La Fortuna Waterfall: A Costa Rican Gem
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a natural wonder nestled in lush rainforest near Arenal Volcano.
La Fortuna Waterfall, or Catarata Fortuna, is a stunning 70-75 meter waterfall near the town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Fed by the Arenal River, it plunges into an emerald pool at the base of the dormant Chato Volcano, offering a refreshing swim after a brisk hike.
A brief summary to Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
- C8VM+236, Calle 470, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
- +50624799515
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially slippery steps.
- Bring your swimsuit and a towel to enjoy a refreshing dip in the waterfall's pool.
- Stay hydrated by bringing water, especially for the climb back up the stairs.
- Consider visiting El Salto, a free swimming hole on the Fortuna River, for a local alternative.
Getting There
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Taxi
From downtown La Fortuna, a taxi to La Fortuna Waterfall costs around $10 USD. Negotiate with the driver, and consider arranging for them to wait while you visit the falls. The ride is approximately 10 minutes.
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Driving
Driving from La Fortuna is straightforward. The waterfall is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) outside of town. Follow well-maintained paved roads; a 4x4 is not required. Use Google Maps or Waze to navigate to 'La Fortuna Waterfall'. Parking is free at the entrance.
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Walking
While possible, walking from La Fortuna is not recommended due to the distance. There is no public bus service to the waterfall. If you're up for a hike, be prepared for a roughly 1-hour walk each way on roads primarily used by vehicles.
Discover more about Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Soda Tita Rosa
2.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Tita Rosa in La Fortuna. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors await!
La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, a natural wonder in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest.
La Cava
2.9 km
Savor artisanal pizzas, grilled specialties, and Costa Rican flavors at La Cava, a San Carlos culinary destination near Arenal Volcano.
Soda Las Flores
2.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos. Enjoy traditional flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Marisquería Delcarajo
3.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Marisquería Delcarajo in La Fortuna, a local favorite for a vibrant culinary experience.
Arenal History Inn
3.0 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
El Coloso Arenal
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Coloso Arenal, a local favorite in La Fortuna with a warm atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.
Mirador el Nido del Arenal
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors with breathtaking views at Mirador el Nido del Arenal, a culinary gem in Alajuela.
Parqueo Poza El Salto
3.2 km
Experience the thrill of a natural rope swing and refreshing waters at this free swimming hole near La Fortuna.
Yellow Bark
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Yellow Bark in La Fortuna, where fresh, local ingredients meet innovative flavors in a tropical setting.
Tiquicia Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Tiquicia Restaurant in San Carlos. A family-run gem serving traditional flavors.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
3.5 km
Experience La Fortuna's vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Bar & Cocktails, where unique mixology meets a bewitching Costa Rican atmosphere.
Mercadito Arenal
3.5 km
A vibrant food court in La Fortuna offering diverse cuisines from sushi to pizza, perfect for families and food enthusiasts.
Arenal Secret Garden
3.6 km
Discover a tranquil oasis in La Fortuna with stunning Arenal Volcano views, lush gardens, and easy access to adventure.
India Curry House
3.7 km
Authentic Indian, Nepalese & Pakistani cuisine in La Fortuna. Customizable spice levels, vegan options, and warm hospitality await!
Unmissable attractions to see
Fortuna Waterfall
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Restaurante Rio Lounge
0.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica in a stunning setting at Restaurante Rio Lounge, La Fortuna's premier dining destination.
Chato Volcano Trailhead
0.6 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Chato Volcano Trailhead, a must-visit hiking area in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cataratas Escondidas
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cataratas Escondidas in San Ramón, Alajuela - a hidden waterfall paradise rich in natural beauty and adventure.
Wood & Art Gallery
1.2 km
Explore unique handcrafted art and sculptures at Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where creativity meets the beauty of nature.
Papa's Place
1.2 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Papa's Place, a premier bird watching, hiking, and farmstay destination in Alajuela Province.
Arenal River Tubing & Hiking
1.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's best river tubing and hiking adventure near Arenal Volcano. Explore rainforests and ride the rapids!
Ecoterra Costa Rica - Tours & Transfers
2.0 km
Explore La Fortuna with Ecoterra Costa Rica—your ultimate travel agency for eco-friendly tours and unforgettable adventures in paradise.
Green Vacations Costa Rica
2.1 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica with Green Vacations, your eco-friendly tour agency in La Fortuna, offering unforgettable nature experiences.
Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
2.2 km
Explore the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge, your gateway to nature and adventure.
Rainforest Chocolate Tour
2.3 km
Experience the magic of chocolate in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest with the Rainforest Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna, a must-visit for all tourists.
