Some of the best La Fortuna tours allow you to see wildlife and fun activities like zip lining and rappelling.

17 Best La Fortuna Tours and Excursions [2023]

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On La Fortuna tours you may find yourself suspended in the canopies of lush rainforests, soaking in the healing waters of a volcanic hot spring, or learning what it takes to produce some of the world’s greatest coffee.  If these sound appealing to you, there’s no doubt La Fortuna is where you want to be on your Costa Rica vacation.   

And that’s only the beginning. La Fortuna tours and excursions are wonderfully diverse and will delight visitors of all ages and interests.

Best La Fortuna Tours: an overview

Costa Rica is a world leader in ecotourism and experiencing one of the La Fortuna tours is perfect opportunity to see the country’s unique flora and fauna. Whether you are spending 7 days in Costa Rica or more, taking tours is one of the best ways to explore the country.

From adrenaline packed adventures to cooking classes, there are tons of fun adventure tours.

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Rio Celeste is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica

1. Full Day Rio Celeste Tour From La Fortuna  

Enjoy your time spotting wildlife with a well-trained guide, soak in natural hot springs, and marvel over the Rio Celeste waterfall’s distinctive turquoise waters. End your tour with a fresh Costa Rican lunch. 

After the 4 hour Rio Celeste Tour, you’ll return to your La Fortuna hotel feeling euphoric after spending a day in paradise.  

What’s included:

  • Professional Guide
  • Lunch in local restaurant
  • Pick-up and drop-off from hotels in La Fortuna area

What’s not included:

  • Rain boots
  • Dinner

What travelers say:

“Great excursion. Our guide Santiago was very knowledgeable and went the extra mile. We saw Caymans, Sloth, Green Vine Snake & the Red Poison Dart frog. The typical Costa Rican lunch was also very good.”  – Oscar M. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A FULL DAY TOUR OF RIO CELESTE

2. Rio Celeste Tubing

Another option for taking in the gorgeous Rio Celeste waterfall is by river tube. Lay back, relax, and simply take it all in on this River Tubing Experience. A knowledgeable guide will show you where you can partake in cliff jumping, grab some volcanic soil for a rejuvenating mud mask, and point out wildlife in their natural habitat. 

What’s included:

  • Snacks
  • Safety equipment (Helmet and lifejacket)
  • Towels.
  • Private transportation from the starting point to the river.

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities

What travelers say:

“We had so much fun tubing down the river. It was relaxing and our tour guide gave us a lot of information about the area. We got to enjoy a little volcanic mud mask as well. Very cool tour!” – Jackie S.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TUBING TOUR OF RIO CELESTE

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3. Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Tour 

A trip to Costa Rica is not complete without experiencing the rainforest’s canopy layer. A visit to Mistico Park Hanging Bridges is a spectacular way to get immersed in the exotic sights, sounds, and smells of the rainforest. A guide will help you to spot plenty of wildlife as well in this 2.5 hour tour through many levels of the rainforest.  

As an added bonus, the restaurant (and the parking lot) reward guests with a dramatic view of Arenal Volcano. 

What’s included:

  • Professional Guide
  • Entrance Fees

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities
  • Snacks and Beverage
  • Raincoats and Umbrellas
  • Strollers – Trail strollers are available for rental onsite

What travelers say:

“Saw many animals – howler monkeys, spider monkeys, lizards, birds, etc. Having a tour guide was super helpful as we probably would not have spotted at least 70% of the animals. Hanging bridges are fun, have great views, and are definitely safe. Recommend for anyone traveling through Arenal.” Hunter D.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR OF MISTICO ARENAL HANGING BRIDGES

Learning about coffee is one of the best things to do in Lake Atitlan

4. North Fields Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour 

The guides of La Fortuna’s most popular coffee tours are passionate and proud to share their farm with visitors. They’ll teach you how arabica coffee, cocoa, and sugarcane is cultivated and harvested.   Watch as chocolate is prepared from scratch and learn how coffee is roasted before enjoying delectable tastes. 

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You’ll hear firsthand how connected Costa Ricans are with their land and the true meaning of “Pura Vida.”

After the tour you can purchase bags of their coffee or even a traditional Costa Rican “chorreador” coffee maker. 

