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The La Fortuna Waterfall is a spectacular natural wonder, standing nearly 230 feet tall amidst a lush tropical setting that you cannot afford to miss. Its crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing swim, drawing numerous tourists from around the globe each day.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide – to give you a glimpse of what to expect and hopefully inspire you to include this stop in your next trip to Costa Rica.
Guide to visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica
We stumbled upon this gem during our 10-day journey through Costa Rica and were captivated by the lush greenery surrounding the falls. Taking a dip at the base provided sweet relief from the scorching heat before we headed to the Arenal Volcano. Fun fact: the waterfall is located within the Arena Volcano National park, allowing you to visit both sites in a single day and maximize your time. It’s surely one of the must-visit attractions in Costa Rica, even for those on tight schedules.
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Now, let’s delve into all the necessary details for planning your visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, including where to purchase tickets, operating hours, directions, and other handy tips.
Where is La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica?
La Fortuna Waterfall sits just 3 miles away from its namesake town, La Fortuna. Despite its modest size, this town offers all the amenities you could need for a comfortable stay, including supermarkets, a variety of restaurants, accommodations, banking facilities, and a wide range of excursions in Costa Rica. With so much to offer, you could easily spend 2 to 3 days here without a dull moment.
Where is La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica?
Additionally, La Fortuna is situated about 80 miles from San José, one of the most visited cities in Costa Rica. So, if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else and have already explored all the attractions in San José, consider taking a day trip to visit La Fortuna Waterfall and take a break from the urban hustle and bustle.
I found La Fortuna to be a delightful retreat, so if your schedule allows, I highly recommend setting aside a couple of days to leisurely explore the area. Your efforts will be rewarded with captivating views of the town against the backdrop of the majestic Arenal Volcano, shrouded in clouds that lend it a mystical charm.
How to get to La Fortuna Waterfall
Depending on your travel arrangements and accommodation, there are several ways to visit La Fortuna Waterfall, one of the most popular waterfalls in Costa Rica.
How to get to La Fortuna Waterfall
If, like us, you’ve opted for a rental car in Costa Rica and you’re staying in La Fortuna, you can easily drive to the free parking area at the entrance, just a short 10-minute drive from the town center.
Keep in mind that there is no public transportation here, so if you don’t have access to a car, you can opt for a taxi ride from town to the waterfall in La Fortuna which will cost around $10. In this case, I highly recommend considering this excursion that not only covers the waterfall but also includes a visit to the iconic Arenal Volcano and nearby hot springs.
Now, if you’re staying in one of the hotels in San José, you have another viable option. You can opt for one of the organized tours to La Fortuna Waterfall, which will take you there and back. Just keep in mind that the journey can take around 3 hours each way, making for a long day.
To make the most of your time, I’d suggest opting for this full-day tour. This way, you’ll not only visit La Fortuna Waterfall but also explore the Arenal Volcano, visit a coffee plantation, and unwind in relaxing hot springs all in one exhilarating day.
La Fortuna Waterfall entrance fee & hours
The entrance fee for La Fortuna Waterfall is $18 for international visitors and $9 for nationals, with children under 8 years old enjoying free admission. This fee also includes access to the beautiful orchid garden, which I’ll share more about later.
La Fortuna Waterfall entrance fee & hours
If you’re joining an organized tour, the entrance fee is likely to be included in the overall price. However, if you want to visit La Fortuna Waterfall without a tour and you wish to skip the lines, you can purchase your ticket in advance for an additional $2 – an option I highly recommend, especially on weekends and holidays.
It’s important to note that the entrance to La Fortuna Waterfall is separate from the main entrance to the Arenal Volcano National Park, as these attractions are managed by different organizations.
La Fortuna Waterfall welcomes visitors from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day of the year.
Best things to do at La Fortuna Waterfall
Now, let’s talk about the best things to do at La Fortuna Waterfall to make the most of your time and fully enjoy this natural wonder. While you’re free to spend as much time here as you want, dedicating a full morning or afternoon will give you enough time to immerse yourself in its beauty.
Hike the trail to La Fortuna Waterfall
To reach La Fortuna Waterfall, you’ll need to hike down a picturesque trail, meandering through lush vegetation and captivating landscapes. Though the path is well-trodden, expect a descent of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, navigating about 530 steps to reach the base of the waterfall. Fortunately, there are rest areas scattered along the route, offering opportunities to pause, catch your breath, and recharge your energy.
Hike the trail to La Fortuna Waterfall
Keep your eyes peeled as you trek for a chance encounter with Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife. We were fortunate enough to spot a howler monkey observing us from the canopy, but the area is also home to various other fascinating creatures, including toucans, snakes, lizards, and the famous sloths of Costa Rica.
Observe La Fortuna Waterfall from the viewpoints
Exploring the viewpoints is a fantastic alternative for those looking for a different perspective of the waterfall in La Fortuna without descending the 530 steps to its base. From these elevated vantage points, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the majestic waterfall and its untamed surroundings.
Observe La Fortuna Waterfall from the viewpoints
While there’s an entrance fee to access these viewpoints, it offers a convenient way to appreciate the beauty of the waterfall without breaking a sweat.
Go swimming in La Fortuna Waterfall
Before my visit, I’d seen countless photos of La Fortuna Waterfall, fueling my determination to immerse myself in its crystalline waters. Yet, nothing prepared me for the overwhelming feeling of standing in the presence of this magnificent cascade and the humbling sensation of admiring it from its base.
