El Salto Rope Swing: La Fortuna's Free Thrill
Experience the thrill of a Tarzan rope swing and refreshing natural pools at this free and popular swimming hole near La Fortuna.
El Salto is a popular, free swimming spot near La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where visitors can swing from a rope into the Río Fortuna's cool, turquoise waters. It's a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a refreshing and adventurous experience.
A brief summary to El Salto (Rope Swing)
- F954+5QQ, Río Fortuna, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather and clearest water.
- Arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Wear water shoes to protect your feet on the slippery rocks.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, as there are no secure storage facilities.
- Check the weather forecast and be aware of potential flash floods, especially during the rainy season.
Getting There
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Walking
From La Fortuna town center, head south on Route 702 towards La Fortuna Waterfall. El Salto is approximately 1.8 km (1 mile) from the center, a walk of about 25 minutes. Continue past the intersection with Calle Diag 301. You'll find El Salto just before the bridge over the Río Fortuna. A steep, muddy path on the left leads down to the rope swing. Be cautious as the path can be slippery.
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Taxi
A taxi from La Fortuna to El Salto typically costs between 2,500 CRC and 3,500 CRC ($4-$6 USD). The driver will drop you off near the bridge on Route 702. Carefully climb down the rocky terrain on the east side of the road (opposite the Arenal Volcano view) to reach the swimming hole.
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Public Transport
Take the local bus from La Fortuna to Río Fortuna. The bus departs from the main bus terminal in La Fortuna. The cost is approximately 500-1000 CRC. Once in Río Fortuna, walk towards the main road and follow signs for El Salto, about a 15-20 minute walk from the bus stop.
Discover more about El Salto (Rope Swing)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parqueo Poza El Salto
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Experience the thrill of a natural rope swing and refreshing waters at this free swimming hole near La Fortuna.
Tiquicia Restaurant
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Arenal volcano guide hostel
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La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows
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Costa rica
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Wildlife Tours Costa Rica
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Costa Rica Insider
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Soda la Hormiga
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El Río
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ADIFORT Shopping Center
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Red Lava TSC
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Caribbean Winds Costa Rica - Tours & Activities in Arenal Volcano
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Rain Forest
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Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
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Voodoo Mixology
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Unmissable attractions to see
El Salto - Río Fortuna
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Desafio Adventure Centre
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Horseback Riding Costa Rica
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Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura
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Rafting Costa Rica
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Alberto's Horses
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Arenal Volcano Rain forest Reserve Hostel ; Apartments and private villa
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Arenal Safari - Kayak tours La Fortuna
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Rainforest Chocolate Tour
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VOLCAN ARENAL
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IGLESIA CATÓLICA LA FORTUNA.
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Green Vacations Costa Rica
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Arenal Canopy
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Area 360 canyoning arenal, Rappelling Waterfall Near Arenal
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Costa Rica Descents Adventure Company
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Essential places to dine
Hunters & Gatherers Costa Rica
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El Chante Verde
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La Finquita from Farm to Table
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HARMONY FOOD RESTAURANT
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Restaurante Café Mediterráneo
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Bamboo Gardens Restaurant
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Restaurante Las Palmas
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Soda Víquez
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Jungle Bowls
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Restaurante The Green Spoon
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Tierra Mia Restaurante
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La Parrilla de María Bonita
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Chipotle's Tex-Mex
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Restaurante La Parada
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Howler Monkey Store
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Arenal Souvenirs
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Súper Rosvil La Fortuna
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Romero´s Boutique
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Sarahlu boutique
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Everything Adventures
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Cristian Supermarket 1
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PEREZOSO STORE
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Mega Súper • La Fortuna
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Bisutería Bariloche
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Premium Boutique American
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Lava Collective Travel Gifts shop
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the Burio Mall
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Rincón Arenal
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Suveni Lavas
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pool Bar & Restaurant
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Sander’s Bar & Restaurante
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Cha
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Wine O’clock
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Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
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Tropical Lounge Bar
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Bar Patrón Costa Rica
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La Fortuna Pub
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Tamarindo Chill
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BEERLAND CR
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BEERLAND
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Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar
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Mondragon
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Red Frog Coffee Roasters
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