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La Fortuna Waterfall: A Costa Rican Gem

Experience the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall: a stunning natural wonder, refreshing swim, and vibrant rainforest adventure in Costa Rica.

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La Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning cascade plunging 75 meters into a vibrant blue pool, is a must-see natural attraction near the town of La Fortuna, Costa Rica. A short but moderately challenging hike down a staircase leads to the base of the falls, where visitors can swim in the refreshing waters and admire the surrounding rainforest.

A brief summary to Fortuna Waterfall

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and swimming, as the trail involves stairs and slippery rocks.
  • Bring a swimsuit and towel to enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Stay hydrated and bring drinking water, especially for the hike back up the stairs.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather conditions.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From downtown La Fortuna, a taxi ride to La Fortuna Waterfall costs approximately $10-$15 USD. The journey takes around 10 minutes. Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna. Negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running.

  • Driving

    If driving from La Fortuna, follow the signs for Catarata La Fortuna. The waterfall is about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) outside of town. The road is paved and in good condition. Free parking is available at the entrance. Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak season.

  • Shuttle

    Several shuttle companies, like EasyHop, offer transportation to La Fortuna Waterfall and other attractions in the Arenal area. Prices vary depending on the company and route. EasyHop offers a hop-on-hop-off service with prices starting at $5.

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Discover more about Fortuna Waterfall

Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, just outside the town of La Fortuna, the La Fortuna Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder. The waterfall plunges an impressive 75 meters (246 feet) into an inviting, bright blue pool below, creating a picture-perfect scene of Costa Rican beauty. The adventure begins with a walk through the rainforest, offering glimpses of toucans, monkeys, and other tropical wildlife. To reach the base of the waterfall, visitors descend a well-maintained trail with approximately 500 steps. The hike down takes around 10-15 minutes, while the ascent back up can take 20-30 minutes. Benches and rest stops are available along the way. At the base of the falls, the refreshing pool beckons swimmers. While swimming directly under the powerful cascade is not recommended due to strong currents, visitors can enjoy the cooler waters slightly downstream. The rocks around the river can be slippery, so caution is advised. The La Fortuna Waterfall is part of the Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall, a protected area spanning 210 acres. The reserve is home to a transition premontane tropical forest, boasting a rich biodiversity. In addition to the waterfall, the park features an orchid garden with 186 to 200 native species and a butterfly trail. The entrance fee contributes to the conservation and preservation of the Arenal National Park and supports the local community.

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