La Fortuna
While the eruption of the previously dormant “mountain” Arenal in 1968 caused massive destruction, it also forever changed the face of surrounding towns by becoming one of the biggest tourist attractions in Costa Rica. The volcano is now one the third most active in the world, with minor eruptions occurring every 45 minutes on average, which can be seen and felt by visitors to the region. The North and West sides of the volcano offer direct views of the lava flow, which is easiest to spot in the early morning around 4 a.m. The Arenal national park offers closer viewing and parking spaces near the base of the volcano. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $7 and there are many trails through the forest over hardened lava flows.
La Fortuna, once a small farming town, is now the main seat for tourists looking to visit the area. Today the small town offers international restaurants, souvenir shops, banks and is the home base for adventure tours in the area. Although vacationing by a constantly erupting volcano may sound daunting - you’ll consider yourself lucky when you catch Volcán Arenal in the act, as it spews fiery red lava upwards like a pyrotechnic geyser.
La Fortuna is only a short cab ride from the volcano and it’s a great place to relax after partaking in the myriad activities offered in the area. Whether you choose to ride the whitewater rapids, receive a massage from one of the area’s natural hot springs, or relax in the privacy of your glass-enclosed bungalow, the views of Arenal Volcano alone are certain to make the trip worth it.
Things to Do:
1. Take the plunge!
Rio Fortuna Waterfall is no ordinary waterfall. The teal green water set against the deep emerald of the forest is an unforgettable contrast. The hike down is a bit steep and slippery but the workout is worth it. The water is refreshing but very powerful, so while swimming be very careful with your strokes.
2. Take a tropical steam bath.
If cold water isn’t your thing, visit the Tabacon Resort hot springs, the most renowned in the region, featuring natural pools and rivers of varying temperatures, a water slide, swim-up bar and waterfalls, all to a beautifully landscaped tropical backdrop. The hotel’s Grand Spa has won numerous international awards and is considered the best in Central America. Try one of various treatments offered in a private bungalow with Jacuzzi, before indulging in a meal at the 5-star restaurant. An all-day pass is around $60 for adults and $35 for children, though discounts are common through tour providers or hotels, and guests at the resort enjoy free access.
If you prefer the hot springs less traveled, try the Hotel Arenal Kioro’s beautiful Titoku, which is open to the public, while a newer, more private hot springs property is reserved just for hotel guests. Ecotermales is another popular rival of the two, boasting four large pools and a popular typical restaurant.
3. Try your hand at adventure.
The natural energy, rushing rivers, a scenic landscape offers more than a handful of activities for the adventure-minded. Take a canyoneering tour down waterfalls in a pristine rainforest canyon, whitewater rafting down beautiful tropical rivers, mountain biking or horseback riding along the scenic Lake Arenal. La Fortuna is also conveniently situated near to other great attractions like the Rio Celeste, one of the area’s best kept secrets, as well as the Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve, where you can take a safari float along the Rio Frio.
For those that want to do it all, Arenal Mundo Aventura, a sustainable ecological park, offers a full day of adventure. Fly through the trees along 10 canopy cables on the only canopy tour that takes you over the La Fortuna Waterfall down a 980 meter long cable. On the same trip, experience an 80 meter rappel next to the Pino Blanco Waterfall, pay a visit to a Maleku Indigenous Village, go horseback riding around the volcano and visit a butterfly and frog garden!
4. Windsurf the one of a kind waves!
Lake Arenal is considered to be one of the top three windsurfing spots in the world! Don’t worry, beginners through experts are welcome to experience these world class conditions as board rentals and lessons are easy to come by, closer to the Tilaran side of the lake.
