Curator’s statement
Costa Rica has everything you could want in a destination for your next vacation, diverse wildlife, adrenaline seeking adventures and wonderful accommodations to allow for relaxation in the majestic rainforest. And there is no better place to get started than the town known as the gateway to the Arenal volcano, La Fortuna. Here you will find many species of trees, birds and flowers and it is one of the best places in the country to catch a two-toed sloth. A trip to La Fortuna is a must for anyone interested in Costa Rica, whether you are looking for adventures like ziplining through the rainforest, or canyoning in the lost canyon, looking to explore the active Arenal volcano or swim in the renowned La Fortuna waterfall, or just looking to relax in one of the many natural hot springs surrounded by the rainforest.
The Fora Difference
Book with Andrew to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
The Springs Resort & Spa Arenal
Luxurious thermal spa resort with rustic-chic rooms, natural hot and cold springs and waterfalls.
Fora Perks
- ★
$125 spa credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
Luxe resort and spa near Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Nayara Springs
A true rainforest escape, this all-villa retreat has knockout views of Arenal Volcano, a pampering spa with volcanic treatments and bonus adults-only policy.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Hotel Secreto la Fortuna
Discover serenity nestled in the heart of nature at this boutique retreat offering luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views and personalized service — an unforgettable Costa Rican escape.
Unlock perks by contacting Andrew to book your trip.
Things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Things to do:
Swim in the La Fortuna Waterfall - Prepare to descend 500 steps but once you do you can sit on the rocks to take it in, swim in the clear pools and take breathtaking photographs. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Hike the Mistico Hanging Bridges - Take one of the top nature walks in Costa Rica. The hanging bridges provide some of the best views of the Arenal volcano and allows you to see the primary rainforest up close. This is an ideal Hiking activity for families with children.
Go Ziplining - A trip to Costa Rica is not complete without Ziplining. Get your adrenaline pumping as you zipline through the canopy of the rainforest. Take in gorgeous views of the Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano as you fly above the rainforest.
Whitewater rafting - Feel the exhilaration of navigating the rapids along the Balsa (class 2-3 rapids: best for families) or Sarapiqui river (class 3-4 rapids). Be on the lookout for monkeys, sloths and birds along the way.
Author’s favorite tour: Gravity falls waterfall jumping - This is the ultimate adventure on private land in the center of the rainforest. You will start by rappelling down an 80 ft rushing waterfall from there you will continue on and will have the opportunity to cliff dive several waterfalls ranging from 10 -30 feet.
Arenal Volcano Hike - Another activity great for families with small children. Take this nature hike through the national park to witness breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, and the adjacent extinct volcano Cerro Chato. This hike will also offer optimal wildlife viewing!
Take a cooking class - There is no better way to immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of Costa Rica than learning how to cook a Costa Rican Casado. Bonus: Adults will learn how to make tropical Costa Rican cocktail "Guaro Sour".
Learn how to Salsa dance! - Immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythms of salsa, merengue, cumbia, and bachata as you take to the dance floor, crafting enduring memories of this vibrant cultural experience.
ATV tour of: Arenal Volcano - Crazy turns, wild jumps and a lot of adrenaline running though your body on this ATV tour all while experiencing one of the natural wonders of the world.
Chocolate and Coffee tour - Get to know the culture, process and production of chocolate and coffee while you surround yourself with the flora and fauna of Costa Rica.
Day Trips:
Day trip to Tenorio Volcano National Park and the Famous Rio Celeste Waterfall.
Places to eat & drink in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Virgita Ristorante - Restaurant at Baldi Hot Springs, Andrew’s favorite restaurant
Pollo Fortuneño - Best roasted chickens
Restaurante Cafe Mediterraneo - Best pizza
Marisqueria Snappers House - Best seafood
Spectacolar - Great quick food with lively atmosphere
Lave Rocks Cafe - Great location with large portion meals and indoor/outdoor seating
Lava Lounge Bar & Grill - Great music and relaxing atmosphere
Best Sodas - Costa Rican mom and pop Restaurants serving Casados
Soda Mima
Soda Vizquez
Soda La Parada
Need to know
Private Transportation from Airport or other Costa Rica location:
Mozio
![Advisor - Andrew Boster](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711123886/contentful-migration/advisors/image/IMG_5791_-_Boster_Andrew.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Andrew Boster
Get in touch with Andrew
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Andrew within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Ian White's guide, Spring Break in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.