Best Arenal Volcano Hotels in La Fortuna

Choosing the Best Arenal Volcano Hotels

La Fortuna And Arenal Volcano: A Costa Rican Paradise

La Fortuna is a beautiful and vibrant town in north central Costa Rica, located in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano. The area is known for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The town was founded in the mid-1930s by settlers from Ciudad Quesada, Grecia, Alajuela, and other parts of the region. It was initially named “El Burío,” but was renamed “La Fortuna” in 1968 after the Arenal Volcano erupted to the west, causing extensive damage and casualties. The eruption did not reach the village of La Fortuna, and the town was largely spared. However, the catastrophe changed the geography of the whole region, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in Costa Rica.

Today, La Fortuna is a thriving town with over 15,000 people. It is a popular base for tourists interested in exploring the Arenal Volcano National Park and the many other natural attractions in the area.

Best Things To Do In La Fortuna

La Fortuna Waterfall

One of the most popular things to do in La Fortuna is to visit the La Fortuna Waterfall. This 70-meter (230-foot) waterfall is near the town center and is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and taking photos. We recommend staying at Casa Luna Hotel, one of the Arenal Volcano hotels nestled amidst the beauty of the area and very close to the waterfalls.

La Fortuna Hot Springs

Another popular activity in La Fortuna is to soak in the natural hot springs. There are many different hot springs resorts in the area, offering a variety of amenities, from primary pools to luxurious spas. The hot springs are heated by the Arenal Volcano and are said to have therapeutic properties. An Arenal Volcano hotel ideally situated to explore the hot springs, discover a haven of relaxation and delight at another one of the best Arenal Volcano hotels the Arenal Volcano Inn.

Arenal Volcano National Park

The Arenal Volcano National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, all of which offer stunning views of the Volcano. To enjoy this fantastic park, we suggest immersing yourself in the Nayara Gardens   – an oasis of comfort and unforgettable experiences among the Arenal Volcano hotels!

Arenal Hanging Bridges

This network of bridges takes you through the rainforest canopy, where you can see monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife up close. Perfectly situated to explore the hanging bridges treasures, discover the Springs Resort, a haven of relaxation and delight at one of the best Arenal Volcano hotels.

Zip-line

This activity will give you a bird’s-eye view of the lush vegetation and towering trees. We suggest the Tabacon Resort, nestled among with the finest accommodations in the area, to look for adventure at the many zip line options offered by Arenal Volcano hotels.

Whitewater raft on the Balsa or Sarapiquí Rivers

These rivers offer a variety of rapids, ranging from beginner to expert, making them an excellent option for thrill-seekers of all levels.  Immerse yourself at the Volcano Lodge, a strategically placed hotel in Arenal Volcano area to look for whitewater adventure!

Horseback riding

This is a great way to see the countryside, learn about the local culture, and enjoy excellent views of the Volcano. With its prime location and excellent amenities, the Mountain Paradise is the perfect choice for exploring the area among the Arenal Volcano hotels.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal

This large lake offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding mountains.
To explore the lake and many Fortuna attractions, we recommend the Fortuna Lodge, as an ideal Arenal Volcano hotel.

Waterfall canyoning and rappelling

This is a unique and challenging activity that allows you to explore the waterfalls and canyons of the area.  One of the best Arenal Volcano hotels not far away to stay at and enjoy waterfall canyoning and rappelling is the Arenal Springs resort.

Birdwatch in the Arenal Observatory Lodge

The Arenal Observatory Lodge is located in a prime birding area, and its trails offer the chance to see a variety of Costa Rican native and endemic bird species. This is our recommended Arenal Volcano hotel to enjoy some of the best wildflife observation and birdwatching.

Cultural Tours In La Fortuna

La Fortuna is also a great place to learn about Costa Rican culture. Many restaurants in town serve traditional Costa Rican cuisine, and several cultural attractions, such as the Maleku Indigenous Reserve. You can also opt to take private cooking lessons with local women.

Wildlife Observation In La Fortuna

Regarding wildlife and flora La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano area is well known for the nature lover. It is an excellent place to find the two different sloth species living in Costa Rica, as well as other wildlife such as spider monkeys, howler monkeys, coatis, brocket deer, tamandua anteaters, peccaries, agoutis, and over 450 species of birds have been recorded.

How To Get To La Fortuna

La Fortuna is about 120 km (75 mi) from the capital city of San José. There are several ways to get there from San José.

Private transfer by bus

This private transfer will last approximately 3.5 hours with one of our private bilingual drivers.  Along the route, our customer service-oriented drivers will offer you more flexibility in travel time. You can request stops to photograph gorgeous scenery, view wildlife, visit excellent local restaurants, meet local people, or take coffee breaks and stretch when needed.

By plane

There are domestic flights from San Jose to La Fortuna airstrip in the morning and afternoon. There are also flights from Tortuguero or Liberia Airport to La Fortuna. Or we can arrange a private charter for you from many other famous destinations to La Fortuna.

By shuttle

We also can take you by shuttle. They have services everyday to la Fortuna from different parts of the country.

Visit La Fortuna With Costa Rica Sun Tours

La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano is a truly special place, offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, you will indeed find it in La Fortuna, the adventure capital of Costa Rica! Contact us to plan a perfect trip with activities that match your interest in the capital of adventure in Costa Rica!