Is La Fortuna, Costa Rica Safe to Visit? Here’s The Truth

Are you wondering if La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a safe place to visit? You’re in the right place!

We’re a couple from the USA and Germany who have been living in Costa Rica since 2016. We’ve visited La Fortuna more times than we can count and we’ve learned exactly what to expect when it comes to safety in this bustling adventure town.

La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations for a reason. The views of Arenal Volcano, world-class hot springs, endless adventure tours, and the vibrant little downtown are all amazing. But just like anywhere in the world, it’s important to know how to keep yourself and your belongings safe while you’re here.

In this guide, we’ll cover all aspects of safety in La Fortuna, not just crime. We’ll also talk about staying safe during outdoor activities, protecting yourself from the intense tropical climate, avoiding common tourist mistakes, and navigating local wildlife encounters.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to enjoy La Fortuna safely, so you can focus on zip-lining through the rainforest, relaxing in hot springs, and soaking up those volcano views.

Safety from Crime in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is generally very safe for travelers, and crime here is far less common than in many other tourist destinations. That said, petty theft can happen, so it’s always worth taking a few simple precautions.

Here’s how to keep yourself and your belongings safe:

• Hotel & Tour Meeting Point Thefts: If you’re waiting for a tour pickup or checking in at your hotel, keep your bags close. Opportunistic theft can happen when luggage is left unattended for even a few minutes.
• Hot Springs & Waterfall Visits: Don’t leave your belongings unattended while swimming or soaking. Bring only what you need and use any available lockers.
• Keep Valuables Minimal: Carry only what you’ll use that day. Store passports, extra cash, and electronics in your hotel safe.
• Be Smart at Restaurants: Many places in La Fortuna have open-air dining. Keep your bag on your lap or between your feet, and avoid leaving your phone or wallet on the table.
• Avoid Dark, Isolated Areas at Night: La Fortuna’s downtown is lively in the evenings, but side streets can be poorly lit. Stick to main roads or take a registered taxi back to your hotel after dark.

What to Do if You’re Robbed

Most thefts in Costa Rica are opportunistic and non-violent. If it does happen to you, here’s what to do:

Stay Calm and Comply
If someone confronts you, don’t resist. Most thieves just want valuables and will leave once they get them. Your safety matters more than your stuff.

Get to a Safe Place
Head to your hotel or a busy restaurant or shop where you can regroup and make calls.

Call 9-1-1
This is Costa Rica’s emergency number for police, medical, and fire services. Operators speak English and Spanish, and calls go through even without an active phone plan.

Travel Tip: Even with a data-only eSIM like Airalo, you can still call 9-1-1 in Costa Rica.

File a Police Report
You’ll need to report the incident to the OIJ (Organismo de Investigación Judicial). The nearest office to La Fortuna is in Ciudad Quesada, about a 45-minute drive away.

Your hotel can help with directions or arrange transport.

Be ready to provide:

• Your passport or a copy
• A list of stolen items
• The time and place of the incident
• A short description of what happened

Filing this report is necessary for embassy help and for most insurance claims.

Contact Your Embassy
If your passport or important documents were stolen, get in touch with your embassy as soon as possible.

They can help replace documents, connect you with English-speaking legal or medical professionals, and assist with contacting family if needed.

Embassy numbers:

• U.S. Embassy (San José): +506 2519-2000
• Canadian Embassy: +506 2242-4400
• British Embassy: +506 2258-2025

Travel Tip: Keep a photo or scan of your passport on your phone. It makes replacing it much easier.

Cancel Stolen Cards
Call your bank or use your banking app to block stolen cards. Most international travel cards have 24/7 support lines.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider
Most policies cover stolen valuables, but you’ll need the police report and proof of ownership (receipts or photos).

We recommend Heymondo Travel Insurance for Costa Rica. They offer theft coverage and 24/7 emergency help through their app. Book Your Insurance

Safety During Activities in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is Costa Rica’s adventure capital. You can zip-line past waterfalls, soak in natural hot springs, rappel down canyons, go white-water rafting, and hike near an active volcano all in one trip.

Basically, it’s awesome here!

With so much to do, it’s important to stay safe so you can focus on the fun.

Hot Springs Safety

The hot springs here are one of La Fortuna’s biggest draws, and most are well-maintained and safe. Still, a few tips go a long way:

• Hydrate: The combination of heat and humidity can dehydrate you quickly. Drink water before, during, and after your soak.
• Avoid Alcohol Overload: A cocktail in the hot springs might feel relaxing, but too much alcohol can make you dizzy or dehydrated faster. Plus, some of the pools are really hot, which definitely doesn’t help when drinking.
• Mind the Rocks: Natural pools can have slippery stones and uneven footing. Walk slowly and watch your step. We watched someone slip while running and get knocked out once ayt one of the hot springs. It was not good.
• Use Lockers: If your hot springs facility offers lockers, use them. Don’t leave valuables on your lounge chair while you’re in the water.

