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La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a must-visit destination in Costa Rica . Visit if you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation surrounded by breathtaking nature. Explore lush rainforests and soak in hot springs. All while catching stunning views of the Arenal volcano. There’s no shortage of things to do in La Fortuna.

Check out our Shop Page with a great packing list of items for your trip to La Fortuna. Don’t forget the bug spray in this area as you’ll be exploring some dense forest and jungle!

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How To Get To La Fortuna

La Fortuna has so much to offer as it’s in the central area of Costa Rica. But that comes with a bit of a drive from either airport. Whichever airport you’re landing at, all the roads to La Fortuna are paved and in good order. You’ll find a lot of stores and supermarkets along the way for your convenience.

If you’re coming from Liberia, you can expect about a 3 hour drive. The highway leaving Liberia to Canas is proper highway that’s rarely congested. Once you turn towards the mountains it’s country driving. This route is very scenic and will give you an opportunity to drive by Rio Celeste. I recommend checking out the free swimming area there (video here).

If you’re heading to La Fortuna from San José, it’s a bit shorter drive. That is, at least on the map. Driving through San José can be very congested at times and add significant time delays. Once you’re out of San José, it’s mostly easy country driving. If you decide to take Route 702(pictured above in light blue), you’ll drive by El Cocora, which is a hiking area/butterfly dome. It’s a great place to stop and get a coffee (video here).

Lots To Do In La Fortuna

Once you arrive in La Fortuna, you’ll find out why it’s considered the adventure capital of Costa Rica. Here’s some things you can do:

Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and hiking through the national park that surrounds it is an unforgettable experience. The park offers several trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, so there’s something for every level of hiker. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see wildlife, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the volcano.

Soaking in Hot Springs

La Fortuna is famous for its hot springs, which are heated by the Arenal Volcano. The warm water and natural surroundings create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. There are several hot spring resorts in the area, each with its own unique features and amenities. Some have water slides and picnic areas to enjoy.

If you’re heading out for an adventure, you’re going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you’ll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!

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Canopy ToursFor the adrenaline seekers, La Fortuna offers thrilling zip line and canopy tours that allow you to fly above the rainforest canopy. You’ll get an up-close view of the lush vegetation and may even spot some wildlife. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall The La Fortuna Waterfall is a popular and well visited attraction in the area. The 230-foot waterfall drops into a stunning pool, surrounded by the forest. The hike down to the waterfall is steep, but it’s worth it for the views. Go on a Wildlife TourLa Fortuna is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, and more. Taking a guided wildlife tour is a great way to learn about the local flora and fauna and get a chance to see some of these amazing creatures up close.

Where To Stay

There are a lot of short term accommodations in La Fortuna available to rent. You can also find lots of hostels like Arenal Sloth Hostel, Selena and Iguanas Garden. For a higher end experience check out Baldi Hot Springs Resort and Spa, which has it’s own hot spring retreat.

For a lower cost hot spring option, which is great for day trips be sure to visit Termales Los Laureles. This cool spot has day passes which give you access to the hot springs, waterpark and more. See our video below about it:

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We also upload ambient videos and walking tours of the locations that we visit, check out that channel Here.

FAQ for La Fortuna, Alajuela, Costa Rica

1. How do I get to La Fortuna from San José?
La Fortuna is about a 3-hour drive from San José. You can rent a car and take Route 1, then follow the signs for La Fortuna through Route 702. Buses and shuttles also run regularly from the capital.

2. Is Arenal Volcano still active?
Yes, Arenal Volcano is still considered active, though it hasn’t had major eruptions since 2010. You can hike around the base and see old lava flows, but the summit is off-limits for safety reasons.

3. What are the best things to do in La Fortuna?
Visitors often enjoy hiking Arenal Volcano National Park, soaking in hot springs, visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, and going on wildlife tours. Adventure activities like zip-lining, white-water rafting, and horseback riding are also popular.

4. Are there natural hot springs in La Fortuna?
Yes, La Fortuna is famous for its natural hot springs. There are many resorts and spots where you can relax in geothermal pools, including popular locations like Tabacón and Baldi Hot Springs.

