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La Fortuna Waterfall: A Costa Rican Treasure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, a natural wonder in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest.

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La Fortuna Waterfall is a majestic 246-foot waterfall located near the town of La Fortuna in Costa Rica. It's fed by the Fortuna River and plunges into a refreshing pool, offering visitors a chance to swim and experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica's Central Valley.

A brief summary to La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows

  • Diag. 301, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
  • +50670994932

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the trail to the base of the waterfall involves descending and ascending approximately 500 steps.
  • Bring a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the refreshing pool at the base of the waterfall, but be cautious of the strong currents.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (December to April).
  • Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the hike, and consider packing a light raincoat as unexpected rain can occur.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line and ensure a smoother entry, especially during busy periods.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From La Fortuna town center, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available. A taxi ride to La Fortuna Waterfall typically costs around $10-$15 USD and takes approximately 10 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Uber may be cheaper, but availability can vary.

  • Driving

    If driving from La Fortuna, follow well-maintained paved roads for about 3.7 miles (6 km). Use GPS navigation with 'La Fortuna Waterfall' as the destination. Free parking is available at the entrance. No 4x4 vehicle is required.

  • Walking

    For those staying in La Fortuna, walking to the waterfall is an option, though it's approximately 3.1 miles (5 km) and takes about an hour. Follow the main road out of town towards the waterfall. Be prepared for a moderately challenging walk, especially during hot weather. There is no public bus to the waterfall.

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Discover more about La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows

La Fortuna Waterfall, or Catarata La Fortuna, is one of Costa Rica's most spectacular and popular waterfalls, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. Situated just 3.4 miles (5.5 km) outside the town of La Fortuna, the waterfall is easily accessible and a must-see for those visiting the Arenal Volcano area. The waterfall dramatically plunges 246 feet (75 meters) into an emerald green pool at the base of a cliff, surrounded by lush rainforest. The water originates from the Fortuna River, adding to the allure of this natural wonder. Visitors can hike down a well-maintained trail of approximately 500 steps to reach the base of the falls, with the descent taking around 15-30 minutes. Along the way, there are several viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding jungle. At the base, you can swim in the cool, refreshing waters, though it's important to be mindful of the strong currents near the falls. The waterfall is managed by a local non-profit association, with entrance fees reinvested into local conservation efforts and infrastructure. Besides the waterfall itself, the area offers facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, a café, a souvenir shop, and garden trails. You can also explore a butterfly trail and an orchid garden included with the entrance ticket. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The entrance fee for foreigners is typically $18-$20 USD for adults and around $5 USD for children.

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