It is no breaking news that Costa Rica is an expensive country. And La Fortuna, the star holiday destination of this country, offers several attractions and tours that can easily set you back by more than a hundred dollars per day.
But what if you are planning to visit La Fortuna on a budget? Is that even possible? On our several visits, we have experienced these budget and free activities in La Fortuna and Arenal area.
The good news is that you can create an itinerary filled with budget and free things to do in La Fortuna for 20 USD or less, while still enjoying the region’s main highlights.
If you wish to splurge a little more, we have additional ideas for some excellent activities in La Fortuna between 20 USD to 50 USD.
Whether you are trying to keep your travel budget under control or want to mix in a few lower-cost activities alongside La Fortuna’s pricier tours, this guide is for you.
So, we are going to share with you all the insider insights of how to experience all these pocket-friendly activities in La Fortuna and Arenal.
Our Favorite Free and Budget Things to Do in La Fortuna: A Quick Overview
Water Acrivities:
Rainforest and Lava Trails Hike with Arenal Volcano Views:
Wildlife Experiences:
Coffee and Chocolate Experience:
Hanging Bridges Hike:
Free Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: At A Glance
We have put a summary of the free things to do in La Fortuna. For details on each activity, continue reading the post.
| Attraction/ Activity | Typical cost (per adult) | Time needed | Transport notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Fortuna Town Center (park, church, restaurants) | Free | At your pace | Walk if staying downtown, taxi if outside town |
| Arenal Volcano viewpoints (around town or Arenal) | Free | At your pace | Best with car or taxi, visible from town on clear days |
| El Salto Rope Swing | Free | 1 to 2 hours | Taxi or drive, walk depending on hotel location |
| Fortuna River swimming holes (near El Salto) | Free | 1 to 2 hours | Combine with El Salto, short walk on trails from rope swing area |
| El Choyin Free Hot Springs | Free* | 1 to 3 hours | About 10 kilometers from town, best by car or taxi, *parking fees 3000-5000 CRC |
| Arenal Lake viewpoints (near dam / Route 142 stops) | Free | At your pace | Easiest with a car or taxi, stop on the way to other attractions |
| Bird and sloth spotting (town + trails) | Free | 30 minutes to 2 hours | Walk around greener edges of town, trails in your stays, best early morning |
Budget Things to Do in La Fortuna Under 20 USD: At A Glance
Here a summary of the budget things to do in La Fortuna and Arenal for 20 USD or less. Continue reading the post for details.
If you are up for shelling out few more bucks, here are some additional budget activities in La Fortuna, that we recommend:
| Attraction/ Activity | Typical cost (per adult) | Time needed | Transport notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relax Termalitas Hot Springs | USD 10 | 2 to 4 hours | Short drive or taxi from town |
| Arenal Volcano National Park | USD 15 | 2 to 4 hours | Car or taxi recommended, limited public transport |
| Self-guided at Bogarin Trail, Sloths and birds | USD 20 | 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours | Walkable (about 10 minutes) from downtown |
| La Fortuna Waterfall (includes river beach) | USD 20 | 2 to 4 hours | Taxi or drive; roads are straightforward |
| Rio Celeste Waterfall (Tenorio Volcano National Park) | USD 12 plus transport | 6 to 10 hours | About 1 hour 30 minutes away, needs a car or a tour (no practical public bus) |
| Souvenirs near downtown La Fortuna | USD 5+ | 30 minutes to 1 hour | Walkable in town, easy to combine with the town center visit |
| Eat at a Soda restaurant | USD 8 to USD 10 | 1 to 1.5 hours | Walk or taxi within town, many are near downtown or the bus station |
| Chocolate Fusion (chocolates, desserts, ice-creams) | USD 3+ | 20 minutes to 45 minutes | Right by the park, walkable downtown |
Budget Things to Do in La Fortuna for 20 to 50 USD: At A Glance
These are activities in La Fortuna or Arenal that require you to shell out a bit more than 20 USD but under 50 USD, and we found them worth it.
