Northern Lowlands · Costa Rica
La Fortuna / Arenal
Volcano, hot springs & jungle adventure
About La Fortuna
La Fortuna is Costa Rica's premier adventure destination, dominated by the imposing Arenal Volcano. The town is the perfect base for exploring hot springs, La Fortuna Waterfall, Lake Arenal, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
The area combines spectacular nature with well-developed tourism infrastructure — volcano-view hotels, restaurants, spas, and activity operators at every level. It is one of Costa Rica's most complete destinations.
Highlights
- Arenal Volcano
- Natural hot springs
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Lake Arenal
- Arenal Lake Crossing to Monteverde
- Zip-lines & canopy
- Kayak & paddleboard
- Hiking & wildlife watching
Experiences in La Fortuna
Arenal Rainforest Eco Hot Springs
Soak in volcanic thermal pools at Fortuna Hotsprings, surrounded by rainforest and with views of Arenal Volcano — pools range from 32°C to 41°C.
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Arenal Rainforest Canopy Ziplines + Tarzan Swing
Soar through the Arenal rainforest on 11 zip-line cables across 13 platforms — including an optional Tarzan Swing nearly 40 metres above the forest floor.
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Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Hike through the Arenal rainforest on a series of hanging bridges — treetop walkways and ground trails, with wildlife spotting and views of the forest canopy.
Learn more →Getting there & around
La Fortuna is connected to San José, Monteverde, and other destinations by private transfer and shared shuttle. The Arenal Lake Crossing is the most scenic route to Monteverde.
View transport optionsHow long to stay
3–4 nights is ideal for La Fortuna. That gives you time for the waterfall, hot springs, a volcano hike, and the Lake Crossing to Monteverde. Rushing La Fortuna means missing the best of it.
Best season
La Fortuna is accessible year-round. The dry season (December–April) offers the best volcano visibility and more reliable weather for outdoor activities. The wet season brings lush surroundings and fewer crowds — hot springs are enjoyable in any weather.
Combine with
La Fortuna is the natural starting point for the Arenal Lake Crossing to Monteverde (3–4 hrs). San José is 3–3.5 hours away. Sarapiquí is 2 hours east — a good addition for birdwatchers.
Travel tips
- The volcano is most visible early morning before clouds build.
- Book hot springs in advance during high season.
- Pack light clothing and insect repellent.
- The Lake Crossing is an experience in itself — not just a transfer.
- Many hotels have direct volcano views — worth choosing carefully.
Tips by traveler type
Couples
An evening at the hot springs followed by a volcano-view dinner is the classic La Fortuna experience. Tabacón and Baldi are the most popular thermal resorts — book ahead in high season.
Adventure seekers
The La Fortuna Waterfall hike (500 steps down and back up) is a must. For more challenge, the Arenal 1968 lava trail offers the closest approach to the volcano's base.
Families
The hanging bridges at Mistico Park are suitable for all ages and offer excellent wildlife sightings. The hot springs are perfect for children — choose a resort with a dedicated kids area.
Frequently asked questions
Explore more destinations
Central HighlandsMonteverde
Hanging bridges, zip-lines, and one of the world's most biodiverse cloud forests.
Caribbean CoastTortuguero
Accessible only by boat or plane — a remote jungle paradise and sea turtle nesting site.
Northern LowlandsSarapiqui
White-water rafting, world-class birdwatching, and authentic jungle lodges on the Caribbean slope.
GuanacasteLiberia
Colonial city and gateway to Guanacaste's beaches, parks, and volcanoes.
GuanacasteRincon de la Vieja
Active volcano, mud pots, and adventure activities in Guanacaste's most dramatic park.
Central PacificManuel Antonio
Costa Rica's most visited national park — white-sand beaches and abundant wildlife.
Useful guides for this destination
Monteverde vs La Fortuna: which should you visit?
Both are iconic Costa Rica destinations — but they offer very different experiences. We break down the differences to help you choose.
The Arenal Lake Crossing: a complete guide
The scenic boat-and-bus route between La Fortuna and Monteverde is one of Costa Rica's most memorable journeys. Here is everything you need to know.
Best time to visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica has two distinct seasons. Here is what to expect month by month and how to choose the right time for your trip.
Planning a trip to Costa Rica?
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