The perfect La Fortuna itinerary can help you make the most of this incredible part of Costa Rica, whether you have one, two, or three days to explore.
From waterfalls and hot springs to ziplining, kayaking, and chocolate tours, it’s easily my favorite place in Costa Rica and when you visit, you will see why. Even with just a single day, you can experience some of the area’s highlights, and with two or three days, you can take your time and fit in even more adventures.
This guide lays out options for one, two, and three days in La Fortuna, including must-see sights, tours, local dining, and ways to relax after a day of exploration. You’ll find ideas for waterfalls, lakes, hot springs, chocolate tours, rafting, and more, along with tips for planning each day.
Published: January 17, 2026
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1 Day La Fortuna Itinerary
If you only have one day in La Fortuna, it’s still possible to experience some of the area’s best sights and adventures. Start your morning at La Fortuna Waterfall, a must-see natural landmark. You can hike down to the base of the falls and even take a swim in the cool waters. If you want to make it extra easy, you can book a guided tour that includes transportation and a short nature walk.
Book your La Fortuna Waterfall ticket: La Fortuna Waterfall Admission Ticket.
After the waterfall, it’s time for an adventure. You can choose between ziplining through the rainforest canopy with Arenal Canopy, a locally run operator near La Fortuna, or kayaking on Lake Arenal with Kayak Paradise & Tours, depending on whether you want a high-adrenaline experience or a more relaxing one on the water. Both options offer incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and rainforest.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, unwind at one of La Fortuna’s famous hot springs. I visited Baldi Hot Springs & Resort using a day pass, which let me enjoy multiple pools and thermal waters without staying overnight. This is a great way to relax after a busy morning of adventure, and some hot springs even offer guided packages that include dinner or massage services.
Book your Baldi Hot Springs & Resort: Costa Rica: Baldi Hot Springs Day Pass with Optional Meals.
Finish your day with dinner at Zacate Hilda Fast Food, a local favorite for authentic Costa Rican street food. Their tacos, empanadas, and fresh juices are amazing and make for a satisfying meal after a full day of exploring. Their food is still some of my favorite from my time in Costa Rica!
Even with just one day, you can get a taste of what makes La Fortuna so special: waterfalls, adventure, relaxation, and local flavors. With careful planning and a few well-chosen tours, your one-day visit can be both exciting and memorable.
La Fortuna 2 Day Itinerary
If you have two days in La Fortuna, you can add more activities to the one-day itinerary to get a fuller experience of the area. Start your second day with whichever adventure you didn’t do on day one—either ziplining through the rainforest, or kayaking on Lake Arenal. Both offer incredible scenery and a chance to experience La Fortuna from a different perspective, so it’s worth doing both if your schedule allows.
After your morning adventure, consider a chocolate tour to learn about one of Costa Rica’s most famous exports. I went on a chocolate tour that offered a hands-on experience of cacao cultivation, processing, and tasting—it’s a fun, educational way to spend part of the day.
Book your chocolate tour: La Fortuna: Rainforest Chocolate Tour.
In the evening, explore La Fortuna town itself. Walk around the small streets, check out local shops, and soak in the town’s fun but laid-back vibes.
Finish your day with a local dinner, choosing a restaurant that serves authentic Costa Rican dishes or a casual café with traditional specialties. Two days in La Fortuna gives you a mix of adventure, learning, and local culture, making it easy to get a full sense of what the area has to offer.
La Fortuna 3 Day Itinerary
If you have three days in La Fortuna, you can expand your adventure and really take your time experiencing everything the area has to offer.
Start your morning with whitewater rafting on the Sarapiquí River, which is just a short drive from La Fortuna and easy to reach via tour. This thrilling activity offers Class II–III rapids, beautiful rainforest scenery, and a completely different perspective of Costa Rica’s landscapes.
Book your whitewater rafting tour: Sarapiqui: The Adrenaline of the Sarapiqui Rapids.
After your morning adventure, spend some time in La Fortuna town. You can wander the streets for souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh fruit stands, or choose another activity such as a second chocolate tour with North Fields Café, a hands-on tortilla-making cooking class with a local host through Arenal Tortilla Making Cooking Class, or a relaxing visit to Eco Termales Fortuna, one of the area’s locally operated hot springs. There are plenty of tours that can fill your afternoon, from horseback riding near the volcano to canopy walks in the rainforest.
End your final evening in La Fortuna with a local dinner and perhaps a casual stroll around town. After three full days, you’ll have experienced waterfalls, adrenaline-filled adventures, chocolate, hot springs, and the charm of La Fortuna itself.
This three-day La Fortuna itinerary allows a mix of action, relaxation, and cultural experiences, giving you a comprehensive taste of one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations.
Top Attractions and Activities in La Fortuna
No matter how long you choose to stay, La Fortuna has so many things to do. Below, you’ll find the top attractions, some of my personal favorites, and tours for every kind of traveler —from adrenaline junkie to nature lover.
