Best Things to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica for Every Budget

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Costa Rica lies the picturesque town of La Fortuna. The best things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica are full of adventure, nature and luxury. Surrounded by a towering volcano, verdant rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, this charming destination offers an array of experiences that cater to every budget and preference.

Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon or traveling with kids, Costa Rica has something for every type of traveler. It is certainly a bucket list travel destination.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore La Fortuna. Starting with where to stay and the best things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica categorized into three distinct categories: Free, Cheap, and Expensive.

a photo of arenal volcano in the distance surrounded by Costa Rican jungle. The photo was taken from La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Provides a free breakfast buffet, onsite spa and two onsite restaurants to enjoy. 15 outdoor pools and 10 indoor pools with a waterslide, sun loungers and swim up bar. Plus hot springs on site!

Check price and availability of Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa here!

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa

Luxurious family friendly resort near Tabacon Hot Springs. Located near some of the best things to do in La Fortuna like Go Adventure Park and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Spa, gym, restaurants, outdoor pool, children’s pool with a waterslide and hot springs on site. Plus airport shuttle and babysitting available for a fee.

Check price and availability of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa here!

Looking down one of the hanging bridges that hangs way above the jungle floor at Mistico arenal hanging bridges in La fortuna costa rica
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

Hotel Palmera Real Hot Springs

Budget friendly comfortable hotel with 6 outdoor pools and spa services.

Check price and availability for Hotel Palmera Real Hot Springs here!

Arenal History Inn

Comfortable hotel located close to Costa Rica Choclate Tour and Ecotermales Fortuna. Includes free cooked-to-order breakfast. Has a seasonal outdoor pool and children’s pool. Airport shuttle for a fee!

Check price and availability for Arenal History Inn here!

A drone shot over La Fortuna Costa Rica with Arenal Volcano clear on a partly cloudy day
La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Free Things to Do in La Fortuna

El Salto Rope Swing

For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, El Salto Rope Swing is one of the best things to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica. Tucked away in the heart of the rainforest, this hidden gem offers an exhilarating experience as you swing over the pristine waters of a natural pool.

Feel the rush of wind against your face as you take the plunge into the refreshing depths below. It’s the perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts looking to add a touch of excitement to their La Fortuna itinerary.

Zach dropping from a rope swing into a green river with small waterfall in La Fortuna
Free and fun rope swing in La Fortuna

Natural Hot Springs

Located just a short drive from the town center, these geothermal wonders offer a blissful retreat for tired travelers. Slip into the warm, mineral-rich waters and soak in nature’s healing embrace. This unique experience will have you relaxing in the warm river for hours.

Although this is a free experience, a local worker will ask you to pay for parking. We offered them $2USD and they accepted.

Zach and Indie sitting in the Tabacon River near La Fortuna Costa Rica in the natural hot springs
Sitting in the natural hot spring

Free Sloth Trail near Corredor Biológico Río Danta

Embark on a journey through the enchanting rainforest and discover the wonders of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity. The Sloth Trail near Corredor Biológico Río Danta offers a unique opportunity to spot these elusive creatures in their natural habitat without a guide and for free.

They are very hard to spot as they hardly ever move. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths lounging in the treetops, camouflaged against the lush foliage. It’s a memorable experience that allows you to connect with nature and marvel at its wonders, all without spending a dime.

A sloth hanging in a tree in La Fortuna Costa Rica! One of the best things you can do in La Fortuna is look for wildlife.
Sloth spotting!

Salon las Espuelas Farmers Market on Fridays

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of La Fortuna by exploring the bustling stalls of Salon las Espuelas Farmers Market. Held every Friday, this lively market offers a treasure trove of local produce, artisan crafts, and delicious street food.

Sample exotic fruits, savor traditional delicacies, and browse handmade souvenirs crafted by talented artisans. It is definitely one of the best things to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica and a completely free experience. 

A photo of one of the fresh produce stands at the Farmers Market in La Fortuna Costa Rica
Fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market

Cheap Things to Do in La Fortuna

Poás National Park

Embark on a scenic journey to Poás National Park and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of its namesake volcano. Witness the otherworldly landscape of steaming fumaroles and azure crater lakes, created by centuries of volcanic activity. Hike through lush cloud forests teeming with exotic wildlife, and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

With affordable entry fees ($15/person), it’s a budget-friendly excursion that offers a glimpse into the geological wonders of Costa Rica. Make sure to purchase your ticket ahead of time. 

Standing at the lookout over the volcano with bright blue water in it at paos national park near la fortuna
Paos National Park

Arenal National Park

Discover the raw natural beauty of Arenal National Park, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano. Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the park’s network of trails, which wind through dense rainforests and volcanic landscapes.

Marvel at cascading waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and panoramic vistas that showcase the awe-inspiring power of Mother Nature. With affordable entrance fees, it’s one of the best things to do in La Fortuna Costa Rica for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Purchase your ticket ahead of time here!