Waterfall & River Safety

La Fortuna is surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, with La Fortuna Waterfall being the most famous.

• Watch for Slippery Trails: The hike down to La Fortuna Waterfall is steep with wet steps. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
• Respect Swimming Rules: If an area is marked as unsafe for swimming, don’t risk it. Water levels and currents can change quickly after rain.
• Leave Valuables Behind: Theft is rare but possible at busy natural attractions. Only bring what you need and keep it in sight.

White-Water Rafting Safety

White water rafting is one of La Fortuna’s most exciting adventures, but it’s also one where safety matters.

• Go With Certified Guides: Book with reputable tour companies that provide trained river guides and proper safety gear.
• Wear the Gear: A fitted life jacket and helmet are non-negotiable.
• Listen to Your Guide: Pay close attention to the safety briefing before you get on the water, those paddle commands matter when navigating rapids.
• Know Your Comfort Level: Rivers here range from Class II to Class IV. If you’re new to rafting, start with a gentler Class II–III trip.

We love the company Arenal Rafting. The guides are amazing and they take safety seriously.

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

Zip-Lining, Rappelling & Adventure Parks

• Book with Reputable Operators: Stick to well-known tour companies that follow proper safety standards and maintain their gear.
• Follow Instructions: Your guides do this every day. Pay attention to safety briefings, even if you’ve zip-lined before.
• Dress Right: Closed-toe shoes are a must, and longer shorts or leggings can prevent harness chafing.

A few of the most reputable companies are: 

• 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.

Hiking Near Arenal Volcano

• Stick to Marked Trails: Some areas around the volcano are restricted for safety reasons. Stay on official paths to avoid unstable ground or wildlife encounters.
• Bring Rain Gear: Even in the dry season, sudden showers are common.
• Carry Water & Snacks: Trails aren’t long, but the heat and humidity can wear you out quickly.

Wildlife Awareness

You might spot monkeys, coatis, toucans, or even snakes while exploring.

• Don’t Feed the Wildlife: It’s harmful to the animals and can make them aggressive toward humans.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Use your zoom lens for photos. Never approach or touch animals.
• Watch Where You Step: Snakes are rare in well-trafficked areas but do exist. Stay on trails and avoid putting your hands or feet into thick vegetation.

Weather and Climate Safety in La Fortuna

La Fortuna’s tropical climate is part of what makes it so lush and beautiful, but it also comes with a few things to be mindful of.

Rain & Flooding Risks

La Fortuna sits in the northern lowlands, meaning it can get rain year-round, even in the so-called “dry” season.

• Expect Sudden Showers: Pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho for tours and hikes, even if the morning is sunny.
• Trail Conditions: Trails can get muddy and slippery after rain, especially in the rainforest or around waterfalls. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip.
• Rivers & Waterfalls: Heavy rain can cause rapid rises in water levels and stronger currents. Avoid swimming in rivers or under waterfalls during or right after a downpour.

Sun & Heat Exposure

Even when it’s cloudy, the UV index in La Fortuna can be extreme.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially for hikes or outdoor tours. It;’s crazy how fast you’ll get dehydrated when you aren’t used to this climate.
• Take Shade Breaks: Midday sun here is intense. Try to plan the most strenuous activities for early morning or late afternoon.
• Dress Smart: Wear breathable, UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat.
• Sunscreen: Reapply every two hours (and after swimming). Go for reef-safe if you’ll be in natural hot springs or rivers.

Earthquake Awareness

Costa Rica is in a seismically active zone, and La Fortuna occasionally experiences mild earthquakes.

• If Indoors: Drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table or in a doorway until shaking stops.
• If Outdoors: Stay away from power lines, trees, and buildings.
  Most quakes are brief and harmless, but it’s good to know the basics just in case.

Check out our guide to earthquakes for more info

Staying Safe While Driving

Driving in La Fortuna can be a great way to explore on your own schedule, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you stay safe on the road.

Road Conditions

• Downtown La Fortuna: The main roads in town are paved and generally in good shape, but you may encounter potholes, especially on side streets.
• Attractions Outside Town: Many popular spots, like certain hot springs or adventure parks, are on gravel roads. Most are fine with a standard SUV, but during rainy season, you may appreciate having higher clearance.
• Rain & Visibility: Afternoon rain showers are common and can reduce visibility. Drive slower during downpours and use headlights, even during the day.

