Things to Do in La Fortuna by Butterfly Rentals
A Guide to the Experiences You Shouldn't Miss
Planning a trip to La Fortuna? From waterfalls and rainforest trails to Arenal Volcano views and soothing hot springs, this guide covers the experiences you shouldn’t miss, plus practical tips about weather, transportation, and money to help make your stay easier.
There are places you visit, and there are places you keep thinking about weeks after you’ve left. La Fortuna, Costa Rica, belongs to the second group — we see it happen to our guests over and over.
Sitting near the impressive Arenal Volcano and surrounded by tropical rainforest, rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and natural hot springs, La Fortuna has a little bit of everything. Morning hike through the jungle, afternoon cooling off beside a waterfall, evening soaking in warm thermal water under the stars. It’s a good rhythm, and one we’ve watched work for almost every guest who stays with us.
If you’re staying with Butterfly Rentals, or just passing through the area, this guide covers what we actually tell people when they ask «okay, but what should I really do while I’m here?» It’s the same advice we give at check-in, just written down.
Before You Explore La Fortuna: A Few Local Tips
Before we get into the attractions themselves, three things are worth knowing: the weather changes fast, a little local currency goes a long way, and most places are easier to reach by car. Nothing complicated — just the kind of thing we wish someone had told us the first time.
Be Ready for Rain, Even on a Sunny Day
If there’s one item we tell every guest to keep in their day bag, it’s something waterproof. We’ve had more than a few people leave for the waterfall under blue skies and come back forty minutes later completely soaked — and laughing about it, usually, once they’re dry again.
The weather around Arenal shifts quickly. A clear morning can turn into a warm tropical shower by lunchtime, and just as fast, the sun comes back out. That’s simply part of visiting a lush, volcanic rainforest — the same conditions that make everything so green are the ones that bring the rain.
Pack a lightweight rain jacket, poncho, or small umbrella. Quick-drying clothes and shoes with real traction make a bigger difference than people expect, especially around waterfalls, trails, and hanging bridges where things get slippery.
Don’t let a little rain talk you out of your plans, either. Some of our favorite photos from guests are of mist rolling across the rainforest mid-shower — it’s a completely different, equally beautiful version of La Fortuna.
Dollars Work, but Carry Some Costa Rican Colones
U.S. dollars are accepted at most tourist-facing businesses in town, so you don’t need to change a large amount of money before you arrive. That said, we always suggest keeping some Costa Rican colones on hand, especially if you want to eat at a local soda or pick something up from a smaller, family-run shop.
A soda, by the way, isn’t a place that sells soft drinks — it’s a small local restaurant, and usually where you’ll find the best, most affordable food in town. Ask us for a recommendation when you check in; we have a couple of go-to spots depending on which part of town you’re staying in. Casado, rice and beans, fried plantains, fresh fruit juice — that’s the meal to look for.
Most Attractions Are a Short Drive Away
One of the genuine perks of staying in La Fortuna is how compact everything is. Most of the major attractions are roughly 10 to 20 minutes away by car, depending on where you’re staying and how the traffic is that day.
Renting a vehicle gives you the most freedom if you like setting your own pace. But you absolutely don’t need one — plenty of guests get around just fine without a car. Many tour companies include transportation in their packages, which takes a lot of the planning off your plate. If you’re booking a volcano hike, hanging bridge tour, or wildlife excursion, it’s worth checking whether hotel pickup is included before you commit.
Now, the part you’re actually here for.
1. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
If you searched for photos of La Fortuna before booking your trip, you’ve probably already seen this one.
La Fortuna Waterfall is the area’s signature attraction, and honestly, seeing it in person still catches people off guard — photos don’t quite do it justice. Surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, the waterfall drops roughly 70 to 75 meters into a pool below. The white water against the deep green forest and jade-toned water is the kind of scene that makes you stop mid-sentence.
Getting there is part of the experience, too. You’ll walk down a long staircase through the forest to reach the base — take your time on the way down and actually listen. Between the birds and the sound of water getting louder, it’s one of the more atmospheric walks in the area.
Depending on conditions and the designated swimming areas that day, you may be able to get in the water near the base. Always follow posted signage and staff guidance here — conditions change, and it’s not worth the risk of ignoring them.
What to Bring to La Fortuna Waterfall?
For a comfortable visit:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A swimsuit
- A towel
- Drinking water
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- A waterproof bag or phone case
- Your rain jacket or poncho
Here’s the one thing we tell every guest before they head out: what goes down must come back up. The staircase feels noticeably longer on the way back. Take breaks whenever you need to — nobody’s timing you, and there’s no prize for reaching the top first.
For current visitor information, you can also check the official La Fortuna Waterfall website at Catarata La Fortuna.
2. Explore Arenal Volcano National Park
You can’t really talk about La Fortuna without talking about Arenal Volcano.
