La Fortuna: Costa Rica’s adventure capital
Tucked into the northern lowlands of Costa Rica at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna de San Carlos packs more adventure per square mile than almost anywhere in Central America. Waterfalls, volcanic hot springs, world-class rafting, jungle hikes, and incredible wildlife — all within a compact area that’s easy to explore.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to decompress in thermal waters surrounded by tropical rainforest, La Fortuna delivers.
Top experiences in and around La Fortuna
1. Soak in natural hot springs
The area’s volcanic geology means one thing: incredible natural hot springs. Underground rivers heated by geothermal activity emerge at the surface loaded with therapeutic minerals.
El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa is one of the few properties where natural hot and cold rivers actually flow through the grounds. Their thermal pools are fed by these volcanic sources — you’re soaking in water that was heated miles underground, not by a boiler. The 100-acre rainforest property means you’re surrounded by jungle while you soak.
2. Hike the Arenal Volcano trails
The Arenal Volcano National Park offers well-maintained trails through hardened lava flows from past eruptions. The main trail takes 2-3 hours and rewards you with panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. Best visited early morning for clear skies and active wildlife.
Entry fee: ~$15 USD | Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM
3. Chase waterfalls
La Fortuna Waterfall is the showstopper — a 230-foot cascade plunging into an emerald pool. The 500-step descent is worth every one. Less crowded alternatives include the Blue Falls of Costa Rica (with their surreal turquoise color) and several hidden falls accessible through guided jungle tours.
4. Get a spa treatment in the rainforest
After a day of adventure, recovery is essential. The Selva Spa at El Tucano Resort offers therapeutic massages, facials, body treatments, and thermal jacuzzi — all surrounded by the sights and sounds of the tropical forest. It’s not a sterile spa in a strip mall; it’s wellness immersed in nature.
5. White water rafting
The rivers around La Fortuna offer some of the best rafting in the Americas:
- Río Pacuare: Consistently rated among the world’s top 10 rafting rivers. Class III-IV rapids through pristine jungle canyons.
- Río Toro: Intense Class III-IV rapids in a narrow canyon. For experienced rafters.
- Río Balsa: Gentler Class II-III, perfect for families and first-timers.
6. Walk among the treetops
The Arenal Hanging Bridges park features 3 kilometers of trails and suspension bridges up to 200 feet above the forest floor. Early morning visits offer the best bird and monkey sightings.
7. Explore jungle trails
You don’t need to leave your hotel to experience the rainforest. El Tucano Resort has private nature trails through 100 acres of tropical forest where you can spot toucans, monkeys, butterflies, poison dart frogs, and hundreds of plant species. Guided night walks reveal an entirely different world of nocturnal creatures.
8. Visit Río Celeste
About 90 minutes from La Fortuna, Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most photographed natural wonders. The river’s impossibly blue color comes from a natural chemical reaction — no filters needed. Allow a full day for this trip.
9. Go birdwatching
The San Carlos region is a birdwatcher’s paradise with 500+ species. Most sought-after sightings include the keel-billed toucan, resplendent quetzal, Montezuma oropendola, and dozens of hummingbird species. The forested grounds of local resorts like El Tucano are prime birding territory without the need for a separate tour.
10. Try local chocolate and coffee
Farm tours in the San Carlos area let you experience the bean-to-bar and bean-to-cup process firsthand. Sample fresh cacao, learn about sustainable farming, and bring home some of the finest chocolate and coffee you’ll ever taste.
11. Kayak on Lake Arenal
Costa Rica’s largest lake offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing with views of the volcano. Morning sessions are calmest; afternoons can get windy (great for experienced paddlers).
12. Eat like a local
Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Restaurante La Foresta at El Tucano Resort serves dishes made with locally sourced ingredients — from traditional casados and gallo pinto to fresh ceviche and tropical fruit desserts.
Where to stay in La Fortuna
The best strategy is to choose accommodation that puts multiple activities at your doorstep. El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa gives you hot springs, spa, jungle trails, restaurant, and pool bar all on-site — meaning less time driving and more time enjoying.
Getting here
- From San José: ~2.5 hours by car via Route 702
- From Liberia (LIR) airport: ~3 hours (good option if flying from the US)
- From SJO airport: ~2.5 hours
- Shuttles: Daily services from most major tourist areas
Ready to plan your La Fortuna adventure? Contact El Tucano Resort at +506-2460-6000 or reservaciones@eltucanoresort.com.