Parking Safety

• Never Leave Valuables in the Car: Theft from parked cars can happen, especially at trailheads or busy attractions.
• Use Attended Parking Lots: Many hot springs, restaurants, and tour operators have staffed parking areas for a small fee. They are 100% worth it for the peace of mind.
• Lock It Up: Even if you’re just stopping for a quick photo, lock your doors.

Navigation & Night Driving

• Avoid Night Driving: Roads outside of town can be dark, winding, and poorly lit. If you’re heading out for dinner or hot springs after dark, stick to places close to your hotel or take a taxi.
• Offline Maps: Download Google Maps offline before your trip so you’re covered if you lose signal.
• Be Prepared for Slow Traffic: La Fortuna is small, but during high season, traffic can back up near the town center. Plan extra time if you have a tour departure.

Police Stops

It’s common to see roadside police checks in Costa Rica. If you’re stopped:

• Have your passport, driver’s license, and rental car papers within reach.
• Be polite and answer questions simply.
• Legitimate police will not ask for payment on the spot for minor infractions. This country is fortunately not corrupt like that (at least we have never seen that happen here).

Safety for Solo Travelers

La Fortuna is one of the best places in Costa Rica for solo travelers. It’s a popular backpacker spot and there afre several great hostels. Or, if you are looking for a more high-end experience there are plenty of great places as well.

📝 DIY planner? Get our Printable itinerary pages + trackers

That said, a few extra precautions can make your trip even smoother:

• Stick to Well-Lit Areas at Night: Downtown La Fortuna is generally safe in the evenings, but side streets can be dimly lit. Walk with others when possible, or take a taxi back to your hotel after dark.
• Watch Your Drinks: Whether you’re at a casual bar or a fancy hot springs resort, don’t leave your drink unattended.
• Avoid Isolated Trails Alone: If you want to hike, go with a guide or join a tour. Even well-known spots like the La Fortuna Waterfall are better enjoyed with others for both safety and company.
• Share Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your daily itinerary, especially if you’re venturing outside town.

Handling Unwanted Attention

Machismo culture exists in Costa Rica, and while most locals are friendly and respectful, some can be overly flirty or persistent.

• A firm “no, gracias” usually works if someone is bothering you.
• Walk away if you feel uncomfortable. La Fortuna is busy enough that you can quickly find a more public space.

Safety When Traveling with Kids

La Fortuna is a fantastic family destination. With hot springs, waterfalls, wildlife, and plenty of kid-friendly adventure tours, you really can’t go wrong. But like anywhere, a little extra awareness goes a long way when traveling with children.

Hot Springs Safety

• Always Supervise: Many hot springs have pools of varying depths, and some are quite hot. Keep younger kids within arm’s reach at all times and test the temperature before letting them jump in
• Bright Swimwear: Dress kids in bright or neon-colored bathing suits so they’re easy to spot in busy pools.
• No Running: Pool decks can be slippery, especially in natural hot spring resorts.

Waterfall & River Safety

• Hold Hands on Trails: The walk to places like La Fortuna Waterfall involves steep stairs and slippery sections. Keep kids close and take breaks if needed.
• Swimming Rules: Follow posted signs and lifeguard advice. Currents can be stronger than they look.
• Life Jackets: If you plan to swim in rivers or natural pools, consider bringing a child-sized life jacket.

Tours & Activities

• Age Restrictions: Some adventure tours (like zip-lining or rafting) have minimum age or weight requirements. Definitely double-check before booking.
• Snacks & Breaks: Tours can run long, and hangry kids are never fun. Pack snacks, water, and sun protection.

Around Town

• Traffic Awareness: While downtown La Fortuna is walkable, sidewalks can be narrow or uneven. Hold hands and be cautious when crossing streets.

