Why You’ll Fall in Love with La Fortuna: Costa Rica’s Best Adventure Destination
Nestled at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Costa Rica is one of the country’s best destinations. And once you’re there, it’s not hard to see why. This lively little town, surrounded by gorgeous rainforest, bubbling natural hot springs, and a smorgasbord of outdoor adventures, is the perfect place for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
I visited recently and completely fell under its spell. Whether it was the steamy volcanic air, the chocolate tastings, or the jungle zip lines that won me over—I’ll never know. But if you’re planning your trip, let me help you fall in love with La Fortuna, Costa Rica too.
👉Planning to explore more of Costa Rica? Don’t miss my travel experience in Manuel Antonio—a stunning coastal destination where jungle meets beach, and sloths are practically your neighbors.
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Getting There: A Scenic Journey Worth the Drive
La Fortuna, Costa Rica is roughly a 3-hour drive (give or take) from Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. The route winds through scenic countryside and mountain towns, making it ideal for a relaxed road trip or a transfer with scenic stops. If you’re booking in advance, many tour operators offer hotel pick-ups, private shuttles, or group transfers to get you there smoothly.
Public Bus (Budget-Friendly)
There are public buses from Terminal 7-10 in San José to La Fortuna. It can take up to 5-6 hours, often with a transfer in Ciudad Quesada. This is the slowest option but very affordable
How I Got from San José to La Fortuna
I originally looked into taking the public bus from San José to La Fortuna. It’s definitely the most budget-friendly option. But with limited time and a lot I wanted to squeeze into my trip, I decided to splurge a little on a private transfer instead (approx £75). It was totally worth it! Not only was the drive quicker (just over 3 hours), but I also had the freedom to stop along the way for photos whenever something caught my eye—which, in Costa Rica, happens a lot.
Where to Stay: Hotels for Every Budget
My Stay at Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal
During my 2 nights in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, I stayed in the Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal, and it was such a gem. The hotel has this cozy, tucked-away feel but is still a short drive (or even walk) from town. What really stood out to me, though, were the lush gardens that surround the property.
You don’t even have to go out on a tour to see wildlife. Just take a stroll through the garden and you’ll likely spot colorful exotic birds, butterflies fluttering between flowers, and even the occasional iguana sunbathing on a rock. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel completely immersed in the tropical rainforest without needing to hike for hours.
The rooms were simple but comfortable, and there’s a small open-air restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast with a view of Arenal Volcano (if the clouds behave!). It’s also a great base for exploring the area if you’re planning on doing day trips, zip lining, or heading to the natural hot springs.
If you’re after a peaceful, budget-friendly stay with real Costa Rican charm, I definitely recommend it.
Other Hotels I Recommend in La Fortuna, Costa Rica:
Whether you want luxury with a volcano view or a budget-friendly base in the heart of La Fortuna, there are fantastic options with excellent service and often on-site open-air restaurants. If Hotel Roca Negra Del Arenal isn’t your style or is fully booked, La Fortuna has a number of great options that cater to different budgets and travel vibes. Here are a few I’d personally recommend:
Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis
Set just a short walk from La Fortuna Waterfall, Tifakara Boutique Hotel is perfect for nature lovers. Surrounded by jungle, it’s a peaceful retreat where you can spot toucans and monkeys right from your room. With stylish cabins and an open-air restaurant, it’s a quiet, upscale escape close to La Fortuna’s top attractions.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort – Adults Only
For a more luxurious, adults-only experience, The Royal Corin is a top pick. Just minutes from Arenal Volcano, it features elegant rooms with volcano views, lush gardens, and its own natural hot springs on-site. It’s the perfect place to relax in style.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
If you’re looking to splurge, Tabacón is the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Located at the base of Arenal Volcano, it offers elegant rooms—many with volcano views—and access to its famous natural hot springs, set in a lush jungle oasis. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a five-star wellness escape.
San Bosco Inn
A solid budget pick in the center of La Fortuna, San Bosco Inn offers simple, comfortable rooms with optional volcano views and a friendly local vibe. Guests get free access to a nearby hot springs resort, making it excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a central location and a little bit of pampering without the big price tag.
Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
Hotel Secreto is a charming, budget-friendly option right in the heart of La Fortuna. It offers clean, modern rooms—some with volcano views—and a peaceful garden setting where you might spot local wildlife. Just a short drive from top attractions, it’s a great spot for travelers who want comfort without the extra cost.
La Finca Lodge
For a peaceful escape just outside the hustle of La Fortuna, La Finca Lodge offers a rustic-chic stay surrounded by tropical rainforest and farmland. The setting is serene, with gorgeous gardens, a pool, and mountain views. It’s a short drive to Arenal and a great option for travelers who want nature, quiet, and comfort—without the resort feel.
✅ Read about my memorable experience in Monteverde and The Cloud Forest here
My Experience at Arenal Volcano National Park
The first time I laid eyes on Arenal Volcano, I was awestruck. And then the smell hit me. That distinctive sulfuric aroma lets you know you’re close to something powerful. It’s a bit like rotten eggs, sure, but honestly, it only adds to the thrill of standing in the shadow of Arenal Volcano.