For decades, Arenal was one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes, and while that activity has changed over the years, its huge cone-shaped silhouette still defines the whole region — you’ll catch yourself looking for it from almost every angle in town.
Arenal Volcano National Park is worth setting aside real time for, not just a quick photo stop. Give yourself enough time to actually walk the trails; they cut through landscapes shaped by the region’s volcanic history, and the perspective from inside the park is completely different from the view you get from town.
On a clear day, it’s spectacular. On a cloudy day, Arenal tends to disappear behind its own weather system for a while — we’ve had guests write it off in the morning and then get a full, clear view by early afternoon. Clouds around the summit move fast here, so if it’s hidden when you arrive, it’s worth staying a little longer before you give up on it.
Why Arenal Volcano National Park Is Worth Visiting?
The park gives you the landscape that put La Fortuna on the map in the first place:
- Rainforest scenery
- Hiking trails
- Volcanic landscapes
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Beautiful viewpoints
- A closer look at the Arenal ecosystem
We usually recommend pairing this with hot springs later the same day. After a few hours on the trails, sinking into naturally heated water feels genuinely earned — not just a nice add-on.
Before you go, it’s worth checking current park conditions, entrance requirements, and regulations through Costa Rica’s National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). Trails occasionally close for maintenance, and it’s better to know before you drive out there.
3. Walk Above the Rainforest at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges
Want to see the rainforest from a completely different angle? Go up.
At Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, trails and suspension bridges take you through different levels of the forest canopy — views you simply can’t get from the ground. It’s one of the recommendations we give most often, especially to guests who want a real rainforest experience without turning the day into an extreme adventure.
Walking across a suspension bridge with the forest floor far below — and Arenal sometimes appearing in the distance — is one of those moments that ends up in everyone’s trip photos.
Keep Your Eyes Open for Wildlife
Don’t rush this one. It’s tempting to focus on getting to the next bridge, but the best moments usually happen in between.
Slow down and actually look at the trees, the branches, the leaves, the forest floor. La Fortuna’s rainforest holds an enormous amount of wildlife, and spotting it takes patience more than luck. Depending on the day and a bit of timing, you might come across tropical birds, insects, reptiles, or monkeys moving through the canopy.
If wildlife spotting is a priority for you, a guided tour is worth the cost — experienced guides notice things long before an untrained eye would; we’ve watched guests walk right past a sloth that their guide spotted from thirty feet away. If you’d rather explore on your own, that’s completely fine too. Just go quiet, go slow, and pay attention.
More details are available at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
4. End the Day in La Fortuna's Hot Springs
After waterfalls, rainforest trails, hanging bridges, and volcano views, there’s one experience that feels almost designed for the end of the day: La Fortuna’s hot springs.
The Arenal area is known for its thermal waters, and the options around La Fortuna range from casual, low-key setups to more elaborate resort-style experiences. Whichever direction you go, they’re every bit as relaxing as they sound.
Picture this: you’ve finished hiking, changed into your swimsuit, and stepped into warm water surrounded by tropical plants. Your legs finally stop aching, your phone stays in the bag, and nobody’s in a hurry anymore. That’s La Fortuna at its best, in our opinion.
Which Hot Springs Should You Choose?
There’s no single right answer — different hot springs suit different trips. Couples traveling together often gravitate toward something quieter and more intimate. Families tend to do better with places that have multiple pools, food options, and a bit more room to spread out. Some travelers want a full evening with dinner included; others just want an hour to soak before heading to bed.
When you’re deciding, think about:
- Your budget
- Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group
- How quiet or lively you’d like the atmosphere to be
- Whether you’d like dinner included
- How much time you want to spend there
- Whether transportation is available
We’re happy to point you toward the option that fits your trip best — just ask when you check in, and tell us what kind of evening you’re looking for.
One tip we give almost everyone: if you’ve had an active day, save the hot springs for the afternoon or evening rather than first thing in the morning. There’s something particularly satisfying about ending a full day outside with warm water instead of starting one.
How to Fit These La Fortuna Attractions Into Your Trip
You don’t need to squeeze everything into one day — and honestly, we’d recommend against trying.
La Fortuna is much more enjoyable when you leave room to slow down, stop for food, watch the weather move around Arenal, and take in the scenery instead of racing between stops.
If You Have One Full Day
Start early at Arenal Volcano National Park or Mistico Hanging Bridges. Grab lunch at a local soda and give yourself a little time to recharge. Finish the afternoon or evening at one of the hot springs.
It’s a full day, but the thermal water at the end makes it worth the pace.
If You Have Two Days
Day one: Arenal Volcano National Park, then hot springs in the afternoon or evening. Day two: Mistico Hanging Bridges in the morning, La Fortuna Waterfall after.
This gives each place more breathing room and takes the «rushed vacation» feeling out of it.