5. Can I see wildlife in La Fortuna?
Yes, La Fortuna is rich in wildlife. You can spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and even the famous red-eyed tree frog on guided nature tours or walks through the surrounding rainforests and reserves.

6. Is La Fortuna suitable for families?
Yes, La Fortuna is very family-friendly. The area offers a variety of activities for all ages, including easy hikes, butterfly gardens, hot springs, and even kid-friendly adventure tours.

7. What is the weather like in La Fortuna?
La Fortuna is generally warm and humid with frequent rain, especially from May to November. The dry season, from December to April, is considered the best time to visit, though the rainforest remains lush year-round.

8. How far is La Fortuna from Arenal Volcano?
La Fortuna is only about 15 minutes away from Arenal Volcano National Park by car. Most hotels in the area offer views of the volcano, and many activities revolve around exploring the park.

9. Are there budget-friendly places to stay in La Fortuna?
Yes, La Fortuna offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. There are plenty of affordable options that cater to backpackers and budget travelers.

10. Can I hike to the top of Arenal Volcano?
No, hiking to the summit of Arenal Volcano is not allowed due to its status as an active volcano and safety concerns. However, you can hike trails at its base and enjoy great views of the volcano from designated areas.

Guanacaste is home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica. If you’re planning a vacation to these sunny destinations, and looking to relax on the beach, check out Playa Ocotal and Playa Gringo. 

Both of these beaches are just a short drive outside of the popular tourist town of Playas del Coco. While your driving down the main strip towards the beach in El Coco, look out on the left for Rich Coast Diving. Just after, there’s a prominent left turn that will take you towads Ocotal and Gringo.

Check out our Shop Page with some necessities for your trip. We have great options for snorkeling enjoying the sun at these popular beach destinations.

Playa Ocotal

Playa Ocotal is under a 10 minute drive from the downtown of Playas del Coco. It’s an incredible beach that often less busy. The beach is surrounded by lush mountains that will often feature howler monkeys looking for food. It’s a great place to relax and watch the ocean, as there’s lots of areas for shade under the trees.

The water at Playa Ocotal is incredible. The beach is angled away from the Pacific so the waves are far more gentle than some other beaches in Costa Rica. This also lets the water be clear most of the time. There’s incredible swimming and  snorkeling at either end of the beach. If you head to the south(left side) of the beach, there’s some shallow alcoves that are far enough offshore to see some very unique fish.

Be sure to protect your skin during your day at Playa Ocotal. Pick up a Sunstick, that is sunscreen in a roll on format. It’s a great way to apply sunscreen for your time at the beach.

If you’re heading out for an adventure, you’re going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you’ll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!

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Playa Gringo

For a little more adventure, you have to check out Playa Gringo. It’s right next to Ocotal, and the entrance to the hike is close along the way from El Coco. Make sure to bring a lot of water, since there aren’t any stores or restaurants along the way. The trail is marked pretty well and isn’t too tough, but it’s still got some steep sections. But the payoff is huge once you get to the top of the hill and see the coastline stretching out before you. Once you’re at Playa Gringo, it’s like you’re in your own little secret paradise. The beach is quiet, with these amazing rock formations and cliffs all around. And the water is perfect. Just keep in mind that the waves can be a bit strong, so be careful if you’re going for a swim. https://youtu.be/xuhjGkCx_jQ

Great Beaches In Guanacaste

Playa Ocotal and Playa Gringo are two awesome beaches in Guanacaste. The beaches are just about a 45 minute drive from the Liberia International Airport and surrounded by accommodations. Definitely check them out if you’re vacationing in Guanacaste.

Visit our Shop page for stuff we find helpful while travelling in Costa Rica. Enjoy!

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Be sure to Subscribe to our Youtube Channel, and leave a comment with your thoughts about this location or request a video in other cool destinations around Costa Rica.

We also upload ambient videos and walking tours of the locations that we visit, check out that channel Here.