What’s included:

  • Local taxes
  • Chocolate preparation and tasting
  • Sugar cane tasting
  • Water to drink
  • Professional guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (not more than 20 minutes away from La Fortuna Area)
  • Coffee and/or Tea

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities
  • Does not include transportation from hotels 20 minutes away from the La Fortuna area

What travelers say:

“Friendly and memorable coffee and chocolate tour with lots of tastings and explanations. Our guide David was amazing, so patient, friendly and insightful. Love that it is small and family-owned.” Joanne S. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A COFFE TOUR

5. White Water Rafting on the Balsa River  

Get your adrenaline pumping while gliding 10 kilometers down a river surrounded by lush jungle and wildlife. 

The rapids are class II and III. Your White Water Rafting tour will start by fitting guests with the necessary equipment, sharing instructions, and delivering safety briefings.  Beginners will feel comfortable with their knowledgeable guides.  

What’s included:

  • Professional Guide
  • Hotel transportation within 6 km
  • Bottled Water
  • Towel
  • Lunch

What’s not included:

  • Souvenir photos (available for purchase at end of the tour)
  • Transportation to/from hotels over 6 km away

What travelers say:

“The attention and friendliness of the tour guides is spectacular! I highly recommend the tour for people with no experience rafting.” – Carolina U.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A WHITEWATER RAFTING TOUR

One of the best La Fortuna tours allows you to enjoy delicious Costa Rica food

6. Farm to Table Cooking Class

You will surely miss casado plate lunches once you return home from your Costa Rican travels. Book a Cooking Class where you can obtain the skills needed to replicate your favorite traditional Tican recipes at home.  

Find out about the Caribbean Side of Costa Rica where you can enjoy pristine, uncrowded beaches.

Your tour will start with a walk through their organic farm to collect key ingredients that are in season.  

What’s included:

  • Lunch or Dinner

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities

What travelers say:

“The entire experience was fun and lovely. Would go again, for sure! The people were warm and welcoming. We started with a wonderful garden tour, tried fresh picked ingredients, and learned how to squeeze sugarcane to make juice. We made tons of delicious empanadas from scratch, smashed and fried plantains, plantain chips, and a soursop smoothie! ” – Katherine R

CLICK HERE TO BOOK FARM TO TABLE COOKING CLASS

7. Waterfall Rappelling and Canyoning Tour

Spend a half day navigating your way through cascading landscapes and descending waterfalls with an expert guide teaching you necessary techniques and leading you safely to the bottom of the canyon. The tour also includes a traditional Costa Rica lunch.

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What’s included:

  • Hotel shuttle from La Fortuna vacation rentals and select hotels
  • Lunch
  • Air conditioned transport
  • Gear
  • Professional Guide
  • Photographer (photos available for purchase)

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities

What travelers say:

“This was an incredible experience! The staff were incredible, patient, friendly, funny and mostly safety first conscious! I have never done repelling before and it was all clearly explained and as a 53 year old woman I managed it simply! Pure Trek are a class team who excel at what they do! Loved it!” – Liz R.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK RAPPELLING AND CANYONING TOUR

Arenal is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, and you can do it by joining one of the guided tours from La Fortuna

8. Arenal Volcano Hiking Tour

Hike petrified lava trails with a local naturalist. Explore beautiful trails within the Arenal Volcano National Park while learning about the volcano’s history and how its activity has shaped the area around it. 

What’s included:

  • Professional Guide
  • Select hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Bottled Water
  • Fruit
  • National Park Fees

What travelers say:

“This was a cultural history hike, not a nature hike. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and shared much of Costa Rican history. The hike was moderate, and a little tricky due to the rain but was still invigorating. If you are looking to learn a little while breathing the fresh air, this is for you!” – Elena B.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK ARENAL VOLCANO HIKING TOUR

Cahuita National Park on the Costa Rica's Caribbean side is home to monkeys, sloths, all kinds of birds and reptiles.

9. Ethical Sloth Watching Tour 

With the help of a guide’s carefully trained eyes and spotting scopes, you’re much more likely to get a glimpse at these elusive, slow moving creatures in their natural habitat. You may also see frogs, porcupines, and toucans. 

It is important to book a tour where you can observe sloths in their natural habitat rather than supporting a company who holds them in captivity for the sake of offering guaranteed sloth sighting tours. 

What’s included:

  • Snacks
  • Professional guide

What travelers say:

“Great experience! Guide was very knowledgeable and helped us spot many sloths and other animals. She took pictures for us through the scope. At the end they also provided delicious fresh pineapple and watermelon.” – Emily P.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A SLOTH WATCHING TOUR

Arenal National Park is one of the best places to visit during Costa Rica 7 Days itinerary

10. Guided ATV La Fortuna Tours – Arenal Volcano

Hold on tight for a thrilling ATV ride where in just a few hours you’ll traverse through a private jungle, take in panoramic views of Arenal Volcano, and learn about the culture of an indigenous tribe, the Maleku.  

