La Fortuna Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located in the Alajuela region of Costa Rica, La Fortuna is a picturesque town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. Surrounded by lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and cascading waterfalls, this destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the main attractions in La Fortuna is the Arenal Volcano. This imposing volcano, which last erupted in 2010, provides a stunning backdrop to the town. Visitors can hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park and witness firsthand the remnants of previous eruptions. For a more relaxing experience, the nearby hot springs offer the perfect opportunity to soak in natural thermal waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the volcano.
For those seeking adventure, La Fortuna has plenty to offer. Thrill-seekers can go ziplining through the rainforest canopy, rappel down waterfalls, or take a white-water rafting trip down the nearby rivers. The area is also known for its excellent hiking trails, where visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna that call the rainforest home.
Waterfalls are another highlight of La Fortuna. The La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-see attraction, with its impressive 70-meter drop into a crystal-clear pool. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the cool waters or simply admire the beauty of the surroundings. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Rio Celeste Waterfall offers a stunning turquoise cascade that is truly a sight to behold.
In addition to its natural wonders, La Fortuna also offers a taste of local culture and cuisine. The town has a vibrant central square, where visitors can find charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. Sampling traditional Costa Rican dishes, such as gallo pinto (rice and beans) or casado (a typical lunch plate), is a must for food enthusiasts.
Alajuela
La Fortuna Attractions - What to See and Explore
La Fortuna offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Volcano, EcoTermales Fortuna, Proyecto Asis. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
La Fortuna – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of La Fortuna, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Poás Volcano (Poás Volcano National Park), Arenal Volcano (Arenal Volcano National Park), Lake Botos (Poás Volcano National Park).
Best Time To Visit La Fortuna
Learn when is the best time to travel to La Fortuna weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Place
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Ceviche
Ceviche, also known as cebiche, seviche, or sebiche, is a cherished Latin American seafood dish with origins in either Peru or Ecuador. This refreshing dish features fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices—typically lemon or lime—and is seasoned with chili peppers...
Dish
Casado
A "casado" is a quintessential Costa Rican meal that you'll encounter throughout the country. It's a substantial plate that combines rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and your choice of protein—typically chicken, beef, pork, or fish.
Dish
Costa Rican cuisine
Costa Rican cuisine emphasizes mild flavors and fresh ingredients, with a strong focus on fruits and vegetables. Rice and black beans are the staples of traditional meals, often consumed three times a day. The cuisine is renowned for its nutritious quality, relying on...
Cuisine
Gallo pinto
Gallo pinto, sometimes spelled gallopinto, is a cherished traditional dish from Central America that features a simple yet flavorful combination of rice and beans. The beans are cooked until most of their liquid is absorbed, then mixed with pre-cooked rice and enhanced...
Dish
Alajuela