| Attraction/ Activity | Typical cost (per adult) | Time needed | Transport notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot springs Pura Vida (thermal river + pool) | USD 28 | 2 to 3 hours | About 10 kilometers from town, best by car or taxi |
| Sloth Watching and Tortilla Making | USD 38 | 2 to 3 hours | Walkable from the La Fortuna town |
| Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges (self-guided) | USD 39 | 2 to 3 hours | Best by car or taxi; some tours include transport |
| North Fields Coffee and Chocolate Tour | USD 46 | 2 to 3 hours | Book a tour with transport (if your stay is within 10 minutes from town) |
| Farm to Tables Cooking Class | USD 45 | Around 2 hours | Car or taxi |
| Night Walk at Papa’s Place | USD 50 | 1.5 to 2 hours | Car or taxi, or book a tour with transport (if available) |
Free Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: Details
The free things to do in La Fortuna span a wide variety of activities and attractions, from volcano and hot springs to waterfall and river to birds and animals.
La Fortuna Town Center
Where: Parque de La Fortuna and all blocks surrounding it.
Cost: FREE
Time needed: At your pace
Getting there: Walk, car or taxi, based on where you plan to stay
The first sight you will encounter in La Fortuna and Arenal is the town center.
True to Costa Rican tradition, La Fortuna’s key landmarks include a church and the adjacent park.
This bustling area is home to various restaurants, bars, cafes, vegetable markets, and souvenir shops, all situated around the park and extending into nearby blocks.
Things to Do at the La Fortuna Town Center
Spend time relaxing in the park that sits in front of the church at the heart of the town center.
It is a great spot for people-watching, enjoying an ice-cream or a snack, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere.
The town center is lively in the evening teeming with people. Experience the local nightlife by visiting the town’s restaurants, bars and lounges.
Walk around the town center to find souvenirs for home or some local apparels.
Views of Arenal Volcano
Where: From almost anywhere in town and viewpoints around Arenal! Weather permitting.
Cost: FREE
Time needed: At your pace
Getting there: Viewpoints are better in a car
You can enjoy spectacular views of the iconic Arenal Volcano from various vantage points around the La Fortuna town.
The perfect shape of the volcano looks spectacular from all sides. Since, most of the land in and around La Fortuna are flat, the volcano is visible from faraway.
Tips to get the views of the Arenal Volcano: If you stay at a hotel or resort with volcano views, you will wake up to breathtaking sights of the volcano each morning.
For example, Arenal Observatory Lodge is located near the foothills of the Arenal Volcano and offers rooms with volcano views.
When you visit Lake Arenal or Arenal Volcano National Park, you will encounter the side of the volcano that remains barren from past eruptions.
🌅 Spend time at various vantage points around the town for unobstructed views of the Arenal Volcano, especially during sunset.
El Salto Rope Swing
Where: Here, off the main road, before the bridge
Cost: FREE
Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Getting there: Best by car or taxi. Car parking fees may apply. You can walk if you stay in or near the town.
El Salto is a popular local swimming hole featuring a fun rope swing. The rope hangs from a tree that hovers over the Fortuna river.
You can hang from it and dive into the river below, which is deep enough around the center.
When we visited El Salto, Indranil was excited to try the rope swing and ended up doing it 4 to 5 times!
As it is located just outside the town you can take a taxi or walk to the entrance.
Watch this short video of Indranil doing the Rope Swing →
Things to know before you visit El Salto or the Rope Swing of La Fortuna
There is no guard or guide around the rope swing, so if you have any doubts about trying it, it is best to skip it.
Instead, enjoy the scenic views and take a refreshing dip in the river along the forest trail. Sunbathe on the rocks or bring snacks to enjoy by the water.
If the rope swing is not your thing but you are still looking for some fun, head to the lower platform on the right side. It offers a great alternative for some enjoyable water activities.
Watch the weather and the water level of the river to be safe.
Bring a towel, swimsuit, and water shoes for comfort.
Visit in the early hours to avoid crowds.
Keep your belongings safe, as the place is unsupervised.
