Arriving in La Fortuna seemed like stepping on a postcard. The iconic Arenal Volcano dominated the landscape, a perfect cone rising stately over the green valley below. Buttercup first spotted it and was immediately entranced. The environment was hot and humid, saturated with moisture and sounds of tropical birds. We had specifically traveled to La Fortuna for adventure, and the landscape promised exactly that. Over the next three days, we would jump off cliffs, soar through the rainforest canopy, soak in geothermal hot springs, encounter sloths and howler monkeys and experience the raw power of nature in countless ways. This guide captures the highlights of our La Fortuna adventure and shares useful advice for families looking to experience this incredible destination.
What is La Fortuna
La Fortuna is a small town in northwestern Costa Rica that serves as the gateway to Arenal Volcano, one of Central America’s most iconic geological features. The Arenal Volcano dominates the region both literally and culturally. Though it has not erupted since 2010, the volcano’s presence shapes everything about the landscape and the activities available to visitors. The region is characterized by lush rainforest, natural hot springs heated by geothermal energy, rivers, and an incredible diversity of wildlife. La Fortuna is a jumping-off point for some of Costa Rica’s most exciting adventure activities, including zip-lining, white water rafting, canyoning, and wildlife tours.
The town itself is small and laid back, with local restaurants, shops and services that serve the constant stream of tourists passing through. Contrary to some tourist destinations that feel disconnected from local culture, La Fortuna maintains its authentic character. We ate meals at small sodas where locals gathered, shopped at markets where locals did their groceries, and spoke with genuine people proud of their community. The combination of world class adventure activities and accessible local culture makes La Fortuna an ideal first stop on a Costa Rican adventure.
Getting to La Fortuna
La Fortuna is located about 225 kilometers northeast of San Jose. The drive from San Jose takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. For most families, arranging a private transfer is recommended, since it eliminates the stress of driving unfamiliar roads and allows everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.
During our transfer, we stopped at a local soda for refreshments. A toucan flew in and landed on a chair right near where Buttercup and Spider Monkey were sitting. The bird seemed completely unbothered by our presence, posing for countless photos as the girls whispered excitedly. For our girls, this was the moment Costa Rica became real, not a zoo or sanctuary, but a wild bird choosing to share a moment with us in its natural habitat. This unforgettable first encounter set the tone for the wonder we would experience throughout La Fortuna.
Best La Fortuna Activities #1: Natural Hot Springs
One of the greatest luxuries of La Fortuna is access to natural hot springs heated by geothermal energy from the Arenal Volcano. These warm pools are located throughout the region with varying levels of development and experience. We visited multiple hot springs during our three days, each showcasing a different atmosphere. Some were developed resorts with multiple pools at varying temperatures, while others were natural and rustic. The experience of soaking in warm mineral-rich water while surrounded by lush tropical vegetation is both relaxing and relaxing.
After intense adventure activities like ziplining and white water rafting, the hot springs provided the perfect recovery. Buttercup loved the heat and the quiet of soaking, while Spider Monkey enjoyed exploring the different pools and discovering where the water came from. Many hot springs also offer spa services, restaurants and sometimes even ziplining or waterfall experiences in the same complex. The Volcano Lodge was one of our favorite experiences, offering natural hot spring pools with views of the volcano. Spending time in these warm pools is essential to La Fortuna experience.
Best La Fortuna Activities #2: White Water Rafting on the Arenal River
White water rafting on the Arenal River is one of the most exciting and popular activities in La Fortuna. We booked through Pure Trek, a highly reputable local company known for their skilled guides and dedication to safety. The Arenal River was a perfect combination of exciting rapids and beautiful natural scenery. Buttercup and Spider Monkey were nervous, but excited as we donned our helmets and life jackets. Our guide was patient with the girls, making sure they felt confident, while pushing our family just the right amount to make the experience stimulating.
The rapids alternated between sections of calm water, where we could absorb the rainforest scenery, and sections of churning white water that made our hearts race. The guide explained the different rapids and helped us manage the technique required to paddle effectively. Paddling as a family unit, with everyone working together, created a genuine sense of achievement as we conquered each rapid. The combination of adrenaline, natural beauty and family teamwork made this one of our favorite days of the trip. Many tour operators provide varying difficulty levels, so families can choose experiences suited to their comfort level and experience level.