What’s included:

  • Water
  • ATV
  • Helmet

What travelers say:

“What a trip, lovely indigenous and cultural aspects, serene river swimming and a dope ride up and down the volcano to finish. If you’re looking for the premier ATV tour – it’s here.” – Corey H.  

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A THRILLING ATV RIDE TOUR

11. Hot Springs Relaxation with Lunch or Dinner

Don’t pass on natural hot springs when visiting Costa Rica.

Don’t leave La Fortuna without experiencing a soak. Baldi Hot Springs Resort offers 25 naturally heated hot spring pools and with this Hot Springs Tour you’ll get a day’s access to their gorgeous amenities without staying at the resort. 

What’s included:

  • Lunch or dinner buffet
  • Day Pass to Baldi

What’s not included:

  • Alcoholic drinks 
  • Transportation to/from attractions 
  • $20 per person security looker

What travelers say:

“Very relaxing, family friendly place. Variety of pools with different water temperatures, perfect for pool hopping. Dinner at the end was delicious!” – Ashwin V.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A HOT SPRINGS TOUR

Kaana is one of the most beautiful hotels in San Ignacio, Belize that offers access to many fun activities in town like zip lining and Mayan ruins.

12. Zipline Over Canyons and Waterfalls

Soar through the treetops where waterfalls and dramatic canyons are waiting to surprise you!  The Arenal Volcano will dominate the landscape in the background. It’s a perfect tour for thrill-seeking nature lovers.

What’s included:

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in La Fortuna
  • Professional guide
  • Use of helmet

What’s not included:

  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase)
  • Hotel pick up and drop off from hotels outside of immediate La Fortuna area

What travelers say:

“We had a great experience. The staff were amazing, friendly and fun. The views and speeds were incredible. Meeting the Maleku people was an added treat. Pura Vida!” Tom B

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A ZIPLINE TOUR OF CANYONS AND WATERFALLS

Tortuguero is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica if you want to Geta way from the crowds and enjoy wildlife watching

13. Night Walk in the jungle

The sights and sounds of the rainforest transform from day to night.  Walking in darkness in search of nocturnal animals is fascinating and exciting. The creature on most people’s wishlist is the Green Tree Frog, however you may also spot other dart frog species, bats, sloths, and reptiles.  

You won’t want to miss the unique opportunity to tour a jungle at night.

What’s included:

  • Bottled water
  • Flashlights
  • Professional naturalist as a guide

What’s not included:

  • Closed Shoes (highly recommended)

What travelers say:

“What an amazing experience! Our guide Melvin was so patient and so good at seeking out frogs and toads and lizards and all the other wildlife hidden amongst the trees and plants. Once in a lifetime experience for sure!” – Tiffany R.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A NIGHT JUNGLE TOUR

14. Venado Caves Tour

Escape the heat or a rainy day by slipping underground in search of grottoes, chambers, and even bat colonies.  Be sure to pack your water shoes and prepare to get a bit dirty! 

A tour of Venado Caves makes for a memorable expedition to gaze upon formations that took millions of years to take shape. If you visit during the rainy season, you may be lucky enough to see the underground waterfall.

What’s included:

  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Professional guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Exploration equipment (lanterns, flashlights, mask, helmet, rubber boots)
  • Transport by air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi
  • Towels

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities

What travelers say:

“Caving was so much more exciting than I thought. Aaron was probably the best guide we had our whole trip. Incredible, friendly and chill, and adventurous. Took us to all the most exciting sections. Felt like a local with him. Highly recommend! – Rees R.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR OF VENADO CAVES

15. Safari Float

Looking for a family friendly, relaxing way to experience the jungle?

Check out this Wild Life Safari Float that will take you down the Peñas Blancas river while your experienced guide stays on alert for monkeys, birds, sloths, and reptiles. Whether you are traveling with your family or by yourself, this isa great, leisurely tour option. 

What’s included:

  • Snack
  • Driver/guide
  • Professional guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

What’s not included:

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Gratuities

CLICK HERE TO BOOK SAFARI FLOAT

Exploring the local culture is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica

16. Cooking and Salsa Dancing

A perfect evening out for couples seeking romantic La Fortuna tours! Cook a traditional Tican meal together, sit down to enjoy it, and then dance off those delicious calories. 

In this Cooking and Dancing combo tour, a professional dance instructor will teach you the basics of Latin dance styles like salsa, merengue, cumbia, and bachata. 