📃 Do not forget to purchase travel insurance for your trip. We use:
- Heymondo Travel Insurance (get 5% discount, auto applies), OR
- SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
* Discount not applicable for US residents
Fortuna River Swimming Holes
Where: Up the river, walk a few meters on the trails from El Salto
Cost: FREE
Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Getting there: Same as El Salto Rope Swing, you can combine the 2 activities.
This tiny hike can be an extension of your trip to El Salto or the Rope Swing.
As you pass by the rope swing and head downhill, you will find a trail that leads to the riverbank.
Small pools formed by large rocks provide the perfect spots to sit and relax on a warm day.
The surrounding forest creates a beautiful ambiance, offering an ideal setting to immerse yourself in nature.
✅ Take a snack, apply some sunscreen and do not forget insect repellent.
El Choyin: Free Hot Springs La Fortuna
Where: Here, off the main road, what seems inside the jungle
Cost: FREE. Car Parking fees or Taxi ride adds to the cost.
Time needed: 1 to 3 hours
Getting there: This place is roughly 10 KM (6 miles) away from La Fortuna town center. So, you will need a ride, if you are not renting a car.
El Choyin is the ‘free hot springs‘, that is a few kilometers away from La Fortuna near the Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
The entrance is not marked and concealed behind trees. But you can find it on the left side of the road, around 200 meters after the Tabacon Resort entrance.
Once you enter, you will find a river winding through the lush rainforest. As you step into the water, you will feel the soothing warmth of the natural volcanic hot springs.
We liked the natural setting and how you can find a comfortable spot among the rocks to sit and relax. The warm water gently flows around you, carrying leaves and twigs that occasionally drift by.
Things to know before you visit El Choyin or the Free Hot Springs of La Fortuna
If you are driving and need to park your car, there is a cost for that. It is not regulated, but designated persons help with the parking.
They can ask for anything between 3000 to 5000 colones for parking for as long as you wish to stay.
The place can get crowded during the day. You can still find spots upstream, however, if you want lesser people around you, get there in the morning hours.
🕯️ In the evening hours, people carry candles to the hot springs, which creates a different atmosphere.
As this is another unsupervised place, keep an eye on your belongings.
For these type of places, we carry water-bags, so that it does not matter if we get in the water with the belongings.
Be careful on the rocks, they can be slippery. It is better to wear water-shoes.
Views of Arenal Lake
Where: Near the Arenal Lake Dam
Cost: FREE
Time needed: At your pace
Getting there: Better in a car or taxi. This is away from the town.
Arenal Lake offers spectacular vistas that encapsulate the serene beauty of Costa Rica’s natural landscape.
5 ways you can enjoy the views of Arenal Lake, by adding it to other activities or stays:
(1) Scenic Drives: If you are renting a car, drive along the roads surrounding Arenal Lake for picturesque views of its calm waters with the volcano in the background.
🚗 Rent your car with Adobe Rent A Car and get 10% discount and other freebies →
(2) Hiking in the National Parks and Reserves (Entry Fees Apply): Arenal Volcano National Park or the Arenal 1968 trail have elevated places on their trails which provide panoramic views of the Arenal Lake.
If you visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges, which we recommend, you will get a close look at the Arenal Lake on the way.
🥾 The main trail of the Peninsula sector of the Arenal Volcano National Park takes you to the Arenal Lake
(3) Stays: Certain hotels or resorts offer views of the Arenal Lake, like the Arenal Observatory Lodge.
(4) Kayaking: You can go for kayaking in the calm waters of the Arenal Lake. The lush surroundings and the views of the Arenal volcano enhance the experience of kayaking.
(5) Going to Monteverde: If Monteverde is in your itinerary, consider using the jeep-boat-jeep transfer. This route takes you across the scenic Arenal Lake, making the journey to Monteverde (or vice versa) an exciting adventure rather than just a simple transport option.
➡️ Related Reading: How to Get from La Fortuna to Monteverde
Birds and Sloths
Where: Anywhere in La Fortuna and Arenal, where there is vegetation.
Cost: FREE
Time needed: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Getting there: Edge of the town, trails at your stay if available.
During all our visits to La Fortuna and Arenal areas, we have always spotted a variety of birds and animals.
And not necessarily paying for any trail or nature reserve.