Best La Fortuna Activities #3: Zip-lining Through the Canopy
Ziplining through the Costa Rican rainforest was an experience that defies description. We were suspended from wires high above the jungle, zooming from one platform to the next with nothing but the tree tops below us. It was equal parts excitement and anxiety! The girls were nervous at first, but the guides were fantastic! They walked us through each step and were so patient. Once Spider Monkey took the first leap off the platform, she was hooked. She laughed the whole way down, yelling with pure joy.
The most thrilling memory for the girls was the Tarzan Swing! The Tarzan Swing is where you leap off a platform and swing out onto a rope into the canopy. You swing back and forth through the air before landing on a lower platform. Buttercup approached it methodically, but once she realized she was safe and having fun, she fully welcomed the adventure. The perspective of seeing the rainforest from above and experiencing the rush of the wind is something we will never forget. Multiple zipline tour companies operate in La Fortuna, offering various course lengths and difficulty levels to meet different ages and comfort levels.
Best La Fortuna Activities #4: Waterfall Rappelling and Canyoning
We chose Pure Trek for our canyoning adventure, and it turned out to be one of the most thrilling experiences of our entire trip. This was not casual canyon hiking. We were actually rappelling down waterfalls, descending on ropes from one waterfall to the next, getting progressively more wet, muddy, and exhilarated as we went deeper into the canyon. The guide set up secure anchors at each waterfall, provided harnesses and helmets, and talked us through the technique for rappelling safely. Each waterfall presented a different challenge and a different height. By the time we reached the final rappel, both girls had found their confidence and were ready for the adventure.
The highlight was the famous Monkey Drop, a breathtaking 60 foot free fall into a jungle pool below. Spider Monkey was braver than expected, launching herself off the cliff with a shout of utter joy. Buttercup tackled the challenge with steadfastness, splash and rush producing an unforgettable memory. The Monkey Drop is not for the fainthearted of hearts, but it represents the pinnacle of Costa Rican adventure experiences. Guides confirm the proper technique and assess individual comfort levels before anyone jumps. Canyoning requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with the water, but the experience is absolutely worth the effort.
Best La Fortuna Activities #5: Hanging Bridges
Mistico Park offers a completely different canopy experience than ziplining. It features a series of suspended suspension bridges between massive trees. The bridges sway a little. But, unlike ziplining, walking the hanging bridges allows you to move at your own pace and observe the rainforest in detail. Our guide pointed out birds, insects, plants, and explained the ecosystem we were going through.
Spider Monkey was fascinated by the bridges, constantly asking how they were built. Buttercup enjoyed spotting birds and looking at the diversity of plant life. The 3 kilometer trail winds through six hundred acres of private land, protecting the rainforest and the wildlife that depends on it. Morning walks offer the best chance of spotting wildlife. Bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and a charged camera. The combination of engineering interest, natural observation, and that perfect amount of heart-pounding height awareness makes the hanging bridges a must-do activity.
Best La Fortuna Activities #6: Wildlife and Sloth Tours
One of our most magical experiences at La Fortuna was a guided night walk through the rainforest. The forest transforms completely after dark, disclosing a completely different ecosystem than daytime activities. Our guide led us slowly through the forest with a special red headlamp that does not disturb nocturnal animals. As our eyes adapted to the darkness, the forest became mysterious and full of invisible creatures. We saw tree frogs, spiders, insects that appeared to glow, and heard the calls of nocturnal animals.
During a sloth tour we saw our first gentle, slow-moving creature hanging from branches in the canopy of the rainforest. Guides often locate them for close observation and photography. Watching a sloth’s intentional movements created a real connection with nature. The girls loved learning about their extremely slow metabolism and their role in the ecosystem. While we encountered many wildlife species during our guided activities, dedicating specific time to wildlife watching and sloth hunting provides greater understanding and more intimate encounters with the incredible animal residents of La Fortuna.
