tour catarata la fortuna

Tour Catarata Río Fortuna

El recorrido hacia la Catarata Río Fortuna es auto-guiado, contamos con un amplio espacio de parqueo, el cual se ofrece de manera gratuita, así mismo tendrán a su disposición servicios sanitarios, vestidores, duchas, alquiler de casilleros, tiendas de suvenir, miradores, un jardín de orquídeas y el particular restaurante Río Lounge.

Contamos con accesibilidad para personas con discapacidad que no puedan bajar los escalones del recorrido hasta la Catarata; y para ellos ofrecemos la vista de la Catarata desde el primer mirador, desde este punto se puede observar la Catarata a una distancia de 200 metros con las mejores fotografías; pero también podrán realizar el recorrido al jardín de orquídeas.

El trayecto consta de cerca de 530 escalones en bajada para llegar hasta la imponente Catarata Rio Fortuna, donde la paz y la majestuosidad de la naturaleza lo harán disfrutar de sus aguas cristalinas y de la belleza escénica del lugar.

Nuestras recomendaciones

• Zapatos cerrados para caminar.
• Portar botellas con agua o hidratantes.
• Siempre llevar algún dulce.
• Ropa cómoda para caminar.
• Traer toallas.
• Bloqueadores solares biodegradables.
• Repelentes de insectos biodegradables.
• Traer traje de baño.
• Cámara fotográfica.
• Mantenerse en el sendero
• No tocar las plantas.
• En caso de niños menores de 4 años, portar cargadores.

Todos los días de 7:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., la última hora recomendada para ingresar y disfrutar de cada espacio es a las 4:00 p.m.

Customer Reviews

20 comments.

John Beddingfield

Fantástico.

• 2024-03-14 17:30:22

Jorge Eduardo Campos Álvarez

Excelente la catarata y el acceso muy seguro, las instalaciones muy ordenadas y limpias.

• 2024-02-06 14:01:10

Angelica Pluchino

Muy bueno el mantenimiento

• 2024-01-13 17:02:33

Juliana Murillo Victory

Muy contentos con el personal del restaurante y la comida también! Fueron súper amables y el sabor tanto como la porción de la comida fueron excelentes

• 2023-12-14 19:01:21

Mónica González Padilla

Perfecto, el personal súper agradable en todas partes y el lugar muy bien cuidado.

• 2023-10-16 05:35:50

GABRIELA CASTRO CORRALES

El lugar está precioso, muy bien cuidado, bien rotulado. La experiencia de los escalones y la catarata increíbles. En el restaurante súper amables los muchachos que atienden. Gracias

• 2023-09-15 14:19:58

Maria Victoria Zumárraga Cardona

Todo muy, muy limpio. La gente de seguridad al pendiente todo el tiempo. Los baños super limpios y adornados con flores. Hermoso!!

• 2023-08-31 19:25:45

Natalia Alvarado Segura

Excelente lugar! Excelente atención!

• 2023-04-24 17:18:13

Bravo! Muchas gracias!

• 2023-04-08 17:53:12

María Ortega Bonilla

Lindísimo lugar; sinceramente no me percaté de la presencia de guardavidas, probablemente porque no presté atención a ello, por lo tanto, no quiero ser injusta con esa calificación.

• 2023-04-02 21:14:13

Andrey Montiel

La caminata Es un poco cansada, pero vale totalmente la pena y los chicos de recepción super amables y atentos, los recomendaré con todos mis amigos

• 2023-03-26 18:49:45

Alejandro Cascante Fallas

Lugar bien conservado, excelente servicio, todo el equipo es muy atento y salvavidas o guardas bien ubicados siempre, los felicito

• 2023-02-19 18:02:10

Marilyn Hernandez

Incredible experience!

• 2023-02-15 06:50:54

nashami palmer mullins

El lugar es hermoso, la caminata a la catarata es sencilla ya que el camino esta bien diseñado y construido y respecto al restaurante, la comida estaba muy rica. Volveria sin duda alguna a visitar la catarata

• 2023-01-04 18:46:20

Luis Alberto Solis Rodiguez

Felicidades hermoso lugar!!

• 2022-12-27 18:42:05

Cynthia Rieckhof Rivas

Me ha gustado mucho la cascada. El acceso esta muy cuidado y limpio. Además, veo muy positivo que hayan carteles informativos tanto de plantas como de fauna (incluyendo la abeja que te da ánimos, muy gracioso). Y también descata que el dinero que se paga se dedique al mantenimiento y a obras sociales/naturales.

• 2022-09-07 18:11:14

Paula Gonzalez Acuña

Lugar simplemente espectacular y la infraestructura para llegar a la catarata super bien cuidada

• 2022-03-20 21:45:58

Erick Gerardo Hidalgo Vargas

las cataratas es un destino imcomparable en la fortuna . Gracias esperamos regresar muy pronto

• 2022-03-14 18:25:36

Maylin Artavia Salazar

Un lugar espectacular, me gusto mucho que hay accesos para discapacitados y cuidan mucho los detallles como los senderos son muy seguros para bajar y subir de la Catarata. El personal muy atento en todo momento! Sin duda regresaría!

• 2022-01-26 11:24:49

Yeilin Rodríguez Vargas

Excelente servicio, el personal super atento, las instalaciones bellísimas.... Mil gracias por recibirnos☺️☺️

• 2022-01-16 18:15:51

The La Fortuna Waterfall: The ULTIMATE Hike and Swim Guide

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Clicking on them may earn Costa Rica Vibes a commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

The La Fortuna waterfall, also known as Catarata la Fortuna, is one of the most widely visited natural sites in Costa Rica. This waterfall is about 75 meters high and you can often swim under it. 

As a couple who lives in Costa Rica and often has family and friends visit, we have been to the La Fortuna waterfall many times. We consider it a must do activity for anyone visiting the area.

We created this guide based on all the things we have learned from our many times visiting. Discover how to get tickets, the best time visit, what to bring and wear, things to do after, and more!

La Fortuna Waterfall at a Glance

Opening Hours : 7:30am to 4pm daily

Admission Cost : $18 for adults. Children under 9 are free

Purchase Tickets: Pre-purchase your tickets here

Location : La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Background Info on La Fortuna Waterfall

The La Fortuna Waterfall is located in the town of La Fortuna. This is the most popular jungle town to visit in the country. There are so many fun things to do here!

Plus it is somewhat centrally located between both international airports. From the Liberia Airport, it will take about 3 hours to drive here. From San Jose International Airport it will take about 4 hours.

The waterfall is formed by the Arenal River as it descends from the mountains. Standing at an impressive height of 75 meters, the waterfall cascades down rugged cliffs, creating a breathtaking spectacle for visitors.  

The waterfall is not privately owned but is managed and protected by local organizations. 

The La Fortuna waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls in Costa Rica. This is mainly due to the amount of people who travel to La Fortuna, its easy access, and its impressive views. 

Directions to the Waterfall Entrance

We think renting a car is the best way of getting around La Fortuna. This will allow you to drive to the waterfall instead of having to take a tour to get here. You can read more about that in our complete  La Fortuna guide here .

Rent Your Car and Save 10% with Our Exclusive Discount

Also, every time we go to the La Fortuna waterfall we see tourists walking from town to the waterfall. It may look like a short distance on a map, but it’s not! 

Just to give you an idea, from the park in downtown La Fortuna, it is a 3-mile walk to where the waterfall is located.

That might not sound too bad but then when you factor in the 500 steps down to the waterfall and back up again, it’s a lot of walking! Plus, in the sun it is a killer.

If you do not have a rental car, you can always get a taxi to the falls.

Also, if you are driving and feel like being nice and trusting, we always stop and offer a ride to some people who look like they are about to pass out.

From the town of La Fortuna, it is about a 10 minute drive to drive here. There are plenty of signs so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding it.

Here are the directions to the parking lot on Google Maps.  

There is a large paved parking lot on site which you are welcome to park in for free. 

As always, please don’t leave anything of value in your car. 

We have not heard of anything bad happening in this parking lot, but we also have never noticed any parking attendants actively keeping an eye on vehicles.

Important Info About La Fortuna Waterfall

Here are all the must-know details to plan your perfect trip to the waterfall.

Opening Hours

The waterfall is open daily from 7:30am until 4pm. We suggest getting there by 2pm if you want to have enough time to fully enjoy the waterfall. 

If you go early in the morning you will likely have the whole place mostly to yourself. This is a popular place so it usually starts filling up with a lot of people around mid-morning.

Admission Cost

Admission is $18 per person for anyone age 9 and older. Children under the age of 9 can enter for free. 

The profits from the La Fortuna waterfall entrance fee go to supporting ADIFORT (the Asociación de Desarrollo Integral de La Fortuna). This local government organization works to maintain local schools, the cute park in the center of town, and other things around the La Fortuna area.

If you would like, you can buy your ticket online ahead of time to skip the line once there.

Pre-purchase your tickets here at no extra cost to skip the entry line 

Physical Ability

To get down to the base of the waterfall and back up again you will need to be in decent physical condition. The walk involves going down and up 500 steps.

However, you can always opt to view the waterfall from the top. There is a viewing platform that is handicap accessible and does not involve any steps. 

What to Bring

• SPF 50 sunblock
• a microfiber towel if you want to swim
• a full waterbottle (we love Lifestraw for Costa Rica)
• a waterproof backpack (we use this backpack for all of our adventures here and it’s a game changer)
• your camera

The mosquitos typically aren’t too bad here, especially during the daytime. But, it is still a good idea to put some on if you have it.

What to Wear

• a sun-blocking hat ( we love this one from Columbia )
• shorts made from breathable fabric
• a lightweight t-shirt
• your bathing suit underneath (if you want to swim)
• water shoes

Our favorite shoes for this type of activity in Costa Rica are Keens. Keen makes solid hiking shoes that you can walk through the water with. We love them! 

Amount of Time You’ll Need

We typically spend about two hours here. You might spend a bit longer if you plan to do some swimming and take it slow getting up and down the steps. 

It typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get down the stairs and about 20 minutes to get back up. 

So, it is not a full day trip. You can easily enjoy this in the morning and try out another activity in the afternoon. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year for good weather and clear water is in the dry season (from December until early May). We suggest visiting the waterfall in the morning if you can. It fills up with a lot of visitors as the day goes on. 

If you plan to visit during the rainy season, definitely plan your visit for the morning. The rain typically rolls in around 2pm.

The one nice thing about visiting during the rainy season is that the water level is very high so the falls are even more impressive than usual. 

🛏️ Our Top Hotels Picks in La Fortuna Are….

🌴 Here are all your hotel options in La Fortuna

On-Site Facilities

There is a bathroom on-site near the ticket window. The bathrooms have been very clean and well-maintained every time we have visited. There are changing rooms and showers here if you would like to change into your bathing suit, or out of it after swimming. 

This is the only bathroom on the property. Definitely change into your bathing suit before defending to the falls because there is no bathroom at the bottom. 

There is a small restaurant at the top of the staircase to the falls called Rio Lounge which sells items like sandwiches, burgers, etc. We have not eaten here but I just  checked the reviews on TripAdvisor  and it has excellent reviews.

It might be a great lunch option after you have your waterfall workout.

There is also a nice souvenir shop on the property if you would like to buy some gifts. Most of the items at the gift shop are a bit pricey, but they usually have a good selection of unique items.

Check out our guide to buying  souvenirs in Costa Rica  if you need some other ideas. 

If you need it, there are lockers for rent next to the ticket office. The lockers are $2 to rent, but you will need to put down a $10 deposit which will be returned to you after you return the key. 

The La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

The hike to the falls isn’t really actually a hike. It is more like well-maintained paved paths and what feels like 10,000 stairs. In actuality, it is a little over 500 stairs. But, on a warm and humid day, it can be brutal.

We do not suggest this walk for anyone with breathing problems, problems with their knees, or any other physical issues that may hinder walking up and down 500 stairs. 

However, if you would like to visit the falls and do have some physical limitations, you can access the first viewpoint and a nice orchid garden without going down too many steps. You will still need to purchase an entry ticket, but if you just want to capture the view of the falls it may be worth it. 

Along the way, there are several observation platforms that you can stop at to enjoy the view (and catch your breath). I think that the waterfall is almost best viewed from higher up. 

Eventually, you will make it to the base of the falls. Here you can feel the spray of the water as it plummets down into the pool below. 

At the bottom of the falls, you can sometimes swim. 

Swimming at the Falls

Sometimes it is possible to swim directly under the waterfall. However, this is somewhat limited to what the water level is like on that particular day.

There will always be signs and a lifeguard at the falls who can give you more details.

Additionally, we suggest asking at the ticket counter before you begin your trek down to the waterfall so you have a better idea of what to expect. 

If you are unable to swim under the waterfall on that particular day, have no fear! You can still swim in the stream next to the waterfall. There is a designated swimming area.

Just know that the water is typically really cold and the rocks are slippery. I suggest wearing some type of water shoes ( like Keens ) if you decide to go in. 

The Orchid Garden

At the top of the stairs, near the beginning of the trail, there is a nice orchid trail that is worth visiting. This is a loop trail that is filled with orchids.

All the plants have small signs with details about each flower. We like to stop here after climbing up all the stairs as a nice break to catch our breath. 

Pre-Purchase Your Waterfall Entry Tickets Here

Guided Tour to the Waterfall

If you will not have a rental car or would like a unique way to see the waterfall with a guided tour, there are a few different amazing options for you. 

Horseback Riding to the La Fortuna Waterfall

This 3-hour adventure with an experienced guide and well-behaved horses is awesome! You will get to enjoy amazing views of the Arenal Volcano and visit the La Fortuna waterfall.

Arrange Your Horseback Riding Adventure

One of our favorite things to do in La Fortuna is to take a combo tour. This is a great way of combining several fun activities in one action-packed filled day. 

There are several combo tours that visit the waterfall. 

These include:

Full day Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and Hotsprings

This 11-hour full-day tour includes transportation from your La Fortuna area hotel, a visit to the waterfall, hiking around Arenal Volcano, a soak in a hot spring with a cocktail, and lunch.

Arrange Your Full Day Tour

Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano Hike

This is one of the most widely booked activities in Costa Rica on Viator.

This is a 9 hour adventure that includes transportation from your La Fortuna hotel, hiking around the Arenal Volcano, a waterfall visit and a walk on 16 hanging bridges with impressive views.

Lunch is also included.

Arrange Your Hanging Bridges, Waterfall, and Volcano Adventure

Additionally, Arenal Mundo is a local zip-lining company with direct access to the waterfall. They have several different package options depending on what you are looking for. 

We have gone to Arenal Mundo for zip lining multiple times and one of the best parts about it is that you can visit the waterfall after your adventure on their private trails.

So, you can enjoy the waterfall from a different view and won’t have the same crowds that the official entrance sometimes has. 

AMA Extreme 7 Zipline Cables

This highly-rated experience includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. You will have the chance to zip line from 7 different platforms while enjoying views of the waterfall. It’s super fun!

Book this Adventure with Arenal Mondo

Arenal Best 12 Zipline

If 7 zip line platforms are not enough for you, you can pump up your Arenal Mundo adventure with 12 zip line platforms. This adventure also includes transportation.

Book this 12 Zipline Experience with Arenal Mundo

Is the La Fortuna Waterfall Worth a Visit?

