La Fortuna is a small town in Costa Rica, northwest of the capital, San José. It’s known as a gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, comprising 2 volcanoes. Active Arenal Volcano is still laced with lava flows. Hot springs dot the foot of the volcano, on the thermal Tabacón River. Dormant Chato Volcano has a crater lake and rainforest trails leading to La Fortuna Waterfall, with its natural pool. ― Google
Dry Season (December–April) – Best weather for volcano views, hiking, and outdoor activities.
Green Season (May–November) – Rainier afternoons, but everything is lush, prices drop, and mornings are often clear.
Overall: Great year-round; just pack for rain if visiting between May and November.
From San José (~3–4 hours):
By car: Scenic drive via Route 1 or 702 (recommended for flexibility).
By shuttle: Shared or private shuttles available from major cities and airports.
By bus: Public buses run daily (via Ciudad Quesada) but are slower.
From Liberia Airport (~2.5–3 hours): Similar options available.
Tabacón Hot Springs – Luxurious thermal river experience fed by volcanic heat.
Baldi, Ecotermales, or Paradise Hot Springs – Great alternatives for soaking and relaxation.
Lake Arenal – Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing on Costa Rica’s largest lake.
Sloth Watching Trails – Easy forest trails around town with good chances of seeing sloths, toucans, and monkeys.
Adventure sports:
Ziplining, white-water rafting (Rio Balsa or Sarapiquí), canyoning, and rappelling.
Nature tours:
Night walks, birdwatching, butterfly gardens, and rainforest hikes.
ATV or horseback riding – Through farms, foothills, and jungle.
Chocolate and coffee tours – Learn (and taste!) the local process.
Wellness – Spa treatments, yoga, and meditation retreats are common.
Luxury:
Nayara Gardens & Nayara Springs – Award-winning boutique eco-luxury with spa and views.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Mid-range:
Hotel El Silencio del Campo, Arenal Manoa, Volcano Lodge & Springs
Budget:
Arenal Backpackers Resort, Selina La Fortuna, Cabinas Fortuna
Unique stays: Jungle lodges, glamping tents, and eco-resorts with private hot springs.
Traditional Costa Rican:
Red Frog Coffee Roaster, Soda Viquez, Don Rufino
International & fusion:
Chifa La Familia Feliz (Peruvian-Chinese), La Parrilla de María Bonita, Kappa Sushi
Cafés & casual eats:
Organico Fortuna, Lava Lounge, Pollo Fortuneño
Farm-to-table & vegan options widely available
Locals (Ticos) are warm and used to travelers — tourism supports most of the local economy.
Eco-tourism and sustainability are central to many businesses.
English is widely spoken, especially by tour guides and hotel staff.
Local crafts, chocolate, coffee, and herbal products are popular souvenirs.
Book tours early in peak season (Dec–April).
Rain gear is a must even in dry season — tropical showers can pop up.
Wear good hiking shoes – trails can be muddy and rocky.
Bring insect repellent, especially in the rainforest and near water.
Cash is handy for local shops and tips (colones or USD accepted almost everywhere).
Use La Fortuna as a base – easy access to Monteverde, Río Celeste, or the Northern lowlands.