Best things to do in La Fortuna

La Fortuna Unmissables

La Fortuna is centered around the Arenal Volcano, an active stratovolcano that defines the region's topography. This selection features the 70-meter Rio Fortuna Waterfall and the Mistico Hanging Bridges, which provide access to the rainforest canopy. The list includes the 1968 lava flow trails, dedicated observation decks for volcanic viewing, and the naturally heated Tabacón River. These sites highlight the geothermal activity and secondary rainforest ecosystems unique to the Alajuela Province.

La Fortuna Unmissables — Map

Eric T Gunther / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Rio Fortuna Waterfall viewpoint

La Fortuna Waterfall is in central Costa Rica, in the Alajuela Province. In Spanish, it is known as Catarata Fortuna.

Yricordel / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Arenal Volcano

An active andesitic stratovolcano rising 1,633 meters above sea level. It was Costa Rica's most active volcano from 1968 until 2010 and is currently in a resting phase.

m.prinke / CC BY-SA 2.0

C

Hanging Bridges Arenal

A 3.2-kilometer trail system featuring 16 bridges, including six hanging structures suspended in the rainforest canopy. The reserve is a primary location for observing sloths, monkeys, and tropical bird species.

D

Free Natural Hot Springs

A public section of the Tabacón River where geothermal energy naturally heats the water. Visitors can access the warm rapids and rock pools located just outside the neighboring private resort.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

E

Observation deck de Volcán Arenal

An elevated vantage point providing unobstructed views of the volcano's conical peak, the 1968 lava fields, and the expanse of Lake Arenal.

F

Areal 1968 Volcano trails and MTB paths

A private park with trails crossing the volcanic slag and lava flows from the 1968 eruption. It features specialized paths for both hiking and mountain biking through regenerating forest.