La Fortuna - Costa Rica

La Fortuna is situated at the bottom of the Arenal volcano, which is the biggest but not the only attraction of the town. The Arenal volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Usually you could see the lava flowing down several times a day. Standing at the bottom of the volcano, hearing the volcano rumble and observing the glowing stones flying out of the crater was an unforgettable experience. Unfortunately the volcano has been very calm in the recent years.

It is not possible to observe the lava flow anymore, the valocano has been very quiet.

Some of the numerous hotels in La Fortuna offer their clients rooms with view of the volcano, in addition to private trails to viewpoints. Further attractions are the hot thermal springs. The water is heated by the sulfurous river of the Arenal volcano. There are thermal springs in La Fortuna, at some it is possible to observe the volcano from the water.

Once in La Fortuna you should visit the waterfalls of La Fortuna, the nicest way to get there is on horseback. The last part of this stretch is a trail that leads to the bottom of the waterfalls and a place to swim. The trail is only accessible on foot.

Sleeping at the foot of the volcano...

The selection of tours offered in La Fortuna is one of the biggest in Costa Rica. You can choose between canopy tours, whitewater rafting on the Sarapiqui River, fishing on lake Arenal, horseback rides into nature and much more.

On a horse it is possible to explore trails that are to narrow for cars. It is possible to ride from La Fortuna to Monteverde, this trip takes around 5 hours.

La Fortuna on the map

La Fortuna on the map

Facts about La Fortuna, Costa Rica

  • La Fortuna is situated at the foot of one of the most active volcanoes on earth.

Driving times and distances

  • Distance from San Jose to La Fortuna: 130.2 kilometers respectively 80.9 miles.
  • Travel time from San Jose to La Fortuna: 3.12 hours.
  • Distance from Liberia to La Fortuna: 142.8 kilometers respectively 88.7 miles.
  • Travel time from Liberia to La Fortuna: 2.57 hours.