If You Have Three Days or More
Even better. Spread the four main attractions across several days and leave some open space in between. Use the extra time for local restaurants, a wildlife tour, coffee or chocolate tastings, or just enjoying wherever you’re staying. A vacation doesn’t have to mean filling every hour — sometimes the best afternoon is the one you didn’t plan at all.
What Should You Pack for Exploring La Fortuna?
Packing for La Fortuna mostly comes down to warm tropical weather, outdoor activities, and the chance of sudden rain. A solid day bag includes:
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimsuit
- Small towel
- Waterproof phone protection
- A little cash in colones
- Camera or phone for photos
Breathable clothing works best for rainforest activities, and shoes with real grip will save you more than once after a rain shower. And while it’s tempting to check the forecast every hour, tropical weather here is highly localized — rain on one side of town doesn’t mean your whole day is ruined.
Should You Rent a Car in La Fortuna?
A rental car makes exploring easier because many attractions are spread around the surrounding area rather than clustered in the town center. With a car, you can leave when you want, stay as long as you like, and adjust your plans on the fly if the weather shifts.
That said, you genuinely don’t need a rental car to enjoy La Fortuna. Plenty of our guests get around entirely through guided tours with transportation included, or by arranging local rides between stops. When you’re booking an activity, check whether pickup and drop-off are part of the package — it removes most of the hassle.
Don't Forget to Experience La Fortuna Beyond the Attractions
The volcano, the waterfall, the hanging bridges, the hot springs — they deserve their popularity. But try not to spend the whole trip checking things off a list.
Leave room for everyday La Fortuna, too. Grab a Costa Rican coffee somewhere. Have lunch at a soda. Walk around town without a destination in mind. Try the fresh tropical fruit. Look up when you hear a bird you don’t recognize. Watch the clouds shift around Arenal from wherever you’re staying.
Those smaller moments are usually what our guests end up talking about the most once they’re home.
Staying in La Fortuna with Butterfly Rentals
Where you stay changes how the whole trip feels.
At Butterfly Rentals, we want our guests to have more than just a place to sleep. A comfortable home base gives you somewhere to recharge between adventures, plan the next day over coffee, and enjoy the quieter moments that make a trip actually feel like a vacation.
Whether your ideal day means hiking near Arenal Volcano, photographing La Fortuna Waterfall, walking above the canopy, or doing absolutely nothing after an evening in the hot springs, La Fortuna makes it easy to build a trip around whatever you actually enjoy. And because most of the area’s best attractions are just a short drive away, you’ll spend less time commuting and more time out there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting La Fortuna
What are the best things to do in La Fortuna?
The four we’d point you toward first are La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Volcano National Park, Mistico Hanging Bridges, and the area’s natural hot springs. Together they give you a great feel for what makes the Arenal region special.
Can you swim at La Fortuna Waterfall?
It depends on the designated swimming areas and current water conditions on the day you visit. Always follow staff instructions and posted signage, especially after heavy rain.
Do I need a car in La Fortuna?
No. It’s convenient if you have one, but plenty of local tour operators include transportation with their activities. If you’d rather not drive, look for tours with pickup and drop-off included.
Are U.S. dollars accepted in La Fortuna?
Yes, at most tourism-facing businesses. That said, we always recommend carrying some Costa Rican colones for local restaurants, smaller shops, and everyday purchases.
Does it rain a lot in La Fortuna?
It’s a tropical climate, so rain shows up year-round and sometimes without much warning. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is worth keeping close by, always.
What should I wear in La Fortuna?
Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes cover most activities. Bring rain protection, and pack a swimsuit for the waterfall and hot springs.
Are the Mistico Hanging Bridges suitable for people who don’t want extreme adventure activities?
For most travelers, yes. The bridges give you an exciting way to experience the rainforest canopy without the adrenaline factor of something like zip-lining. It’s still worth checking current trail and accessibility conditions before you book.
When is the best time to visit the hot springs?
Late afternoon or evening, ideally after a hike or another active day. It’s the easiest way we know to slow down and close out the day on a good note.
Make La Fortuna Part of Your Costa Rica Story
La Fortuna makes it surprisingly easy to experience several sides of Costa Rica in one place. Stand beside a powerful waterfall, hike through landscapes shaped by an active volcano, cross suspension bridges above the rainforest canopy, and soak in warm thermal water — all without spending hours traveling between them.
Our honest advice? Don’t rush it. Bring something waterproof, keep a few colones in your wallet, arrange transportation that fits how you like to travel, and give yourself enough time to actually enjoy each place instead of just visiting it.
The attractions are spectacular, no question. But the real magic of La Fortuna tends to show up in between them — the rainforest sounds, the sudden afternoon showers, a good meal at a local soda, a volcano that finally shows itself after being hidden all morning, and those quiet evenings when you’re tired in the best possible way.
When you’re ready to explore, Butterfly Rentals can be your home base for discovering the best of La Fortuna — just ask us, we’re happy to help you plan it.