La Fortuna Waterfall: A Plunge into Costa Rican Paradise
Experience the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall: a natural wonder offering rainforest hikes, refreshing swims, and breathtaking views near Arenal Volcano.
La Fortuna Waterfall, a majestic cascade near the town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is a must-see natural wonder. Plunging approximately 230 feet (70 meters) into an emerald pool, the waterfall offers a refreshing escape into the heart of the rainforest. Managed by a local non-profit, the site contributes to community development and environmental protection.
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 or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring swimwear and water shoes to comfortably enjoy a swim in the waterfall's refreshing pool.
- Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike down approximately 500 steps to reach the waterfall base.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip potential lines, especially during peak season.
- Support local conservation by visiting, as entrance fees contribute to community and environmental projects.
Getting There
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Car
If driving from La Fortuna, follow Calle 470 for approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 km). The road is well-paved and leads directly to the waterfall entrance. Parking is free in the large lot. During busy times, an attendant will guide parking. Expect a 10-minute drive from downtown La Fortuna.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna. A taxi ride from downtown La Fortuna to the waterfall costs approximately $10 - $15 USD each way. The journey takes around 10 minutes. It's advisable to confirm the price with the driver before starting the trip.
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Walking
For those staying in La Fortuna, it is possible to hike to the falls. From downtown La Fortuna, follow the main roads towards the Arenal Volcano. Then take a right onto Calle 470. The walk is about 4.5 miles (7km) and will take over an hour. Be aware that portions of the walk may not have sidewalks.
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
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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
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Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
2.2 km
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Rainforest Chocolate Tour
2.3 km
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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
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Restaurante Hojarasca
2.1 km
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La Finquita from Farm to Table
2.7 km
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El Chante Verde
2.7 km
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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
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Rana Roja
3.0 km
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Sunny's Indian Restaurant
3.0 km
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Soda Monkey's Place
3.1 km
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Hunters & Gatherers Costa Rica
3.2 km
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Restaurant Garra Pata
3.2 km
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Restaurant El Perezoso
3.3 km
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Casa Fortuna, Restaurante Familiar.
3.4 km
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Restaurant Pura Vida
3.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Neptune's House of Hammocks
1.1 km
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Manus cr tienda online
1.6 km
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Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
1.7 km
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Howler Monkey Store
2.4 km
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Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
2.9 km
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Red Frog Coffee Roasters
2.9 km
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Original Grand Gallery
2.9 km
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Souvenir store
3.1 km
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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
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Cristian Supermarket 1
3.8 km
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Everything Adventures
3.8 km
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Sarahlu boutique
3.8 km
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Malibú Clothes
3.9 km
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Cianikal
3.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
2.9 km
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Cha
3.4 km
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Tamarindo Chill
3.4 km
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Bar Patrón Costa Rica
3.5 km
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Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar
3.6 km
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La Fortuna Pub
3.7 km
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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
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Sander’s Bar & Restaurante
4.0 km
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Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
4.0 km
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The Pool Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
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Wine O’clock
4.1 km
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Don Rufino
4.1 km
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Nanku Restaurant - Tropical Bar and Grill
4.2 km
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BEERLAND CR
4.2 km
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