In our opinion, the waterfall is definitely worth visiting. We love that it is somewhat budget-friendly compared to other activities in the La Fortuna area .

It is not a place you will likely spend a lot of time, but we think that it is such a special place that is impressive and makes for great pictures.

It would be kind of a shame if you visited this area and didn’t go to the waterfall.

Pre-purchase your La Fortuna Waterfall tickets here to skip the entry line 

However, I don’t think it is worth planning your entire Costa Rica vacation around this particular waterfall. There are impressive waterfalls located all over the country.

So, if the only reason you are thinking of visiting La Fortuna is for this waterfall, maybe skip it.

Instead, check out our waterfall guide and find a waterfall in the areas you are planning to visit. 

What to Do After

The La Fortuna area is filled with amazing things to do! You can check out our guide to 30 things to do in La Fortuna for all the details .

But, here are a few of our favorite things to do directly after visiting the falls. 

Visit the Rainforest Chocolate Tour

The La Fortuna waterfall is on the same road as the Rainforest Chcocolate Tour company. This is one of our favorite things to do in La Fortuna because it is something that people of all ages will enjoy.

This tour takes you through the process of producing chocolate from bean to delicious sweet treat. You will get to see cacao plants in different stages of growth and then you can eat as much chocolate as you want. 

It’s awesome! 

We suggest reserving a time slot in advance because they tend to book out.

Reserve Your Rainforest Chocolate Adventure Now

Swim in El Salto 

As you head back into town from the waterfall you will come to an intersection. If you head left you will go back to downtown La Fortuna. If you turn right, you will immediately pass over a bridge with a small river below.

This is called El Salto.

If you pull your car off, you can climb down and swim in the river. There is even a rope swing for those of you who are risk-takers.

Just note, please enjoy this activity at your own risk. There are no lifeguards and the rocks can be slippery. 

Visit a Hot Spring

One of the most popular things to do in La Fortuna is to visit a hot spring park. These hot springs contain hot and cold pools of water that come down off of the Arenal Volcano.

One of the many things we love about La Fortuna Hot Springs is that there are places for all budgets and interests.

There are adult-only places with romantic grottos and family-friendly places with water slides. 

For more info check out our guide to La Fortuna hot springs. 

Check out Downtown La Fortuna

Sometimes it is nice to just sit and relax in the small park in downtown La Fortuna with the church and Arenal Volcano backdrop.

After all, your admission to the La Fortuna waterfall helps pay for this park’s maintenance, so you might as well enjoy it!

We like to follow that up with a visit to one of the many great restaurants in the downtown area. 

Check out our complete guide to La Fortuna for info on the best restaurants, hotels, and more!

Visit Rio Celeste Waterfall

We don’t suggest visiting both Rio Celeste and the La Fortuna Waterfall in one day. However, if you love waterfalls, the Rio Celeste Waterfall will definitely impress you.

This waterfall is located about an hour north of La Fortuna in the Tenorio National Park . It is a bright blue river and waterfall that looks like it should be natural.

The color is just so crazy!

It is best to visit here during the dry season. 

Conclusion: La Fortuna Waterfall

In conclusion, the La Fortuna waterfall is definitely one of those “must visit” spots in the La Fortuna area. It is a leg workout to get to the falls, but the view and overall experience make it worth the challenge. 

If you have any questions about visiting the La Fortuna waterfall don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below. We are always happy to help you plan!

You Might Also Like:

La Fortuna or Monteverde, Costa Rica? Which is Best to Visit

30 things to do in la fortuna costa rica that you’ll love, arenal volcano: practical visitors guide, 14 best arenal volcano hot springs in la fortuna, costa rica.

Costa Rica Travel Details : What You Need to Know

🚗 Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

• Save 10% Plus Other Perks with Our Adobe Rental Car Discount
• You might also consider; shared shuttle services or private transfer services

🏄🏽 How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

🍍 I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

✈️ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner . Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

🛏️ What is the best way to book my Costa Rica hotels?

We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

🗣️ What is the main language in Costa Rica?

The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

💰 What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

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An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

🌴 Is Costa Rica safe?

Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

🛂 Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.

Hi! We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er)

We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and since 2016 we have lived in sunny Costa Rica. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! Now we spend our days roaming the country to bring you the very best in Costa Rica travel here on Costa Rica Vibes. Sarah is the writer. Thomas is the one keeping it all together. Want the whole crazy story?

Sarah McArthur

Sarah McArthur is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes. She is originally from the United States but has lived in sunny San Jose, Costa Rica since 2016.  She has traveled all over the country and now considers herself a self-proclaimed Costa Rica travel expert.  Want the whole crazy story?

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Hi Sarah, Thanks for this great information! We are going to CR in January. My husband and I love to travel with our two very grown kids. This will be our holiday get-together since they live in different states. We will be renting a car and love local food and cool spots. We are staying in Arenal at the lodge for three nights, a guesthouse the last two nights in La Fortuna. We are trying to avoid driving long distances because of the short time we all have. Biking, waterfall rappeling, walks/hikes and nature are in our interest. I’m going to be combing your blog for info and if you have anything/vendors/providers, please pass them along! Thanks, Stacy

Hi Stacy! If you get a chance, definitely check out Rio Celeste. It’s about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna, but in January it will be the absolute perfect time to visit. We have a guide to that here. https://www.costaricavibes.com/rio-celeste/ We recently went tubing in La Fortuna with all of our family and friends and everybody loved it. We used this company if you want to check that out. http://arenalrivertubingandhiking.com/ The 1968 trail at Arenal is very nice for a good hike. For waterfall repelling, I’ve heard really good things about this one from Desafio. https://www.desafiocostarica.com/tours-details/costa-rica-canyoning-lost-canyon-adventures Also, January can be really busy here so definitely try to book any tours a few months in advance. Um, that’s all I can think of right now. Let me know if you think of any other questions!

Hiii! Thrilled that I came across your blog. It’s been very informative so far, so thanks a lot! We’re looking to make a trip to Costa Rica in March, and would love to make our way to the waterfall. Do you think this would be a difficult and/ or dangerous activity to do with a 4 year old? He loves hiking and is pretty good for the most part, aside from the typical clumsiness of a small child. Thanks!

Hi Danielle, It won’t be dangerous it’s just a lot of steps. I don’t know if he will make it all the way down/ back up. However, you can still see the falls from all the lookout points even if you don’t make it all the way to the bottom with him. Also, if you do make it to the bottom, you could let him get in the water at the stream next to the falls. There are always a lot of kids swimming there. Swimming under the falls themselves may be allowed but the push from the water can be really strong. Hope this helps and let me know if you have more questions!

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Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: Ultimate Guide

La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica, also referred to as Catarata La Fortuna (‘ lucky waterfall ’ in Spanish), is one of the best things to do in Arenal, and a top visited Costa Rica waterfall.

Derived from the refreshing Arenal River in the Alajuela Province, nestled into the lush Costa Rican rainforest, La Fortuna Waterfall Costa Rica features a strikingly blue lagoon and a 246-foot (75-metre) thunderous column of water . 

With 500 steps downward and oh-so-beautiful rainforest surrounds , this Arenal waterfall makes a great self-guided half-day trip or as part of an epic all-day adventure with nearby attractions like the Mistico Hanging Bridges and La Fortuna hot springs like Tabacon.

Make sure to bring your swimmers along with you on your hike to La Fortuna Waterfall. By the time you reach the bottom, you will be dying to sink your feet into the clear, refreshing waters. Keep your eyes open, as you may just see an adorable white-nosed coati, a bright-coloured bird, or even a Costa Rican sloth!

So, if you are planning to visit Catarata La Fortuna Costa Rica (which you should!), then read further to find out where it is, how to get there, what to expect at Cascada La Fortuna and more!

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

La Fortuna Waterfall: Quick Guide

LA FORTUNA WATERFALL ADMISSION La Fortuna Waterfall Skip-the-line Ticket

BEST LA FORTUNA WATERFALL TOURS Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall + Hot Springs Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall + Bridges Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall

Where is La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica?

La Fortuna Waterfall Costa Rica (or Catarata La Fortuna), one of the best things to do in La Fortuna is located a 3.5 mile (5.5km) distance from downtown La Fortuna Costa Rica in the northern Alajuela Province. 

Click on the La Fortuna Waterfall map below to interact with Google Maps and find your ideal route to visit Cascada La Fortuna, or read on about the best ways to get to the waterfall.

How to Get to La Fortuna Waterfall

By Rental Car

You can reach the Arenal waterfall within a 10-minute drive with your rental car . I always rent through Discover Cars . They are great because they compare local and global companies to find you the best price. Plus, the last time I was in Arenal, rental cars were completely sold out ! So, make sure to book ahead.

Plug ‘ La Fortuna Waterfall ’ or ‘ Catarata Rio Fortuna ’ into Google Maps (or Waze) and you are good to go. Otherwise, follow Route 702 away from the main drag in La Fortuna (the 142) for 4 minutes, and turn right heading up Diag. 301. You will reach the La Fortuna Costa Rica waterfall visitor’s centre in approximately a 6-minute drive from there.

TIP | You do not need a 4×4 vehicle to visit La Fortuna Waterfall as the entire roadway is paved.

If you don’t have a rental car, you can opt to take an official red taxi from the town centre to the entrance of the hike to La Fortuna Waterfall. The cost will be roughly $15 USD . You can find the official taxi stand on the road in front of La Fortuna central park.

TIP | Make sure your driver turns on the taxi metre to properly track your trip. Otherwise, you may fall victim to overcharging.

If you are an avid hiker or just an all-around active person, you can choose to walk to Catarata La Fortuna. From the centre of La Fortuna town, follow the same instructions for getting to the falls by vehicle. The walk will take you around 1 hour and 15 minutes with a slow and mild uphill incline . 

A great way to experience the walk on foot without having to do both ways is to take a taxi to La Fortuna Waterfall and then walk back on the slight decline. A more enjoyable stroll. Make sure to stop and admire Arenal Volcano ! Fingers crossed it’s a sunny day for you.

Do note, that the walk is along the main road of Route 702 and Diag. 301, so please use street sense. Not advisable for families with young children.

Best La Fortuna Waterfall Tours

Alternatively, you can grab a spot on an epic all-day guided Arenal adventure with a knowledgeable local guide . Combine a hike to La Fortuna Waterfall with a visit to Arenal Volcano, the Mistico hangings bridges or one of the relaxing La Fortuna hot springs . 

A guided combination tour is a very popular and highly rated way of seeing La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano region, in general. Even if you have a rental car, it can be nice to have the added knowledge from a professional guide and local. 

If you love horses, try a horseback riding excursion through the rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano that will take you to the top of La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica. 

Popular Guided Tours Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall + Hot Springs Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall + Hanging Bridges Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall Entrance Fee

The easiest and fastest way to get your tickets is by purchasing the Skip-the-line Admission Ticket through Viator. This is especially handy if you plan to visit in the high season of December-April, and during the morning hours. 

If not, you can simply purchase your tickets at the visitor’s centre upon arrival.

La Fortuna Waterfall Price | $18USD for Adults, Free for Children Under 8 Years Old

La Fortuna Waterfall Costa Rica Hours

The La Fortuna Waterfall opening hours are from 7AM – 5PM daily with the last entry at 4PM.

La Fortuna Waterfall Parking

You can find a nicely paved parking lot just outside the visitor’s centre at La Fortuna Waterfall. The parking lot can take up to 25 cars and is free of charge .

Because the waterfalls are so popular (one of the top waterfalls in Costa Rica!), I would recommend getting to the falls early to snag a spot. There is one accessible parking stall.

La Fortuna Waterfall Amenities

As a popular waterfall in Costa Rica, La Fortuna Waterfall enjoys a few established amenities . A trip to these waterfalls near La Fortuna is no longer a wilderness adventure, which can be a good and not-so-good thing depending on what type of traveller you are.

Situated behind the visitor’s centre across a bridge is the outdoor restaurant called Restaurant Rio Lounge . The restaurant offers a few typical, yet elevated, Costa Rican cuisine options like ceviche, plus a variety of meals catered to the North American palette like burgers, sandwiches, pasta and salads.

The restaurant opens its doors at 9AM and is a perfect spot to grab breakfast after your visit to the falls. The restaurant closes at 5PM.

Restrooms + Lockers

Well-maintained restrooms and lockers are available just past the visitor’s centre. If you don’t have your swimsuit on already, make sure to change here before descending the 500 steps down to the falls as this is your only opportunity on site.

If you’d like to leave your bag and belongings and not carry them with you on your Catarata La Fortuna hike, you can rent a locker at the visitor’s centre for $2 USD . Please note, that a $10 USD deposit is required for locker rental in case of key loss.

Souvenir Shop

Of course, with any big attraction, you can purchase a souvenir to commemorate your trip or to gift to loved ones at home. There is a souvenir shop at the visitor’s centre just for this purpose.

Best Time to Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Time of year.

The best time to visit La Fortuna Waterfall is in the dry season of December – April. After heavy rains, the waterfalls and lagoon tend to turn brown and lose their beautiful blue hue.

It’s important to note, that even during the dry season, the Costa Rican rainforest in Arenal can experience periodic heavy rains, so check yesterday’s forecast before visiting.

If you plan to visit Costa Rica in the wet season when the rainforest is at its most lush, don’t fret if it’s always raining. La Fortuna Waterfall will always be a great experience no matter the weather. Plus, the well-built stairs at the waterfall will keep you safe on your feet.

Time of Day

The best time of day to visit the La Fortuna Waterfall is first thing in the morning when the visitor’s centre opens at 7AM. If you aren’t joining a daily tour , this will be the quietest time of day to thoroughly enjoy nature and the waterfall all to yourself.

Tours will arrive between 9-10AM (although this popular tour arrives around 8AM).

Alternatively, you can visit the Rio Fortuna Waterfall after the mid-morning rush around lunchtime or in the afternoon to experience fewer crowds.

What to Expect at La Fortuna Waterfall

Read on for a step-by-step guide to visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, just in case you are looking for a trip without surprises. Otherwise, you can just go, enjoy it and report back on your experience! I have no doubt, it will be a good one.

La Fortuna Waterfall Visitors Centre and Facilities

When you first arrive at the visitor’s centre, park your rental car in the paved parking lot (space for 25 cars) and make your way to the admission counter. Here, you can purchase your tickets, or show your Waterfall skip-the-line ticket and receive your admission bracelet . Make sure to wear your bracelet for your entire visit to Cascada La Fortuna. 

Then, you will cross a bright green bridge , reminiscent of the Mistico Hanging Bridges, and arrive at the on-site amenities. Here you will find the bank of changing rooms and restrooms , and further on the restaurant to the left. 

Here is the last opportunity to go to the restroom , change into your swimsuit or grab a bite to eat before descending down to the La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica.

La Fortuna Waterfall Viewpoint

So, you’ve changed into your swimmers, had a quick bathroom break and grabbed a snack, you are officially ready for your visit to La Fortuna Waterfall! It’s time to walk towards the viewing platform that will give you panoramic views of the Costa Rican rainforest and La Fortuna Waterfall spilling out of the lush surrounds. 

Make sure to stop here! It is rare you get such a beautiful, all-encompassing view like this at any waterfall in Costa Rica. Plus, the viewing platform is accessible for all visitors as it doesn’t require any steps to get up. 