Things to Pack to Stay Safe

• SPF 50 Sunblock: Even though this is a jungle destination, the UV index is often very high. I have definitely gotten a sunburn here in the past because I didn’t realize how much sun exposure I was getting even under trees.
• A Sun Hat: We love this one from Columbia. It is slightly nerdy, but lightweight and can easily fold up for your luggage.
• Insect Repellent: The mosquitos aren’t typically a problem in La Fortuna due to the high elevation. However, mosquitoes in Costa Rica are known to carry illnesses such as Dengue and Zika, so it’s good to be prepared.
• Motion Sickness Pills: For the crazy roads to La Fortuna. Trust me, if you get car sick you will want to take motion sickness pills here.
• A First Aid Kit: We have this travel first aid kit and it has been great to have for minor injuries.
• Blister Bandaids: If you plan on wearing new shoes while in La Fortuna, definitely get a pack of these blister bandaids. They have saved us on many occasions. Plus, I find the humidity here can make my shoes rub more than normal.
• A Head Lamp: This is great if the power goes out, but also helpful to see when walking around after dark.
• Money Belt: We don’t actually typically use one of these, but it can be helpful when walking around in the downtown area.
• Portable Charger: It is a good idea to always have your phone charged for directions, calling the police in case of emergency, etc. I love the Anker portable charger for that.
• Glasses Strap: If you plan to take on activities such as zip lining a glasses strap is great for keeping your glasses or sunglasses secure.
• LifeStraw Waterbottle: You can drink the tap water here, but we suggest buying bottled water just to be safe. If you opt to drink tap water Lifestraw filters out most bacteria for an added layer of protection.
• Electrolyte Powder: I find that I sometimes get very worn out from physical activity here. A big part of that is the high humidity, but also La Fortuna is at a somewhat higher elevation. To combat that, electrolyte powder is always great for putting in your water.
• Waterproof Backpack: We have this waterproof daypack and we love it for all Costa Rican adventures. It will keep you protected from the rain during hikes or from the water during boat trips.
• Travel Insurance: We highly suggest purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Costa Rica. This adds a layer of protection for travel days, canceled trips, medical treatments, and more. We like HeyMondo for Costa Rica travel insurance.
• E-Sim Card: It is so important to be able to stay connected while in Costa Rica. In the past year, we’ve started using e-sims from Airalo and they are awesome! Keep in mind that this is just data so you won’t be able to make calls. However, even without the ability to make regular calls you can still call emergency numbers such as 9-1-1.

Healthcare and Emergency Services in La Fortuna

Hopefully, your trip to La Fortuna will be nothing but volcano views and hot spring soaks, but it’s always good to know what to do if you or someone in your group needs medical attention.

Medical Facilities in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has a few small private medical clinics and one public EBAIS (basic government clinic). These are equipped to handle minor injuries, mild illnesses, and general medical needs such as:

• Food poisoning or stomach bugs
• Allergic reactions
• Minor cuts, sprains, or infections
• Fevers or flu-like symptoms

Your hotel can recommend a trusted local doctor and help you make an appointment or arrange transportation.

Pharmacies in La Fortuna

Pharmacies (farmacias) are plentiful in town and can treat many minor issues without needing a doctor visit. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications for:

• Allergies
• Infections
• Stomach issues
• Skin irritations
• Pain relief

Some medications that require a prescription in other countries can be purchased directly at the pharmacy here.

Not all pharmacists speak English, so it helps to have your symptoms written down in Spanish.

Or, use Google Translate. It has a feature in which you can speak into the app in English and it will speak what you said into Spanish. It can be a life saver (literally)!

Serious Emergencies

If you have a serious injury or illness (like a suspected broken bone, chest pain, or severe allergic reaction), you’ll need to go to a larger hospital.

• Closest Hospital: Hospital San Carlos in Ciudad Quesada (about 45 minutes away). They can handle most emergencies.
• For Advanced Care: Many travelers request transfer to CIMA Hospital in Escazú (San José), which is known for English-speaking staff, modern facilities, and smooth coordination with international insurance providers. Personally, if I needed to spend an extended amount of time in a hospital in Costa Rica, this is where I would go.

If you need an ambulance, call 9-1-1. Operators speak English and Spanish, and calls go through even without an active phone plan.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend having travel insurance before visiting La Fortuna. Even minor injuries can be costly at private clinics, and travel insurance can also help with:

• Emergency evacuation
• Lost or stolen valuables
• Trip interruptions or delays

We personally use and recommend Heymondo Travel Insurance for Costa Rica trips. They offer 24/7 assistance through their app and clear instructions for submitting claims.

Our Opinion on the Safety of La Fortuna

We’ve visited La Fortuna countless times over the years. And honestly? We’ve always felt safe here.

This is one of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist towns, and it has the infrastructure, community, and police presence to match. The vibe is friendly, welcoming, and buzzing with people who are here for the same reasons you are, to relax, explore, and soak in those epic volcano views.

That said, just because La Fortuna is safe doesn’t mean you can let your guard down completely. Opportunistic theft can still happen, especially if valuables are left unattended at hot springs, in cars, or at crowded attractions. Nature also demands respect. The slippery trails, strong currents, and tropical heat are just as important to plan for as securing your wallet.

Our personal approach? We treat La Fortuna the same way we would any small tourist town anywhere in the world:

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Keep your belongings close.
• Use common sense when exploring at night.
• Follow safety instructions on tours.

Do that, and you’re set for an amazing trip filled with hot spring soaks, zip-lining thrills, sloth sightings, and maybe even a clear-sky view of Arenal Volcano.

Bottom line: La Fortuna is absolutely worth visiting, and with a little awareness, it’s easy to enjoy it worry-free.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you plan!

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