The biodiversity of the area is such that, you may spot a Toucan or a Sloth or a monkey while walking around your accommodation or in areas with vegetation, even if you are staying close to the La Fortuna downtown.
Check whether your accommodation have trails which you can explore at no additional cost or take a walk around where there is decent amount of trees.
During one of our visits to La Fortuna, we spotted a Yellow-eared Toucanet on our stay at Tifakara Lodge. This bird is the rarest of all the toucan species found in Costa Rica.
🏨 Most resorts in the Arenal area have trails or thick vegetation inside their properties that attract wildlife.
If you are staying in La Fortuna, take a walk in the outskirts of the town, the road leading to La Fortuna Waterfall or the Rope Swing, to name a few and you may spot some wildlife.
Go for walks in the early hours when the animals are most active.
Budget Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: Details
The activities in Costa Rica cost higher compared to most of the other countries in Latin America.
However, you can find budget activities that can provide some excellent highlights of the area.
Relax Termalitas Hot Springs
Where: Less than 10 minutes drive from La Fortuna town center
Cost: 10 USD per person for general entrance + you can bring your own food and beverages
Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
Getting there: Short drive from La Fortuna town
Relax Termalitas Hot Springs is an excellent budget-friendly option for those not staying at a hot springs resort.
Despite the moderate entrance fee, the amenities provide great value for money. And all of these, just a short drive from the town center.
💦 There are 7 thermal pools, 2 cool water pools and 2 jacuzzis, all set within a lush green environment.
Additionally, there are clean changing rooms and lockers for your convenience. We liked that they allow outside food, in spite of having an onsite restaurant.
Things to know before you visit Relax Termalitas Hot Springs
You can buy your entrance tickets at the counter on site.
It is a budget hot springs property, so can get crowded on weekends, holidays, and during peak season.
The largest thermal pool is near the entrance and has a nice slide.
If you wish to take your food for a small picnic, get a spot at one of the picnic tables adjacent to the pools.
Hiking in the Arenal Volcano National Park
Where: Arenal Volcano National Park Entrance
Cost: 15 USD for foreigner adults and 5 USD for foreigner children
Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
Getting there: Better with car or taxi, or book a tour with transport.
The Arenal Volcano National Park has 2 sectors, the Volcano Sector and the Peninsula Sector, that offer incredible views of Arenal Volcano and the Arenal Lake.
The Volcano sector has the Heliconias Trail, Ceibo Trail and the Las Coladas Trail, where each trail has its own highlights.
Heliconias Trail: The trail leads to the Mirador Volcanic Cone viewpoint that provide a panoramic view of the volcano.
Las Coladas Trail: This flat trail takes you to the lava rocks from the 1992 volcanic eruption.
Ceibo Trail: The circular trail with thicker forests, homes a 400 years old Ceibo tree with large human-size roots above the ground.
➡️ Read our Arenal Volcano National Park hiking guide for the details.
The Peninsula sector provides a closer look at the Arenal Lake, as the main trail meets the lake at its end.
There is a watch tower that offer a higher perspective panoramic view of the Arenal Volcano from a distance.
🎟️ Book your entrance tickets directly at the ticket counter of Arenal Volcano National Park.
Finding Sloths while Hiking the Bogarin Trail Self-guided
Where: 10 minutes walk from the La Fortuna town center
Cost: 20 USD for self-guided walk and 45 USD for a guided tour
Time needed: 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours
Getting there: Walk from La Fortuna town if staying close to town
Close to the La Fortuna town center, the Bogarin Trail is a peaceful retreat. It provides easy trails and access to Costa Rica’s wildlife.
Trail Overview: The well-maintained flat trails are perfect for exploring the forest and spotting animals and birds. Midway on the trail, there is a pond, where you can find aquatic birds like Boat-billed Heron.
During our visit, we spotted several sloths lounging among the trees.
➡️ Check our post on Bogarin Trail.
Also, we found several species of birds like Kingfisher, Jacamar, tanagers, to name a few.
🕖 Try for an early morning visit for higher chances of finding animals and birds.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Where: La Fortuna Waterfall Entrance
Cost: USD 20 for adults (foreign) and free for kids under 8 years
Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
Getting there: Car or taxi, or walk if you staying close.