If you are a photographer or content creator, this is a perfect spot to put up your drone. To make sure you aren’t disturbing other visitors, arrive at the La Fortuna viewpoint just after opening at 7AM.

The Orchid Trail

Just past the viewing platform, you can choose to start your hike to La Fortuna Waterfall or take a very short detour to follow the Orchid Trail . This scenic trail loop will take you through an orchid garden consisting of up to 200 native orchid species planted along the path.

The walk takes about 5-10 minutes to complete (including stops to admire the flowers) and is worth seeing. 

The end of the trail loops back to the start of the descent to La Fortuna Waterfall , so it’s super convenient and a great addition to your visit to Waterfall La Fortuna Costa Rica.

La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

First off, I wouldn’t call the La Fortuna Waterfall hike a ‘hike’ per se. What I imagine when I think of a hike is dirt or rocky trails, steep elevation and hard work. Although you will be descending and ascending 500 stairs , it will be a very easily navigable climb on a paved surface . 

The La Fortuna Waterfall Stairs

After strolling among the beautiful orchids, make your way to the top of the stairs down to Catarata La Fortuna. Here you will follow the well-built and well-maintained staircase of 500 steps downwards.

Make sure to enjoy the surrounding rainforest on your way down and keep an eye open for native Costa Rican wildlife like coatis and sloths. 

Depending on your fitness level, you may want to stop at the very nice rest areas with benches that are located every 100 steps or so. Take a seat, grab some water from your reusable water bottle and enjoy being in nature (I certainly did this on the way back up!). Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, after all.

After crossing a bridge or two and several sets of stairs, you will make it to the bottom of the waterfalls. The La Fortuna Waterfall hike length is about 15 minutes on the way down depending on how many times you enjoy the rest stops.

The trip back up the stairs will take upwards of 20-30 minutes.

The Base of La Fortuna Waterfall

Now it is time to ascend a couple of steps to the paved viewing platform at the base of the falls. Here you can really feel the strength and glory of nature as the 246-foot waterfall rushes into the strikingly blue lagoon below. 

Yes, you can walk down to the waterfall lagoon and stand amongst the rocks on the edge of the pool, but it’s important to note two things:

• The rocks at the base of the La Fortuna Waterfall are slippery ! Please be careful or simply wear a good pair of grippy water shoes. I wear these water shoes .
• You are not allowed to swim in the lagoon directly below the La Fortuna Waterfall. There is a lifeguard on duty that will get testy if you try to wade too far into the water. Don’t worry though, you can swim a short distance further downstream.

Swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall

Can you swim in La Fortuna Waterfall? The answer is yes and no .

While you are able to swim while visiting Catarata La Fortuna, you aren’t allowed to swim directly under the waterfall . About a 30-second stroll down the river, you will find a clear, refreshing swimming hole with waters directly from the waterfall and Arenal River itself.

It’s a great way to cool off after your descent down the 500 steps.  There is a small sandy beach at the swimming hole and there are small hooks provided to hang your bags, clothing items and towels while you enjoy the water. Note, there are small silver dart river fish in the freshwater pool, but no worries, they are super friendly!

What to Bring to La Fortuna Waterfall

There are a few important things you should bring with you on your visit to Waterfall La Fortuna. On my visit, I got really good use out of my grippy water shoes and was happy I brought a quick-drying microfibre towel and mosquito repellent . Plus, I always bring my purifying reusable water bottle with me on my full-time travels. It’s the best thing since sliced bread.

Here are some other essentials to bring to La Fortuna Waterfall Costa Rica:

• water shoes
• hiking sandals
• hooded rain jacket
• water resistant daypack
• purifying reusable water bottle
• microfibre quick-drying towel
• waterproof phone case
• natural mosquito repellent

Catarata La Fortuna Practical Information

Below you will find the answers to a few common questions about La Fortuna Waterfall.

The La Fortuna Waterfall hike is just over 500 paved steps downhill. It takes approximately 15 minutes one way. Depending on your fitness level, it may take you a bit longer to climb the stairs on your return to the visitor’s centre.

The La Fortuna Waterfall height is 246 feet or 75 metres.

Yes, there is a 25-space paved parking lot available free of charge.

Yes, washrooms are available while visiting La Fortuna Waterfall at the top before descending the 500 steps down. Make sure to go before your visit!

Yes, there is a restaurant on-site called the Restaurant Rio Lounge. The restaurant offers Costa Rican and Western cuisine and is open 9AM – 5PM daily.

No, adults cannot visit the waterfall for free. Entrance fees are $18 USD for adults, although children under 8 can enter free of charge.

Yes, you can visit the waterfall without a tour. Simply purchase the skip-the-line tickets or purchase your tickets directly from the Catarata La Fortuna Costa Rica visitors centre. Then, you can follow the well-directed path down towards the falls.

Yes, but not right under the waterfall. You can swim at the waterfall in La Fortuna a 30-second walk downriver in a beautiful clear lagoon.

Yes, La Fortuna Waterfall is most definitely worth visiting. As one of the top things to do in La Fortuna and one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, it should be at the top of your list!

More Things to Do in Costa Rica

21 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica for an Epic Trip

Visiting Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges, Costa Rica: Ultimate Guide

Visiting Rio Celeste Waterfall, Costa Rica: Ultimate Guide

Haley is an expert on Costa Rica travel, especially the best things to do, activities, attractions and tours around the country. She's spent extensive time in Costa Rica since 2019 including an incredible 2 month road trip.

She loves to share honest first hand experience from her Costa Rica travels. Her goal is to help readers planning their next trip to Costa Rica by providing in-depth guides about her favourite Costa Rica things to do and activities not to be missed.

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The Complete Guide to Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall

The impressive 70-meter-high Catarata La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. If you’re in the Arenal or La Fortuna area, it’s a must-see sight during your trip to Costa Rica.

At Catarata Rio Fortuna, unlike other waterfalls, you can swim at the bottom of the falls, which is a fantastic experience.

In this post, you can find out how to get there, the best time to visit, including entrance fees, and what to expect on the hike to the La Fortuna Waterfall.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

Best hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

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Where is La Fortuna Waterfall

Catarata La Fortuna is located in a biological reserve next to the Arenal Volcano National Park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

The tropical weather makes La Fortuna lush and green all year round, the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

We suggest you visit the waterfall when it opens or just before closing time.

In the morning hours, the temperature is more pleasant for the hike, and you will only see a few tourists. Buy your ticket online and skip the line.

TIP The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

Read our → Costa Rica Itinerary

How to Get to La Fortuna Waterfall

The easiest and best way to get to La Fortuna Waterfall is by car. You can easily rent a car at San Jose International Airport.

We have a detailed post on how to get from San Jose to La Fortuna with all the information you need.

The roads are well-maintained, and you don’t need a 4×4. It’s good to know there is no public bus to the waterfall, and it’s at least 3 hours from San Jose.

During our travels, we always use  Discover Cars  for car rentals. Because they always offer the best deals and provide free cancellation 48 hours before your reservation.

See also → How to Renting a Car in Costa Rica

If you don’t have a car, you can get from La Fortuna by taxi or Uber, join a guided tour, or walk to the waterfall. The fall is only 5 km from the town of La Fortuna, which you can reach in less than 10 minutes.

A taxi fare costs around 15 USD one-way.

We saw a lot of tourists walking to visit the waterfall. But we don’t recommend this option, as these people seemed exhausted.

For the best experience, join a La Fortuna tour , which includes the waterfall, Arenal Volcano, and hot springs.

La Fortuna Waterfall Entrance Fee

The entrance fee is 18 USD for adults and free for children up to 8 years old.

• You can pay for the entrance ticket by card or cash.
• The ticket price includes free parking space and access to bathrooms, changing rooms, and a drinking water fountain.
• In addition, you can also visit the butterfly trail and the beautiful orchid garden.

Recommended Post → Things to Do in La Fortuna

Although the entrance fee is quite expensive, the money is invested in the park’s infrastructure and environmental conservation.

TIP The best way to visit the Catarata La Fortuna is to buy your ticket online and skip the line.

La Fortuna Waterfall Opening Hours

Catarata La Fortuna is open every day from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Short Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall

Once you arrive, a few minutes from the entrance, there is a large platform with a fantastic view of the waterfall. Take some photos there, and then follow the trail to the left and start the hike down.

The trail is well-maintained, with more than 500 steps leading down. The hike is easy-moderate and takes around 15-30 minutes.

The hike is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart conditions, asthma, or limited mobility!

Keep reading → Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica

It’s good to know that the hike is always longer on the way up.

Along the way, there are a few rails and benches where you can break, enjoy the view, and see some wildlife. The last steps to the waterfall are usually wet and slippery, so go slowly and use the handrails.

Overall, the hike to the waterfall is accessible to everyone.

TIP Plan to spend at least 2 hours at La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica.

Can I Swim at the Waterfall?

Yes! You can swim at the bottom of the La Fortuna Waterfall, but be careful as the water currents can be dangerous.

Bring water shoes, as the rocks can be slippery from the humidity. During our visit, there was a lifeguard near the waterfall watching over the safety of visitors.

If you don’t want to swim at the waterfall but want to refresh after the hike, follow the trail next to the waterfall to the river, where you can enjoy a relaxing swim at the natural pools.

See also → Monteverde Guide

What to Pack

• Small backpack
• Light raincoat
• Quick-dry towel
• Mosquito repellent
• Water shoes
• Camera gear
• GoPro or Waterproof phone bag
• Plenty of water

Catarata La Fortuna Waterfall Map

Photo credit: cataratalafortuna

Tips for Visiting the Waterfall

• Wear closed hiking shoes and lightweight, quick-dry clothes, as the weather is always warm and humid.
• Bring your refillable water bottle with you.
• Lock your car, and don’t leave valuables out of sight.
• As unexpected rain can happen at any time, bring a light raincoat.
• Use the bathroom before you start the hike.

• Wear a swimsuit under your clothes or use the changing rooms near the entrance.
• La Fortuna is one of the best places to watch wildlife in Costa Rica, so always keep your eyes open.
• Use a polarized lens to protect your camera and get better-quality photos.
• Always keep an eye on your valuables while swimming in the water.
• Don’t underestimate the strong current of the waterfall.

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

Where to Stay near Catarata Rio Fortuna

We recommend staying in La Fortuna for at least 3-4 days to allow enough time to visit the  best places in La Fortuna.

When you have a car, we suggest booking your hotel outside La Fortuna with a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano.

If you don’t have a rental car or are looking for budget accommodation, you should stay downtown.  Because you’ll be close to restaurants and can easily  book La Fortuna tours  or shuttles to attractions.

Although La Fortuna is a small town, the accommodation options are available for all budgets.

• Luxury: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa or Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
• Mid-Range: Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience
• Budget: Arenal Waterfall Lodge

Is La Fortuna Waterfall Worth It?

Yes, it was one of our favorite waterfalls in Costa Rica and a must-see in La Fortuna.

If you have more time after the waterfall, explore the surrounding attractions, hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, swim in the hot springs, or take a chocolate tour.

TIP Book your full-day tour , which includes the impressive waterfall, hanging bridges, and Arenal Volcano National Park.

We hope you found our guide to La Fortuna Waterfall useful and will inspire you to visit Costa Rica. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Transfer – Bookaway

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You look like you’re the only one there at the waterfall. But it seems like a place that would have a lot of people. Was this not the case?

Hi Carolyn!

You should arrive right after the gates open! When we visited, there were only a few tourists. But around 9 AM, there was already a tourist crowd.

Enjoy your visit!

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Catarata La Fortuna: A Wonderful Waterfall in Costa Rica

The wind caressed my hair and the water droplets in the air patted my cheeks as I listened to the roaring stream of water gushing into the turquoise pool. Dancing to its own rhythm, La Fortuna waterfall flowed in full glory.

For its unique geographic positioning near an active volcano and for the diverse set of activities on offer in the region, ranging from relaxing to adventurous, La Fortuna is the most popular travel destination of Costa Rica. The gorgeous Catarata La Fortuna is one of the many attractions of town, but one that can go on your Costa Rica waterfalls bucket list.

In this post, we share the complete guide to visiting La Fortuna waterfall on your own.

For a more visual experience, check out our YouTube video of La Fortuna waterfall here.

Table of Contents

How to Reach La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna waterfall is located about 5 km /3.1 miles from the town center of La Fortuna. You can take a taxi from town or drive down. It takes about 10 minutes.

From San Jose airport, La Fortuna town lies at a distance of 114 km /71 miles. The drive takes around 2.5 hours.

From Liberia airport, La Fortuna town lies at a distance of 143 km/ 89 mile. The drive takes around 2.5 hours.

You can find La Fortuna waterfall reserve on Google Maps .

La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

La Fortuna waterfall hike is an enjoyable one that offers a good mix of a light workout and pleasant scenery.

Viewing Platform

Before the start of the trail, there is a viewing platform. Standing here, you can get a glimpse of La Fortuna waterfall from a distance. Tucked in the lush rainforest, the waterfall looks like a white lace swaying down the green slopes.

From this point, the waterfall seems far away, but the trail will lead you to this beauty in almost no time.

Hiking Trail: ~500 Steps

The hiking path to Catarata La Fortuna is a well-laid trail consisting of about 500 concrete steps leading to the base of the waterfall. Due to the good condition of the trail, the descent is not tiring. But if you need to rest during the hike, there are seating areas at couple of places. We also found a drinking water tap at one spot, in case you need to refill your bottle.

The best part is, almost throughout the hike, you continue to get views of the waterfall from different perspectives, peeping through the rainforest. To add to the experience, you have the buzzing insects, the chirping birds and the gushing waterfall as your sound effect in the background. So, because of these incredible sights and sounds of the surroundings, the hike down 500 steps feels like a breeze.

For us, it took about 15 minutes from the start of the trail to reach the waterfall. The climb up would have taken a few minutes more.

For the return trip, you do need to climb up all those 500 stairs! May not be as much fun, but it is not too difficult either. And when you have the sloth encouraging you with motivating quotes, the climb feels even easier.

Observation Deck

Near the base of the waterfall, you can climb another few stairs to get to an elevated viewing platform. It is a nice spot to hang out before or after you have spent some time at the waterfall.

La Fortuna Waterfall

At the end of the 500-steps hike down, you are rewarded with the close-up views of the gorgeous La Fortuna waterfall.

The 230 feet / 70 meter high waterfall plunges into a turquoise pool with such an incredible force that it forms a white rim at the surface of the water. The water erosion on the surrounding rocky walls add more texture to the site of the waterfall.

Piles of rocks of various shapes and sizes are collected along the periphery of the pool. You can sit on one of the rocks, enjoy the views and feel the water sprinkles on your face.

Swimming Opportunities at La Fortuna Waterfall

You can swim in the natural pool of La Fortuna waterfall, but only near the rocks in the front area. Due to the force of the waterfall, it is recommended not to go near it. Be prepared to swim in cold water though.

For a more relaxing swim in calmer waters, you can head to the nearby natural pool of the river.

If the area experienced heavy rainfall prior to or at the time of your visit, swimming at the waterfall pool may remain prohibited.

As you arrive near the waterfall, you will find a guard who will explain to you the dos and don’ts for spending time and swimming at the waterfall.

