La Fortuna
Travel Guide
Visit La Fortuna
Where to stay in La Fortuna
Barrio Pilo
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Barrio Pilo and surrounding area, you can visit Puentes Colgantes del Arenal and Costa Rica Chocolate Tour.
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
We loved our stay at Los Lagos. We stayed 4 nights with no kids. Room was very clean and spacious. Appreciated the clothesline on the deck. The grounds were so lush, green and tropical. Breakfast was fantastic with a wide variety hot buffet and a fried egg/omelet station. We enjoyed the hot springs ...
Reviewed on May 8, 2026
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Beautiful property. The staff were friendly and helpful. The Tabacon hot springs access was incredible as well. I would highly recommend this property. Worth every penny.
Reviewed on May 8, 2026
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
Un hotel muy bonito. Piscina de agua fría y de aguas termales. Muy buen desayuno incluido.
Reviewed on May 3, 2026
Suwa Villa Arenal
Suwa Villa Arenal was delightful! A little oasis amid the bustle of La Fortuna. It has an inside/outside vibe--the rooms are inside (and air conditioned); the hallways, kitchen and common area are outside and covered, and there are beautiful planted areas (with big trees, a pool, and some outdoor ...
Reviewed on May 8, 2026
Villas Jawara
Beautiful well-appointed home!!! We were excited to find a washing machine since we were 5+ days into our trip in Costa Rica, coming from Guanacaste. Villa Calathea met our needs perfectly and thoroughly enjoyed the views, serenity, hot tub, etc. It's great that we had access to the hot sprints, ...
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2026
Equipped and cozy place! Perfect to relax and rest!<br><br>(Lugar equipado y acogedor)
The "pin" on the La Fortuna map is way off. The house is actually near Sonafluca. We really enjoyed the house, but wanted to be closer to La Fortuna. VRBO says you will get directions and entry information about 3 days in advance; I really needed the directions for planning.House itself is really ...
Reviewed on May 3, 2026
Popular places to visit
Arenal Volcano
Explore the great outdoors at Arenal Volcano and enjoy the volcano viewpoints during your trip to La Fortuna. Wander the lush forest or discover the hot springs in this romantic area.
Tabacon Hot Springs
Explore the great outdoors at Tabacon Hot Springs and enjoy the volcano viewpoints during your trip to Arenal Hot Springs. Wander the lush forest or discover the hot springs in this romantic area.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Explore the great outdoors at La Fortuna Waterfall and enjoy the hot springs during your trip to La Fortuna. Wander the lush forest or discover the volcano viewpoints in this romantic area.
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
Enjoy the volcano viewpoints and explore Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, a lovely green space in La Fortuna. Wander the lush forest or discover the hot springs in this romantic area.
La Fortuna Park
Explore the great outdoors at La Fortuna Park, a lovely green space in La Fortuna. Discover the area's volcano viewpoints and hot springs.
Los Lagos Hot Springs
You can take time to visit Los Lagos Hot Springs during your travels to Arenal Hot Springs. Discover the volcano viewpoints and hot springs in this romantic area.
Things to do
Arenal Volcano Canyoning; Top Rated Waterfall Rappel Adventure
Baldi Hot Springs Resort – Day Pass with One Meal
Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3/4 in Costa Rica
Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica
Horseback Riding To The La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna ATV Adventure with Mud Mask and Arenal Volcano Views
Frequently asked questions about La Fortuna
Why is La Fortuna worth visiting?
La Fortuna is worth visiting for its stunning Arenal Volcano views, natural hot springs, and incredible biodiversity with rainforest adventures year-round. The town combines activities like waterfall hikes, zip-lining, and wildlife watching with relaxing thermal pools and authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Travelers can pack adventure and relaxation into one destination, with easy access to cloud forests, hanging bridges, and the beautiful Lake Arenal.
What is La Fortuna known for?