Go swimming in La Fortuna Waterfall
While swimming in the waterfall is permitted, it’s important to exercise caution. Avoid venturing too close to the area where the water crashes down with force, as it can pose a risk of injury. Additionally, tread carefully when you enter the water, as the rocks can be slippery.
Visit the Orchid Garden
As previously mentioned, your ticket to La Fortuna Waterfall also grants you access to the Orchid Garden. Housing a stunning array of 200 orchid species, this botanical haven serves as a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the forest ecosystem.
Visit the Orchid Garden
Conveniently situated on the left-hand side near the entrance, the Orchid Garden offers a nice, charming space to enhance your visit.
Other attractions near La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica
While La Fortuna Waterfall is a popular destination for swimming and scenic views, there are other captivating attractions nearby that are worth exploring. If you have the time to continue your adventure, I recommend considering the following recommendations:
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the best national parks in Costa Rica. Here, you’ll encounter trails winding through volcanic landscapes that promise unforgettable vistas of one of the most famous volcanoes in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano
To make the most of your visit, it’s important to note that the park is divided into two distinct sectors. The Volcano Sector features three trails that provide glimpses of lava flows from past eruptions, while the Peninsula Sector invites you to stroll along the shores of Lake Arenal.
For those who prefer not to drive, I recommend booking this full-day tour departing from La Fortuna. This organized excursion typically begins with visiting La Fortuna Waterfall and taking a refreshing dip in its waters, followed by guided hikes along the park’s trails to admire the majestic beauty of this volcanic giant.
Hot springs
One of the highlights of a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall is indulging in the hot springs in the area, created as a result of the intense geothermal activity spurred by the Arenal Volcano.
If you’ve opted for the tour I recommended, you can cap off your day at one of the thermal complexes, eliminating the need for additional planning. However, if you’re exploring La Fortuna Waterfall without a tour, you have two options to consider.
Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort
The first option is to visit one of the paid thermal complexes nearby. Even though there are numerous choices available, I particularly recommend Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort. While it’s certainly worth spending a few days enjoying their facilities, they also offer day passes for visitors to enjoy their array of more than 20 pools without the need for an overnight stay.
Alternatively, you can experience the hot springs without spending a dime. The Chollín Hot Springs emerge from the earth at a toasty 100°F, providing a budget-friendly alternative for travelers.
Chollín Hot Springs
While these natural springs lack the amenities and comforts of a luxury thermal complex like Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort, they still offer relaxing and therapeutic benefits. If you opt for the Chollín Hot Springs, I suggest visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Suspension bridges at Místico Park
For thrill-seekers and adventurous souls, exploring the suspension bridges of Místico Park in San Carlos near La Fortuna Waterfall is an absolute must.
Nestled within the lush forest on the slopes of the Arenal Volcano, this private reserve beckons visitors to spend a few hours wandering its trails and soaking in its awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s an ideal activity for families, offering an unforgettable experience, especially for the little ones.
Suspension bridges at Místico Park
Admission to the hanging bridges is $26 per person. However, if you opt for this tour departing from La Fortuna, the entrance fee to the hanging bridges is included in the package, along with visits to La Fortuna Waterfall and the Arenal Volcano. You can explore the bridges from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the option of signing up for a night tour to experience another facet of the park.
Tips for visiting La Fortuna Waterfall
Now that you’re prepared for your excursion to Costa Rica’s La Fortuna Waterfall, here are some handy tips to enhance your experience:
- While the hike to La Fortuna Waterfall isn’t too demanding, the heat can be intense, especially during certain times of the year. Make sure to carry enough water to stay hydrated, particularly on the hike back up.
- Opt for comfortable, closed-toe shoes to navigate the trails with ease. If you have water shoes or sturdy booties, even better—they’ll provide added grip on slippery rocks, both on the trail and in the waterfall pools.
- Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a towel. These are crucial for enjoying a refreshing dip in the waterfall and for relaxing at the hot springs. Keep in mind that restrooms and changing facilities are available only at the waterfall in La Fortuna, not at the Chollín hot springs.
- While we all hope for sunny days, don’t let gray skies deter you from your adventure. Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall can be just as magical in the rain, but you should come prepared with waterproof gear.
Best hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Finally, let’s introduce some of the best Costa Rica hotels in La Fortuna. As you plan your visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, securing accommodation in advance can save you a lot of time and enhance your overall experience. Here are my top recommendations:
- Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: It ranks among the top luxury hotels in Costa Rica, boasting one of the best thermal complexes in the area. Treat yourself to spa treatments and massages in open-air bungalows. With dreamy rooms offering open terraces, hydromassages, and stunning tropical views, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
- The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal: Located just 20 minutes from La Fortuna, this elegant resort offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to the best attractions in the area. Its elegant rooms feature furnished balconies with hammocks, rocking chairs, and tables. You can immerse yourself in hot springs rich in mineral salts for ultimate relaxation. Plus, it offers three restaurants serving Italian, Indian, and Japanese cuisine.
- Selina La Fortuna: If you want to travel cheaply, consider this hostel in Costa Rica. You can choose from shared dorms with 6, 8, or 10 beds or individual rooms for a more private experience. Moreover, you can cool off in the pool surrounded by sun loungers or recharge outdoors in the garden. For dining, you can use the shared kitchen to prepare your own meals or head to the hostel’s restaurant for delicious dishes at affordable prices.
That wraps up our guide to La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica. I hope this information helps you plan your visit and have a fantastic time. If you have any questions or want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below.
Safe travels!
