The La Fortuna Waterfall

480 Steps to Paradise

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Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall

Eyes gaze upwards in admiration upon arrival at your intended destination, the magnificent La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica. Cascading 200 feet or 65 meters down the water lands briskly into a clear pool. You’re required to take the 480 steps to reach the falls.

The best way of reaching La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica is through the gates of ADIFORT. ADIFORT is a non-profit community organization that manages the property. They are on the left bank of La Fortuna River Canyon. La Fortuna Waterfall is located near the town of La Fortuna, at the foot of the famous Arenal volcano.

Highlights

Swimming

La Fortuna Costa RicaAt the bottom of the 480 step trail, there is a quiet jade colored pool with soft sands. These sands surround the boulders that turn a vibrant turquoise hue as the water gets deeper. This pool makes for a great swimming hole. It has clear waters, and you can see silver darting river fish. The fish energetically chase food that happens to fall in the water. The pond provides a perfect backdrop for photographs. It has a beautiful mossy foreground and gently drifting currents. The plunging waterfall pool bottom covered with rugged boulders and the mighty cascade outpour. Far too dangerous for swimming, which makes the fish pool safer for a quick dip in the water. 

Hike back up

White Faced MonkeyClimbing the 480 stairs backup can be slow and a bit tiring, but your patience will be rewarded. There are rest stops offering great vistas along the way where climbers can catch their breath. Be sure to pay attention to what may be happening in the trees and jungle. Surely wildlife is easily spotted in the riparian forests of La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica. Observant naturalists can find toucans, sloths, agoutis, snakes, lizards, monkeys. Also, many other exotic Costa Rican animals hiding in the rainforest flora near Arenal Volcano.

Try the El Salto Water Hole river rope swing a bit farther downstream on the same river as the La Fortuna waterfall. For 15 dollars you are certain to have a great time. At the edge of the falls, take many great pictures to share with friends or family. Or just sit down relax and enjoy a picnic meal. Your tour of the falls is great any time of year but especially during the wet season. That is when the waterfall reaches full volume. Either way, you are sure to enjoy yourself.

La Fortuna Waterfall a Sustainable Solution 

La Fortuna WaterfallAt La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica, ADIFORT has built structures to serve the waterfall’s many daily visitors. It has large, clean bathrooms, picnic tables, a souvenir shop and beautiful gardens with birds among the fruit trees and flowers. In fact, ADIFORT has created one of the most prosperous sustainable projects in Costa Rica. In association with the local government, this community association runs many community initiatives like building and maintaining town roads, the town bus stop, a sports and recreation center, a new main bridge to enter La Fortuna from the east, and other projects.

Public schools in and around La Fortuna also receive benefit from ADIFORT. Support goes to its classrooms, education materials and scholarships for local students. The 15 dollar entrance foreigners pay at La Fortuna Waterfalls and the money spent at its inexpensive souvenir shop, partly goes back to the community. The community association has been a true motor of development in rural Costa Rica, particularly in La Fortuna. With the help of community enterprise and sustainable ventures like ADIFORT. 

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Hanging BridgesAs the most visted National Park in Costa Rica, Arenal has a lot to offer. You can go for a hike and spot snakes, monkeys, tapir, deer, … Visit the famous hanging bridges for a walk above the rainforests. Go rafting, take canopy tours, kayak on Lake Arenal or just stew in the Arenal hot springs.

 

Waterfall rappelling

adrenalinum maximus canyoneering near la fortuna waterfallA visit to La Fortuna is not complete with waterfall rappelling! You can take tours leaving from La Fortuna and take a half day trip rappelling as well as canyoning. Learn more about waterfall rappelling in our blog about top 10 activities In Costa Rica.

Tips

Visit during December and April for the clearest weather: The dry season will give you the highest chance to get a great view of the volcano and avoid rains.

