Three Days in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: What to See & Where to Go

The mighty Arenal Volcano

What to do with three days in La Fortuna? Easy. Hikes, relaxation, and adrenaline. 

In the northern lowlands of Costa Rica’s Alajuela Province, La Fortuna is a small town with a big reputation. And an even bigger volcano!

With so many activities centred in one place, it can be overwhelming narrowing down your choices.

The team at Cecropia Travel have created a 3-day guide for you to fully experience La Fortuna. 

From night and volcano hikes, to white water rafting and hot springs, these are our suggestions of things to see and do in La Fortuna.
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Read on to discover more. 

Day 1: Welcome to La Fortuna

​First and foremost, let’s get you checked into your hotel.

At Cecropia Travel, we have some amazing accommodation partners - from budget-friendly ecolodges to luxury boutique hotels. The choice is yours, we’re here to make your trip as seamless as possible. 

Now, you’ve checked-in. You’ve explored the grounds. Maybe you grabbed a local pilsen at the on-site bar (you deserve it). What now?

We’d suggest actually exploring downtown La Fortuna. 

Exploring La Fortuna

Casados are traditional dishes found in sodas across Costa Rica

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The town is centred around a lovely park: a social hub, and a place for Ticos, and tourists alike, to hang out. There’s a church and well-kept gardens. Perhaps even a sloth or two in the surrounding almond trees. 

On a clear day, you can see the mighty Arenal Volcano looming over. 

The surrounding streets, or calles if you’re feeling a little Spanish, host a variety of restaurants, bars, sodas, hostels, supermarkets, tourist information points, and souvenir shops. 

An insider tip - we tend to avoid eating at the restaurants in La Fortuna. 

Yes, they can be on the pricier side. But that’s not the main reason: we prefer to support local sodas. 

In these family-run restaurants, you’ll get good quality typical food for a fraction of the price. The team at Cecropia Travel will be glad to give you some recommendations. Or learn more in our Sodas of La Fortuna article. 

Despite its newfound popularity and social media success, La Fortuna still remains a Costa Rican town. It absolutely caterers towards tourists, but you’ll also see local Ticos going about their daily life.

Okay, you’ve seen the shops. You’ve had some food. You’ve bought a souvenir or two. Now what?

We think it’s time for a guided night hike. 

Night Hikes in La Fortuna

A hanging bridge stretching into the night makes for a great night tour

​There is no shortage of options for guided night tours in La Fortuna. 

But which one to choose?

That, in part, depends on the hotel you’re staying at. 

Some, such as Arenal Oasis, offer naturalist-led, on-site night tours specalising on a specific animal group, such as amphibians. . 

However, if you’re after a truly unique experience, Mistico Hanging Bridges offer guided night tours. Step onto a suspended bridge, with the rainforest stretching out below you.

Yes, La Fortuna’s rainforest is filled with life during the day. But once the sun sinks beyond the treetops, a hidden world comes alive.

Every step along this tour brings something new: rustling leaves in the trees ahead, nocturnal animals crossing in front of you, or glowing plants hiding in plain sight. 

Red-eyed tree frogs croak away noisily in search of a mate. Snakes, guided by the sounds of frog love-making, are on the hunt. A night hike in La Fortuna is a magical experience, and one not to be missed

Satisfied with the events of the night, it’s back to your hotel for a sound night sleep. 

At Cecropia Travel, our trusted guide and driver will take you to and from each location, so you won’t need to worry about logistics. 

Day 2: Exploring the highlights of La Fortuna

​Wake up to the most incredible view of Arenal Volcano. 

Open the curtains and see the magnificent volcano staring right back at you 

The team at Cecropia Travel visits La Fortuna on a regular basis, and every time we are left in awe of the breathtaking views. Or were we just looking in the mirror? 

Today is your first full day in La Fortuna. So what’s on the agenda?

Well, it seems only right that you get to know the area more. Like, really know the area. 

After breakfast, we suggest heading to La Fortuna Waterfall. 

La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall is 70 metres high!

​La Fortuna Waterfall is a tourist hotspot.

And whilst we try to avoid hotspots as much as possible, it’s a hotspot for a reason. 

