La Fortuna Costa Rica
Jungle adventure with volcano views
The La Fortuna Vibe
La Fortuna Costa Rica is home to Arenal Volcano (pictured above). In fact, this area is often referred to as Arenal Costa Rica.
This area is the perfect jungle destination complete with amazing waterfalls, hanging bridges, zip lining, great hiking spots, white water rafting, hot springs and more.
If you are looking for adventure, this is our top pick for you. We usually aren’t into the really touristy destinations like La Fortuna, but there is just so much to do for everyone and the scenery is amazing. We come up here pretty often and take every person who visits us to this unique area.
Now on to the rest of the La Fortuna Costa Rica travel guide.
Map Of La Fortuna
La Fortuna is located about four hours north of San Jose by car. This area is dense with jungle, mountains, and waterfalls.
La Fortuna at a Glance
Nearest International Airport
Both international airports are semi easy to get to
Popular Things to Do
Visit the La Fortuna waterfall, relax at a hot spring, go zip lining, go white water rafting
Best Way to Get Around
Rental car, walking in the downtown area
Best Time of Year to Visit
Dry season is from late December until mid-April
Best Hikes
The Arenal 1968 trail, a day trip to Rio Celeste
Book Your Trip
Getting to La Fortuna
Flying into the Liberia or San Jose 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. From Liberia it will take about two and a half hours.
More and more airlines are starting service to Liberia so check out the rates. It may be cheaper for you to fly there than San Jose.
For flight booking we suggest Skyscanner. They are our go-to flight booking site for great rates.
I need to preface this by saying I absolutely love the drive to La Fortuna coming from Liberia or San Jose.
Both drives are some of the nicest drives in the country.
However, if you are prone to car sickness, definitely stock up on those motion sickness pills.
Some of the roads are very curvy.
If you plan to rent a car we suggest renting from our favorite local company called Adobe Rent a Car. They have given us a 10% discount plus other great perks to pass on to you. You can book your car with discount here.
Rental Car From Liberia
Your drive from Liberia will start on the nicest highway in Costa Rica.
In the town of Canas you will turn on to a smaller (but well maintained) road and continue into the mountains, around Lake Arenal, and to La Fortuna.
For me, the road around Lake Arenal is where I get the worst motion sickness in all of Costa Rica. I always arrive to La Fortuna like a zombie and need to sleep it off. But, I’m prone to bad motion sickness.
We have done this route with other people and they have had no problems.
Rental Car from San Jose
The drive from San Jose to La Fortuna will take about 3:30h.
The drive starts on a well-maintained and somewhat busy highway.
There are tolls on this first stretch. They do not accept credit cards but cash in dollars or colones is accepted.
You will then drive through downtown San Ramon. This can be a bit chaotic.
After San Ramon, things calm down and you can enjoy beautiful views as you make your way along well maintained (but sometimes curvy) roads to La Fortuna.
Just be aware that sometimes you might get stuck behind a slow truck and passing can be difficult.
Taking a Private Shuttle
From Liberia or San Jose, it is possible to take a private shuttle to your hotel in Fortuna.
We suggest this for families or groups who don’t feel comfortable driving.
You can ask for a quote from our go-to private shuttle company here.
Public Bus from San Jose
From downtown San Jose you will take the bus to Ciudad Quesada and then from Ciudad Quesada to La Fortuna.
This is possible multiple times a day and will take about four hours.
Public Bus from Liberia
Taking the bus from downtown Liberia to La Fortuna is somewhat complicated.
You will need to take the bus from Liberia to Cañas, from Canas to Tilaran, from Tilaran to Fortuna.
If you catch all the connections this will take about 4:30h.
When planning your bus route we suggest looking at TheBusSchedule.
Domestic Flight
Sansa is the main domestic airline in Costa Rica. They offer flights to La Fortuna from San Jose but not from Liberia.
This is definitely the fastest way to get to La Fortuna, but if you have a fear of small planes, this is not the option for you.
Getting Around in La Fortuna
We suggest depending on a rental car while in La Fortuna.
The downtown area is very condensed and walkable, but most activities are located within a twenty to thirty minute drive of downtown.
This means that if you don’t rent a car you will have to book day tours which include transportation.
Fortunately, there are tons of tour options in La Fortuna that include transportation if you don’t have a car, but they can be expensive.
If you opt to take the bus or a shuttle to get here, you can rent a car from Adobe and input La Fortuna as your pick-up location. They have an office directly in the downtown area of La Fortuna.
In the comments section of the rental car reservation, you can specify that you need the car delivered to you at your hotel in La Fortuna. Adobe will deliver it to you free of charge if you are within 12 miles of their location.
Also, there are taxis in La Fortuna if you need them.
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 drivers and passenger side door.
Book Your Transportation
La Fortuna Weather
It’s hard to write about the climate in La Fortuna 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.
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La Fortuna Hotels
High-End Hotels
Tabacon Thermal Resort– A beautiful resort featuring hot springs, pools, a spa, multiple restaurants, and more!
Arenal Manoa– This hotel features hot springs, spa treatments, beautiful volcano views, and more!