Not Just a Waterfall Hike

Catarata La Fortuna is not just about the waterfall hike. Near the entrance area and next to the main trail, you will also find an orchid trail and a garden. During one of our visits, apart from the orchids, we had also spotted some hummingbirds and beautiful butterflies.

La Fortuna Waterfall: Entrance Information

You can purchase your La Fortuna waterfall tickets online from this website , as well as at the counter. In this section, you will find all the information related to the hours and entrance fees.

You can visit La Fortuna waterfall any day of the week between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm. However, the latest recommended entry time is 4:00 pm, so that you get adequate time for exploring the trail and the waterfall.

Upon purchasing the entrance ticket, you get a wristband which allows you exit and re-entry during the opening hours.

Entrance Ticket Fees

Entry fees for foreign nationals by age categories:

• 9 years and above: 18 USD
• 8 years and below: Free

Entry fees for Costa Rican citizens and residents by age categories:

• 9 to 18 years: 4 USD
• 19 to 64 years: 9 USD
• 65 years and above: 4 USD

Facilities at La Fortuna Waterfall

Catarata La Fortuna is an established tourist spot with a lot of organized facilities that allow the visitor to enjoy a hassle-free day at the waterfall.

• Parking: Free and secure parking available on site.
• Restaurant: Yes, near the entrance.
• Restrooms: Near the entrance, not available anywhere else on the trail.
• Showers: Near the entrance only.
• Lockers: Near the entrance only.
• WiFi: Free WiFi available throughout the property.

Tips to Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

What to wear.

• Wear comfortable clothes for the waterfall hike.
• Closed-toed shoes are recommended.
• Apply sunscreen.

What to Carry

• Carry water for hydration.
• Bring snacks if you intend to stay for long.
• Bring towels and swimsuits if you wish to take a dip in the water.
• Pack cameras/your choice of photography device and memory cards to capture the moments.

COVID-19 Protocols at La Fortuna Waterfall

Like most tourist places in Costa Rica, La Fortuna waterfall adheres to the prescribed COVID-19 protocols.

• You need to wash your hands with soap before entering the ticket office.
• Body temperature will be checked before entering.
• Wearing mask is obligatory at the reception are and in all closed spaces.
• Contactless card payment method is available.

Final Thoughts

Although it is a highly popular and touristy place, La Fortuna waterfall is still worth a visit. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Costa Rica. Due to ease of access, good on-site facilities, well-structured trail and the gorgeous waterfall itself, we would definitely recommend Catarata La Fortuna to be added to your La Fortuna travel plan.

Plan your La Fortuna and Arenal trip:

• Arenal Volcano National Park : Complete guide to all the trails in the Peninsula Sector and the Volcano Sector.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges : Hanging bridges trail over the rainforests of Costa Rica.
• Eco Termales Hot Springs : A romantic night in the hot springs of La Fortuna.
• Bogarin Trail : A cool place for watching sloths and spotting birds.
• Rio Celeste Waterfall : A great day trip from La Fortuna to see a sky blue colored waterfall.

Check out our travel guides to other wonderful waterfalls in Costa Rica:

Oropendola Waterfall

La Cangreja Waterfall

Rio Negro Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Catarata Del Toro

Nauyaca Waterfalls, Dominical

Uvita Waterfall

Montezuma Waterfalls, Nicoya

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Cascada el Pavon, Ojochal

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A DIY GUIDE TO VISITING LA FORTUNA WATERFALL – COSTA RICA

A DIY guide to visiting La Fortuna Waterfall – Costa Rica. Everything you need to know about an easy, budget friendly visit without a guide.

Having had some amazing wildlife experiences at Corcovado National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park , we were looking forward to seeing more of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. La Fortuna, with its iconic Arenal Volcano, had always appealed to us. But its famous La Fortuna Waterfall was what excited us most!

La Fortuna Waterfall

The 70m La Fortuna Waterfall, known locally as Catarata Fortuna, is arguably Costa Rica’s most famous waterfall and certainly one of its most picturesque. Located at the base of the Chato Volcano in central Costa Rica’s Alajuela Province, it’s surrounded by luscious green rainforest and really is picture-perfect.

Entrance fees & facilities

As with many of the other attractions in Costa Rica, the La Fortuna Waterfall is pretty developed and commercialised. There’s toilets, showers, a souvenir shop, restaurant, lockers and a small free car park.

Opening Hours:  7:30AM – 4:00PM Daily

Entrance : US$18 for foreigners

Remember that all proceeds go to ADIFORT. This non-profit organization’s main objective is to ensure the well-being of the community through education projects, roads, cemetery management, conservation of natural resources and the beautification of the community. So it may seem a little pricey, but your money is making a big difference!

Best views of La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna has two offical structured observation decks. One from up top and one from the base of the falls.

The upper viewing platform is accessible to everyone, subject to paying your entrance fee. Once you’ve entered passing the lockers and souvenir shop, directly in front is the upper viewing platform. This observation area offers awesome views down to the falls on the opposite side of the gorge. The contrast of the white plume of water against the green vegetation is really quite impressive.

Getting to the base of the falls and the lower viewing platform does involve a bit of a descent and a fair few stairs! In fact, there’s several hundred stairs (around 500!) But don’t be put off by this, the views at the bottom are well worth it. People often describe this as a ‘hike’. But in reality, those with reasonable fitness levels and good knees, shouldn’t find this walk on structured stairs too challenging. And it’s certainly not a hike! Obviously the ascent is a bit tougher on the calves.

At the base of the stairs on the right-hand side you’ll find the lower viewing platform, which gives a great front on view of the 70 metre falls.

Our favourite view was from in the water, just downstream of the falls. On our early morning May visit, the water was freezing, but worth braving for a few photo’s. But do be careful as the rocks can be very slippery.

Down river, to the left of the falls there is a much calmer section of water, which is much safer for swimming in than at the base of the falls. It was from down here that we waded across the river and accessed one of the walking trails on the other side for a different perspective.

Orchid & butterfly trails

Before or after you’ve been down to the falls, don’t miss the Orchid and Butterfly Trails. Included as part of the entrance to the falls, they are well worth a quick wander through if you’re interested in this sort of thing.

The Butterfly Garden is good place to see pollinators – bees, butterflies and birds. The red Psychotria poeppigiana, amusingly known as the ‘Hot Lips’ or the ‘Sore-mouth bush’ was a favourite with the butterflies. And, keep an eye out for the stunning Blue Morpho, among the largest butterflies in the world and certainly one of the best-looking. When its wings are open it shows off its magnificent bright iridescent blue colouring that reflects light. When closed, the underside though less eye-catching, is still impressive. With a dull brown colour and several eyespots, it provides excellent camouflage against predators.

But it’s not only the butterflies worth seeing here. The Heliconia and Purple Porterweed are popular with the hummingbirds for their mid-air visits. We will never get tired of photographing these amazing little birds.

The Orchid Garden isn’t just about pretty flowers, its purpose here is far more important. Like many species around the world, wild orchids are disappearing. Habitat loss and deforestation are two of the major reasons. The gardens here were purposefully planted to educate and raise awareness of orchids and the their importance for the whole ecosystem. With close to 200 different native species in the garden, it is colourful all year round and full of beautiful plants.

Wildlife at La Fortuna Waterfall

As well as the stunning waterfall, its position in the Arenal Volcano National Park means wildlife sightings are not uncommon. Mammals including White-faced Capuchin, Howler and Spider Monkeys, Sloths, Coati and multiple reptiles and amphibians can be seen here. Our experience didn’t yield any of these, but we did see a good few insects and birds. A couple different species of Hummingbirds was the highlight of our visit.

But unexpectedly, it was the area around the car park where saw the most variety of birdlife. The open area meant sightings were a little easier than the thicker rainforest surrounds of the waterfall. As well as a fleeting glimpse of a Chestnut-Mandibled Toucan, we saw Montezuma Oropendolas and two different species of Woodpecker. The Black-cheeked Woodpecker and both male and female Hoffman’s Woodpecker.

Time needed at La Fortuna Waterfall

We spent several hours at the falls taking photos and walking around the short walking trail and gardens. You’ll likely want at least 1-2 hours at the falls, so it can easily be done in half a day. Depending on the weather and temperature of the water, bring your swimming gear and make the most of the natural swimming areas.

If you really want to enjoy this serene environment and get some photo’s without massive crowds, make sure you get there as the waterfall opens! Remember that the falls can get incredibly busy during weekends and the December to March period.

Getting to/from La Fortuna Waterfall

Getting to and from the town of La Fortuna to the La Fortuna Waterfall is easy and there are multiple ways of doing so:

• Taxi – about US$15 one way
• As part of an organised tour

How we got there

On our visit we were without a car. So we took a taxi there and arrived right on opening time, in order to avoid the crowds. It took us up the standard Diagonal 301 road (blue dotted route on our map).

Our tip – Arenal Volcano is notorious for being shrouded in clouds, especially its top half. If you are visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, it’s worth a quick roadside photo stop if you get a clear view en-route. During our May visit, early to mid morning was the only time we got a clear view, before it was covered in clouds for the rest of the day.

How we got back

After a few hours at the falls and with the weather still holding, we decided to save US$15 for a taxi and walk the easy 5km back to town.

The walk back is an easier option than walking to the falls, as the return journey is down hill. On our return leg, we took the left turn off the Diagonal 301 onto the Calle 506 (grey route on our map). As always, we were keen to search for more wildlife. With road signs like the one below, we kept our eyes peeled for one of our favourite species of feathered friends, the Toucan. Eventually, we heard the distinctive frog-like croaking call of the Keel-billed Toucan, which we really happy to eventually find. And we didn’t just see birds, we saw more of the ‘Jesus Christ’ Lizards, just as we had done throughout our Costa Rican travels.

The walk was scenic, all downhill and gave us a chance to again witness the Arenal Volcano from a different angle, as we got closer to town. The clouds were building but the weather gods seemed to be on our side.

That was until about 5 minutes before we got back to town. Just as we reached our favourite restaurant ‘La Casa de la Hormiga’ it started pouring with rain! The weather literally flicked from blue sky and sunny, to torrential rain in a matter of minutes. One other poor creature who couldn’t find shelter quite in time was a Hoffman’s Two-toed Sloth in a nearby tree, close to the restaurant

As sloths spend the vast majority of their lives hanging upside down, their hair grows in the opposite direction from all other mammals. The hair actually parts on their bellies and grows up toward their backs, as does their facial hair. This allows water to run off their bodies during these torrential downpours!

When to visit

La Fortuna, like most of Costa Rica, has two distinct seasons – a dry and a wet. The dry season falls from December through April. The wet season (green season) spans a longer period falling from the end of April through to November, with August-October generally being the wettest. But it’s important to consider that ‘wet season’ doesn’t mean solid rain all day everyday.

With the Costa Rican climate, La Fortuna Waterfall has an impressive flow year round, so you can visit anytime. But, there’s pro’s and con’s to visiting in either season. The months of the December to March are the busiest, so it will get super crowded, especially from mid-morning onwards. Visiting in the early part of the wet season, as we did is often an ideal time. The weather is usually ok in the mornings, crowds are far less and the waterfall and surrounding vegetation is at its finest!

What to take with you

• Make sure you have plenty of decent ‘reef-friendly’ sunscreen.
• Take a re-useable water bottle as there’s drinking water provided at the waterfall. Not only does it save the pennies, but drastically reduces plastic waste.
• A ‘dry-bag’ or waterproof rucksack is essential when travelling during wet season, or hiking and exploring particularly wet places like rainforests, cloud forests and waterfalls. They protect your camera gear and keep spare clothes dry.
• Likewise a good waterproof jacket is essential for wet season travel.
• If you planning on swimming, don’t forget your swimwear & towel!
• A pair of flip-flops (thongs/jandals), crocs or water shoes are great for wandering around at the base of the falls.
• If you don’t want to carry everything down to the base of the falls, remember you can always store it in the lockers provided. These lockers are US$2 and you need to pay a US$10 per locker refundable deposit.
• If you have a passion for wildlife photography, we highly recommend taking a decent zoom lens. We shoot the majority of our wildlife pics with a Canon 100-400mm.
• Take a picnic lunch and make a day out of it!

Other things to do in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of those places you could spend days exploring. There’s an abundance of diverse activities to take part in. Whether it be organised combo tours with La Fortuna Waterfall, or adrenaline-fuelled activities to bird-spotting, there’s something for everyone! Here’s a few other things you can do after you’ve visited La Fortuna Waterfall:

• Hike the Cerro Chato Trail (Closed during our visit)
• Visit Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
• Hike around the Arenal Volcano National Park
• Checkout the natural hot springs
• Take a Canyoning Tour and rappel down a waterfall  

Getting to/from the La Fortuna

The most popular and cheapest was to travel anywhere in Costa Rica is by public bus. This was the approach that we took and this is how we did it:

From Manuel Antonio via San Jose

We took the 6am Tracopa bus from the main street of Manuel Antonio to San Carlos bus terminal San Jose. It took 3.5 hours and cost ₡4790. You must buy a ticket from Quepos bus station at least the day prior to travelling. Tickets are not available to purchase on the bus or from Manuel Antonio.

From the San Carlos bus terminal in San Jose, we took a taxi to bus terminal 7/10 which took 10 minutes. Negotiate a fee with the driver but it is only a few km away.

Inside terminal 7/10 on the top floor to the far left, is the La Fortuna ticket counter. We booked seats on the next available bus, which departed at 11.30am and our ticket to La Fortuna cost ₡2580. The journey from San Jose to La Fortuna took 5 hours and the last part of the journey was very scenic. There were only a couple of scheduled departures a day.

NOTE : There’s food options and toilets at 7/10 Terminal. You’ll need small change for the toilets. Our taxi driver told us to stay inside the bus terminal, as wandering around the area was not so safe! So, we stayed inside which was secure with helpful attendants floating around.

Don’t leave your personal items unattended on the bus. Our bus driver warned us that bags had been stolen from inside the bus in the past. Despite the warning, a few backpackers left their bags unattended on the bus when we stopped for a toilet break and their bags went missing.

From La Fortuna to Monteverde

We took the first bus from La Fortuna to Tiliran, which in our case was at 8am. The journey took 2 hours and the ticket cost ₡1430. It was beautiful drive and for the best views, sit on the left side of the bus!

We took the 12.30pm bus from Tiliran to Monteverde, which takes between 3.5-4.5 hours. The ticket was cheap, costing ₡500 (also a beautiful drive). This was one of the few chicken buses we saw and used in Costa Rica and it was a fun journey. We got some coffee and food from the cafe (there’s many) right next to the bus station and chilled while we waited for the bus.

If you take this same journey and you want a seat (recommended), you’ll need to fight your way onto the bus. Don’t be shy as the locals will literally shove you out of the way! Regardless, your bags will most likely be at the back of the bus, so it’s best to sit as close to them as possible, just to be safe!

Other options

• Jeep/boat/jeep combos are available through tour desks and hostels/hotels. Takes approx 3.5hrs US$25-30
• Tourist shuttles operate between both towns. They’re quicker than our local bus option, but cost A LOT more. Bookable at accommodation desks or tour operators – 4 hours US$54.