La Fortuna, known for its proximity to the iconic Arenal Volcano, boasts natural hot springs, lush rainforest, and adventure activities. It is home to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, world-class zip-lining and white-water rafting, and luxurious thermal spa resorts like Tabacón. The town offers a blend of Costa Rican hospitality, wildlife viewing opportunities including sloths and toucans, and easy access to Lake Arenal.
When is the best time to visit La Fortuna?
The best time to visit La Fortuna is December through April for ideal conditions with less rainfall and comfortable temperatures ranging from 70-85°F, perfect for volcano hikes, hot springs, and adventure activities. Dry season brings clearer views of Arenal Volcano. Green season (May-November) typically offers lower rates and lush landscapes which appeals to budget-conscious travelers, but bear in mind that afternoon rain showers are common.
How many days do you need for La Fortuna?
When visiting La Fortuna, plan on three to four days to see key highlights like Arenal Volcano views, La Fortuna Waterfall, hot springs, and hanging bridges through the rainforest. An extended stay of five to seven days gives you time for day trips to Rio Celeste, additional adventure activities like ziplining or rafting, exploring Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, and more relaxation time.
What is the best area to stay in La Fortuna?
The best area to stay in La Fortuna depends on what you want from your trip:
• Town Center offers walkable access to restaurants, tour operators, and the central park with Arenal Volcano views.
• Near Tabacón Hot Springs is popular with travelers looking for luxury resorts and thermal spa experiences.
• La Fortuna Waterfall Area provides nature-focused accommodations with rainforest settings and hiking access.
• West of Town combines quieter locations with stunning volcano views and boutique eco-lodges.
How do you get around La Fortuna?
Rental cars provide flexibility for exploring La Fortuna and reaching various attractions, hot springs, and trailheads at your own pace. Many hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services to popular sites like Arenal Volcano viewpoints and La Fortuna Waterfall. Local taxis and shared shuttles connect major attractions, while bicycles offer pleasant alternatives for exploring the compact town center and nearby areas.
What are the top attractions in La Fortuna?
La Fortuna attractions combine volcanic landscapes with rainforest adventures and hot springs:
• Arenal Volcano: iconic cone-shaped volcano with hiking trails and viewpoints
• La Fortuna Waterfall: spectacular 70-meter cascade with swimming pool
• Tabacón Hot Springs: natural thermal pools in lush tropical gardens
• Mistico Hanging Bridges: rainforest canopy walkways with wildlife viewing
• Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's largest lake for water sports and scenic drives
What are the top things to do in La Fortuna?
What food is La Fortuna famous for?
La Fortuna is known for Costa Rican cuisine with fresh tropical ingredients, from casado (traditional plate) and gallo pinto (rice and beans) to ceviche found at local sodas. You'll also find popular regional specialties like arroz con pollo, plantains prepared multiple ways, and fresh tropical fruits including pineapple, papaya, and passion fruit.
How do I plan a trip to La Fortuna?
Search for places to stay in La Fortuna on Expedia and choose a location with Arenal Volcano views or near hot springs for relaxation. During dry season (December-April), book accommodations, rental cars, and tours well in advance. Plan rainforest activities and volcano hikes during morning hours before afternoon rains, and leave evenings free for a visit to the hot springs and wildlife spotting.
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- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Arenal Volcano
- Tabacon Hot Springs
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Los Lagos Hot Springs
- Baldi Hot Springs
- Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
- Ecotermales Fortuna
- Costa Rica Sky Adventures
- Paradise Hot Springs
- Kalambu Hot Springs
- Termales Los Laureles
- Costa Rica Chocolate Tour
- Puentes Colgantes del Arenal
- Natura Eco Park
- Titoku Hot Springs
- Go Adventure Park
- Arenal Adventure World
- Wellness Park Costa Rica
- Cerro Chato Lake
- Ecoglide Arenal Park
- El Salto Fortuna River
- Chato Volcano
- Lake Arenal