North Fields Coffee Tour
2.5 km
Explore the North Fields Coffee Tour in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, and immerse yourself in the rich world of coffee cultivation and tastings.
Chato Volcano
2.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Chato Volcano, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush landscapes in the heart of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
La Fortuna Wellness
2.9 km
Experience holistic rejuvenation and serenity at La Fortuna Wellness, a premier yoga retreat center in Costa Rica's lush Alajuela Province.
Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura
3.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura, a premier ecological park in Costa Rica's Arenal region.
Essential places to dine
Yellow Tree Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Restaurante Hojarasca
2.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
La Finquita from Farm to Table
2.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Finquita, where every meal is a celebration of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
El Chante Verde
2.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante Verde in La Fortuna - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.
SODA El Turnito
2.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
La Tipica
2.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Tipica in La Fortuna – a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking local cuisine.
SAFFRON INDIAN FOOD BAR AND GRILL
2.9 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Saffron Indian Food Bar and Grill in San Carlos—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Rana Roja
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Rana Roja - where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in La Fortuna.
Sunny's Indian Restaurant
3.0 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Sunny's Indian Restaurant in La Fortuna – a culinary gem amidst Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Soda Monkey's Place
3.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Monkey's Place in La Fortuna, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hunters & Gatherers Costa Rica
3.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Hunters & Gatherers, where farm-fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity in La Fortuna.
Restaurant Garra Pata
3.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurant Garra Pata in La Fortuna - a must-visit for food lovers exploring beautiful landscapes.
Restaurant El Perezoso
3.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurant El Perezoso in La Fortuna - where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Casa Fortuna, Restaurante Familiar.
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Casa Fortuna in La Fortuna - where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Restaurant Pura Vida
3.5 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of Chinese cuisine and Costa Rican flavors at Restaurant Pura Vida in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Neptune's House of Hammocks
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted hammocks at Neptune's House of Hammocks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and take home a piece of paradise.
Manus cr tienda online
1.6 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
1.7 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Howler Monkey Store
2.4 km
Explore La Fortuna's Howler Monkey Store for unique custom t-shirts and stylish fashion accessories celebrating Costa Rican culture.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
2.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Arte Natura Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
2.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Red Frog Coffee Roasters, a charming espresso bar in La Fortuna, perfect for every coffee lover.
Original Grand Gallery
2.9 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Souvenir store
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Súper Rosvil La Fortuna
3.7 km
Experience the convenience of Súper Rosvil La Fortuna, your one-stop supermarket for groceries and local products in the heart of Costa Rica's adventure capital.
Centro Comercial La Fortuna
3.8 km
Discover the lively Centro Comercial La Fortuna, a premier shopping destination in La Fortuna with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Cristian Supermarket 1
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant offerings of Cristian Supermarket in La Fortuna, where local culture meets convenience for tourists seeking a true taste of Costa Rica.
Everything Adventures
3.8 km
Discover Everything Adventures in La Fortuna for top-notch camping gear and unforgettable outdoor experiences in Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Sarahlu boutique
3.8 km
Explore Sarahlu Boutique in La Fortuna for unique women's clothing that reflects Costa Rican culture and craftsmanship.
Malibú Clothes
3.9 km
Explore vintage fashion in La Fortuna at Malibú Clothes, where each piece tells a unique story amid Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Cianikal
3.9 km
Explore unique Costa Rican handicrafts and support local artisans at Cianikal, the vibrant art studio in La Fortuna.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
2.9 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Cha
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cha, La Fortuna's beloved bar, perfect for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Tamarindo Chill
3.4 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
3.5 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar in La Fortuna, where vibrant cuisine meets stunning views.
La Fortuna Pub
3.7 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Tropical Lounge Bar
3.9 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Tropical Lounge Bar, a vibrant grill bar in La Fortuna offering delicious food and refreshing tropical drinks.
Restaurante Relax
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Sander’s Bar & Restaurante
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sander's Bar & Restaurante in La Fortuna, a must-visit for every traveler.
Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
4.0 km
Experience vibrant dining and stunning views of Arenal Volcano at Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar, La Fortuna's culinary gem.
The Pool Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere of The Pool Bar & Restaurant, a top destination for food and drinks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Wine O’clock
4.1 km
Experience a delightful evening at Wine O’clock, La Fortuna’s premier wine bar offering a curated selection of global wines in a charming setting.
Don Rufino
4.1 km
Experience the flavors of Latin America at Don Rufino, La Fortuna's premier fine dining restaurant offering exquisite culinary creations.
Nanku Restaurant - Tropical Bar and Grill
4.2 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Nanku Restaurant - a tropical bar and grill with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
BEERLAND CR
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beers at Beerland CR, a premier gastropub in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
