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La Fortuna Waterfall, La Fortuna de San Carlos

4.5
#1 of 806 in Wildlife in Costa Rica
Waterfall · Nature / Park
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A short drive from town, La Fortuna Waterfall offers an idyllic place for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing. Fed by the Arenal River, which winds its way through the rainforest before plunging dramatically over a steep cliff, this waterfall forms a large pool at the base of a dormant volcano. Lifeguards remain on duty throughout the day, while modern facilities like restrooms and showers ensure a comfortable visit in a lush area noted for thick vegetation and abundant wildlife. Prepare for a short but arduous hike to the base of the waterfall by wearing shoes suitable for slippery and uneven terrain. Use our La Fortuna de San Carlos attractions planner to add La Fortuna Waterfall and other attractions to your La Fortuna de San Carlos vacation plans.
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La Fortuna Waterfall reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
9,591 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • Spectacular waterfall! Just be prepared for the STAIRS! It's 500 steps down, and back up again. I'm in decent shape, and I was seriously sore after doing this. Anyone with bad knees or backs... 
    Spectacular waterfall! Just be prepared for the STAIRS! It's 500 steps down, and back up again. I'm in decent shape, and I was seriously sore after doing this. Anyone with bad knees or backs...  more »
  • Want a full body experience? This is it.. from the hike in and out to the many pools that are activated by the waterfall, you will have your senses and spirit elevated. Can't imagine a more... 
    Want a full body experience? This is it.. from the hike in and out to the many pools that are activated by the waterfall, you will have your senses and spirit elevated. Can't imagine a more...  more »
Google
  • So first off $18 to enter which trust me is worth every dime. Then it’s 500 steps down. Those go pretty quick and there’s a few vantage points to take pictures on your way down. Once down there is a benched area to sit and change if you like but no shelter the changing rooms and showers are at the top before the steps. The rocks are slick and the water is very refreshing. The current for the waterfall is strong. But it’s nice and plenty of rocks to take pictures. But if you wanna hang out and enjoy the water the small pool to the left is where you wanna be.
  • Beautiful waterfall with a swimming area at the bottom. I loved seeing the plant diversity. The walk to the bottom is a series of stairs, thought not the most difficult hike, it would be hard for those with mobility issues and your calves may feel it the next day. There is a segmented walk for orchids and butterflies. The cafe at the start has a decent selection of drinks and food.

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