La Fortuna Waterfall offers stunning views and a refreshing experience, located just a few kilometers from the town of La Fortuna.
Hiking: The pathway includes a steep descent with around 500 steps. On the way, you will be surrounded by lush rainforest and might spot some wildlife.
➡️ Read our post on visiting La Fortuna Waterfall.
The Waterfall: Plunging about 70 meters (230 feet) into a pool, the waterfall is a breathtaking sight. The mist created by the falling water adds to the atmosphere, whether you are near the river or at the upper viewing deck.
Swimming: Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall. The cool water offers a respite, especially after the hike down. However, this is not advisable during the wet season.
💦 You can go to the other side, away from the waterfall to take a dip in the river. The water is calmer near the small river beach.
Picnic and Relaxation: There are rocks that form natural seating areas where you can relax, enjoy a snack, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings.
What to Wear and Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike, and bring swimwear, a towel, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Where: Rio Celeste Waterfall, 1.5 hours drive from La Fortuna.
Cost: Rio Celeste Waterfall Entrance Fee is USD 12 for foreign adults. Transport cost required.
Time Needed: 6 to 10 hours
Getting there: Note that, you need a ride or a tour as it is 1.5 hour from La Fortuna, with no practical option of public transport.
The Rio Celeste Waterfall, along with its pools in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Costa Rica.
Since the National Park entrance is 1.5 hours drive from La Fortuna, you will need a transport.
If you are driving a car, it is mostly a smooth ride. There is a safe parking area right outside the entrance, where you can park for a reasonable fee.
👨👩👧👦 For a family or a group of people, renting a car is a more economic way of visiting Rio Celeste independently than booking a tour.
🚗 Rent your car with Adobe Rent A Car and get 10% discount and other freebies →
If you are not renting a car, consider booking a guided tour to visit Rio Celeste. This tour includes transport and lunch fora day trip to the Rio Celeste Waterfall
Hiking: The main hiking trail leads to a series of stairs that take you to the Rio Celeste Waterfall. The stairs are not as steep as those of La Fortuna Waterfall, and all along the way, you can watch the gushing Rio Celeste and the pool.
☀️ On a bright sunny day, you can see the incredible sky blue colors of the Rio Celeste waterfall pool.
The main trail also takes you further into the national park to the Laguna Azul and El Teñidero, where you come across more blue pools.
➡️ Read our detailed post about visiting the Rio Celeste Waterfall and the reasons behind the color of the water.
Little Treats at Chocolate Fusion
Where: Next to Parque de La Fortuna
Cost: ~7 USD for cappuccino + cake/ ice-cream/ chocolate
Time Needed: 20 minutes to 45 minutes
Getting there: Walk, when you are in town.
We like this family-run cafe-cum-chocolate shop next to the park in the town center of La Fortuna.
We have been visiting them for years and have seen them grow from a small corner shop to a larger fancier cafe.
They serve delicious chocolate and chocolate products, ice-cream and local coffee.
This is how we enjoy our time at the Chocolate Fusion:
Taste different chocolates, truffles, and confections made from local cacao.
Buy a small selection to enjoy during your stay or as souvenirs for friends and family.
Try their artisanal ice-cream, we like the orange-chocolate mixed flavor.
If you are a digital nomad in Latin America, you can get some coffee, cakes and cookies, and use their cozy corner to get some work done.
Typical Costa Rican Lunch at a Soda Restaurant
Where: Costa Rican soda restaurants in and around town
Cost: 8 to 10 USD for a casado or most main courses
Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hour
Getting there: Walk, car or taxi, depending on where you stay.
The Soda restaurants are what a Costa Rican will say “Bueno, Bonito, Barrato” (Good, Nice, Cheap).
La Fortuna has several Soda restaurants spread across the town that offer local food and fusion as well.
Try the ‘Casado‘ dish which typically includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or vegetarian option and club it with a beer or ‘batidos‘ (juices).