Visit between May and November for less crowds: If you don’t mind risking a little weather, you can avoid the crowds. Although keep in mind that as Costa Rica’s most popular destination, you should never expect solitude.

Visit the waterfalls early: Especially during the dry season, this is the best way to avoid the crowds.

Bring your swimming gear: Don’t forget that you can swim in the waterfall!

Getting there

Closest International Airport: Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)

 

Liberia Costa Rica planeYou can get to La Fortuna easily by opting for private or shared transfer. For more freedom and flexibility, rent a car right from the airport upon your arrival. If you are traveling from San Jose, you can also take a domestic flight to Liberia and further your trip from there.

Dining

Costa Rica CasadoYou can get affordable dining in the town of La Fortuna or if you prefer a dash of style as well as the world’s most beautiful view, you can even eat out at the foot of the volcano! In La Fortuna you can stop by Don Rufino for a delicious casado and international cuisine both. Visit Pollo Fortuneño for amazing grilled chicken or Chifa la Familia Feliz for Chinese Peruvian fusion!

Where to stay

Nayara Spa Romantic DinnerLa Fortuna itself is mainly aimed at the casual traveler looking for budget deals. But a little while outside of town, you will find stunning hotels with style and class. Arenal Oasis Ecolodge and Wildlife Refuge possesses a unique and rustic charm and promotes sustainability. The Green Lagoon Lodge is a luxury resort is the perfect choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway. For ultimate luxury in the best all adults resort in the world, check in to Nayara Springs

The La Fortuna Waterfall - Get Info

The La Fortuna Waterfall Map

La Fortuna Waterfall is located near the town of La Fortuna, at the foot of Arenal Volcano.

Click to Enlarge Costa Rica Map

The La Fortuna Waterfall Vacation Packages

Contact us for the best available packages!

Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Caribbean Dream

Caribbean Dream

SJO
Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

12
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Birding in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula

Birding in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula

11
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Caribbean Dream Extended Stay

Caribbean Dream Extended Stay

16
SJO
Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Perfect Combination with Corcovado

Perfect Combination with Corcovado

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Coast to Coast

Coast to Coast

SJO
Extended Stay

Extended Stay

13
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Caribbean Fusion – A Costa Rica Caribbean Vacation

Caribbean Fusion – A Costa Rica Caribbean Vacation

8
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Active Family Adventure – Family Vacation to Costa Rica

Active Family Adventure – Family Vacation to Costa Rica

7
SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.
Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

12
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Volcano & Beaches of Nicoya

Volcano & Beaches of Nicoya

SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.
Jungle Jaunt – Costa Rica Jungle Vacation

Jungle Jaunt – Costa Rica Jungle Vacation

8
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Extended Coast to Coast

Extended Coast to Coast

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Rica Classic

Costa Rica Classic

7
LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Complete Costa Rica Extended

Complete Costa Rica Extended

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Birding in Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

Birding in Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Costa Rica Classic Birding Package

Costa Rica Classic Birding Package

8
LIR
More than $2000 p.p.
Nicoya Peninsula Adventure

Nicoya Peninsula Adventure

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Nicoya Peninsula Adventure

Extended Nicoya Peninsula Adventure

8
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Pacific & Caribbean Combo

Pacific & Caribbean Combo

10
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Highlights

Extended Costa Rica Highlights

20
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Best of Costa Rica

Best of Costa Rica

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Best of Birding

Best of Birding

8
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Top Birding Spots

Costa Rica’s Top Birding Spots

11
SJO
Extended Costa Rica Southern Package

Extended Costa Rica Southern Package

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Two Oceans & A Volcano

Two Oceans & A Volcano

$1000-$1500 p.p.
Romantic Getaway

Romantic Getaway

8
SJO
Tarpon Fishing on Costa Rica’s Caribbean

Tarpon Fishing on Costa Rica’s Caribbean

6
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Wellness, Yoga & Surf Vacation in Paradise!

