La Fortuna is a beautiful and unique town located in the province of Alajuela, Costa Rica. The city has an estimated population of around 30,000 inhabitants and is known for its natural beauty and warm climate. The area offers some of the most amazing views of the volcano and its surroundings. This article lays out useful information about the history of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and visiting La Fortuna. Pura Vida!
History of La Fortuna, Costa Rica and Why It’s Popular
Arenal Volcano Scenic View
Today, La Fortuna is a popular tourist destination, also known as the Adventure Capital of Costa Rica with beautiful beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, dense jungles, and wildlife. La Fortuna is Spanish for “The Fortune”. La Fortuna was officially created in 1952 by Decreto Ejecutivo and was initially called “El Burío”. La Fortuna was actually founded in the mid-1930s by settlers from Ciudad Quesada and some other settlers from the Alajuela area.
After a disastrous volcano eruption by the Arenal Volcano in 1968, the entire geography of the region was changed. Since the eruption never reached the village of La Fortuna, it became one of the most visited tourist destinations of all time in Costa Rica. Being so close to an active volcano and being spared from an eruption made this town a unique landmark and natural wonder. Some believe that the town of La Fortuna got its name due to it being spared from the Arenal Volcano eruption, but the town actually received its name before the volcano ever erupted. This region actually has very fertile lands, which is why it is named “La Fortuna”.
Even though the volcano is still considered “active,” you don’t need to be concerned about an imminent volcanic explosion ruining your trip. There haven’t been any volcanic eruptions at the Arenal Volcano for decades. The volcano is only 10 kilometers outside of La Fortuna so you can expect a breathtaking volcanic view without wandering too far from your hotel.
While Costa Ricans who live in La Fortuna speak some form of Spanish, it is not common to find someone who speaks fluent English. However, most people who work in the tourism industry are able to converse in Spanish and English, so you likely won’t have any issues communicating while you’re down there. Most people who are in the service industry down there have a basic understanding of English, especially since La Fortuna’s economy relies heavily on tourism.
The town of La Fortuna is also worth exploring. They have a Central Park, many restaurants to try Costa Rican cuisine, and cute little shops where you can buy souvenirs and experience life as a local. There are also a few organizations, like Proyecto Asis and Club Rio Outdoor Center around the town that act as rescue and rehabilitation centers for wildlife that has been rescued.
Must-See Areas and Attractions in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
With so many things to see and do in La Fortuna, you might be wondering how to prioritize what to do and see during your stay. Here are some ideas on must-see places, outdoor adventures, and activities in La Fortuna to help you plan your stay!
Arenal Volcano National Park
View Overlooking Lake Arenal
Costa Rica’s most famous volcano is located within the Arenal Volcano National Park. This huge volcanic mountain rises up from the surrounding green jungle like a massive, snow-capped sentinel, surrounded by Lake Arenal. Its sheer size dominates the landscape, towering over everything else. At 1,633 meters (5,358 ft.), it is one of the tallest volcanoes in Central America.
The name “Arenal” translates into English as “sand”, and there is no doubt why this volcano looks so much like sand dunes. This cone shape volcano is actually a double volcano, consisting of the main summit and a smaller satellite peak. The two peaks are separated by a deep valley, which contains Lake Valle de la Fortuna (or Arenal Lake).
A hike along the trails that wind around Arenal Volcano in the Arenal Volcano National Park will take visitors through the thick luscious rainforest and dense jungle, across old lava flows, and down into the Arenal Lake itself. Hikers will see many different species of plants and animals, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, parrots, and colorful hummingbirds. There are even some small waterfalls scattered throughout the luscious rainforest and dense jungle.
For those interested in learning more about the history of this magnificent natural wonder, there are several museums in the Arenal Volcano National Park. One such museum is the Volcan Observatory. Here, visitors can learn how Arenal Volcano formed, what happens during an eruption and how people live in the region today. Another option is to visit the Arenal 1968 Museum. This small museum displays exhibits about the 1968 eruption. Visitors can watch videos showing the events leading up to the eruption, as well as the footage taken during the actual event. The museum also offers tours of the area where the volcano erupted, allowing guests to explore the remnants of the destroyed village of La Paz Bajo.