We liked the food at these restaurants and recommend them for typical dishes:
📍 Restaurant Tiquicia: Located outside the town center. Apart from savoring hearty meals, we also find toucans on trees next to the restaurant.
📍 Soda La Hormiga and Soda Viquez: Both are conveniently located near the La Fortuna bus station. These restaurants serve a variety of local dishes at great prices.
📍 Soda Tita Rosa: A small family run restaurant offering delicious dishes and drinks.
Buy Souvenir
Where: Shops in and around La Fortuna town center
Cost: Small souvenirs from 5 USD
Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Getting there: Walk, when you are in town
There are several souvenir and art shops around the park at the La Fortuna downtown. You can visit the souvenir shops and browse the art galleries.
Pick up small fridge magnets or keychains with Costa Rican wildlife, symbols or art, which are widely available at reasonable prices.
Woodwork is common in Costa Rica and you will find wooden utensils: cups, plates, along with other artwork hand-painted with vibrant colors.
Apart from the works of local artisans, you can find the common souvenirs like t-shirts, jackets, cards, and artworks bearing the Costa Rican symbols and catch words like Pura Vida!
Hot Springs Pura Vida (Thermal river + Pool)
Where: Around 10 kilometers from La Fortuna, opposite the free hot spring of La Fortuna, El Choyin
Cost: 28 USD per adult
Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
Getting there: Best by car or taxi
This is a paid alternative to visiting the free hot spring, El Choyin.
We chose the Hot Springs Pura Vida over El Choyin on our recent visit to La Fortuna, for these reasons:
- It gives access to the pools of the natural thermal river (same as El Choyin) with lesser visitors
- We did not need to worry about our belongings as they had lockers
- Access to clean bathrooms, and towels were included in the entry fee.
- Safe parking, as we were driving our rental car
- Additionally, they have a large thermal pool, when we wanted a change of scene from the natural river
Hot Springs Pura Vida still gave us access to the thermal river, as well as a number of amenities, safe parking and an on-site restaurant.
The combination of the thermal river with the pool gives you an option to switch between soaking spots depending on how hot you want the water and how crowded it is. Also, if you want the hot springs experience without going for the higher-priced luxury resorts, Pura Vida is a great budget option to add to your itinerary.
Tips for visiting Hot Springs Pura Vida:
- Bring your change of clothes (facilities are available)
- If you are not renting a car, plan your taxi costs ahead of time since it is outside town
Guided Sloth Watching Experience and Tortilla Making
Where: Close to town, La Fortuna Hikes and Trails
Cost: 38 USD per adult
Time needed: 2.5 to 3 hours
Getting there: Best by car or taxi, or walking if you are staying near La Fortuna town
We went on this guided sloth watching tour and spotted 5 sloths! 4 three-toed sloths and 1 two-toed sloth.
The private reserve is connected to a biological corridor which makes it a shared habitat for a number of species including these sloths.
We also spotted a Central American porcupine, basilisk lizards, and birds like a Spotted Owl and a motmot.
This sloth watching and tortilla making experience includes a certified guide, tortillas, light snacks, water and a natural beverage.
The trail is flat and easy to walk on.
Our guide was knowledgable and talked about the vegetation, ecosystem of the place, and helped us spot the wildlife. He also set up his telescope at the right places for visitors to take a close look at the species, and help take photos with your phone through his scope.
🎟️ Book your space for the guided sloth watching tour here →
Tips for doing the Sloth Watching Tour at Las Mariolas Trail:
- Do not forget to apply insect repellent before going on the trail
- Pick the morning or afternoon slot for better chances of spotting wildlife, not midday
Mistico Park Hanging Bridges (Self-guided)
Where: Mistico Park Hanging Bridges (around 20 kilometers from La Fortuna)
Cost: 39 USD (self-guided hike)
Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
Getting there: Best by car or taxi, some tours include transport
Going for a self-guided hike in the Mistico Park Hanging Bridges was the first thing that we did on our first visit to La Fortuna. That visit, started our appreciation for the biodiversity of the Costa Rican rainforests.
The hanging bridges took us to the canopies of the rainforests, the birds munching on the fruits and couple of howler monkeys jumping trees.
