La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

Adventure, Nature & Relaxation

Quick answer

La Fortuna is a small town in Alajuela province at the foot of Arenal Volcano (1,633 m), approximately 3 hours by car from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and 3 hours from Liberia (LIR). It is the most visited inland destination in Costa Rica and a hub for hot springs, waterfalls, and rainforest hiking. Best time to visit: the dry season runs mid-December to April, with clear volcano views and ideal trail conditions. The green (rainy) season runs May to mid-November and brings fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush scenery. Top attractions include Tabacón, Baldi, Ecotermales, Paradise, and Los Lagos hot springs; the Arenal Hanging Bridges; the 70-metre La Fortuna Waterfall; Arenal Volcano National Park; and the Caño Negro wildlife refuge. Arenal was Costa Rica's most active volcano from 1968 to 2010 and is now in a dormant phase.

Why Visit La Fortuna?

La Fortuna is the adventure heart of Costa Rica, offering a perfect blend of thrill and relaxation. With the iconic Arenal Volcano as your backdrop, you can hike through lava fields, soak in natural hot springs, and zip-line through lush rainforests—all in one place.

Destination highlight — The majestic Arenal Volcano towers over the lush rainforests of La Fortuna. (Image 1 of 25)

Top Activities in La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

Hike Arenal Volcano National Park

This activity brings you up close to ancient lava fields and panoramic lookout points. Trails vary in difficulty and offer insights into the region's volcanic history.

Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall

Reach this majestic 70-meter waterfall via a scenic descent of about 500 steps. Once there, you can enjoy a refreshing swim surrounded by rainforest.

Explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges

Walk across 16 suspension bridges surrounded by lush vegetation and cloud forest canopy. Wildlife sightings include monkeys, birds, and colorful frogs.

Try Ziplining & Canyoning

Glide through the treetops on thrilling zipline cables and rappel down waterfalls in lush jungle canyons. These adrenaline-packed activities are both safe and unforgettable.

What to Do? Featured Tours

Recommended

Arenal Volcano Guided Hike

Explore trails through the National Park with local naturalists. Spot wildlife and learn about volcanic history.

Recommended

La Fortuna Waterfall & Hanging Bridges Combo

Combine the region’s two most famous sights. Swim in the waterfall and walk high above the forest floor.

Recommended

Ziplining & Canyoning Combo Adventure

The ultimate adrenaline rush. Fly through the canopy and rappel down waterfalls in a pristine canyon.

Recommended

Safari Float & Natural Hot Springs Evening

A gentle wildlife-spotting float followed by a long soak in natural thermal rivers.

Recommended

Chocolate and Coffee Tour

Learn the secrets of Costa Rica’s artisanal chocolate and coffee production on a sustainable farm.

Best time to visit La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

La Fortuna has something to offer all year round, but the experience changes with the seasons:

Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Perfect for clear volcano views and hiking.
Green Season (May–Nov): Offers lush rainforests, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery.

Metric	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg High (°F)	83	84	86	87	88	86	85	85	86	85	83	82
Avg Low (°F)	68	67	69	69	70	71	71	72	70	70	71	70
Precipitation	Med	Low	Low	Med	High	High	High	High	High	High	Med	Med

Top Restaurants in La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

Don Rufino
Upscale setting in town known for contemporary Costa Rican cuisine and elegant presentation.
María Bonita Steak House
Top-tier grilled meats and fusion dishes with stunning volcano views.
Café Mediterráneo
Family-friendly Italian offering wood-fired pizzas in a cozy garden setting.
Nanku Tropical Bar & Grill
Laid-back spot for Costa Rican specialties with international twists and live music.

How to Get to La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano?

Rental Car:

Driving from San José or Liberia takes about 3 hours on scenic, paved highways—ideal for flexibility.

Shared Shuttle Services:

Affordable and convenient, with multiple daily departures from major destinations.

Private Shuttle Service:

For personalized transfers and local guidance. Click here for private transportation services.

Best Travel Tips for La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

Bring quick-drying clothes and a light rain jacket, regardless of the season.
Use insect repellent—especially active at dawn and dusk.
Book popular tours and restaurants in advance, especially during Dec–Apr.
Carry local currency (Colones) for small vendors, though USD is widely accepted.
Tipping (~10%) is customary for tour guides and servers.

Frequently Asked Questions about La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

When is the best time to visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano?

The best time to visit La Fortuna is during the dry season (mid-December to April), when you get clear views of Arenal Volcano and the rainforest trails are in their best condition. The green season (May to mid-November) brings afternoon showers but fewer crowds and lower prices.

Is Arenal Volcano still active?

Arenal Volcano was Costa Rica's most active volcano from 1968 to 2010 but is now in a resting phase. It is still geologically active and monitored daily, but no lava or strombolian eruptions have occurred since 2010. Hot springs in the area are heated by the same magma system.

How do I get from San José airport (SJO) to La Fortuna?

The drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to La Fortuna takes approximately 3 hours via Route 1 and Route 142. Options include private transfer (most comfortable, around $130 for 1-4 pax), shared shuttle ($55-65 per person), public bus (cheapest but 5-6 hours with a connection in Ciudad Quesada), or rental car.