Inside the Arenal National Park, there is also the Arenal Sky Adventures Park where you can take a canopy tour. The Arenal Sky Adventures Park also offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and averages around $85 a person to experience. If you’d rather spend your time outside of the Arenal National Park to soak up the beautiful nature, there are plenty of relaxing activities to do near Arenal. You could go horseback riding, play tennis or golf, visit beautiful springs, explore the luscious rainforest or simply relax in one of the numerous hotels in the area. Before you head into the national park, be sure to head on over to the restaurant Organico Fortuna for delicious Costa Rican cuisine!
La Fortuna’s Hot Springs
Another must-see natural landmark that you don’t want to skip when you visit La Fortuna is the hot springs. They are naturally heated thermal pools by volcanic energy and are located just outside of town. You can find these thermal pools along the road.
For the full experience, go to the Tabacon or Eco Termales resort where you can soak in their lush tropical gardens and hot springs. If you don’t mind being in an environment that isn’t “modern”, go to the river across from the Tabacon to soak up the beauty of La Fortuna’s beautiful springs for free. This is considered a great swimming spot.
La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna de San Carlos Waterfall
Another must-see piece of nature is the La Fortuna waterfalls. There is an entrance fee of $18, and it’s worth it for seeing the beauty and power of the waterfall. You can swim in the pond below the waterfall if the waterfall current isn’t strong. There are about 500 concrete steps to the waterfalls so be prepared for a climb. You can access the waterfall through a Visitors’ center about 10 minutes from the town center. Try to arrive early in order to avoid crowds.
Rainforest Chocolate Tour
Anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for chocolate will enjoy this tour. The Rainforest Chocolate Tour will take visitors into the heart of the luscious rainforests around Lake Arenal where they will learn about the cacao trees which make local chocolate production a booming Costa Rican industry. During the tour, guests will see how the cacao tree grows, what it looks like up close, and why it is such an important part of the area’s economy. You’ll also get the opportunity to experience chocolate production at a real chocolate factory where you can also help out with producing the chocolate in a hands-on demonstration. At the end of the tour, you will be able to purchase some of the delicious treats you helped produce.
Trip Through The Safari On the Peñas Blancas River
La Fortuna Canopy View
The Peñas Blancas is a small river that runs through the Tilarán Mountain Range in Costa Rica. It is one of the best spots in Costa Rica for wildlife viewing. In fact, there are over 300 species of birds here with a wide variety of wildlife as well. So it makes sense that this area is home to adventure tours.
A company by the name of Aventuras Arenal offers three different ways to experience this river. The first option is a gentle float down the peaceful Peñas Blancas in a boat. This is perfect for families looking for a relaxing day out in nature. Or maybe you’re just looking for a quiet place to relax while watching the world go by. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to do both during your ride with Aventuras Arenal. If you’d like to get up close and personal with the wildlife, there is also a guided hike to the nearby waterfalls.
Finally, if you want to take things up a notch, you can try whitewater rafting down the river. White water rafting in this region with Aventuras Arenal has different white water rapids levels ranging from Class I to Class IV rapids, Class I being the easiest and Class IV rapids being the most intensive. Newbies or intermediate white water rafters should consider a trip in Class I, Class II, or Class III rapids. If you are more experienced (or an adrenaline junkie) and want something a little bit more intense, check out a tour of Class III rapids or Class IV rapids. Even if you choose a Class IV rapids level, there will be Aventuras Arenal professional guides there to help and guide the way.
You can also access the chocolate farm mentioned above to learn more about the organic process of growing cacao beans and making chocolate. Tasting is included. This tour is about 20 minutes from La Fortuna. This is an add-on available by the Aventuras Arenal company.
Visit the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
The Mistico Hanging Bridges Park is a popular tourist attraction in Costa Rica. Located near La Fortuna, it offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy nature up close and personal. The Mistico Hanging Bridges park features three trails designed to allow people to observe the local flora and fauna. The trails in the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park include the main path, which goes over the bridge; the second path, which goes under the bridge; and the third path, which leads around the park.
There are many species of animals living in the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, such as sloths, monkeys, parrots, iguanas, turtles, lizards, bats, hummingbirds, and even snakes. Some of the most common species include howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys, coatis, agouti, and pumas.
Visitors can also take advantage of the guided tours offered by the staff of Mistico Hanging Bridges park. The staff at Mistico Hanging Bridges park offers a wide variety of activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, zip lining, fishing, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, and swimming.