The Royal Corin– Experience the amazing grounds which feature pools, spa services, a restaurant, a bar, and more!
The Springs Resort & Spa– This place is pure luxury! Enjoy the 28 hot spring pools, a spa, volcano views, and a fitness center.
Mid-Range Hotels
Casona Rustica: Super cute cabins with a swimming pool and a really beautiful view of Arenal Volcano. This spot is great because it’s out of the downtown area and really nature-y.
Volcano Lodge– The perfect place to stay a bit out of the downtown area. The facilities include a nice pool with Arenal volcano views.
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!
Hotel Los Lagos– A nice hotel with an on-site restaurant and hot springs. Located outside of the downtown area.
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa– A small hotel with pool, spa, and restaurant.
Budget Hotels
Hotel Secreto La Fortuna-Simple rooms, but all rooms are clean and modern. There is a pool for guests to use.
Hotel Roco Negra del Arenal: Located close enough to the action of downtown but still has a natural peaceful feel to it. Also, all the rooms have a fridge! There is a pool and a hot tub on the property as well.
Arenal Xilopalo– Located outside of downtown La Fortuna. The rooms are simple, but have everything you need and are very affordable.
La Tigra Rainforest Lodge– Unique elevated tents with bunk beds. This hotel is located in a somewhat remote area.
La Fortuna Homes & Villa Rentals
We always love renting a home or villa for our vacation. 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 Majestic Lodge – An 8 bedroom/ 10 bath home that can sleep 20 guests. This is a great place for a large family or friends group. The property is really nice with a pool and large deck area. Just note that this is not located in the downtown part of La Fortuna but actually next to Lake Arenal.
Castle in The Clouds – A modern 2 bedroom/ 2 bath house with insane Arenal Volcano views. This home is located next to Lake Arenal.
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.
Birdsong Villa – A two bedroom/ two bath home with views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.
Things to Do in La Fortuna
Visit the Hanging Bridges
The best hanging bridges in La Fortuna are at Mistico Park.
If you would like a guided tour with transportation from your hotel, you can book that here.
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 trip here.
Go Hiking
There are a few hiking spots in La Fortuna, but we like the Arenal 1968 trail in Arenal Volcano National Park.
It costs about $12 for entry and will take you a few hours. It’s somewhat strenuous in places, but doable.
I wasn’t overly impressed with this hike because you are never rewarded with great views, but if you just want to get some hiking in, go for it!
Another option is to do this hike with a guide, transportation, and picnic included. This would be good for you if you would like to learn a lot about history and nature.
Visit a Butterfly Sanctuary
The Butterfly Conservatory near Lake Arenal is a really nice place to spend a couple of hours.
You’ll see some really cool butterflies and reptiles, take a nice nature walk and meet some very knowledgeable people who work there.
You could combine this with a hike on the Arenal 1968 trail or a kayak trip around the lake. They are all located close together.
Visit the La Fortuna Waterfall
Check out La Fortuna waterfall if you want a nice half day trip that is not too expensive. It costs $15 for entry.
This waterfall is seriously impressive and if there hasn’t been too much rain recently you can swim under it.
Just as a warning, be prepared to walk down over 400 steps to get there, which means walking back up 400 steps after. 😉 There is free parking, a bathroom with changing rooms, and a cafe on site.
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.
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!
Go Caving
About 45 minutes from downtown La Fortuna there is a place called Venado Caves.
It’s intense and if you don’t do well with tight spaces this is not an activity for you. I thought I would freak out, but once the adrenaline kicked in I was good to go.
If you would prefer a trip here with transportation from your La Fortuna area hotel included, we suggest this tour.
Take a Wild Life Safari Float
This is the perfect family activity. Float down the Peñas Blancas River in a raft with an experienced guide and learn all about the wildlife. I highly recommend booking this tour.
Relax in a Hot Spring
There are tons of hot springs in La Fortuna!
Our fave budget-friendly sports are Termales Los Laureles and Termalitas del Arenal.
For a nicer experience, with lunch or dinner, we suggest Baldi Hot Springs or Tabacon Hot Springs.
Note: neither of these bookings includes transportation. You will need to find your own transportation to get there. However, there is plenty of free and secure parking.
You can also check out our guide to the La Fortuna hot springs for more info.
Learn How Chocolate is Made
We love the tour at Rainforest Chocolate Tours! Plus it includes all the chocolate you can eat! This is one of those activities that people of any age will enjoy and be able to participate in.
Another great option is this tour which combines learning about chocolate and visiting a coffee plantation.
Go White Water Rafting
Whitewater rafting is the perfect adventure activity. In La Fortuna it is possible to take a trip on class II/III or class III/IV rapids.
You can book your II/III trip here.
You can book your class III/IV trips here.
Taka an ATV Tour
We love La Fortuna for ATV tours because you get great views of the Arenal volcano.
We suggest this tour which includes the chance to cover yourself with volcanic mud with healing properties.
Try Zip Lining
There are plenty of zip-lining companies in La Fortuna. We don’t have a favorite company to suggest because each one offers different things.