Wellness, Yoga & Surf Vacation in Paradise!

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Fishing Adventure Package

Fishing Adventure Package

5
LIR
More than $2000 p.p.
Dream Fishing Trip at Los Sueños

Dream Fishing Trip at Los Sueños

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Luxury Romantic Heaven

Luxury Romantic Heaven

7
LIR
More than $2000 p.p.
Luxury Getaway

Luxury Getaway

7
SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.
Birding in Costa Rica’s Northern Zone

Birding in Costa Rica’s Northern Zone

11
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Romantic Beach Getaway

Romantic Beach Getaway

LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Dancing with Quetzals

Dancing with Quetzals

11
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Volcano & Beaches of Guanacaste

Volcano & Beaches of Guanacaste

LIR
Less than $1000 p.p.
Best of Costa Rica – All Inclusive

Best of Costa Rica – All Inclusive

LIR
$1000-$1500 p.p.

The La Fortuna Waterfall Hotels

From the best resort in the world to sustainable, luxury lodges! 

Montaña De Fuego Resort

Montaña De Fuego Resort

3
2
From: Under $125
Los Lagos Resort

Los Lagos Resort

3
5
From: $125 - $200
Volcano Lodge  Hotel & Thermal Experience

Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

4
3
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Arenal Lodge

Hotel Arenal Lodge

3
From: $125 - $200
Tabacon Resort & Spa

Tabacon Resort & Spa

5
4
From: Over $300
Arenal Oasis Ecolodge & Wildlife Refuge

Arenal Oasis Ecolodge & Wildlife Refuge

3
From: Under $125
The Springs Resort & Spa

The Springs Resort & Spa

5
5
From: Over $300
Lomas del Volcan

Lomas del Volcan

3
From: Under $125
Hotel Arenal Kioro

Hotel Arenal Kioro

5
4
From: Over $300
Arenal Volcano Inn

Arenal Volcano Inn

3
From: Under $125
Lost Iguana Resort

Lost Iguana Resort

4
3
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Magic Mountain

Hotel Magic Mountain

3
From: Under $125
La Mansion Inn

La Mansion Inn

4
2
From: $125 - $200
Casa Luna

Casa Luna

3
3
From: $125 - $200
The Royal Corin

The Royal Corin

4
1
From: $200 - $300
Hotel El Silencio del Campo

Hotel El Silencio del Campo

3
From: $125 - $200
Arenal Springs Resort

Arenal Springs Resort

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Mountain Paradise Hotel

Mountain Paradise Hotel

4
1
From: $125 - $200
Arenal Paraiso Resort

Arenal Paraiso Resort

3
3
From: $125 - $200
Baldi Resort

Baldi Resort

3
From: $200 - $300
Arenal Manoa

Arenal Manoa

4
From: $200 - $300
Arenal Observatory Lodge

Arenal Observatory Lodge

3
4
From: Under $125
Hotel Kokoro Arenal

Hotel Kokoro Arenal

3
From: $125 - $200
Rancho Margot

Rancho Margot

4
5
From: $125 - $200
Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs

4
From: Over $300

The La Fortuna Waterfall Tours

Whether you favor adrenaline or relaxation, we can arrange the best tours for you! 

Day Pass to The Springs Resort

Day Pass to The Springs Resort

Arenal Sky Tram Up & Down

Arenal Sky Tram Up & Down

From: $50 - $75
Mountain Biking Arenal

Mountain Biking Arenal

From: Under $50
Arenal Mundo Aventura Canopy Adventure Combo Adrenaline

Arenal Mundo Aventura Canopy Adventure Combo Adrenaline

3
Venado Caves Costa Rica

Venado Caves Costa Rica

From: $50 - $75
Canopy Combination AMA and Adventure Tour

Canopy Combination AMA and Adventure Tour

From: $50 - $75
Lost Canyon Canyoning Adventure with Desafio

Lost Canyon Canyoning Adventure with Desafio

Sunset Cruise on Lake Arenal with Desafio

Sunset Cruise on Lake Arenal with Desafio

Hanging Bridges – Natural History Walk with Mistico

Hanging Bridges – Natural History Walk with Mistico

Horseback Ride and Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and Visit to Indigenous Village with Arenal Mundo Aventura