Accommodation – La Fortuna

We stayed at a small hostel called La Choza Del Arbol . It was the cheapest place we stayed in Costa Rica and surprisingly nice and clean! We booked a basic private room with a small en-suite and fan, which cost around US$10 a night – an absolute steal. The location was great, only a 5 minute walk to the bus station, close to the town centre and restaurants. Highly recommend for budget conscious backpackers. Our room had no A/C though, so rooms may be uncomfortably hot for some depending on the season (we found it to be fine).

Cheap eats – La Fortuna

The best value restaurant we found was Soda La Hormiga (La Casa de la Hormiga ). Tasty local food at reasonable prices and friendly staff. Always busy with locals and tourists alike.

The official currency in Costa Rica is Costa Rican Colón – CRC or ₡. USD is widely accepted and often entrance fees, accommodation options and food menus are advertised in USD. In these cases, you can usually pay in either currency, but do check the exchange rate to see which option in better for you.

ATM’s are widely available in town and at bus stations etc. Visa & Mastercards are also widely accepted.

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Don’t miss these posts:

Manuel Antonio National Park – A complete Guide

Corcovado National Park – Everything you need to know

Like this post? Then pin it! Want to see more of Costa Rica? Then pin these too!

Hello! Fabulously interesting blog, and amazing photographs – thank you! What immunisations would you recommend for a long stay in Costa Rica? Do you think a rabies vaccination necessary?

Hi Ilona, So sorry for the slow reply.Glad to hear you enjoyed the blog.

Re. vaccinations We’d always recommend speaking GP or travel doctor as they are the experts. We just had the standard hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), tetanus & diphtheria. We have had Yellow Fever vaccination years ago for travels in Africa. We’ve never had a Rabies jab. Our understanding is that it doesn’t vaccinate you against the infection, just buys you more time to get the multiple jabs you need after a bite/scratch etc. Do let us know if you have any further Q’s.

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La Fortuna Waterfall: Everything You Need to Know

When visiting La Fortuna, a very popular activity is to go see La Fortuna waterfall. This is also called Catarata Rio Fortuna in Spanish. La Fortuna in Spanish translates to “the fortune” and the meaning is accurate to the area. This town is magical and you will never run out of things to do here. While walking around town you will see the Arenal Volcano in the distance (unless clouds fully cover it). There is a reason this place is on everyone’s list when they visit Costa Rica.

If you are looking for a great activity for the whole family or just yourself, La Fortuna Waterfall is an easy one to do. I will go over how to get there as well as some frequently asked questions below. You will want to bring your swimsuit if you want to get into the water. The water is chilly but I highly suggest getting into La Fortuna Waterfall. Also, bring any snacks you want to eat down there if you don’t want to spend the extra money on the food they sell.

Table of Contents

La Fortuna Waterfall Tips

• Take Your Time Coming Back Up the Stairs
• Bring Your Own Water
• Wear a Bathing Suit
• Bring a Rain Jacket (remember you’re in a rainforest)
• Wear Closed Toe Shoes or Hiking Boots

Catarata La Fortuna Waterfall Map

My Suggested Hiking Gear

Things to know before visiting la fortuna waterfall.

Getting to and hiking La Fortuna Waterfall is a pretty simple adventure when compared to other waterfalls in Costa Rica. It is super popular, so getting to and from here is no issue. Below is some information you might be wondering about before your trip here.

How to Get to La Fortuna Waterfall

There are a few ways to get here. If you are taking a tour, then they will take care of getting you there. You can also take a taxi to the waterfall. This could run anywhere between $7 to $15 one way. I would make sure to go over the price before getting one. We took an uber, as there are plenty in La Fortuna. Uber is technically not legal yet in Costa Rica, so take that into consideration.

Is a Tour Necessary?

This is primarily a self-guided tour. It is easy enough to do on your own, no problem. If you are someone who loves to have someone figure it all out for you, then there are plenty of tours to choose from. A lot of tours have multiple things included in them for around $150. You can look more into them on TripAdvisor . Some other things included in these tours are a volcano hike, ziplining, and walking over hanging bridges.

Is it Free?

Entrance to La Fortuna waterfall is not free. It costs $18 per adult. Any child that is 8 years or younger has free entry. If you are from Costa Rica then the price is only $9. They do accept credit cards, so don’t worry if you don’t have any cash on you.

Related Blog Post: 10-day Itinerary in Costa Rica

Is la fortuna waterfall worth it.

For someone who looking for a true hardcore adventure, I would say this isn’t worth it to them. Our family was visiting during this time and it was great for everyone. Catarata La Fortuna is beautiful and I don’t think anyone would truly be disappointed by seeing its massive strength and size.

La Fortuna Waterfall Hours

The park is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm. It is suggested to come no later than 4 pm if you want to enjoy the entirety of the park.

How Tall is the La Fortuna Waterfall

The waterfall is around 70-75 meters high or 200 feet. It is extremely powerful and if you swim too far, you will get whistled at. This is all for your safety.

How Long is the La Fortuna Waterfall Hike?

This hike will take you 20-30 minutes to go down the stairs. This all depends on your fitness level but there are resting spots after every major section. You will see a lot of people looking tired going back up but you can do it!

How Many Steps Are There During the Hike?

The hike consists of 530 steps down to the waterfall. The railing and rest areas are of high quality with water drinking areas in these spots. There are motivational signs throughout that will push you to finish the hike!

Is there a zipline at the La Fortuna Waterfall?

When visiting there won’t be any mention of this zipline at the front desk. This is done through other tour companies that will take you on these zip lines and then give you access to the waterfall as well. Check Viator for some tours that include ziplining.

Is Rio Celeste or La Fortuna Waterfall Better?

I have done Rio Celeste last time I visited Costa Rica back in 2017 and it was awesome. The water was the bluest I’ve seen and was super unique. You were not allowed to swim at Rio Celeste, which is what I like better about La Fortuna Waterfall. Why make a decision on one or the other when you can do both? They are about a 90-minute drive apart from each other.

Things To Do in La Fortuna

You will have a hard time running out of activities to do around here. Some of these activities require spending money or having a tour guide but are all worth it. Here is a list of a handful of ideas when planning your trip.

• Night Walking Tour
• Free Hot Springs
• Explore the area around the Chato Volcano
• Tabacon Hot Springs
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges
• Ecocentro Danaus Reserve

My Experience Doing the La Fortuna Hike

I loved doing this hike. Some may not consider it a hike but it was still very cool to see. This was the week my family came and it was great for everyone. Super accessible and nobody had any issues. My favorite activities are like the ones in Montezuma where you have to have an adventure before the actual adventure. It is worth the $18 if you make sure to swim and take up a lot of time at the bottom.

Once you arrive at the parking lot, you will sign a waiver. Immediately after you will buy your tickets and then enter the park right ahead. Once inside, you will go past the souvenir shop, and right ahead will be a platform. From here you will see the La Fortuna Waterfall from a distance. Right next to this are the 500 steps down towards it. Overall if you are in the area, I think it is something that you have to do.

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La Fortuna 3-Day Itinerary: Arenal Volcano, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs

La Fortuna is a town in Costa Rica known for Arenal volcano, majestic waterfalls, and dreamy hot springs. The town is a great spot to base yourself for a few days on your trip to Costa Rica, with many unique things to see and do nearby. Spend 3 days in La Fortuna doing a range of activities including hiking near Arenal Volcano, swimming below a waterfall, soaking in hot springs, white-water rafting and more. Continue reading for all the details you need to plan the ultimate La Fortuna 3-Day Itinerary including how to get to La Fortuna, where to stay, and the best things to do.

How to Get to La Fortuna, Costa Rica

The closest international airport to La Fortuna is Juan Santamaría International airport (SJO) near San Jose which is about a 3-hour drive from La Fortuna. Another option is to fly into Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) which is about 3 hours west of La Fortuna. Both airports have direct flights from the US, with more flights into SJO. The two best ways to get from these airports to La Fortuna is by booking a shuttle or by renting a car.

You can find and book shuttles from the airport to La Fortuna on Bookaway . Book your shuttle in advance to avoid having to navigate public transportation. Driving in Costa Rica isn’t for everyone, so a shuttle offers a great alternative. Once you reach La Fortuna you can walk around the town center in La Fortuna and most organized tours offer transportation.

By Rental Car

Renting a car in Costa Rica can be expensive, but it gives you more flexibility. A benefit of having a rental car is you can stay in unique places around La Fortuna that would be hard to get to without a car. If you are planning to visit more places in Costa Rica in addition to La Fortuna, it may make sense to rent a car. Make sure to book your rental car as early as possible, as rates get more expensive as it gets closer to the date.

Book your rental car on  Discover Cars  where you can compare rates across rental car companies to find the best deal. Keep in mind that Costa Rican rental car companies will add personal liability coverage fees and other taxes, so expect a higher rate than what you are seeing while booking. A 4×4 car is not necessary to visit La Fortuna or any of the places on this 3-day La Fortuna itinerary.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna has many unique accommodations including bungalows with views of Arenal Volcano, cute B&B’s, and luxury resorts. Having a rental car gives you more flexibility to stay in unique places that may be hard to get to without a car. If you do not plan on renting a car, try to find a place to stay closer to the town center of La Fortuna. This will ensure you are within the range for tour operators to pick you up and you will have easier access to restaurants and shops. A majority of hotels and guesthouses in La Fortuna have breakfast included in the rate, which is helpful as there aren’t many breakfast options in the town.

We put together a list of top places to stay in La Fortuna by price range. Where will you stay?

SAVE: Cabañas Del Lago – With a Booking.com review rating of fabulous (8.8), this is a great budget accommodation and you even get to stay in your own bungalow. Hotel Lavas Tacotal – You might not have a view of Arenal Volcano from your room, but you will get an unbelievable view from the hotel’s pool.

JUST RIGHT:  La Finca Lodge : You will definitely need a car to stay here, but the place has a 9.5/10 rating for a reason. Each unit features a balcony with mountain views. An exceptional breakfast is included.  Loma Real Hot Springs Bed & Breakfast – Breakfast, a pool, and views of Arenal Volcano. This B&B is 4 km outside of the town center making it conveniently located but still feels remote. Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs – Stay in a rustic bungalow in the rainforest. The picturesque pool on the property is perfect for relaxing. Miradas Arenal Hotel & Hotsprings : Stay in a cute private bungalow with views of Arenal Volcano and a hot springs pool with a bar.

SPLURGE: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa   – Staying at Tabacón gives you access to their thermal river and pools throughout your stay. Hotel guests also receive exclusive access to an adults-only part called Shangri-LA gardens. If you were already planning to go to the Tabacón Hot Springs it may be worth it to stay here for at least a night. Lost Iguana Resort and Spa : Every room has a view of Mount Arenal and in the morning you can enjoy the breakfast buffet that is included. Guests can’t stop raving about the pool. Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs : Eat a delicious breakfast with a breathtaking view of Arenal. The luxury pool features a wet bar and views of Arenal.

EXTRA SPECIAL SPLURGE:  The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal – This is the hotel that the Kardashians stayed at when they visited La Fortuna. It was also featured on the Bachelor a few years ago and on the Golden Bachelor recently. It looks like dream, perfect for a honeymoon?

How Long Do You Need in La Fortuna?

The area around Arenal Volcano is beautiful and there is a lot to see and do. If you enjoy spending time in nature, I recommend staying here for at least 3 days. You can easily spend a week just in La Fortuna if you stay at a nice hotel with hot springs and want to spend time relaxing as well as exploring.

If you have limited time in La Fortuna consider booking an organized tour that will take you to several places in one day. This Full Day Tour  takes you to La Fortuna Waterfall, hikes with views of Arenal Volcano, and a natural hot water river. It includes lunch and a cocktail as well as hotel pick up and drop off. The tour is limited to under 10 people so you know that you will be in a small group.

Reminder: Get Travel Insurance for Costa Rica

Don’t forget to get a travel insurance policy for your trip! SafetyWing  offers affordable, flexible, and reliable travel medical insurance that can be purchased ahead of your travels or while you are already traveling.

La Fortuna 3-Day Itinerary

La fortuna day 1: rainforest chocolate tour, hanging bridges, and arenal volcano hike.

Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Start your first day in La Fortuna with a rainforest chocolate tour . On this tour you will get to visit a farm where cocoa is grown, processed, and produced. You will learn about the history, culture, and traditions of chocolate while getting to taste the chocolate. If you are a chocolate lover like me, you can’t miss this during your three days in La Fortuna.

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

Next make your way to  Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges , where you can follow a 3.2 km trail through the rainforest on a number of hanging bridges and see views of Arenal. You can pay the entrance fee and explore the park on your own, or you can book a guided tour to see more animals and learn about the animals and plants in this rainforest.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Next make your way to Arenal Volcano National Park where you can do a couple of short hikes to see more views of Arenal. There are several hikes to choose from, including a hike that guides you through a lush forest to a viewpoint of Arenal. The best trail at Arenal Volcano National Park is to the Lake Arenal viewpoint where you can get a nice view of Arenal Volcano beside the lake.

Mirador El Silencio

For a hidden gem in La Fortuna check out  Mirador El Silencio.  Here you can find a 3-mile loop which takes you to a 1968 lava flow and rewards you with incredible views of Arenal Volcano. There are different paths you can take through the rainforest to get to the viewpoint and back. After paying an entrance fee you will get a map with the hiking trails. This was our favorite hike in La Fortuna, so I definitely recommend prioritizing this!

La Fortuna Day 2: Catarata Río Fortuna and Río Celeste

Your second day in La Fortuna is a day for seeing breathtaking waterfalls. Start your day at Catarata Río Fortuna in La Fortuna before making the drive to Río Celeste.

Catarata Río Fortuna

Get breakfast at Arábigos Coffee House near the town center on the way to Catarata Río Fortuna (Fortuna Waterfall). Make sure to purchase your admission ticket in advance for La Fortuna Waterfall on Viator so you don’t have to wait in line. Before going down the stairs you will see a view of the 70-ft waterfall in the distance, surrounded by lush rainforest. 

After making your way down the stairs you can enjoy closer views of Catarata Río Fortuna from a viewing platform or the rocks near the river. If conditions allow, you have the option to swim in the pool the waterfall drops into or in the Fortuna River, so don’t forget your bathing suit. Take in views of the rainforest and the native plants as you make your way back up the 530 steps. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes and water!

Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio: Río Celeste

Next drive about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna to Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio. The park is open until 2 pm and tends to be busiest in the morning when the tours are coming through. Around noon the park gets significantly quieter, which is why I recommended to go to La Fortuna Waterfall first.  At this park you will follow a trail through the rainforest to a bright blue waterfall, lagoon, and river. On the hike you may be able to see animals such as toucans, woodpeckers, coatis, and many different kinds of birds.

I recommend taking the trail all the way to the end and saving the waterfall for the way back once most of the tours have left. You will see a beautiful blue lagoon on your way, surrounded by lush plants and then enjoy a nice walk along the bright blue river which will eventually take you the mixing point (Teñidero). The beautiful blue color of the river is created when Rio Buenavista and Quebrada Agria mix. 

On the way back to the trailhead, take a detour to see the top destination in the park, Catarata Río Celeste. Go down about 200 steps to get to the bright blue waterfall that this park is most known for. You cannot swim in this water but you can enjoy the waterfall as you make your way down the stairs and onto the designated platform.