The La Fortuna Waterfall is located in a biological reserve, covering approximately 210 acres of premontane tropical wet forest, and part of the Arenal Volcano National Park. 

To escape the crowds, earlier is better. We’re not morning people, but it is definitely worth arriving at 07:00 to truly appreciate the beauty of the waterfalls without the mass of tourists.

But you might want to do some stretches first. To get there, you’ll have to descend over 500 steps. And when you go down, you have to come back up. 
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But at least you can swim in the refreshing pools at the bottom. 

Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you view it), the trail is mostly cement and easily accessible. Depending on your physical fitness, it should take no more than 30 minutes to reach the falls - returning, however, is another matter. 

Waterfall completed. It’s only 10am. What next?

A quick coffee, then it’s onto the volcano itself. 

Hiking Arenal Volcano

You can walk on the old lava flows of the original Arenal Volcano eruptions

​First, it’s important to note that it’s actually illegal to hike to the summit of Arenal Volcano. 

However, there are designated trails that will take you on the old lava flows at the base of the volcano. 

There are a few options of where to go. 

We like to suggest Arenal 1968 Trails.

Not only are they committed to sustainability and preserving the environment, we like that the trail is a loop, passing through a variety of different ecosystems.

Your trusted Cecropia Travel guide will be able to tell you the history of the 1968 eruption as you hike. You’ll cross the old lava flow, where you can observe firsthand the effects of volcanic activity, and see a wide range of species that flourish in the region. 

Along the way, there are some incredible vantage points - offering views of both Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. 

Finish the hike by grabbing a refreshing drink overlooking the imposing volcano. 

Another option in the Arenal Volcano Ecological Park. 

This is another great hike that takes you to another section of the lava field. However, unlike the 1968 trails, this is not a loop hike. It's a simple case of there and back. 

But at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park, it’s not just about the hike. There’s also a lake where you can kayak. 

This is a fantastic experience, and an opportunity to get up close and personal with a range of native species. 

On our last trip, we were fortunate enough to see a family of neotropical otters, which surfaced close to our kayaks. 

Hiking out the way, I’m sure you’ve built up an appetite for some lunch now. Maybe treat yourself to an indulging spa treatment or massage. Or simply spend the afternoon exploring the on-site trails of your hotel.

Later, you’re in for a treat. 

La Fortuna Hot Springs

Beautiful and peaceful, Tabacon hot springs will leave you feeling rejuvenated

​With a day of walking up and down steps and hiking across volcanos, your legs might be screaming for a well-deserved rest. 

And we’ve got just the solution: a trip to La Fortuna’s famous hot springs.

Hot springs in La Fortuna are natural thermal pools, heated by the geothermal activity of the nearby Arenal Volcano. 

The pools are naturally rich in minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, giving therapeutic and relaxing properties. 

Throughout the region, there are 14 commercial hot springs, as well as various pools used in private hotels. These pools range in temperature from 22-40℃. 

People are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing which hot spring to go to. We’re here to make that choice easier for you. 

We have two favourites near the main town of La Fortuna: Tabacón and Ecotermales. 

Tabacón is more than just hot springs. It’s a geothermal river flowing directly from Arenal Volcano. On site, there are 23 natural hot springs, pools, and cascading waterfalls, all found within stunning tropical rainforest gardens. 

It sounds like a sales pitch, but we receive zero commission. It truly is one of the best hot springs we’ve visited. And the site is vast. 

Each pool varies in qualities. Some are hot, deep, and secluded. Others are cooler and more open. We stayed until 10pm, surrounded by nature and steam.

Ecotermales, on the other hand, is small. But surely size isn’t everything…

Despite not being as spread out as Tabacón , there are some things we love about Ecotermales.

Firstly, you have to reserve a time slot in advance. This limits the amount of people who can be there at any one time. This creates a more intimate experience.

Secondly, Ecotermales feels natural. All around, primary rainforest looms. Howler monkeys swing in the trees above, whilst crested guans hop from branch to branch. 

The floor of the pools are a mixture of gravel and sand, adding to the natural fantasy. 

In either hot spring, you can spend all evening lounging from pool to pool. Grab a drink and lose yourself to the symphony of nature. This is guaranteed bliss. 

