La Fortuna
Families and active travellers who want adventure with comfortable nights
La Fortuna at a glance
La Fortuna sits in the shadow of Arenal Volcano, where geothermal springs, hanging bridges and waterfall hikes fit easily into a few days. Wildlife turns up at the roadside and in the forest canopy, and the town's flat, walkable centre keeps logistics simple after active days.
The week ahead
Live weather · next 7 days
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Where to base yourself
- La Fortuna townRestaurants, tour offices and the bus station along a compact main strip. Best for convenience and evening choice.
- Arenal Lake and El CastilloQuieter lodging with volcano views across the water. Choose it for scenery and slower mornings.
- West side hot springs roadThermal resorts and spa hotels set in the forest. Pick it if soaking after hiking is the priority.
A sample 3-day rhythm
- Day 1Arrive, walk the town and take an evening soak at a hot springs resort to unwind.
- Day 2Hike the hanging bridges or the waterfall trail early, then rest through the hottest part of the day.
- Day 3Choose a wildlife boat safari on Arenal Lake or a white-water rafting trip, depending on your group's appetite.
Want more? Use the planner to stretch this into a full trip.
Tips before you go
- Start hikes before nine to beat both heat and afternoon rain.
- Book hot springs tickets in advance during the dry-season weekends.
- Carry binoculars; toucans and monkeys are common along the forest edges.
- Use a daypack with a rain cover so you can keep moving when showers pass.
Common questions
- Do we need hiking gear?
- Trail shoes with grip and a light rain jacket cover most routes. Leeches appear in the wet season, so long socks help.
- Is the volcano erupting?
- Arenal is in a resting phase with no active eruption, but the national park trails, hot springs and landscape still make it worth the trip.
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