The guided tour I joined took us across lava flows, through lush rainforest paths, and up to viewing points that make you feel like you’re on another planet. And yes, it’s a short hike, but it’s loaded with stops for wildlife sightings and volcanic stories. Arenal is one of those rare places where the scenery changes by the minute, and each view is more jaw-dropping than the last.
Sky Adventures Zipline: My Favourite Activity in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
I’m going to be honest: I was absolutely terrified to go zip lining.
But I’d heard so many good things about Sky Adventures, a top-rated tour company offering ziplining tours through the rainforest canopy, that I had to try it. The experience begins with a calm, scenic ride in a little open-air tram that carries you into the treetops. It’s so peaceful, it almost lulled me into forgetting what I was about to do.
Almost.
At the first platform, I was strapped in, double-checked by the staff (who were absolute pros and very reassuring), and my heart was pounding. As I lifted my feet, every instinct screamed “nope”—but within seconds, I was soaring. The rush of air, the jungle beneath me, and the incredible volcano views? Absolutely exhilarating.
After that first zip, you couldn’t stop me. I was all in, and it’s now one of my all-time favorite travel memories. Whether you’re a cautious adult or an adventurous kid, this is a must-do activity in La Fortuna. (Tip: Book in advance—this one sells out fast!)
👉 Book Sky Adventures Zipline Tour
Coffee, Chocolate & Pineapples? Yes, Please.
If adrenaline isn’t your thing (or even if it is), a chocolate tour is the perfect way to slow things down. I joined a coffee and chocolate combo tour just outside town and loved every second. We learned about the cacao bean from tree to truffle, and how coffee is roasted locally. Best part? We got to taste everything. Honestly, Costa Rican coffee and chocolate just hit differently.
What surprised me most? Seeing how pineapples grow. I always imagined they dangled from trees, but no, they sprout up from the ground like spiky little surprises. It was such a fun and educational experience, and perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just enjoy a slower pace.
👉 Book the Coffee & Chocolate Tour Here
More of the Best Things to Do in La Fortuna Costa Rica
La Fortuna Waterfall
This iconic 70-meter drop is postcard material. After a short hike down steep steps (and a sweaty climb back up), you’re rewarded with a cool swim and unbeatable views. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes!
Hanging Bridges & Suspension Walks
Take a walk high above the treetops across a network of hanging bridges in the jungle. Some of the best options are in Mistico Arenal Park, where you can spot sloths, birds, and butterflies in their natural habitat.
👉 Book a Guided Hanging Bridges Tour
Lake Arenal Boat Tours
Take a peaceful boat tour on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest lake. From kayaking to sunset cruises, it’s a great spot for birdwatching and volcano photos.
Soak It All In: Natural Hot Springs
After all that hiking, ziplining, and volcano-climbing, your muscles will thank you for a soak in one of La Fortuna’s natural hot springs. Many hotels (like Nayara Springs) offer private access to these geothermally heated pools. If your hotel doesn’t include it, you can still visit places like Tabacón or EcoTermales for an extra cost.
👉 Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs Tour
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
- Dry Season (Dec–April): Best weather, most visitors. I travelled in January and the weather was perfect. Sunny blue skies the whole 3 days and I didn’t find it too busy.
- Rainy Season (May–Nov): Fewer crowds, lush scenery, and good deals. You’ll get showers, but they’re usually short.
Honestly, any time is a great time to visit if you don’t mind a bit of rain. It is a tropical rainforest, after all.
La Fortuna Costa Rica Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a destination that combines jaw-dropping natural beauty, epic outdoor adventure, and a taste of local culture, La Fortuna has it all. From zip lines and suspension bridges to coffee tastings and boat tours, it’s impossible not to fall in love.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family getaway, or an adventurous solo trip, this is one destination that truly lives up to the hype.
I honestly can’t wait to go back to La Fortuna—there’s still so much I want to do. A couple more days here would be perfect to soak up even more of the adventure, nature, and hot springs this incredible place has to offer.
FAQs – La Fortuna Costa Rica
Absolutely. With its gorgeous rainforest, diverse wildlife, and views of Arenal Volcano around nearly every corner, La Fortuna is a paradise for bird watchers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty.
Some activities, like ziplining and the hanging bridges, are best experienced with expert guides who can point out wildlife and ensure safety. Others, like visiting hot springs or taking a short hike, you can easily do on your own. Most tour operators offer both group and private options.
While it’s possible as a day trip from San José or Monteverde, staying at least 2–3 nights in La Fortuna gives you time to enjoy both adventure and relaxation. Especially if you want to try horseback riding, enjoy an evening soak in hot springs, and still have time for a ziplining tour.
No, you can’t currently see lava. Arenal last erupted in 2010 and has since been quiet. That said, the volcano views, especially at sunrise or sunset, are stunning. And there’s still geothermal activity below, which powers the natural hot springs in the area.
Is Arenal Volcano still active?
Arenal was Costa Rica’s most active volcano until 2010. While it’s currently in a resting phase (no visible lava), it’s still considered dormant, not extinct. You can’t hike to the top, but there are amazing trails and viewpoints in Arenal Volcano National Park.