- Arenal Volcano National Park: When you visit La Fortuna, you literally can’t miss the Arenal Volcano, a perfect cone-shaped wonder. At the national park, you can hike a variety of trails with chances to spot wildlife.
- La Fortuna Waterfall: My favorite spot in La Fortuna – here you can take a dip in the refreshing waters at the base of this 70-meter high waterfall. The cascade is just a short trip from the town center and provides stunning photo ops and a cool swim.
- Hot Springs: La Fortuna is known for its thermal hot springs, heated by the geothermal activity of the Arenal Volcano. Whether you choose a luxurious spa-like experience or a more natural riverside hot spring, it’s the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure.
- Zip Lining & Hanging Bridges: Experience the forest canopy up close. Zip lining offers an adrenaline rush along with a bird’s eye view of the forest, while the hanging bridges provide a slower paced opportunity to appreciate the rich biodiversity from above. Personally, I recommend both!
- Canoeing & Kayaking: Paddle on the serene waters of Lake Arenal or the Peñas Blancas River, surrounded by lush jungle and local wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and various bird species.
- Whitewater Rafting: If you want more thrilling action, the nearby rivers offer exciting whitewater rafting experiences for all levels! This was another part of La Fortuna I fell in love with.
- Local Cuisine: No visit to La Fortuna is complete without savoring the local flavors. Be sure to try ‘casado’, a traditional Costa Rican dish, or enjoy a ‘gallo pinto’ for breakfast. The town is very walkable with tons of great options,
With these recommendations, you’re can customize your La Fortuna itinerary. Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long stay, these activities will ensure a memorable Costa Rican adventure.
Here are more great tours you can add to your La Fortuna itinerary:
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
Finding the perfect accommodation is key to enjoying your La Fortuna adventure. The town caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts with panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano, cozy hostels that offer a social atmosphere, or tranquil eco-lodges nestled in the forest, La Fortuna has it all.
- Luxury Resorts: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: Indulge in high-end amenities, spa services, and on-site hot springs. These resorts provide comfort and elegance, with stunning views and top-notch dining experiences.
- Boutique Hotels: Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis: For a more intimate setting, boutique hotels in La Fortuna offer personal touches, unique architecture, and often incorporate sustainable practices to enhance your stay.
- Mid-range Hotels: Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: With a balance of comfort and affordability, these hotels often feature pools, air-conditioned rooms, and convenient locations close to town or major attractions.
- Hostels and Backpacker Lodges: Viajero La Fortuna Hostel: These accommodations are ideal for travelers on a budget and those looking to meet other tourists. Many hostels provide communal kitchens, tour booking services, and a variety of room options, including dorms and private rooms.
- Eco-lodges: Tío Felix Eco Lodge: Embrace La Fortuna’s natural beauty by staying in an eco-lodge. You’ll often find yourself surrounded by wildlife and flora, with easy access to outdoor activities and guided tours that respect the environment.
- Vacation Rentals: Bungalow Batsù: For those who prefer more privacy or are traveling in a group, renting a vacation home can provide space, flexibility, and home comforts. Options range from simple to luxurious, often with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
No matter where you stay, make that your accommodation aligns with your itinerary plans. Some locations offer shuttles or are within walking distance to major attractions, making it easier to navigate and explore. Others offer parking if you are renting a car in Costa Rica.
Book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season to make sure you get good accommodations!
Tips for Visiting La Fortuna
Visiting La Fortuna is incredible, but a little planning goes a long way. These tips will help you make the most of your time, stay safe, and enjoy all the adventures the area has to offer.
- Plan for transportation: Renting a car gives you flexibility with your schedule and route, but guided tours and shuttles make it easy to get around without driving.
- Book popular tours in advance: Ziplining, chocolate tours, whitewater rafting, and hot springs can fill up fast—reserve ahead to secure your spot.
- Bring appropriate clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes are best for outdoor activities. Pack a swimsuit for hot springs, water shoes for kayaking or waterfalls, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
- Protect yourself from the sun and insects: Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are essential for hiking, kayaking, and rainforest adventures.
- Carry cash for small purchases: Many local vendors and smaller attractions don’t accept cards, so have some colones or US dollars handy.
- Timing matters: Early mornings are often quieter at popular spots like La Fortuna Waterfall and hot springs. Afternoons can be busier, especially on weekends.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks: Adventures like rafting, ziplining, or long hikes can be physically demanding. Bring a refillable water bottle and small snacks to keep your energy up.
- Respect local customs and nature: Stay on trails, follow guides’ instructions, and be mindful of wildlife and plants. Costa Rica emphasizes eco-tourism, so preserving the environment is important.
Wrap-Up: The Best La Fortuna Itineraries
La Fortuna is one of my favorite spots in Costa Rica, and it’s easy to see why. From stunning waterfalls and thrilling adventures to relaxing hot springs and charming local culture, it has something for every type of traveler. Even just one day gives you a taste, but the more time you spend there, the better. Whether you have one, two, or three days, La Fortuna is unforgettable and deserves a spot on any Costa Rica itinerary.
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