La Fortuna Waterfall
A breathtaking 320 foot waterfall, with a clear water swimhole.
Family Time
Romance
La Fortuna Waterfall Overview
Who doesn’t like waterfalls? This trip is a popular one because of the photo ops available at the waterfall. It is refreshing and rejuvenating to be so immersed in nature. The feeling of a swim at this location is indescribable. You have to experience it firsthand.
- The waterfall is in the Arenal Volcano area, at the base of the dormant Chato Volcano, and it is 320-feet tall.
- It is fed from the Arenal River, which goes through the rainforest. The watercolor ranges from jade to turquoise, depending on the depth.
- Swimming directly under the waterfall is not allowed (not even possible, as the current is so strong), but a beautiful swimming hole with soft sand, pretty fish, and clean, clear water are stunning. There’s a lifeguard on duty.
- The hike to this Arenal volcano waterfall is quick, but there are 480 steps to climb down to the swimming hole but you can view the waterfall without climbing those steps.
Intensity
Moderate
La Fortuna Waterfall Is Featured in These Trips
Here are some of the combo trips we recommend you to check out if you want to experience La Fortuna Waterfall :
What to Expect from La Fortuna Waterfall
The impressive La Fortuna waterfall is found within a beautiful biological reserve. Those who enjoy hiking can also spend some time in the 210 acres of tropical forest, 520 meters above sea level, completely immersed in scenic beauty.
You start in an area with lockers, showers, and souvenirs, and the view from there is of the waterfall from a distance of 200 meters. The waterfall is close. Two hundred meters is a quick walk, but in this case, it’s a steep one with many steps. Most people spend 15-30 minutes wandering at a relaxed pace.
It’s important to note that this waterfall is not easily accessible for mobility difficulties. There’s a very steep staircase with hundreds of steps that you need to climb to and from the swimming area. But, it’s beautiful, carved into the hillside.
Experts suggest stopping along the way to make some mental memories or take a few photos of the view from different heights as you go down the seemingly never-ending stairway. The climb is worth it; we promise. Once you dip into the refreshing waters, you won’t want to leave.
Let the stream and small rapids surround you and relax your whole body. Take in the view and the feel. Let the majesty of the forest bring you peace and inspiration. Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of nature. Don’t keep those eyes closed too long, though; you want to take in the beauty of the bright blue waters and picture-perfect waterfall.
Make sure to relax close to the rocks and not so close to the waterfall. The current is too strong where the waterfalls are.
FAQs about La Fortuna Waterfall
How do you get to Arenal waterfall?
The hike entrance is very close to La Fortuna Downton, just a short, five min drive from the main street.
How long is the walk to La Fortuna waterfall?
The walk is about ten minutes. It’s just 500 yards from where you will be impressed by the view of the waterfall. It’s worth noting, however, that there are also almost 500 steps to climb if you plan to go to the swimming hole.
Is the La Fortuna waterfall in the Arenal National Park?
It’s located in a biological reserve that is, in fact, part of the Arenal Volcano National Park. It’s, by far, the best waterfall in Arenal, Costa Rica.