This relaxation is to prepare you for your day ahead tomorrow. 

Day 3: Adrenaline Adventures in La Fortuna ​

White water rafting is a family-friendly adrenaline activity to enjoy in La Fortuna

​Sightseeing out of the way, let’s get into some adrenaline adventures.

Again, you’re spoilt for choice. 

However, one of our favourite activities in La Fortuna is white water rafting. 

Okay, so this isn’t quite in La Fortuna, but it still counts. 

We use a brilliant partner, who will pick you up and take you to either Balsa River or Sarapiqui River - some of the best rivers in Costa Rica for white water rafting.

Throughout the trip, you’ll experience a series of rapids from class II to class IV.

This isn’t just another generic tour. This is a true adventure guided by people who genuinely love what they do - like the team at Cecropia Travel! 

We were blown away by the knowledge, and expertise, of the guides - people who have grown up on these waters. 

Depending on the class you choose, your adventure could be pure adrenaline, or more wildlife-focused. 

As you raft down, expect to see an array of arboreal species - such as monkeys and toucans - as well as basking caimans or hunting wading birds. 

After the adventure, enjoy some lunch, before continuing your Costa Rica journey with Cecropia Travel’s guide and driver. Where will your next destination be?

Hotels in La Fortuna: Where to stay?

A room with a view. Tabacon Hotel overlooks the mighty Arenal Volcano

​La Fortuna is home to many, MANY hotels and accommodations - from small AirB&B rentals to large resorts.

Choosing where to stay can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’re here to help.

At Cecropia Travel, we partner with hotels and ecolodges that have sustainability embedded in their ethos. You can read all about our favourite ecolodges in Costa Rica. 

These ecolodges range from budget-friendly cabins to ultra-luxurious ecolodges.

Take Arenal Oasis, for example. 

Yes, it’s an ecolodge that caters to more budget-friendly travellers. However, sitting amongst its own private reserve, it is perfect for nature lovers. On our last visit, we saw olingos in the trees and an armadillo right outside our door. 

To the other end of the spectrum, you have the ultra-luxury accommodation. Hotels such as Nayara Springs and Tabacon offer truly exceptional experiences for those willing to splash the cash.  

Despite their luxury value, and price tag, sustainability and the environment still takes precedent to the overall runnings of these hotels. 

In the mid budget range, you have places such as Arenal Lodge.

I recently returned from a stay here and, quite honestly, I was blown away. The hotel itself may be considered on the outdated side, but the views and serenity were absolutely worth it. In fact, I’d go as far to say Arenal Lodge boasts the best view in all of La Fortuna. 

Other Activities in La Fortuna ​

Kayaking is a great way to spot aquatic and semi-aquatic species in the area - such as otters, caimans, herons, and turtles

​In the grand scheme of things, 3 days just simply aren't enough in La Fortuna. It’s an introduction. A teaser. 

You could spend your entire holiday here - 5 days, 7 days, even 10 days - and still not get bored. 

Exploring Venado Caves, mountain biking around Lake Arenal, kayaking lagoons, ATV tours, horseback riding, chocolate tours, bird watching, rescue centres. Truly, the list is near endless.

If, like us, you’re into conservation, there’s a fantastic bat project nearby. Night Wings Project is a local initiative that promotes scientific research and the conservation of bat species in the area. 

Or, for a more natural experience, visit Ecocentro Danaus - a biological reserve located just outside La Fortuna that focuses heavily on environmental education and conservation. Book an evening guided night tour with expert naturalists where you’ll learn about the species of the area. 

Or, you could do a day trip to the nearby Rio Celeste and visit a reserve for tapir conservation. 

But that’s a topic for another day. 

Final Thoughts ​

​La Fortuna should be a must-see destination on any Costa Rica holiday. 

But the sheer number of things to do here can be overwhelming. 

At Cecropia Travel, we suggest including a broad range of activities - from hikes to relaxation. We also like to throw a bit of adrenaline and adventure into the mix. 

Book a free travel consultation with our Costa Rica travel experts, and we can organise a travel itinerary for your time in Costa Rica. 

How will you be spending your time in La Fortuna?