Best La Fortuna Activities #7: Night Walks in the Rainforest
One of our most magical experiences at La Fortuna was a guided night walk through the rainforest. The forest transforms completely after dark, disclosing a completely different ecosystem than daytime activities. Our guide led us slowly through the forest with a special red headlamp that does not disturb nocturnal animals. As our eyes adapted to the darkness, the forest became mysterious and full of invisible creatures. We saw tree frogs, spiders, insects that appeared to glow, and heard the calls of nocturnal animals.
The night walk created a sense of risk and a slight nervousness. Every sound takes on new meaning and the familiar rainforest becomes a completely different world. Spider Monkey whispered in awe at the discoveries, while Buttercup proceeded cautiously, but curiously through the darkness. A night walk is not for everyone, but for families comfortable with daring and mild fear mixed with excitement it is a remarkable experience. The nocturnal rainforest reveals creatures and behaviors totally hidden during daylight hours, giving a perspective on the ecosystem that daytime visitors simply cannot experience.
Best La Fortuna Activities #8: Exploring the Town
We spent an afternoon exploring La Fortuna town, arranging taxi service through our hotel to get around. We discovered local shops, markets, and restaurants, enjoying authentic Costa Rican meals at small sodas. The Central Park area is where locals and tourists mingle, and we found genuine cultural experiences along with practical necessities like grocery stores and pharmacies.
Between the town center and our hotel, we stopped at Souvenir La Pradera, a huge, well-stocked store where we grabbed snacks, fresh fruit, and supplies. This stop was practical but also fun, as we discovered Costa Rican products the girls had never seen before. Shop owners and restaurant staff throughout town were genuinely friendly, proud of their community and eager to share recommendations. Spending a few hours exploring on your own provides cultural context and often leads to the best local discoveries.
Other La Fortuna Activities
Horseback Riding to La Fortuna Waterfall
Beyond the activities we enjoyed, La Fortuna offers tons other options for families! Horseback riding tours take you through forests and fields with breathtaking volcano views. The La Fortuna Waterfall horseback ride combines riding with visiting the reserve and learning about indigenous culture. Most tours accommodate different riding skill levels and allow riders to move at a comfortable pace, enabling wildlife viewing and appreciation of the surroundings.
Chocolate and Coffee Tours
For families interested in learning more about local agriculture and products, chocolate and coffee tours are available. These tours deliver educational experiences combined with practical knowledge about how local farmers produce the products you enjoy.
Lake Arenal Water Activities
Lake Arenal offers water-based activities including kayaking with stunning views and opportunities for island hopping and wildlife observation. Sunset boat tours provide a peaceful way to experience the lake and volcano views from the water. These activities offer a different perspective on the region and a welcome change of pace from rainforest adventures. The calm waters of the lake are perfect for families looking for a more relaxed experience while still enjoying the natural beauty of the Arenal region. Many tour operators can accommodate various skill levels and preferences, from gentle paddling to more active kayaking adventures.
Arenal Volcano National Park
For those interested in a more geological experience, Arenal Volcano National Park offers hiking through lava fields, exploring archaeological sites, and getting closer volcano views. Several well-maintained trails range from easy walks to strenuous hikes. A private guide significantly enhances the experience by providing context about the 1968 eruption and geological processes. However, volcano visiting is entirely optional. Clear days are required for good visibility, and the volcano can be obscured by clouds for extended periods. We recommend checking weather forecasts and asking your hotel about current conditions before committing to this activity. The hot springs, zip-lining, rafting, and other La Fortuna activities provide complete satisfaction without it.
The Family Verdict
La Fortuna exceeded all expectations for an action packed family adventure. The combination of heart-racing activities and incredible natural beauty formed memories that will remain with us forever. Buttercup discovered confidence and courage she did not know she had. Spider Monkey embraces adventure with eagerness and joy. Both girls encountered animals they had only seen in books, soaked in warm geothermal water under tropical stars and experienced the raw strength of nature.
Make sure to check out our nearby adventures at La Fortuna, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. Also, follow along on our complete family adventure through Costa Rica.
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
