Things To Do
in Fortuna
Fortuna, Costa Rica is a picturesque town nestled at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, surrounded by lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls. It is renowned for its hot springs and offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, including hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife watching. The vibrant local culture is reflected in its friendly community, colorful markets, and delicious cuisine.
Visitors are often enchanted by the breathtaking views and the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds this tropical paradise.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can hike down to the base and take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters.
After lunch, explore the Arenal Volcano National Park with guided hiking trails that offer incredible views of the volcano and its surroundings.
Relax in one of the local hot springs, such as Tabacon or Baldi, where you can unwind and enjoy the natural thermal waters.
Visit the La Fortuna town center, where you can explore local shops and the central park, followed by a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local soda.
Take a canopy zip-line tour for an exhilarating way to see the rainforest from above, spotting wildlife along the way.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then experience the vibrant nightlife at one of the local bars featuring live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🍕Pizza Slice | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride (within town) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel (per night) | $30-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and biodiversity.
- Wide range of outdoor activities and adventures.
- Friendly locals and rich cultural experiences.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Higher prices for accommodations and activities in tourist areas.
- Variable weather, especially during the rainy season.
- "Pura Vida" - Pure Life
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Fortuna
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning shots of this majestic 70-meter waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife.
The iconic volcano serves as a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A network of suspension bridges through the rainforest offers unique angles to photograph diverse flora and fauna.
Food in Fortuna
Fortuna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein such as chicken or fish.
Must-Try!
A delicious mix of rice and black beans, typically served for breakfast alongside eggs and tortillas.
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes, offering a refreshing taste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods.
Various stalls around town serve quick bites like empanadas, churros, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Hola' is common, and it's polite to greet people with a smile when entering shops or restaurants.
Costa Ricans value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.
Dress casually but respectfully, especially when visiting churches or local communities.
Safety
Tipping in Fortuna
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% in restaurants, though some may include a service charge.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.
Expect frequent rain showers, which enhance the lush landscape but may limit outdoor plans; however, it is less crowded.
A peak tourist season, vibrant celebrations, and local festivals, but expect higher prices and larger crowds.
These months can experience heavy rainfall, so it's best to plan indoor activities or be flexible with your outdoor plans.
Fortuna at Night
Hiking in Fortuna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-marked trail that circles the base of Arenal Volcano, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
A scenic hike that takes you to the Arenal Observatory Lodge, providing panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.
Airports
How to reach Fortuna by plane.
Located about 2.5 hours from Fortuna, this is the main international airport in Costa Rica, providing connections to various destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Costa Ricans, known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions, often engage in agriculture and tourism.
A growing number of expatriates from North America and Europe have settled in Fortuna, contributing to the local culture and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a beloved sport in Costa Rica, and local teams often engage in friendly matches, especially among youth.
While not directly in Fortuna, many locals engage in surfing at nearby beaches, showcasing their skills during weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fortuna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.
While gluten-free options may be limited, fresh fruits, vegetables, and rice-based dishes are widely available.