Best Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: A Local 2026 Guide

La Fortuna packs more into a few square kilometers than almost anywhere in Costa Rica. Here's how we'd spend three days if we were visiting for the first time.

Start with the volcano. Arenal Volcano is the reason most people come, and it doesn't disappoint. Hike the 1968 lava-flow trail in Arenal Volcano National Park for up-close views of the cone and the rainforest that has reclaimed the old eruption zone. Go in the morning for the clearest views before the afternoon clouds roll in.

Day two is for waterfalls and hot springs. The La Fortuna Waterfall is a 70-meter ribbon of water crashing into a swimmable pool — about 500 steps down through the jungle and worth every one. In the evening, soak in the natural hot springs heated by Arenal's geothermal activity. It is the perfect recovery after a day of hiking.

Day three, get adventurous. This is the adventure capital of Costa Rica. Go whitewater rafting on the Río Balsa, zip-line through the canopy, cross the Mistico hanging bridges, or take a guided night walk to spot sloths, frogs, and other nocturnal wildlife.

If you have an extra day, don't skip Río Celeste. A couple of hours away, the impossibly turquoise river is one of the most photogenic spots in the country. Go early to beat the crowds and catch the color at its best.

Between adventures, downtown La Fortuna is walkable and refreshingly local. Grab a casado at a soda, people-watch in the central park with the volcano framed behind it, and dive into the nightlife when the sun goes down. Stay somewhere social and you'll have a crew to share all of it with.

That's our short list, but La Fortuna rewards slowing down. Give yourself one more day than you think you need — you'll use it.