This is one of the best value nature experiences around La Fortuna if you want rainforest views without committing to a rugged long hike.
➡️ Read about our experience of visiting the Mistico Park.
The hanging bridges give you that iconic Arenal-area perspective, lush jungle with an occasional sneak peek at the river below you, and the view of the Arenal Volcano on a clear day.
Since it is self-guided, you can go at your own pace and stop as long as you like when you hear movement in the trees.
Do you need a guide for exploring Mistico Park Hanging Bridges? You do not need a guide just to explore the rainforests. But if you wish to spot wildlife and birds with the help of an expert, then book this guided tour.
Tips for a self-guided hike in the Mistico Park Hanging Bridges:
- Go early for cooler temperatures and better chances to spot wildlife.
- Walk slowly and scan the treetops, this area is known for birds and other animals.
- Bring insect repellent and wear comfortable walking shoes.
🎟️ For a self-guided walk, you can book your Mistico Park entrance tickets here →
North Fields Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Experience
Where: North Fields Coffee Tour Location (short drive from the La Fortuna town center)
Cost: 46 USD
Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
Getting there: Tour includes transport from hotels within 10 minutes from La Fortuna, otherwise car or taxi
This experience packed so much in little over 2.5 hours. We learnt about the history of coffee and chocolate production in Costa Rica, and their current challenges, which help create awareness.
If you love coffee and chocolate, learning the process and sampling the end products can be rewarding. We sampled specialty coffee, and cacao and chocolate, in their raw forms and blends of different percentages.
Apart from the specialty coffee and chocolate, you also get to taste the juice of sugarcane, another important produce of Costa Rica.
Between tasting and learning about the processes and products, we walked through coffee, cacao and sugarcane plantations.
This coffee tour is one of those experiences that feel both relaxing and interesting, and it is easy to fit into your itinerary without taking up a full day.
However, take note, for the outdoor part of the tour, it can feel very hot on a sunny day. So hydrate well.
And in case there is a chance of rain, they offer umbrella to everyone at the beginning of the tour. That is why, this coffee and chocolate tour is also a great backup plan for a rainy day in La Fortuna, when you do not feel like being soaked on a hike.
Tips for doing the North Fields Coffee and Chocolate Tour:
- If you are not renting a car, check whether your accommodation is eligible for pickup, since additional transport can add up.
🎟️ Book your space for the North Fields Coffee and Chocolate tour here →
Farm to Table Cooking Class Experience
Where: Local Farm close to the La Fortuna town center
Cost: 45 USD
Time needed: ~ 2 hours
Getting there: Car or Taxi
This farm-to-table cooking class is another fun, hands-on way to experience Costa Rican culture through food.
You cook traditional dishes in Costa Rican style, like empanadas and ceviches, using local organic ingredients right on the farm where they are grown.
The fun part is that, depending on the season, you may even help collect produce from the fields before heading back to the kitchen.
The class is especially memorable because it is held in an open, wood-fire kitchen, so it feels more like learning in someone’s home than taking a formal lesson. Along the way, your guide shares stories about Costa Rican culture and the farm’s produce, which adds context to what you are making.
Because it is a small-group experience, it feels personal and is a good value if you want something interactive and social while you are in La Fortuna.
The Farm to Table cooking class experience is also a great plan for a rainy day in Costa Rica.
Tips for doing the cooking class experience:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for a farm (light mud or dust possible if you are picking produce).
- Come hungry, you will be eating what you cook at the end.
🎟️ Book your space for the Farm to Table Cooking Class Experience here →
Night Walk at Papa’s Place
Where: Papa’s Place (close to La Fortuna town)
Cost: 50 USD
Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
Getting there: Car or taxi
Night walks are one of our favorite ways to experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica. We have done night walks in Costa Rica multiple times in different parts of Costa Rica.
When our friend visited La Fortuna recently, we recommended this night walk with Papa’s Place. He found it extremely rewarding.
Papa’s Place is located a short drive from La Fortuna town center on the edge of the rainforests near Arenal Volcano.
