La Fortuna is known for its stunning landscapes, volcanic scenery, and many adventure activities. While many popular attractions require an entry fee, there are plenty of free things to do that allow you to explore the region's beauty without spending a dime. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy scenic views, or simply relax, here’s a list of the top 10 free activities you can enjoy in La Fortuna.
1. Visit the free natural Hot Springs
Just outside the entrance to Tabacón Hot Springs, there’s a public section of the river where hot water flows naturally: Río Chollín. Locals and tourists enjoy soaking in these free hot springs surrounded by the rainforest. Bring your swimsuit and a towel, and enjoy the warm waters for free.
Writers Tips:
If you want more information about the Hot Springs, check out our blog article, "Free Hot Springs in La Fortuna."
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
2. Visit El Salto Waterfall and Rope Swing
A popular spot among locals, El Salto, is a free natural swimming hole formed by a waterfall along the Fortuna River. Located just a short walk from the main road, near a bridge known as the "El Salto Bridge," it’s an ideal budget-friendly option for travelers for a refreshing dip. There's even a rope swing for some added fun!
The combination of natural beauty, recreational fun, and accessibility makes El Salto Waterfall and Rope Swing one of the best free things to do in La Fortuna.
3. Take in the views of Arenal Volcano
While there are several paid viewpoints around Arenal Volcano, you can still enjoy free views of this iconic volcano from many places in La Fortuna. The best spots for a panoramic view include the road to the Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna’s central park.
Writers Tips:
Visit early mornings or late afternoons; you can generally have clearer skies, giving you a better chance of seeing the volcano without cloud cover.
We advise checking the weather forecast for visibility and suggest you spend more than one day in La Fortuna to increase your chances of catching clear views of the volcano.
4. Explore the town of La Fortuna
La Fortuna's town center is vibrant and charming. Stroll around the central park, admire the beautiful church of La Fortuna, and take in the small-town vibe. You can relax on a bench, people-watch, and enjoy the stunning backdrop of Arenal Volcano looming in the distance.
5. Visit the Río Fortuna Waterfalls
Although entrance to the main La Fortuna waterfall requires a fee, you can still enjoy the river for free by heading to some less-known areas. Walk upstream from El Salto swimming hole, and you'll find more secluded spots to enjoy the river’s beauty and tranquility.
6. Hike the Sendero Coladas Trail
For a free hiking adventure, visit the Sendero Coladas trail near the national park. The 1.3-kilometer trail takes you through lava fields formed by past eruptions of Arenal Volcano. While it’s not inside the park and is just a nice covered trail between two parking lots, it still offers impressive views of the volcano and surrounding forest.
7. Spot wildlife along the road
The area around La Fortuna is full of wildlife, and you don't need to enter a reserve to spot monkeys, toucans, or sloths. Take a walk or drive along the main road to Arenal Volcano, and keep your eyes peeled for animals resting in the trees. Sloths and monkeys may be the headliners, but the white-nosed coati is secretly Costa Rica’s most famous mammal. Isn’t he just too cute?
Writers tips :
Bring Binoculars (especially if you don't want to pay for a guided tour) to get a closer look at the surrounding wildlife, which includes various bird species.
8. Relax by Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake, and its scenic beauty is undeniable.
Though it’s man-made, it was initially created to produce hydroelectric power. However, it’s also a place for recreation; you can visit the shores of the lake for free, have a picnic, or relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The lake offers spectacular views of Arenal Volcano and is a great place to enjoy the water and rainforest. Finding a place to access the lake can be challenging, so it is best to look in areas where they have watersports and tours.
9. Visit Local Markets
On Friday, from 9 A.M to 5:30 P.M, La Fortuna has a farmers' market where you can wander around and browse locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and local food items. It's a great way to experience local culture and food traditions even if you don't buy anything.
10. Take photos of the surrounding scenery
One of the best things to do in La Fortuna is to appreciate the region’s incredible scenery. Whether hiking, walking around town, or driving to nearby attractions, there are endless opportunities to take beautiful photos of Arenal Volcano, rivers, and amazing lush rainforests.
Free things to do in La Fortuna: final thoughts.
La Fortuna offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities, many of which you can enjoy without spending a fortune. From free hot springs to hidden waterfalls to breathtaking views of volcanoes, there’s no shortage of adventures in this beautiful corner of Costa Rica. Don’t be afraid to chat with locals for hidden tips and information—they often know the best free spots to relax or take in spectacular views (some of which we probably didn’t even consider). Most importantly, embrace the pura vida lifestyle by slowing down, staying curious, and appreciating this incredible destination's simple pleasures.
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