What’s included:

  • Dinner
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional instructor 

What travelers say:

“Rosa was a wonderful instructor. Advised us on how to prepare a traditional Costa Rican meal. Even started off with a traditional cocktail. The food was delicious! Then drove a short distance to a local dance studio for lessons. A culturally rich experience. Pura vida!” – Nastacha F.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK COOKING AND SALSA DANCING TOUR

17. Kayak Tour on Lake Arenal 

Discover some of the most majestic views of Arenal Volcano from the water on a Lake Arenal Kayak Tour. The bird watching aspect is a fun addition to the tour.

Beginner kayakers should not be discouraged as all guests will learn basic paddling techniques from your instructor before starting the tour. 

What’s included:

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Professional guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

What’s not included:

  • Gratuities

What travelers say:

“Roy our guide could not have been more knowledgeable, polite, and lovely to be with! He found us a sloth and some coatis before we’d even got to the lake! He had an amazing knowledge of the bird life we saw in abundance, and the whole trip was relaxing, beautiful and memorable.”

CLICK HERE TO BOOK KAYAKING TOUR OF LAKE ARENAL

What to bring to La Fortuna

For the most enjoyable experience while on your La Fortuna excursions, consider packing the following supplies to ensure safety and comfort. 

  • Bug Repellent – Remember to always apply repellent in parking lots (away from flora) before entering the rainforest.
  • Raincoats/Ponchos for sudden rainfall.
  • Appropriate footwear – Depending on your activity, consider bringing waterproof hiking shoes for the rainforest, water shoes for hot springs, closed toed shoes for night walks, and so on.)
  • A change of clothes – Always be prepared to get wet in La Fortuna.  Whether it is by rainfall, waterfall spray, an exhilarating white water run, or a dip in a hot spring, bring a spare set of clothing.
  • A battery pack for your phone –  All your photos may quickly drain your battery. 
  • A waterproof carrying pouch for your phone. 

PRO TIP: here is what to bring to Costa Rica in your medicine bag

Where to stay in La Fortuna 

There are exceptional accommodations to fit all budgets during your time in La Fortuna.  Here are a few lodging options worth raving about. 

FAQs:

La Fortuna tours offer a perfect opportunity to see Costa Rica's wildlife and explore amazing outdoor opportunities

What are the best La Fortuna tours? 

The best La Fortuna tours are those that immerse you in local lifestyle and natural surroundings in an eco-friendly way. Make sure that you book tours only with reputable tour providers that are committed to ecotourism. 

What are the best ATV tours in La Fortuna? 

This guided ATV adventure, which takes guests through a private jungle, across the base of the Arenal Volcano, and to meet an indigenous tribe is it’s one of the best tours due to its unique tour make-up and exceptional guides.

When is the best time to visit La Fortuna? 

While La Fortuna is stunning year round, the driest season is from mid-December to April. It’s also peak tourist season, so consider visiting on the edge of these dates to avoid larger crowds.  April and then March are the two warmest months in La Fortuna. 

Is La Fotuna worth visiting? 

La Fortuna is a great choice for visitors who want to experience the outdoors and feel warmly welcomed by locals.  As there are many diverse and one-of-a-kind La Fortuna excursions that travelers could easily spend over one week exploring the area. 

What is La Fortuna known for? 

La Fortuna is best known for its nearby volcano (Arenal), great coffee, abundant wildlife, wonderful hot springs, and adventurous activities like hiking, rappelling and white water rafting.

Is there a beach near La Fortuna?

La Fortuna is located inland and has no beaches. If you’d like to see some of Costa Rica’s coastline and enjoy its stunning beaches, consider pairing La Fortuna with time in Manuel Antonio.   The 5 hour drive is easily made with an economy rental car. There are many attractions to see along the drive between La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio

What’s the easiest way to get to La Fortuna?

Most people arrive in Costa Rica via San José airport (SJO). From there, it is easy to reach La Fortuna by rental car with an approximately 2.5 hour drive.

Final Word

La Fortuna is a small city flourishing with tourism due to its proximity to the Arenal Volcano.  Not only does the volcano serve as a tourism destination in itself, but the rich, volcanic soil supports abundant rainforests and wildlife plus produces some of the best arabica coffee beans in the world.   While the volcano has been dormant now since 2010, its magmatic activity continues to warm the hot springs bringing many guests in search of their tranquility.

There are countless ways to both explore beautiful landscapes and experience an adrenaline rush, and taking a guided tour is one of the best ones!

Written by Catherine from Postcard Narrative