishing or go out in a small boat.

Along the way, you might catch rainbow bass, tilapia, and more!

We suggest booking your trip with Captain Marc on his 19’ Sea Pro boat. He’s the best and I guarantee you’ll have a great time.

Or if you prefer kayaking, you can book your kayak fishing trip here.

Try SUP on Lake Arenal

On Lake Arenal, it is possible to take a half-day stand-up paddle tour with transportation from your hotel.

This is a peaceful experience and a great workout!

Check Availability and Book Your SUP Tour

Go River Tubing

Inner tubing is the perfect thing to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica for most ages and physical levels. We did this activity with our whole family and everyone had a blast!

Arrange Your La Fortuna Tubing Adventure

Go Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting down the Balsa River is the perfect adventure activity. In La Fortuna, it is possible to take a trip on class II/III or class III/IV rapids, depending on your skill levels.

We really like the company Arenal Rafting. Their guides are great, everything usually runs smoothly, and transportation and lunch is included. 

You can book your II/III trip with Arenal Rafting here.

You can book your class III/IV trip with Arenal Rafting here.

Take a Day Trip to Rio Celeste

Rio Celeste is a bright blue river that almost looks like somehow went a little crazy with the Photoshop Saturation filter.

We suggest this during the dry season. During the rainy season the effect usually isn’t as great.

↪Prefer a guided tour with transportation from La Fortuna? Check availability here

Walk the Downtown Area

There is a small park with a church in the center of La Fortuna that is really cute.

We like to park here and people-watch for a bit before getting dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

La Fortuna Combo Tours

Another popular way to enjoy the Arenal area is with a combo tour. This is a great way to pack a few different activities in one day for maximum fun and adventure. A few great options are:

Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, Typical lunch & Arenal Volcano Hike: This tour is a full day. You will depart from your hotel with pickup around 7:00am and return in the afternoon. Lunch is included and the guides are amazing.

Waterfall Rappelling and White Water Rafting: This is a great combo for those of you looking for some serious thrill-seeking. This combo tour includes transportation from and to your hotel as well as lunch.

Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike, & Hot Springs: This is a true full day tour with transportation. It is pricey, but actually, I think it is a really good value when you add it all up because the tour includes lunch and ends at Baldi hot springs with dinner.

For more ideas of fun things to do check out our Guide to the 30 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna

La Fortuna Hotels

High-End Hotels

Amor Arenal : Amor Arenal is one of our favorite places in the area. Everything is just perfect here from the staff to location to the rooms to the grounds.

Nayara Gardens: Nayara Gardens is a five-star luxury boutique hotel located on the outskirts of the Arenal Volcano. 

Tabacon Resort and Spa: Tabacon is often considered the number one place to stay in La Fortuna. A big part of this is because they have really nice natural hot springs on the property.

Mid Range Hotels

Arenal Observatory: Located outside of the downtown area, the volcano views here are great. There is an on-site restaurant, bird sanctuary, spa, walking trails, restaurant, and more!

Suwa Villa Arenal: A great place for modern and minimalistic boutique hotel vibes at a reasonable price point.

Budget Friendly Hotels and Hostels

Hotel Roco Negra del Arenal: Located close enough to the action of downtown but still has a natural peaceful feel to it. There is a pool and a hot tub on the property as well. 

Chalets Silencio del Bosque: Chalets Silencio del Bosque is a peaceful garden retreat nestled in Fortuna. This rustic place is a family-run business that they take a lot of pride in. 

⤷ For more ideas, we created a complete guide to the 27 Best Hotels and Vacation Rentals in La Fortuna for all budgets.

La Fortuna Vacation Rentals

We always love renting a home or villa for our vacation in Costa Rica. This gives you more privacy and allows you the flexibility to cook your own meals.

Note: We try to only ever suggest places with good cancellation policies, but always double-check before booking.

The Ranch Villa: Six bedroom home that sleeps 11. The home is very nice, but the property is just amazing! There is a pool, hot tub, and nice yard.

Arenal Luxury Paradise: Arenal Luxury Paradise is tailored for a couples’ getaway. The house is crafted from a container, but it feels like a cozy and private space. We especially love the private jacuzzi.

Check VRBO for more amazing house rentals in the La Fortuna area

La Fortuna Vacation Packages

Take the planning, stress, and guesswork out of traveling by booking a multi-day tour with an experienced guide.

For more tour ideas check out Tour Radar

La Fortuna Retreats

Another way to enjoy La Fortuna is with a retreat. This area is known as being the perfect retreat destination. A few of our favorite retreats are:

For more tour ideas check out Book Retreats

Restaurants in La Fortuna

Here are a few of our favorite restaurants in La Fortuna, but no matter what your budget or food interest you will be able to find something here.

A lot of restaurants in Costa Rica do not have websites, so the best way to find places is through TripAdvisor.

Organico Fortuna: Go here for lunch! you won’t be disappointed. They serve up super fresh organic food which tastes amazing! They also have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

Restaurante Tierra Mia: Great Costa Rican food located in the town of La Fortuna. The perfect place for a traditional dinner. 

Chifa La Familia Feliz: This place doesn’t look like much, but don’t let appearances fool you. They serve a delicious fusion of Asian, Peruvian, and Costa Rican meals.

Red Frog Coffee Roasters: These guys know coffee. If you’re looking for a good cup, this is the place to go. They also have a good selection of food. It’s a good breakfast spot, but just note they don’t open until 8 am.

Soda Viquez: Good traditional Costa Rican food at a very reasonable price. This is a good spot for a large lunch or dinner.

⤷ For more ideas, we created a complete guide to the 19 best restaurants in La Fortuna which details exactly where to go for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

La Fortuna Safety Tips

La Fortuna is generally really safe.

Your biggest safety concern should be petty theft. To combat that we suggest:

• Keep your valuables secure and refrain from openly displaying expensive items. 
• Don’t leave things in your rental car and always park in secure lots or at a spot with a guard.
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• A lot of restaurants are open-air. Don’t leave your cell phone out on the table or your purse just hanging on the back of your chair.
• Dressing in a relaxed way will also help you blend in.

I’m not trying to scare you. We have never had anything happen to us in La Fortuna. However, it is always best to be a bit cautious.

If something happens, the emergency number in Costa Rica is 9-1-1. You should be able to get a police officer who speaks English if you need.

Also, always purchase travel insurance. It doesn’t just cover injury but also helps if things get stolen. Our go-to travel insurance company for Costa Rica is a company called Heymondo. They are great!

Their comprehensive plans offer 24/7 assistance, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, lost baggage coverage, assistance in case of medical issues, as well as the option to add-on adventure activity coverage. 

↳ Get Your Travel Insurance Quote

Packing for La Fortuna

Some things we always pack for La Fortuna are:

• We suggest carrying your stuff in a large backpack instead of a suitcase if possible. The Osprey 55L is great if you are only bringing a carry-on (take the small bag part off for under your seat) and the Osprey 75L is our go-to for checking-in a bag.
• Pocket Binoculars: Great for spotting that hard to see wildlife
• Columbia Bora Bora Sun Hat: This hat is slightly nerdy, but great for blocking the sun, folding up small i