Horseback Ride and Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and Visit to Indigenous Village with Arenal Mundo Aventura

Rainforest River Float and Safari with Aventuras Arenal

Rainforest River Float and Safari with Aventuras Arenal

Pure Trek Canyoning

Pure Trek Canyoning

Lost Canyon Canyoning Adventure

Lost Canyon Canyoning Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Adrenaline Combo with Jacamar

Adrenaline Combo with Jacamar

Sportfishing at Lake Arenal with Jacamar

Sportfishing at Lake Arenal with Jacamar

Balsa River

Balsa River

Guided Sky Walk with Sky Adventures

Guided Sky Walk with Sky Adventures

Sky Tram with Sky Adventures

Sky Tram with Sky Adventures

Jeep Boat Jeep Arenal To Monteverde

Jeep Boat Jeep Arenal To Monteverde

Arenal Volcano Observation Hike and Hot Springs

Arenal Volcano Observation Hike and Hot Springs

From: $50 - $75
Sky Walk & Sky Tram with Sky Adventures

Sky Walk & Sky Tram with Sky Adventures

Sky Tram & Trek with Sky Adventures

Sky Tram & Trek with Sky Adventures

Sky Walk, Sky Tram & Sky Trek with Sky Adventures

Sky Walk, Sky Tram & Sky Trek with Sky Adventures

Horseback Riding Tour with Don Tobias

Horseback Riding Tour with Don Tobias

Arenal Volcano National Park with Desafio

Arenal Volcano National Park with Desafio

Arenal Combo Safari Float & La Fortuna Waterfall with Desafio

Arenal Combo Safari Float & La Fortuna Waterfall with Desafio

Arenal Combo Chocolate Tour & La Fortuna Waterfall with Desafio

Arenal Combo Chocolate Tour & La Fortuna Waterfall with Desafio

Arenal Mambo Combo Adventure with Desafio

Arenal Mambo Combo Adventure with Desafio

Costa Rican Cooking Class with Desafio

Costa Rican Cooking Class with Desafio

Rainforest Chocolate Tour with Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Rainforest Chocolate Tour with Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Proyecto Asis Tour & Volunteering

Proyecto Asis Tour & Volunteering

Gravity Falls – The Best of Arenal

Gravity Falls – The Best of Arenal

From: Over $100
Baldi Hot Springs with Meal

Baldi Hot Springs with Meal

3
From: $75 - $100
ATV La Pradera Adventure at Arenal

ATV La Pradera Adventure at Arenal

From: $75 - $100
Arenal Volcano & Tabacon Hot Springs Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Arenal Volcano & Tabacon Hot Springs Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Mistico Hanging Bridges Natural History Walk

Mistico Hanging Bridges Natural History Walk

From: Under $50
White Water Rafting Rio Balsa Arenal

White Water Rafting Rio Balsa Arenal

From: $50 - $75
Club Rio Adventure

Club Rio Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Tabacon Hot Springs

Tabacon Hot Springs

From: $75 - $100
Arenal Sky Trek & Tram Ultimate Zip Lines

Arenal Sky Trek & Tram Ultimate Zip Lines

From: $75 - $100
Arenal Sky Walk

Arenal Sky Walk

From: Under $50
Round Trip Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park

Round Trip Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park

3
From: Under $50
Fishing Tour at Lake Arenal

Fishing Tour at Lake Arenal

From: Over $100
Rain Forest River Float and Safari Peñas Blancas Arenal

Rain Forest River Float and Safari Peñas Blancas Arenal

From: $50 - $75
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