If you don’t have a rental car or don’t want to make the 1.5 hour drive on your own, you can book a tour to visit Río Celeste. This Río Celeste Tour from La Fortuna   includes transportation to and from your hotel, a professional guide that will help you spot Costa Rican wildlife, and lunch.

Day 3: Choose From a Range of Water Activities: Soak in Hot Springs, White Water Rafting, Canyoning / Waterfall Repelling

On your third day in Costa Rica choose from a range of unique water activities. You should have time to do one of the adventure activities as well as soak in hot springs. If you want to do both white water rafting and canyoning/waterfall rappelling, I recommend adding another day in La Fortuna. Start your day with an adventure activity and finish it with a relaxing soak in hot springs.

White Water Rafting

If you have never been on a white water rafting adventure now is your chance. If you have already experienced the thrill of white water rafting you know how incredible it is, and you can’t miss the opportunity to do it in La Fortuna. Make sure to book the Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3/4 in advance so that you don’t miss out.

Along the white water rafting adventure down the Balsa River you will get to take a break, swim, and snack on Costa Rican fruit. After the rafting trip, you will get a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant. The tour also includes transportation to local La Fortuna hotels, all equipment needed, and towels.

Canyoning and Waterfall Rappelling

This unparalleled experience in La Fortuna takes you on a 4×4 ride into the forest where you will get to rappel down waterfalls and a canyon rock wall. While canyoning and waterfall rappelling you may get to see exotic wildlife such as toucans, sloths, and monkeys. After the thrilling experience you will have an organic Costa Rican lunch. The tour includes transportation to and from hotels in La Fortuna so you don’t have to worry about getting there if you’re not renting a car. Book the Pure Trek Canyoning and Waterfall Rappelling Tour in La Fortuna ahead of time to secure your spot!

Hot Springs

To finish out your last day in La Fortuna, spend time soaking in hot springs. There are a variety of options to enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna including: Tabacón Hot Springs, Paradise Hot Springs, Titoku Hot Springs, EcoTermales Hot Springs, Baldi Hot Springs. As a free alternative, you can visit the natural hot springs river located across from Tabacón Hot Springs. 

We chose to visit Tabacón Hot Springs which is one of the nicer resort-style hot springs with several cascading pools offering temperatures ranging from 72 to 105 degrees. The water is true thermal water that is naturally heated by the volcano. We enjoyed being surrounded by the lush rainforest while relaxing in the hot springs.

More Top Experiences in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a perfect destination for a mix of adventure and relaxation. Don’t miss La Fortuna on your Costa Rica adventure! With 3 days in La Fortuna you can experience the highlights of La Fortuna, but if you stay longer there are countless more activities you can do such as an ATV Guided Experience or a Wildlife Safari Float .

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Home » Destinations » Inland Costa Rica » La Fortuna » 15 Things to Know Before Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall +Complete Guide

15 Things to Know Before Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall +Complete Guide

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, stunning national parks , pristine beaches, massive volcanoes, and abundant wildlife . There’s a lot to keep visitors busy throughout the tiny country!

However, if you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, don’t skip a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall. As one of  Costa Rica’s most spectacular waterfalls , La Fortuna Waterfall emerges from the Fortuna River and plummets an impressive 246 feet (76 meters) into a pool below!

After visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, I can see why more than 100,000 visitors make the trip to the pristine jungle waterfall each year. A short hike through the lush rainforest will take you right to the plummeting falls, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. You can even pack a swimsuit and enjoy a leisurely swim in the picturesque jade-colored pools at the base of the falls – one of my favorite parts!

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica for a good reason – the stunning natural surroundings and majestic falls will allow you to experience the magic of Costa Rica’s Central Valley.

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, check out our guide to learn everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit to La Fortuna Waterfall. 

About La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the top attractions for travelers from around the world who visit Costa Rica. It is probably the most popular waterfall to visit in Costa Rica and a wonderful sight to behold.

La Fortuna translates to ‘the fortune’ in English, and those who have the opportunity to visit the waterfall are fortunate indeed. 

The waterfall plummets an astounding 246 feet (75 meters) down a steep cliff into the pool below. The waterfall is fed by the Fortuna River and empties into a pristine greenish-blue water pool at the cliff’s base. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of the jungle around the waterfall with huge rocks, flowers, and greenery. 

All proceeds from visiting the waterfall go back into the protection and management of the waterfall and surrounding area. In fact, La Fortuna Waterfall is managed by a non for profit organization called the Integral Development Association of La Fortuna. This not only protects the waterfall but also goes into community education about the environment.

Where is La Fortuna Waterfall?

La Fortuna Waterfall is located in the Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall near Arenal Volcano National Park – one of the best volcanoes in Costa Rica . This small protected zone is 210 acres in size and is home to what’s known as transition premontane tropical forest. This is due to the region’s geographic location and elevation of 510 meters (1,673 feet) above sea level.

The waterfall and ecological reserve are both in the central part of Costa Rica in the Alajuela Province. The entrance to La Fortuna Waterfall is only 5.5 km (3.4 mi) outside of the town that goes by the same name as the waterfall, La Fortuna . For almost all visitors, La Fortuna is the town to stay in when visiting the waterfall.

La Fortuna Waterfall is also located around 80 miles (129 kilometers) from San Jose , the capital of Costa Rica, where many visitors first arrive. As it is one of the closer destinations to the international airport, La Fortuna makes a great add-on to either end of your trip. In fact, it’s popular to day trip from San Jose to La Fortuna Waterfall if you don’t have time to stay in La Fortuna.

If you’ve rented a car , you can easily drive yourself from La Fortuna town by following Google Maps or hire a taxi from the town for around $15 USD each way. Of course, there are also tours from La Fortuna available which I outline below (near the bottom of this blog)! 

Related Read: While in La Fortuna, be sure to check out all of the hot springs nearby too!

How long is the La Fortuna Waterfall trail? 

To reach La Fortuna Waterfall, visitors will have to embark upon the La Fortuna Waterfall Hike, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes on the way down and another 20 to 30 minutes back up (sometimes longer.) The distance each way is around 0.75 miles or 1.2 kilometers. It isn’t the distance that makes this trail somewhat difficult, but rather the 500 stairs!

The walk is rated as moderate but may be difficult for those with knee issues, older in age, or those not used to hiking.

When you arrive, you will purchase your ticket, receive a wristband at the visitor center, and then walk through a gate. An employee will verify your ticket at the gate, and you can pass through to begin the hike. 

At the start of the trail, around 200 meters (656 ft) from the entrance, you can pause on the large platform that overlooks the waterfall and the surrounding jungle landscape. This gives you a great view of the entire area, and you can really see just how beautiful the waterfall is from above.

After the viewing platform, head left and begin to descend the staircase towards the base of the falls. The hike starts with a paved trail, but the stairs change on the way down between wood, steel, and concrete (and eventually rocks at the very bottom.) There are more than 500 steps (around 530) to reach the base of the falls. There are handrails and plenty of benches to take a short break if needed. 

The first part of the hike is a series of switchbacks and continues straight down. Towards the final portion of the hike, the stairs will be wet, and you can feel the cool mist from the falls. 

There is a bridge at the bottom of the stairs, and you will see the waterfall on the right side. There is another viewing platform and a second trail leads downstream to a beautiful series of natural pools perfect for swimming. 

After hiking back up, I’m sure you’ll have worked up an appetite. Although there is a cafe near the entrance to the waterfall, I suggest checking out one of the best restaurants in La Fortuna !

Related Read: Learn all about the different hanging bridge experiences in La Fortuna before you book one!

How much does it cost to visit La Fortuna Waterfall? 

The La Fortuna Waterfall entrance fee for foreigners to visit the waterfall is $18 USD per adult and $5 USD per child under the age of 9. It is one of the cheapest activities in La Fortuna . You can actually book your tickets in advance at no extra cost and skip the line . 

There is also a discount for locals, who should purchase their ticket at the entrance in order to get the discount. You need to show your residence card, but it then only costs $9 USD for adults and $4 USD for children. 

You can pay your entrance fee in both USD or Colones and using EFTPOS (credit or debit card) or cash. 

Is La Fortuna Waterfall busy?

La Fortuna Waterfall is extremely popular and frequented by many tourists and locals – it is one of the most popular things to do in La Fortuna . 

During the peak season from December to April, known as the best time to visit Costa Rica , the waterfall is very busy, especially in the late morning and mid-afternoon. With that said, you can visit La Fortuna Waterfall without the crowds. To do so, it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

With that said, there is plenty of room to take photos and enjoy the view even with the crowds.

When is the best time to visit La Fortuna Waterfall? 

For those who want to experience everything La Fortuna Waterfall has to offer and avoid some of the largest crowds, we recommend that you hit the falls early in the morning or late in the afternoon before the park closes. That way, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds of tourists that show up around midday.  

I visited La Fortuna Waterfall as soon as the gate opened at 7 am and was the only person at the bottom for around 30 minutes. Even after an hour, there were very few people around. 

When it comes to the best time of year, there really is no right or wrong time to visit. La Fortuna Waterfall flows year-round.

La Fortuna Waterfall Hours

La Fortuna Waterfall opens every day at 7 am and stays open until 5 pm in the afternoon. With that said, the last entry allowed to La Fortuna Waterfall is 4 pm. 

Personally, I suggest not visiting after 3:30 pm unless you consider yourself fit and able to complete the hike each way very quickly. Otherwise, you won’t have a lot of time at the waterfall.

Parking at La Fortuna Waterfall 

Yes, La Fortuna has a large parking lot to help support the crowds that visit each year. There are more than 40 spots available (with some overflow spots), so it’s great if you’re driving your own rental car. 

Even with ample parking, it can get crowded. We recommend that you hit the waterfall early if you want to ensure that you snag a spot in the parking lot. The parking lot is free, and there is an attendant that tells you where to park when it gets busy.

They also have a rule that says you have to reverse in.

Can you swim at La Fortuna Waterfall? 

Swimming is one of the best activities to enjoy during your visit to La Fortuna Waterfall. However, swimming right at the base of the falls isn’t recommended unless you are a strong swimmer.

Bailey and I did swim at the bottom of the waterfall but found it difficult. In fact, we stuck mainly to the outside of the pool due to the extreme pressure of the waterfall.

Next to the base of the waterfall is a stream that is the perfect place to cool off with a swim (in preparation for climbing those 500 stairs!) Many people don’t actually know about this swimming spot and miss it completely. To find it, head to the left if you’re facing the falls. There are signs pointing to the swimming area, and it is so beautiful. Just be warned, the water is very cold. 

I also want to mention that if the water ever turns brown, you must leave the water immediately. This could mean flash flooding upstream, and it’s best to exit the water and head for higher ground.

What to bring to La Fortuna Waterfall 

Although you don’t need much to visit La Fortuna Waterfall, some items will make your visit much more enjoyable. 

Be sure to bring some money with you for the entrance fee, as well as any snacks or items you might want to purchase at the gift shop. You can pay for everything with a credit card, so cash is not essential (but it’s always good to have both.) 

It’s essential to wear proper closed-toe shoes like sports, hiking, tennis, or water shoes. The steps can be slick, so shoes with a good grip that you don’t mind getting wet are a must. 

If you plan on swimming, you will definitely want to pack your swimsuit, towels, and a change of clothes. It’s also a good idea to bring a dry bag to keep your belongings from getting wet from the waterfall spray and mist. 

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and photographable destinations in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, so we also highly recommend bringing your camera with you, which will allow you to photograph the huge waterfall and stunning pools at its base.  

It is also suggested that kids under 4 use a baby carrier. However, this will depend on personal preference. 

Other items you might want to consider bringing include bug repellent, water bottles, and snacks. It’s also recommended to bring biodegradable insect repellent, so you don’t damage the ecosystem when swimming. 

Facilities at La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall has bathrooms at the visitor center near the parking lot and a small cafe and gift shop. There are no restrooms at the actual waterfall, so it is best to use the ones at the visitor center before you start your hike. 

You can purchase snacks and drinks at the visitor center as well or choose to pack your own. Other amenities include plenty of benches along the trail as well as some hangers for your towels near the swimming area in the river.

An interesting place to visit inside the park is the Orchid Garden. It consists of 186 to 200 species, all native to Costa Rica. Entry is included in your ticket price, so why wouldn’t you go!?

How long should I spend at La Fortuna Waterfall? 

The short hike to the falls only takes most people around 40 minutes total. However, some people may need longer. For that reason, I suggest allowing at least 2 hours to visit La Fortuna Waterfall. 

This offers ample time to take in the sights and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. That being said, many bring swimsuits and enjoy a full day of swimming and sunbathing in the river at the waterfall’s base. 

I personally went at 7 am and made it back for breakfast at my hotel at 9:30 am. It was perfect getting in some morning exercise before a delicious Costa Rican breakfast.

Is La Fortuna Waterfall suited to kids/families? 

Kids will enjoy the sights of La Fortuna as much as the grown-ups, but it is important to use caution when traveling to La Fortuna Waterfall with little ones. The steps are steep and can be difficult for small children, and they can also get slippery, so be sure to help little ones along the way. 

It’s also important to be super careful if you allow your children to swim. The water under the falls is powerful, and only very experienced swimmers should attempt to get in there. Although there is a lifeguard on duty, anyone under the age of 15 should not swim under the powerful waterfall. This is my opinion, but no one will stop you from swimming there. 

Swimming with kids further downstream, where the water is calmer, is fine. 

Getting to La Fortuna Waterfall 

To reach La Fortuna Waterfall, tourists have a few options. If you have rented a car , you can drive there on well-maintained roads by simply following GPS. You do not need a 4WD for this.

It is also possible to take a taxi from the town of La Fortuna for about $15 USD. You can also hire a driver from San Jose, but it might be expensive as it is nearly 80 miles away (it’s best to book a tour instead.) 

If you are starting out in San Jose and want a rental car, Discover Cars is our top choice. Not only are they affordable but they have offices in 34 cities in Costa Rica, so you can pick up and drop off wherever is convenient. They also include the manditory insurance that is required in Costa Rica – plus, no hidden fees! You can book with Discover Cars here .

Another great option is to book one of the many tours of La Fortuna Waterfall , many of which provide transportation. We’ve included some of our favorites below. 

Best Tours of La Fortuna Waterfall

Skip-the-Line La Fortuna Waterfall Admission Ticket : You can save the time and hassle of waiting in line at the entrance by booking your ticket ahead of time. This option includes your entry to the waterfall and allows you to visit any time during opening hours. It’s an especially good idea if you plan to visit during the busiest times of the day so that you don’t get caught waiting in a long line. The cost is the same as the visitor center at $18 USD per person. 

Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, Authentic Costa Rican Lunch, and Arenal Volcano Hike : This tour is a must for a perfect day trip that highlights all of the attractions surrounding the La Fortuna Waterfall area! You’ll start with a hike to Arenal Volcano. The drive to Arenal takes about 30 minutes, and you will enjoy the 2.5-hour hike to the volcano’s base. It’s an easy to moderate walk, and most of it is completely flat, making it suitable for all hikers.

After the volcano hike, you’ll drive to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take 2 hours to enjoy the waterfall. After, you’ll head to the Arenal hanging bridges. A 2.5-hour hike through the lush primary rainforest will cross over 16 unique hanging bridges known as the Mistico Hanging Bridges. A typical Costa Rican lunch is included as part of the tour.