Hike Up To The Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park
Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park
Located near the town of Santa Elena de Ometepe, Tenorio Volcano National Park is home to one of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, Rio Celeste. Rio Celeste is a little outside of the immediate town of La Fortuna by around 1.5 hours, but it’s worth making your way there to experience this beautiful waterfall. This area is only accessible by car so be sure to rent a car and hit a gas station before you make your way there.
The hike begins at the end of the road leading into the small village of San Miguelito, which lies within the boundaries of the park. The hiking trail along the Rio Celeste waterfall is beautiful and about 5.5 km long. Along the way, hikers pass through dense jungle vegetation, including several varieties of ferns and bromeliads, and are treated to views of the volcano’s crater lake. Upon reaching the base of the Rio Celeste falls, hikers find themselves standing amidst a large outdoor pool of clear, sparkling water. Unfortunately, you aren’t allowed to swim at this national park, but the amazing views of the waterfall make this visit worthwhile.
Where To Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna Hot Spring in Hotel
If you are looking for a place to stay in La Fortuna while visiting this beautiful country, then look no further! There are a good variety of hotel options in and surrounding La Fortuna. Some have beautiful springs, some have outdoor pools, and others have hot tubs. We have compiled some good accommodation options in La Fortuna so you can make the best choice for your stay.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is known for its lush rainforest setting and stunning volcano view. This resort houses its own areas where you can experience La Fortuna’s beautiful on-site hot springs. It’s located within the Arenal National Park, which gives you access to where most of the action is in La Fortuna. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa would be a perfect choice for nature dwellers and those who want to be immersed in outdoor activities, there is also an outdoor pool in addition to the beautiful springs. Not only will you be immersed in the jungle and have views of the Arenal Volcano, but there are a plethora of activities, tours, and experiences to be had in this resort. This resort is on the pricier side due to it being a luxury accommodation, so hotel guests that want to experience luxury to the fullest should consider this accommodation.
Selina La Fortuna Hotel
Surrounded by views of the Arenal Volcano and nestled in the heart of La Fortuna is the Selina La Fortuna Hotel. Whether you decide to utilize one of the three outdoor pools, swim among the bubbling blue waters of the geothermal on-site hot springs, or hike through volcanic landscapes, Selina La Fortuna offers activities and amazing adventures for guests of all age ranges. There are various amenities available to guests including an outdoor pool, a fitness area, a coffee shop, a film screening theatre, a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a coworking space, a reading facility, and a business library.
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
Booking a stay at the Baldi Hot Spring Resort gives hotel guests access to one of the largest hot spring resorts in Costa Rica. With 25 thermal swimming spots and a special kids’ area, this resort offers an array of activities for everyone. Some of the spacious guest suites feature large-picture window views of the volcano and surrounding tropical forest. This beautiful hotel is a mid-range budget accommodation option.
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
Casa Luna is a rustic-style hotel with peaceful tropical gardens and a great view of the Cerro Chato volcano. Although the views aren’t directly overlooking La Fortuna’s more popular volcano mountain, the Arenal Volcano, this view is still a treat. Casa Luna does have an outdoor pool and a few hot tubs, but these bodies of water aren’t directly connected to the natural hot springs in the area. This hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation option. It has all the needed amenities and beautiful views, without the luxury options that make accommodations more expensive.
Best Time To Visit
La Fortuna is one of those places where you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy nature, hike along emerald green waterfalls, or walk through lava fields without having to worry about anything else. La Fortuna is beautiful in every season, whether it’s rainy season, green season, or dry season. In rainy season and green season, there are beautiful mists and greenery that make the jungle and surrounding areas absolutely breathtaking. But, it’s a little hard to traverse, hike, and do everything you want to do on your itinerary during rainy season because the walking paths may be too muddy to manage. However, the best time to visit this natural paradise is during the months of mid-December to April, which is considered the dry season in Costa Rica. During this period, the weather is warm and you can enjoy both an outdoor pool experience alongside tropical gardens and a hot springs adventure depending on your preference. For more information about the weather in Costa Rica and the best months to visit Costa Rica, click here.
The best way to get to La Fortuna is to either fly into the San José International Airport, or the Liberia International Airport, then rent a car and drive to the town of La Fortuna. Whether you fly to San José or Liberia, it will be able a 2.5-hour drive. Alternatively, you can also take public transport from both San José and Liberia. Although, there will likely be better transportation options if you start in San José compared to Liberia. And, you would have the opportunity to experience the beautiful capital city of Costa Rica which is rich in history and culture. Pura Vida!