Try riding an ATV through the rainforest or kayaking on Arenal Lake for an unforgettable experience. 

A photo of Arenal Volcano at sunset
Arenal Volcano National Park

Tenorio National Park

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Tenorio National Park and explore its pristine wilderness. Hike through dense rainforests and across suspension bridges, keeping an eye out for exotic wildlife and colorful bird species.

Arrive at the park’s crown jewel, the enchanting Rio Celeste waterfall, where vibrant turquoise waters cascade into a natural pool below. It’s a magical sight that promises to leave you spellbound, all at a fraction of the cost of other tourist attractions. Once again, tickets ahead of time are a must or book a full day tour right from La Fortuna!

Posing for a family photo in front of Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio National Park near La Fortuna Costa Rica
Tenorio National Park – Rio Celeste Waterfall

La Fortuna Waterfall

Prepare to be awestruck by the majestic beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural wonders. Embark on a scenic hike through lush rainforests, following the trail that leads to this breathtaking cascade.

As you approach the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation for the awe-inspiring sight that awaits. Take a refreshing dip in the crystalline pool below, or simply bask in the beauty of your surroundings. A small entry fee will get you there.

La Fortuna waterfall which is a tall waterfall that lands into a large swimming hole for people to enjoy
La Fortuna Waterfall

Hot Springs Day Pass

Enjoy a day at a budget friendly hot springs resort. Two options we experienced and found very enjoyable for a reasonable price were Termalitas del Arenal Hot Springs and Termales Los Laureles Hot Springs

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at Termalitas del Arenal Hot Springs. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters as you’re surrounded by the lush rainforest. With affordable day passes, it’s the perfect way to pamper yourself without breaking the bank.

Termales Los Laureles Hot Springs is another wonderful and affordable hot spring to try in La Fortuna Costa Rica. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, these thermal pools offer a serene oasis where you can unwind and recharge.

Our daughter wrapped in a towel looking at the sunset over Arenal Volcano after playing in the hot springs La Fortuna is known for
Quite the view for drying off after playing in the hot springs

Luxurious Things to Do in La Fortuna

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

Embark on a thrilling adventure amidst the treetops of the rainforest with a visit to Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges. Suspended high above the forest floor, these sturdy bridges offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to spot exotic wildlife from a unique vantage point. Seeing monkeys was the highlight for us.

Traverse a network of hanging bridges and winding trails, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests. Guided tours are also offered, which will help you spot all the amazing rainforest wildlife. 

Walking across one of the hanging bridges at Mistico Hanging Bridge Park in La Fortuna Costa Rica. We are surrounded by jungle and in the distance you can even see Arenal Volcano
Walking across one of the hanging bridges

Coffee and Chocolate Tour

Delve into the rich flavors and aromas of Costa Rica’s world-renowned coffee and chocolate with a guided tour of a local plantation. Learn about the cultivation and production processes behind these beloved delicacies, from bean to cup.

Sample freshly brewed coffee and decadent chocolates, savoring each delicious morsel as you gain insight into the cultural significance of these beloved treats. A coffee and chocolate guided tour is one of the best things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

The ingredients lined up on a table to make our own chocolate bar at the coffee and chocolate tour in La Fortuna Costa Rica. Such a fun thing to do on your trip
Ready to make our own chocolate bar

Tabacon Hot Springs

Experience the epitome of luxury and relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, a world-renowned wellness retreat nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Immerse yourself in a series of cascading thermal pools, each one meticulously designed to offer a unique sensory experience.

Indulge in a variety of spa treatments and wellness therapies, from invigorating massages to rejuvenating facials, designed to pamper your body and nourish your soul. If you choose not to stay at Tabacon Hot Springs, you can purchase a Tabacon Hot Springs day pass to experience the luxury for one day. 

A monkey sitting in a tree in the jungle near La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Monkey spotting!

Baldi Hot Springs

Experience pure bliss and luxury at Baldi Hot Springs, a lavish thermal resort nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of La Fortuna. Immerse yourself in a series of cascading pools, each one filled with natural mineral water sourced from the depths of the earth.

With its opulent amenities, including swim-up bars, water slides, and lush gardens, Baldi Hot Springs offers an unforgettable experience of indulgence and relaxation. Similar to above, even if you choose not to stay at Baldi Hot Springs you can purchase a day pass to experience this luxury resort for one day.

A toucan sitting in a tree in Costa Rica
Toucan

Have Fun Exploring La Fortuna, Costa Rica

In conclusion, La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is a destination that caters to every traveler, regardless of budget or preference.

From free activities like exploring natural wonders and spotting wildlife to affordable adventures such as hiking through national parks and soaking in hot springs, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy. For those seeking a touch of luxury, indulgent experiences like hanging bridge tours, coffee and chocolate tastings, and lavish hot spring resorts await.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, La Fortuna promises to enchant and delight at every turn. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the magic of this tropical paradise for yourself.

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