2-in-1 Arenal Volcano Combo Tour : Nature lovers will adore this tour of La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano. An experienced naturalist and guide will point out all of the stunning flora and fauna along the way in both English and Spanish, and visitors will have the opportunity to see animals like monkeys as well as the colorful birds of Costa Rica . 

Enjoy the La Fortuna Waterfall hike for a few hours before sitting down for a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch complete with locally grown and roasted coffee. Then, journey on a guided hike to Arenal, where you will have the opportunity to view lava flow and learn about the history of the volcano and visit Arenal lake.

Ziplining Over La Fortuna Waterfall : This zipline tour is an awesome choice for travelers searching for a thrill on their visit to the La Fortuna area.

This is a great option for families or couples; the group sizes are always small. The tour takes you through the rainforest canopies, where you can enjoy views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato. Best of all, you get to zipline right over La Fortuna Waterfall for incredible views that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Before ending your day, relax while enjoying a visit to the Maleku Cultural Resource Center before being dropped off back at your hotel.

Waterfall Rappelling and Whitewater Rafting : Another exciting adventure to consider on your trip to La Fortuna Waterfall is this tour that combines whitewater rafting and waterfall rappelling. Brave travelers who love extreme sports and big thrills will find the perfect experience on this full-day tour that combines two of the best tours available in Costa Rica. 

Begin your 8-hour excursion with a pick-up at your hotel in Fortuna Town and embark upon the canyoning tour, which includes a rock climb, a stunning rappel down the waterfall, and one of the best ziplines in La Fortuna . Afterward, head to the Balsa River for 2 hours of whitewater rafting with class II and III rapids. After the action, sit back and relax while enjoying a typical Costa Rican lunch.

Related Read: Learn about the best places to go ziplining in Costa Rica !

Other Things to do While You’re in La Fortuna

Of course, visiting La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best experiences, but there are so many other things to do in La Fortuna you won’t want to miss! These are just a few of our top picks:

• Hot springs – One of the best free activities in La Fortuna is the natural hot springs! The Free Natural Hot Spring River is a public river running through the  Tabacon Hot Springs Resort . It’s only 15 minutes outside La Fortuna and feels amazing after a day of hiking! If you don’t mind paying for a soak, there are tons of other amazing hot springs in La Fortuna to choose from too.  
• Hanging bridges – Why not walk among the treetops? The Mistico Hanging Bridges are some of the best. There are 14 total bridges here with 6 of them being hanging bridges. It’s a fantastic place to spot wildlife especially if you join this guided tour ! 
• Arenal Volcano – Arenal Volcano is the centerpiece of La Fortuna! You can wander the trails at Arenal Volcano National Park on your own or as part of a hiking tour . For more unique volcano views, take to the sky aboard the Sky Tram , fly by on an ATV ride , or take a leisurely sunset cruise on Lake Arenal .
• Drink great coffee – It’s no secret some of the best coffee in the world comes from Costa Rica! You can grab a cup of coffee at one of the restaurants in La Fortuna or take it a step further with a coffee tour . We had the freshest cup of coffee and tasted amazing homemade chocolate on this Costa Rican coffee and chocolate experience that takes place on a small family-owned plantation.
• Take a cooking class – The food is one of my favorite things about Costa Rica! The next best thing to eating locally-made Costa Rican food is learning to make it yourself. This 3-course cooking class is not only a super fun experience, but lets you get into the culture too!

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Because La Fortuna is such a big tourist town, there are a ton of amazing places to stay.

Selina La Fortuna – $

One of the go-to budget options is  Selina La Fortuna . I’ve stayed in Selina hostels around the world and this is a great one. It has a fun party atmosphere and a great co-working space where we spent a lot of time.

Selina Fortuna is located right in the middle of town, so you have easy access to great bars and restaurants nearby. Rates begin at $26 USD for a one-night stay in a dorm and $124 USD for a one-night stay in a private room. You can check availability and book on Booking.com here , HostelWorld here , Hotels.com here , or Expedia here .

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa – $$

Those with a medium budget should check out  Casa Luna Hotel & Spa . I stayed here on my first visit to La Fortuna and loved it. The property is beautiful, with a large pool and four hot tubs surrounded by nature. You can also enjoy the tropical botanic garden at the hotel.

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa is near Arenal Volcano National Park, and all the rooms have views of the volcano and the rainforest. The hotel also includes a delicious breakfast in the $204 USD room rate. Casa Luna is located a short drive from town and you can reserve a room online on  Booking.com here ,  Hotels.com here , or  Expedia here .

The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal – $$$

For arguably the most luxurious hotel in La Fortuna, check out  The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal . While the rooms don’t come cheap ($600 USD+), it’s a bucket list place to stay that’s perfect for  visiting Costa Rica on a honeymoon !

You’ll find 28 hot spring pools here, making the resort the perfect place if you really want to relax. There’s also a resort-style pool, a fitness center, a swim-up bar, hot tubs, and a spa and wellness center. You can reserve a room at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal  on Booking.com ,  on Hotels.com , or  on Expedia .

For more in-depth info on the areas to stay in La Fortuna, check out our blog on where to stay in La Fortuna !

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

As any traveler who has visited Costa Rica knows, the country’s motto is Pura Vida. Translating to ‘pure life’ in English, the phrase embodies the heart and soul of Costa Rica.

Pura Vida is precisely what visitors to La Fortuna Waterfall can expect – to be immersed in this stunning destination’s beauty and pure life. While many visitors to Costa Rica skip the Central Valley region entirely in favor of heading for the coast to places such as the Nicoya Peninsula , a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall adds an unforgettable experience to your Costa Rica itinerary .

Thanks so much for reading and supporting our blog! If you loved this guide, be sure to check out more of our detailed blogs such as:

5 BEST Night Tours in La Fortuna

BEST sloth tours in La Fortuna

Best places to surf in Costa Rica

Best beaches in Costa Rica

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

Great information! Thank you so much for a thorough “run down” in La Fortuna Waterfalls. We are going tomorrow for the first time and feel better prepared!

A Complete Guide to La Fortuna, Costa Rica

08/16/2022 by Emily Becker 1 Comment

This post was written by Emily Becker, a Mexico-based freelance writer for BMTM.

If you’ve seen photos of the magnificent Arenal Volcano, you have likely heard of La Fortuna, the town at its base. Known for having some of Costa Rica’s best adventure activities, it attracts visitors who are ready to get their adrenaline fix in one of the country’s most beautiful spots.

That’s not all there is to enjoy in La Fortuna, however. Many visitors come with the hope of swimming next to the incredible waterfall there, seeing the color-changing waters of Río Celeste, and spotting diverse wildlife.

From breaking down how to visit the waterfall to other activities in La Fortuna and where to stay, this is a complete guide to one of the most sought-after destinations in Costa Rica:

Table of Contents

La Fortuna Waterfall: What You Need to Know

At 230 feet tall, the La Fortuna Waterfall is a showstopper. As the water barrels into the pool below, you can feel its mighty force as it generates a misty breeze that is nothing short of magical. Speaking of the pool below, you can swim in its baby-blue water, adding to the already stellar experience of being so close to the cascade.

The waterfall is one of the most popular activities in La Fortuna. Unlike others I had been to in Costa Rica, I quickly realized that there was a great deal of complexity around visiting it. So you don’t make the same mistakes I did, here are the most important things you need to know:

How to visit La Fortuna Waterfall

The first thing to know is that the waterfall itself is part of Arenal National Park. However, some of the access points around it are on private property. I know, it sounds confusing.

One way to visit is to book a ticket through the Catarata La Fortuna company, which are $18 plus tax and include access to lockers and a platform that serves as a viewpoint, very close to the base of the falls. By visiting this way, you have access to everything nearby, including the swimming areas. The hike to the waterfall includes climbing 530 steps, so be ready for a hefty workout on the way back up.

The other way to visit is on a tour like this one . The downside is that you can’t access the overlook, but otherwise it’s almost the same experience. The entrance is not the same one, and you take a different nature path, along which you’ll find a hanging bridge and hike along the river. I went this way and enjoyed it.

Best time to visit La Fortuna Waterfall

I visited La Fortuna Waterfall during rainy season, in July. Looking back, I would not recommend going during this time if you don’t plan on renting a car. I relied on a tour to get to the waterfall, as the price of taxis to get there plus the entrance fee would have set me back almost as much as a tour. The tour included additional activities, so this made the most sense for me.

However, doing that means that you don’t have control over what time you get to the waterfall. When I went, there were so many people there that it was hard to move around. Then it started to rain, and we quickly had to leave, as the rainy conditions can make the rocks slippery and therefore dangerous. I also saw the water dramatically change color from bright baby blue to brown as it rained, which was less than ideal.

If you rent a car in La Fortuna, aim to get to the waterfall right when the entrance opens at 7am. That way, you beat the tour crowds and have a better chance of seeing the blue water, as the rain usually comes in the afternoon. The latest you can enter is 4pm; the entrance closes at 5pm.

Swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall

There are two areas where you can swim here. One is in Río Fortuna, the river that flows from the waterfall. It has varying depths, and the swimming area stretches about a hundred feet, with large boulders speckled throughout. The bright blue water is stunning, especially in contrast with the deep greens of the surrounding rain forest.

The other swimming area is at the base of the waterfall. You can try to see how close you can get to the fall itself, but the sheer force of the water plummeting down creates a strong current, so you won’t get very far from the water’s edge. In any case, this swimming area is beautiful, and the cool temperatures are a welcome change from the thick heat.

More Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

1. relax in the hot springs.

Due to volcanic activity from Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is rich in hot springs. There are many places to choose from where you can go for a soak, with a wide range in prices and specs. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is the most famous. You don’t have to be a guest at the resort to visit the hot springs, which include a more natural hot river area in addition to hot spring pools. The day passes here range from $75 to $110 and include at least one meal at the resort. This was pricey for me, so I went on a mission to find a more affordable option.

I checked out Relax Termalitas (see map below for the location) which was only $18. Here you’ll find several pools with varying sizes and heat levels. I enjoyed soaking in the hottest pool, but I have to admit that it felt more like a cheap waterpark than a natural hot spring. This was also one of the only places I visited in La Fortuna where I was the odd one out as a foreigner, as it’s more of a local hangout.

Another one that I visited was Baldi Hot Springs, which has day passes starting at $40. It has a more elevated feel than Termalitas but the same type of layout, with several pools at different temperatures. I enjoyed Baldi a lot more, because there was overall a better selection of pools.

2. Take a dip in a hot river

If you want to experience a hot spring for free, you can go down to Río Chollín. It’s the same hot river that goes through Tabacón but is completely free and easy to access. This is a popular spot among locals and gets very full during the day, so visit in the morning for a better chance of having some peace and quiet in the river.

To get to Chollín, follow the signs for the Tabacón resort. Once you pass the entrance to Tabacón, the entrance to the free hot river is on the opposite side of the street. There’s nowhere to park besides right on the side of the road. If you take a taxi, just let them know you’re going to Chollín, and they should know where to drop you off.

Keep in mind that the river is dangerous to visit when there is heavy rainfall. The rain causes the river to rise rapidly, plus the once-bluish river turns a muddy brown.

3. Go zip-lining over the rain forest

La Fortuna is the go-to destination in Costa Rica for adventurous travelers who want to get their adrenaline pumping. You’ll notice right away that there are ample opportunities for zip-lining advertised around town.

Arenal Mundo Adventures is one of the best places to go zip-lining in La Fortuna , because of the variety of cables they have and the value for the price. The AMA Extreme Tour offers seven canopy lines, round-trip transportation from your accommodations, and a naturalist guide for $54 plus tax.

4. Head out on a tour

Costa Rica felt to me like the land of the tours, with what felt like hundreds of different companies all operating in the same place and offering nearly identical experiences. This doesn’t have to be a bad thing, though. I actually felt like I was able to visit more places than I would have otherwise, since the tours take the pressure off of finding transportation, which is tricky in La Fortuna.

If you are backpacking like I was, consider doing at least one full-day tour to get your bearings when you arrive. I did this waterfall, Arenal Volcano, and hot springs tour , which was a great value for the price as it included all park fees, lunch, and access to a hot spring at the end. I ended up booking another tour with the same company, Red Lava Tours , to go to Río Celeste as well.

5. Have the ultimate white-water rafting experience

Rafting is another popular adrenaline-pumping activity in La Fortuna that attracts thousands of visitors per year. There is a seemingly endless number of companies that offer white-water rafting experiences, like this one that you can book on Get Your Guide . It includes transportation, a meal, and a guide.

Joining a tour is the easiest way to go white-water rafting in La Fortuna, as most companies operate the same way. They almost always provide hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation easier. The rafting sites are outside of La Fortuna, so having transportation is a huge plus.

6. Try to catch a glimpse of the Arenal Volcano

I have to sadly report that I never saw the top of the Arenal Volcano while I was in La Fortuna, due to the weather conditions. Since the clouds hang so low here, it’s tough to get a glimpse of it during the rainy season.

The sun sets behind the volcano, so heading out to the main street in La Fortuna for sunset means you might be able to see an impressive display of colors, with the silhouette of the volcano adding to the scenery.

7. Admire Río Celeste’s vibrant color

The bright-blue Río Celeste flows through the Tenorio Volcano National Park , about 90 minutes from La Fortuna. I went on a tour to Tenorio , since getting there without a car proved to be more expensive. The park is smaller than Arenal National Park, but just as packed with wildlife and natural wonders to see.

Río Celeste is reason enough to visit the park, as its blue color is a spectacular sight on its own. The trails in the park weave through the jungle, running parallel to the river for sometime before eventually crossing it on a small hanging bridge.

8. Don’t miss out on the Río Celeste Waterfall

If you thought Río Celeste was impressive, wait until you see the waterfall. This massive cascade is truly a magical sight, as the white falls contrast beautifully with the lush green foliage and bright blue water.

There are hundreds of steps leading down to the waterfall, and the way back up is a doozy. Bring plenty of water — you’ll need it! Another important tip for visiting the Río Celeste waterfall is that it gets quite crowded. I didn’t have the option of when to visit, since I was at the mercy of the tour schedule, but if I were to do it again, I’d go on my own and try to enter the park right when it opens at 8am.

9. See the work of “God’s Paintbrush”

After seeing the color of Río Celeste and admiring it again at the waterfall, you might be left wondering how the water gets its hue. At the site called El Teñidero within Tenorio Volcano National Park, you can see the chemical reaction that causes the change in the river’s color with your own eyes.

Local legend has it that this is where God cleaned his paintbrush while painting the sky, giving the river its color. Guides will tell you that these two versions of the story, the scientific and the spiritual, are equally revered and important to the Costa Rican people.

10. Spot wildlife

The sheer volume of wildlife in La Fortuna is impressive, which makes it an obvious choice for animal enthusiasts. In both Arenal and Tenorio Volcano National Parks, I couldn’t believe how many different kinds of animals there were, many of which I’d never seen before! Since I opted out of having a guide in Manuel Antonio (five hours to the south), I went for tours in La Fortuna. This totally paid off, because my guides were experts at spotting animals, even from far away. From rare varieties of Quetzal birds to brightly colored snakes and hidden tarantulas, I was amazed to see so many critters. There are also sloths, frogs, lizards, monkeys, and small ground mammals to see.