A few of the most reputable are: SkyTrek which offers zip lining and a tram with amazing views. Ecoglide which has great volcano views and a Tarzan swing. And Arenal Mundo which has nice views of the La Fortuna waterfall to zip over.
Take a Day Trip to Rio Celeste
Rio Celeste is a bright blue river located about 1.5 hours north of La Fortuna. It is a must-see in Costa Rica. We have a Rio Celeste guidepost here.
This can be done on your own if you have a rental car or you can take a tour with transportation from your hotel in 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.
La Fortuna Restaurants
Fine Dining
Amor Loco Restaurant– Beautiful restaurant located in Nayara Spring Hotel. The service, atmosphere, and food are all excellent.
Restaurante Emperador– Delicious restaurant with amazing volcano views located in the Royal Corin hotel.
Mid-Range
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 downtown La Fortuna. The perfect place for a traditional dinner.
Restaurante Cafe Mediterraneo– Located just outside of downtown La Fortuna, this relaxed place serves up some tasty wood fired pizza and pasta.
Marisqueria Snapper House– Ths is our go-to place in La Fortuna for delicious seafood. It’s located right in downtown La Fortuna and we highly recommend it!
Budget-Friendly
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.
Yellow Bark– We like this place for lunch. They have great sandwiches, wraps, burgers. etc.
Multi- Day Tours That Go to La Fortuna
Take the planning, stress, and guess work out of traveling by booking a multi-day tour with an experienced guide
For more tour ideas check out Tour Radar.
Packing for La Fortuna
Despite being in the mountains, the weather is usually decent and fairly warm here.
We suggest a bathing suit for hot springs, sporty clothes for hiking, zip lining, etc. and plenty of UV protection.
Check out our La Fortuna Packing List on Amazon for all the essentials.
La Fortuna Travel Tips
– Our only advice is to definitely visit La Fortuna. It definitely has something for everyone and is the perfect jungle experience
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8 Responses
Hello!
My husband and I are going to Costa Rica the first week of May for our honeymoon. We are staying two fulls days in Arenal and two full days in Monteverde and one day that is up in the air. We know that the weather at this time is pretty uncertain. Can you suggest some activities that are good to do when it is raining. I like to plan ahead and know that we have options if the weather isn’t great. Any other suggestions are welcome as well! Thanks so much!
Hi Vanessa! You actually should be ok in early May. It will be just the start of rainy season, so you may have an afternoon rainstorm in La Fortuna, but you might get lucky and not have anything. In Monteverde, it is almost always raining but it is such a light constant rain that we just continue along with our normal activities and try not to let it bother us.
However, if it does rain in La Fortuna but isn’t thundering we like to go to the hot springs. You will be wet anyway and even when it rains it will still be hot in Fortuna at that time of year.
Also, definitely go ziplining in either fortuna or Monteverde. That is a must do activity in those places.
Let me know if you think of any other questions 🙂
Is there a night life in LaFortuna? Restaurants and shops stay open late? Bars? Thanks so much!
Hi Stephanie,
Most bars and restaurants with bars tend to be open until about 11pm. There are also a few clubs, but I’m not sure how safe they are. I would stick with the bars and restaurants if possible.
Just a quick question. Do you need cash to get into the falls or do they also take visa. mastercard, debit? Also is it a problem taking a taxi there?
Thanks Sandy
Hi Sandy, I’m sorry for the late reply. I somehow missed this. You can definitely take a taxi there. The problem will be coming back. I cant recall seeing taxi drivers waiting around the airport. If you have a working cell phone it might be best to ask your taxi driver for his number so you can call him when you are done. I am not 100% positive but I am about 80% sure that they take credit cards at the La Fortuna waterfall.
Let me know if you have nay other questions!
Hello,
Just wanted to thank you for your blog, it has definitely helped our family plan our upcoming vacation. I did have one question, we need transportation from San Jose airport to Tabacon resort in La Fortuna. We decided not to rent a care b/c we will do so when we drive out to Tamarindo. What mode of transportation do you suggest from airport to resort? I hear uber is a pretty good option. The quote Tabacon resort gave me for 3 of us was 190.00 US dollars. I feel that’s a little pricey. We welcome any suggestions you may have.
Hi Evelyn! It is a bit pricey but I think you Uber will probably cost you more. I’ll check for you though! My phone is getting fixed this morning but when I get it back this afternoon I will input Tabacon and see how much it costs. I live pretty close to the airport.
There are private shuttle companies but those are also expensive. I would suggest checking with Interbus. That tends to be the go-to shuttle company here. https://www.interbusonline.com/ However, it seems that the shuttle would be even more expensive.
Honestly, your best bet might be to rent a car for a day. I just checked prices with our Adobe discount and it seems like this will be much cheaper for you. I would rent an SUV for comfort but you can definitely do the drive in a small car and will be fine if you want to save money. We have done the drive with a little Hyundai Grand without any problems. You can input San Jose Airport as your pick up and return in Fortuna. You can make a note that you are staying at Tabacon and Adobe will pick up the car from your hotel for free. https://www.costaricavibes.com/renting-a-car-in-costa-rica/
Let me check on Uber this afternoon and let you know though!