La Fortuna is a charming small town in northern Costa Rica, renowned as the gateway to Arenal Volcano, one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Nestled just four miles from the base of the volcano, La Fortuna offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and authentic Costa Rican culture. This town has become a central hub for tourists seeking to explore the Arenal Volcano National Park, hot springs, waterfalls, and a wide range of outdoor adventure activities.
The History and Significance of La Fortuna
The name La Fortuna, which translates to “The Fortunate”, holds historical significance. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano erupted violently, destroying three small villages on its western side. Miraculously, La Fortuna was spared, and it has since earned its name as the “fortunate” town in the shadow of the mighty volcano. This event transformed the region into a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn not only by the volcano but also by the lush surroundings and vibrant local culture.
Getting to La Fortuna
La Fortuna is easily accessible from both major international airports in Costa Rica:
- From San José International Airport (SJO): A scenic drive of approximately three hours along paved roads leads to La Fortuna. Travelers can take private transfers, rent a car, or use shuttle services.
- From Liberia International Airport (LIR): The drive is longer, around four to five hours, but it offers stunning views of Costa Rica’s northwestern landscapes.
- Local Transportation: La Fortuna also has a small airport located three miles outside the town, which handles domestic flights. Additionally, public buses stop in town, connecting La Fortuna to other destinations in Costa Rica.
The Heart of La Fortuna: The Town Square
The town square, or Parque Central, is the social and cultural hub of La Fortuna. Here, both locals and tourists gather to enjoy the sunny afternoons and pleasant weather.
- Local Life: Families meet to socialize, children play, and seniors enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can observe everyday Costa Rican life while relaxing on benches surrounded by lush greenery.
- Tourist Attractions: Numerous restaurants, cafes, and small hotels line the square, offering a range of dining and accommodation options. Gift shops sell handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products.
- Adventure Hub: Desafio Tours, located near the square, is one of the most popular adventure tour companies in Costa Rica. They offer tours, excursions, and activities that cater to visitors of all ages and skill levels.
The park is always verdant due to the year-round rainfall in the Arenal region, which nourishes the trees, flowers, and plants that add charm to the town.
Accommodation in La Fortuna
La Fortuna offers a wide range of lodging options, from small boutique hotels to luxury resorts near the volcano:
- Small Hotels and Hostels: Perfect for budget travelers and backpackers, many of these accommodations are within walking distance of the town square.
- Eco-Lodges: These lodges immerse guests in the rainforest environment while providing sustainable and environmentally friendly amenities.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Located along the road leading north from La Fortuna toward the Arenal Volcano, these hotels provide stunning views of the volcano, private hot springs, pools, and full-service restaurants.
Why Tourists Visit La Fortuna
La Fortuna serves as the gateway to a variety of natural attractions and adventure activities, making it a top destination in Costa Rica:
- Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through trails lined with lush rainforest, witness lava flows, and spot tropical wildlife such as monkeys, toucans, and sloths.
- Hot Springs: Numerous hot springs in the area, including Tabacon, EcoTermales, and Baldi, allow visitors to relax and soak in naturally heated mineral waters.
- Waterfalls: La Fortuna Waterfall, a spectacular 200-foot cascade, is one of the region’s most famous natural attractions. Visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall after descending over 500 steps.
- Adventure Activities: La Fortuna is a hub for outdoor adventures, including zip-lining, rappelling, white-water rafting, horseback riding, and canopy tours.
- Wildlife and Nature Tours: Guided tours offer opportunities to see exotic birds, reptiles, and tropical plants unique to the Arenal area.
Top 5 Fun Things to Do in La Fortuna and Arenal
- Hiking Arenal Volcano Trails: Explore trails around the volcano for breathtaking views and wildlife spotting. Trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for families and experienced hikers alike.
- Soak in Hot Springs: Relax in naturally heated pools surrounded by tropical vegetation. Many resorts and public hot springs offer spa services and evening packages.
- Rappelling and Canyoneering: Experience thrilling adventures descending waterfalls with the guidance of trained instructors.
- White-Water Rafting: The nearby rivers offer exciting rapids for adventure seekers. Tours range from beginner-friendly to more intense experiences.
- Horseback Riding: Ride through the rainforest and along riverbanks, enjoying panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding landscapes.
Additional activities include birdwatching, ATV tours, kayaking, and cultural experiences such as visiting local farms and learning about traditional Costa Rican life.
Shopping and Dining in La Fortuna
La Fortuna offers a delightful mix of local and international cuisine:
- Restaurants: From small eateries serving traditional Casado dishes to upscale restaurants with international fare, there’s something for every taste.
- Cafes and Bakeries: Enjoy fresh Costa Rican coffee, tropical juices, and pastries.
- Gift Shops: Purchase handmade souvenirs, local crafts, and adventure gear to remember your trip.
Transportation in and Around La Fortuna
La Fortuna is a walkable town, but transportation is available for trips to hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure sites:
- Public Buses: Connect La Fortuna to nearby towns and major cities.
- Taxis: Convenient for short trips within the town.
- Rental Cars: Provide flexibility for exploring the surrounding volcano region, rivers, and countryside.
- Tour Shuttles: Many adventure companies, such as Desafio Tours, offer round-trip transportation to activity sites.
Planning Your Visit
For first-time visitors, it’s recommended to spend at least 3–4 days in La Fortuna to experience:
- Adventure activities (zip-lining, rafting, rappelling)
- Relaxation (hot springs and nature walks)
- Local culture (town square, markets, and dining)
Nina, an expert in Costa Rican travel planning, can help design an itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing, ensuring a stress-free and memorable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Conclusion
La Fortuna is more than just a gateway to the Arenal Volcano; it is a vibrant small town full of charm, history, and natural beauty. Its convenient location, combined with a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and adventure activities, makes it an ideal base for exploring northern Costa Rica.
From soaking in hot springs to hiking rainforest trails, swimming beneath waterfalls, and spotting exotic wildlife, La Fortuna offers something for every traveler. With proper planning, visitors can enjoy a seamless, unforgettable Costa Rican experience, making this town truly one of the country’s most fortunate destinations.