If this sounds right up your alley, consider this twilight safari tour , which takes place on the Peñas Blancas River.

11. Hike the Bogarín Trail

If a friend in San José hadn’t mentioned visiting the Bogarín Trail, I might have missed it. I’m so glad I didn’t, because it was one of my favorite places in all of La Fortuna. The trail, unlike the national parks, is on private property and maintained by the owner and his team of conservationists.

This park is small but mighty. It only has about 1.5 miles of walking trails, but there’s an impressive density of wild animals living there. I saw a sloth, several red and blue tree frogs, a couple of small snakes, and dozens of types of birds here — all without a guide.

You can visit the Bogarín Trail without a guide for $15 plus tax, or book a group tour for $50. A guided tour is great if you want a more in-depth experience, although I thoroughly enjoyed having the freedom to walk along the trails on my own.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

There is a wide range of accommodations in La Fortuna. From quaint Airbnbs to small hotels to gigantic hot springs resorts, there’s truly something for every kind of traveler. Since I was looking for something more affordable and centrally located, I went with FAS, a small hotel just a block away from the town center. It’s a family-owned hotel with only eight rooms, and it grants free access to some nearby hot springs.

I loved the mom-and-pop atmosphere of FAS and got to meet the owner’s whole family. As a solo female traveler, I can wholeheartedly recommend this place because of the warm hospitality I received there. You can book your stay at FAS through Hostelworld .

For other types of travelers, here are my recommendations for where to stay in La Fortuna:

Backpackers on a budget: Poshpackers Hostel

Located right on the main street in La Fortuna across from the town center, you’ll find Poshpackers Hostel . Focusing on elevating the backpacker experience while keeping prices affordable, it has some of the best rates for the value in La Fortuna. Dorms are just $18 per night; private rooms start at $56. Comparatively, other hostels in the area begin around $20 for a dorm room and $70 for a private room, so Poshpackers is a bargain.

Mid-range travelers with a car: Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

With nature at its doorstep, Casa Luna Hotel & Spa makes sure that guests can enjoy stunning views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding jungle. The hotel has its own nature trails, along with a pool and four jacuzzis. Casa Luna is about two miles away from La Fortuna’s town center, which makes it a great option for travelers who have a car, because you’ll be able to escape the bustle of the city and take advantage of the seclusion.

Rooms at Casa Luna Hotel & Spa start at $160 per night, which is about mid-range for this area.

Looking for luxury: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

When it comes to luxury stays in La Fortuna, it doesn’t get much better than Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa. First of all, it’s most well known for its natural hot springs and one of the only such resorts that has access to the hot river itself, as opposed to the man-made pools that you’ll find at other resorts.

Rooms at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa start around $300 per night and go up to around $700. Considering a day pass for just the hot springs starts at $75, staying here and enjoying the hot springs for no additional cost makes a lot of sense.

How to Get to La Fortuna

This is one of the easiest destinations to get to in Costa Rica due to its popularity. From San José , you can take a bus to La Fortuna at Terminal 7-10 for about $5 and the trip takes between 4-6 hours depending on traffic. Go to the station the day before you travel to check the schedule, as it isn’t posted online.

If you are coming from Monteverde like I was, I recommend taking a bus-boat-bus shuttle like this one . Lake Arenal is between Monteverde and La Fortuna, and makes for an elevated travel experience if you get to take a boat across the lake. It’s definitely more pricey than taking public transportation, but completely worth it.

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Now you’re ready to start planning your next epic Costa Rican adventure!

Of these things to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica, what are you most excited for?

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About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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08/21/2022 at 3:22 pm

Hi Emily: This is yet another wonderful Costa Rica post! You find the most interesting places to go and teach us the best way to explore based on past experiences through both successes to embrace and challenges to avoid. It is neat how blue Rio Celeste can get and likewise at the waterfall. The color was discovered by the University of Costa Rica to be the result of an optical illusion with sunlight refracting of suspended particles composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. These particles have to be just the right size to work and it does so in this area! So no chemical reactions. They took water samples and the sample water was clear in test tubes. This whole thing is one of many neat things in Costa Rica. I hope one day BMTM can compiles a “Costa Rica” travel page summarizing all the activities, accommodations, and other useful information like you have for other counties, like the those in your “Destinations” section. Have a wonderful day/night!

Eagle Tours

Tour Operator in La Fortuna

Arenal Volcano 1 Full Day Tour

Catarata la Fortuna, Volcano and Hotsprings

Our day begins… After picking you up we go on a short drive to get to our departure point. Here we start with an easy forest walk along the crystal clear La Fortuna river. En route we hop on a tractor cart that takes us up hill to a panoramic viewpoint. Having seen our objective in the distance we start a trek down a jungle staircase. Halfway down we reach a high suspension bridge that needs to be conquered to continue. The trail leads us further down the huge canyon that was shaped by a volcanic mega eruption. Coming to the end of the canyon the spectacular La Fortuna waterfall awaits you. Be amazed by the lush vegetation on its 70mtr high walls, the huge Volcanic rocks at its foot and the amount of water splashing down in its massive pool. We take time to bask in its beauty and the brave ones can go out and take a super refreshing dip. Getting back to the viewpoint we walk down to the little village of the Maluku Indians. Seated in their Palenke (main house) we enjoy a rest while listening to an interesting story about their culture, art and history. Having been active for some hours the moment has come to enjoy a warm typical lunch. Next to the restaurant there is a butterfly garden and frog pond you can explore till food is served. Reenergized we take a 15minute ride to the park at the foot of the Arenal volcano. We start on a trail through primary forest where you can see big trees with huge roots. Besides a variety of birds the forest is host to Monkeys as well as Sloth´s and Coati’s. Out of the forest, we cross farmland till we get to a green lake. Passing a cemetery of the eruption victims we reach the wall of Lava from the ´68 eruption. Going up some steep steps we arrive on top of the huge mass of lava rocks. Following a trail that is cut out through the rocks we climb our way up the slopes of the Arenal. Reaching the highest Viewpoint that exist around the Volcano we can absorb the most spectacular panoramic views. Looking around it just gets better, Lake Arenal, Jungle, the Valley, Lava fields and most of all the Arenal that towering over you To finish the tour in the most relaxing way, you will be taken to the natural hotspring resort. You can relax in its soothing warm water for about an hour and you can enjoy a volcanic mud facial and a complementary cocktail. Around 7pm we will take you back to your hotel.

For: People in good shape

Includes:  Transportation, entrance fees, Bilingual guide, bottle of water, Lunch ( Pic Nic Style) &  hot springs  

Departure time: 7:20  am

What to bring: Hiking shoes (boots) or tennis shoes, rain gear, binocualres, mosquito repellent, swimming suit and towel, backpak, water 1 liter recomended

Duration:  10 hours approx

Departure: 7 :30 AM

The Tour: It is not recommended for elderly people or with physical impediments.

See all tours & activities in Arenal Volcano  La Fortuna

Hotel in La Fortuna 

Stay in La Choza Inn

Pick Up Time

Be ready 5 minutes before, at the reception of your hotel

• Transportation
• Entrance fees
• Bilingual guide,
• Bottle of water
• Hot springs  

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

• Cabalgata la Catarata La Fortuna
• Caminata al Volcan Arenal y Termales
• Cavernas de Venado
• Paseos en Lago Arenal
• Peñas Blancas Safari
• Puentes Colgantes del Arenal
• Refugio de Vida silvestre Cano Negro
• Tour de Aves
• Tour de Kayak en el Lago Arenal
• Tour Rio Celeste
• Tours Combinados

Costa Rica Telephone: (506) 2479-9091 (506) 2479-9361 Email: [email protected]

Related trips you might interested in

Frog whatching night walk

Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall

Rio Celeste Tour from La Fortuna

Hiking to La Fortuna Waterfall: What to Know!

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Hiking to La Fortuna waterfall is a must-do activity while visiting La Fortuna ! The waterfall is one of the most beautiful and iconic waterfalls in the country and is surrounded by lush tropical rainforests, making it a perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

This glorious waterfall is located in the Arenal Volcano National Park, just outside the town of La Fortuna—A must-visit spot while backpacking Costa Rica . In this article, we will explore how to hike La Fortuna waterfall, what to expect, and some tips for making the most out of your visit.

Short on time? On a budget and don’t have our own car?

This is the  ultimate tour  to take in La Fortuna!

It includes La Fortuna Waterfall, hiking around Arenal, a visit to a local village, and some drinks at a hot spring to top it off! It’s the best bang for your buck, I did it!— Book it here .

Table of Contents

What to Expect on the Hike

Facilities at la fortuna waterfall, how to get to la fortuna waterfall, what to bring for the hike, tips for la fortuna waterfall, bonus secret waterfall—catarata escondida, backpacking costa rica: your complete guide, 13 epic things to do in la fortuna, costa rica—your go-to guide, things to do in monteverde, costa rica: your full guide, 8 best things to do in manuel antonio, costa rica + tips, your guide to things to do in santa teresa, costa rica, your guide to puerto viejo—costa rica's caribbean surf town, cahuita national park: everything you need to know, 11 best things to do in uvita, costa rica, how to visit oropendola waterfall in costa rica, 10 best waterfalls in costa rica (+ costs and tips), your guide to samara beach, costa rica, your guide to playas del coco, costa rica, el tigre waterfalls in monteverde, costa rica: what to know, how to get from la fortuna to monteverde via shuttle-boat-shuttle, your adventure guide to puerto limon, costa rica, costa rica digital nomad guide, your guide to montezuma, costa rica, a tasty chocolate tour in puerto viejo, costa rica, how to hike la fortuna waterfall.

The trailhead to the La Fortuna waterfall is located just a few minutes’ drive from the town of La Fortuna. The entrance fee to the waterfall is $18, and it is open every day from 7 am to 5 pm.

The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy but can be challenging for those with mobility issues due to the steep stairs down to the falls. The trail is approximately .5 miles (.8 km) long roundtrip and takes around 30-45 minutes to hike. But be prepared to spend extra time swimming and enjoying the falls!

The biggest thing to note about this waterfall hike is the steps. You’ll have to hike down about 500 steps to reach a river. After that, you’ll wade through the river to get to the other side and then scramble up some rocks to actually make it to the base of the falls!

It’s very easy if you are semi-fit, if not, it might be a tad challenging for you. Don’t forget the way down is easy—but you’ll have to hike those 500 steps to get back up! This is the only way to reach La Fortuna Waterfall.

Once you reach the base of the La Fortuna waterfall, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size and power of the falls! The waterfall is approximately 240 feet (75 meters) tall and plummets down into a pool of chilly water surrounded by lush greenery. There’s a constant mist coming from the falls, and its roar is deafening—that’s how close you are!

You can swim out a bit, but it’s too strong and not safe either, so most people just swim at the pool’s entrance. There are a bunch of rocks and boulders you can sit on while you admire the falls but don’t expect to be alone! This is a popular spot. That being said, you can beat some of the crowd if you head in early.

The parking lot is located near the trailhead, and there are several restrooms and changing rooms available before you begin the hike. The trail leading to the waterfall is well-maintained and has handrails and stairs. There are no facilities down below at the falls.

When packing, keep it light, and bring a dry bag . You will have to leave your things on the river bank or on a rock near the falls, all of which are likely to get wet! Not to mention the chance of rain in the area.

RELATED: 10 Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica (+ Costs and Tips)

If you’re staying in the center of La Fortuna town, an easy way to get to La Fortuna Waterfall is by taxi. Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna, and you can easily call them anytime. The ride to the waterfall takes around 10-15 minutes and should cost around $10-$15 (one way). Unless you’re with a few friends, this isn’t the cheapest option.

You can try Uber but it’s not always totally reliable. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bike to make the journey to the waterfall on your own. However, keep in mind that the road leading to the waterfall is steep, so prepare for a leg burner. There is no public bus out here.

Lastly, you can take a tour. You don’t need a tour to do this activity, BUT if you’re trying to make the most of your time, a tour is a good option because it will include other activities in the area. If you pay to get to and from these activities yourself, with entrance fees, you sometimes even pay more, and it eats more of your time.

I did this tour , and it was massively worth it! We went to La Fortuna Waterfall, hiked around Arenal, and visited a local village and a hot spring (for a good price too)! If you don’t want to have to think about how to get here and the other things to do in La Fortuna, then this is a good option!

READ MORE: 13 EPIC Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica—Your GO-TO Guide!

• Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction, but you may also want flip-flops at the falls. Don’t forget you have to walk across a stream with a rocky bottom but also go up and down steps. Up to you!
• Sunscreen and a hat if you wear one.
• Insect repellent, as the area can have mosquitoes and other bugs.
• A GoPro to take pictures of the waterfall and the surrounding jungle. Or perhaps a case. You can’t really take much to the waterfall unless you don’t mind it getting wet.
• A reusable water bottle is a must.

• Bring snacks unless you’re on a tour, as they will provide it for you.
• A change of clothes and a swimsuit if you plan on swimming in the falls.
• Cash or a credit card, as there is an entrance fee for the park.
• A dry bag to carry your items so your stuff doesn’t get wet. Remember, this area can be rainy, too, so a dry bag is a good idea no matter what!
• Be prepared for the hike back up: Remember that the hike down to the waterfall is easy, but the hike back up can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to hiking. Take your time and rest as needed.
• Swimming: The water at the base of the waterfall can be deep, and the current can be strong, so it’s important to be a strong swimmer and exercise caution when swimming. The current can also be strong as you walk across the river to get to the falls.

• Pack lightly: There are no lockers or storage facilities at the waterfall, so it’s best to leave any unnecessary belongings at your hotel. You don’t want to lug anything more than needed up and down those steps.
• Arrive early: The waterfall can get crowded later in the day, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have the waterfall to yourself for a little while if you can. But this is usually for those who rent a car or hire a taxi.
• Hands Free: For the last bit of the hike, you’ll need your hands free because it’s a rocky little walk in the river and then a bit of a scramble over some other rocks to actually make it to the base of the falls. If you don’t want to do this, you can still get a glimpse of the falls before you enter the river.

• Take the tour: If you’re trying to get the most out of your visit to La Fortuna, you can get more out of your time by grabbing a tour AND getting the other highlights in the area! I recommend one I did .
• Camera: Everything will get wet! Be careful what you bring and how you bring it. It was really hard to get photos here too, as it’s very misty!

There is a small waterfall next to La Fortuna waterfall that is free to visit! To find it, follow the path to the right of La Fortuna Waterfall’s entrance. When you reach the gate, look to the left—You’ll pass through the small entrance to get to the other side of the gate.

The trail is a bit muddy, and you will need to cross a small river, which can be slippery and waist-deep—but it will be worth it. You’ll reach the end of the path, and Catarata Escondido will be on your left.

You can swim up a bit, but climbing up the right side of the waterfall to get a better look at the high tier is a bit dangerous and not recommended (uhm, kinda speaking from experience—ouch!)

It’s a great add-on to hiking La Fortuna if you made it out here yourself and have the time. Don’t forget to read my guide to La Fortuna for more info on the area!

I hope this helped you plan your visit to La Fortuna Waterfall!

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Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

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