FAQ: Playa Gringo & Playa Ocotal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• How do I get to Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal are located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. The easiest way to reach them is by driving from Liberia Airport, which is about a 1 hour drive.
• Is there parking available at Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Yes, Playa Ocotal has 2 public access parking lots. Playa Gringo doesn’t, you’ll have to either hike there from the street or swim/paddleboard there from Ocotal.
• Are Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal good for snorkeling?
  Yes, Playa Ocotal is particularly known for its clear waters, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. You can see a variety of marine life close to the shore.
• Can I swim at Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Yes, both beaches have calm waters that are generally safe for swimming. However, always check local conditions, as currents can change.
• Are there restaurants or cafes near Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Yes, at Playa Ocotal you’ll find the very popular Father Roosters. Playa Gringo is more secluded, so it’s best to bring snacks if you plan to spend the day there.
• Is Playa Gringo or Playa Ocotal more family-friendly?
  Both beaches are family-friendly, but Playa Ocotal tends to have more amenities like nearby, making it a convenient choice for families.
• What activities can I do at Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Besides swimming and snorkeling, you can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, and even boat tours from Playa Ocotal. Playa Gringo is more suited for relaxation and enjoying the natural scenery.
• Are there hotels near Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal?
  Yes, there are various accommodation options near Playa Ocotal. Playa Gringo itself has no accommodations options.
• Is Playa Ocotal a black sand beach?
  Yes, Playa Ocotal is known for its unique black sand, which contrasts beautifully with the clear blue water and lush greenery.
• Can I visit both Playa Gringo and Playa Ocotal in one day?
  Absolutely! The two beaches are close to each other, making it easy to visit both in a single day. Many visitors enjoy spending the morning at one beach and the afternoon at the other.

Costa Rica boasts a rich culture and a host of celebrated traditions. Among these, El Tope is one of the country’s most popular festivals. Held annually in the capital city of San Jose, this national celebration is a vibrant and colorful parade that draws together horse enthusiasts from across Costa Rica.

Rich In History

Originally a military horse parade in the early 19th century, El Tope has evolved into a celebration of the country’s equestrian traditions. Today, it is an important event on the Costa Rican calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from near and far.

The heart of El Tope is its horse parade, which typically takes place in the afternoon and extends well into the night. Dressed in traditional attire, riders from across Costa Rica come together for this festive occasion, adorning their horses with colorful decorations that create an electric atmosphere.

If you’re heading out for an adventure, you’re going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you’ll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!

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Food And More

Food is also a key part of the festival, with traditional Costa Rican dishes available for visitors to enjoy. Among the most popular are gallo pinto, a rice and beans dish, and chifrijo, which combines rice, beans, pork, and avocado. And, of course, visitors can indulge in a range of local drinks, including guaro, a beloved Costa Rican liquor.

El Tope is more than just a horse parade, however. It is a celebration of Costa Rican culture, with live music and dance performances complementing the horse parade. Arts and crafts vendors also offer handmade pottery, clothing, and other traditional items.

A family-friendly event, El Tope offers plenty of entertainment for children, too. Alongside the horse parade, carnival rides and games provide hours of fun, creating opportunities for families to bond and experience the richness of Costa Rican culture together.

Check It Out In Playas del Coco

El Tope is an exciting and colorful national festival that celebrates Costa Rican equestrian traditions and cultural heritage. The horse parade is the highlight of the event, but visitors can also enjoy traditional food, music, dance performances, and arts and crafts vendors. It is a family-friendly occasion, offering a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Costa Rican culture. If you are planning a visit to Costa Rica, be sure to schedule your trip around El Tope, and enjoy this lively celebration of equestrian culture.

If you’re vacationing in Guanacaste in late January be sure to check out this awesome event.

Follow Us!

Be sure to Subscribe to our Youtube Channel, and leave a comment with your thoughts about this location or request a video in other cool destinations around Costa Rica.

We also upload ambient videos and walking tours of the locations that we visit, check out that channel Here.

Check the links in the Youtube video for Google Maps pins for all of these stores.