The rainforest feels completely different after dark. While during daytime, you can find birds, sloths and monkeys, the nocturnal wildlife spotting is different. This is when frogs, insects and other nocturnal animals become active, and the chances of spotting something unique are much higher than during the day.
The naturally maintained Papa’s Place is home to several nocturnal species. Our friend was able to spot multiple species of frogs, including the iconic red-eyed tree frog among others.
If you have already done the classic La Fortuna highlights and still want a memorable experience, a night walk is an excellent activity to add.
Tips for a Night Walk at Papa’s Place:
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring insect repellent
- A light rain jacket is always a good idea
FAQs: Budget and Free Things to Do in La Fortuna
Is La Fortuna expensive for travelers on a budget?
La Fortuna can feel pricey because many headline attractions (national parks, guided tours, paid hot springs) add up quickly. But we also find it to be one of the easiest places in Costa Rica to balance your costs by mixing in free river spots, town attractions, viewpoints and a few budget to mid-budget activity days.
Can you enjoy La Fortuna without a car?
Yes. If you stay near the town center, you can walk or take short taxi rides to several free and budget options (El Salto, town park, some viewpoints, local eateries, budget hot springs). You can use taxis for the farther ones or book tours that include transport. We have stayed with and without car on different visits, and did activities close and away from our stay planning the transports accordingly. Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Costa Rica in general, but not an absolute necessity in La Fortuna.
Do the ‘free’ hot springs in La Fortuna cost anything?
El Choyin thermal pools are natural and are free, but you may still pay for parking, and taxis will be your only extra cost if you do not have a rental car.
Are the free hot springs and river spots safe?
They are generally safe if you use common sense, but they are not controlled like the paid hot springs. Keep valuables to a minimum (or use a dry bag and keep it with you), and skip the water if currents look strong, especially after rain.
What should you bring for river spots and free hot springs?
We bring a quick-dry towel, a dry bag, a waterproof phone pouch, drinking water, and mosquito repellent. We wear sturdy waterproof hiking sandals or water shoes with grip. If you are visiting after rain, add a light rain jacket and expect muddier trails and stronger currents.
What is the best time of day to see Arenal Volcano clearly?
Mornings usually give you the best chance for clearer volcano views before cloud cover builds. However, it is difficult to predict a perfect time for the views. We have seen the Arenal volcano in its full glory early morning, middle of the day and also during sunset, and found it covered in clouds the entire day even during dry season. If the volcano is hidden, do not assume you ‘missed it’, conditions can change fast, especially in shoulder season.
What is the best rainy-day plan for La Fortuna if you still want to keep costs low?
If heavy rain makes river stops unsafe, swap to budget-friendly indoor and covered options near town or your stay, like a cooking class, coffee and chocolate experiences, or simply a relaxed afternoon in cafes and the central park area. You can also go for the hot springs during the rain. We find it fun with the mix of cold raindrops and the thermal pools. Rain in La Fortuna can be intense but short-lived, so keeping your schedule flexible helps.
How many days do you need in La Fortuna on a budget?
Two to three full days is enough to cover the highlights with a mix of free river time, viewpoints and one paid attraction if you choose. Four or more days will be ideal if you want to slow down, build in a rainy-day buffer and avoid feeling rushed, which also reduces taxi spending.
How do you keep costs down when booking tours in La Fortuna?
Prioritize one ‘big-ticket’ tour based on your interest (luxury hot springs, zip-lining, rafting, combo experiences of hike, hanging bridges and waterfalls that include transport), then fill the rest of your itinerary with the free and low-cost options in this post. When comparing tours, check what is included (transport, entrance fees, meals) because the cheapest headline price is not always the lowest total cost.
Plan Your La Fortuna Trip
Told you, you can make a whole itinerary just with this list of free and budget things to do in La Fortuna.
However, if you wish to explore more options and need more ideas, check out all these articles related to La Fortuna travel planning.
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Arenal 1968 Trail
- Eco Termales Hot Springs
- Relax Termalitas Hot Springs
- Best Hot Springs in La Fortuna
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Travel Resources
- Flights: Skyscanner
- Hotels: Booking.com | Expedia
- Tours: Viator | GetYourGuide
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- SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
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