La Fortuna Waterfall Entry Ticket
Overview
A skip-the-line entry ticket to the La Fortuna Waterfall, the 70-metre cascade that is the best-known natural sight near Arenal. You choose your day, skip the ticket queue and visit at your own pace, with no fixed group or guide. The default option is the entry ticket only; a second option adds a set lunch with a main course and a natural drink at the restaurant inside the waterfall facilities. Transport is not included. It suits independent travellers who prefer flexibility to a full-day tour.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line entry to the La Fortuna Waterfall
- Visit at your own pace on the day you choose
- Walk the staircase through the forest down to the falls
- Swim in the pool at the base when conditions are safe
- Optional set lunch with a natural drink at the on-site restaurant
- Open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Book online and go straight in on arrival
Full Description
The La Fortuna Waterfall
The La Fortuna Waterfall drops about 70 metres from a rocky ledge into a wide green pool surrounded by tropical forest. It is fed by a river that starts high on the slopes above, and the water keeps flowing all year round, though the volume is greater in the rainy months. Photos rarely do justice to the sound and the mist that you feel from the viewing platform.
Most visitors take some time to stand at the platform, then continue down to the basin to look up at the falls from below. Anyone planning a trip should know that the waterfall is one of the top attractions of La Fortuna and can be busy in the middle of the day, which is why a skip-the-line ticket is so useful.
The staircase and how long to spend
A well-kept path with many steps leads from the entrance down to the base. The descent is easy but the climb back takes effort, so give yourself a good pause at the bottom and carry water. Allow about one to two hours for the visit, including photos and the walk up.
Wear shoes with grip, because steps and rocks can be wet, and take a small bag with a rain jacket. If you are wondering how to get to La Fortuna Waterfall, it is a short drive from the town, and taxis and local tours run there daily. Remember that this ticket does not include transport.
Swimming and safety at the pool
When the water level and the current are safe, visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the falls, and it is a refreshing break in the tropical heat. The water is cool and the rocks are slippery, so enter carefully and stay away from the base of the falls, where the force can be strong.
Follow the signs and the advice of the staff, as conditions change after heavy rain and areas may be closed for safety. Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to swim, and keep valuables locked away or with you.
Lunch option and the facilities
The second option adds a set lunch at the restaurant inside the waterfall facilities, with a main course and a natural drink of the day. The restaurant is open from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, so plan your visit around those hours if you choose it. It is a convenient way to eat before or after the walk without leaving the site.
Toilets and other visitor services are available in the entrance area. If you have dietary requirements, tell the staff on arrival. Transport is not included in either option, so arrange your own way to and from the waterfall.
Itinerary
- Arrive and skip the queueShow your voucher at the entrance during opening hours, from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and go in without waiting at the ticket desk.
- Viewing platformTake in the first view of the falls and photograph the mist and the canyon.
- Staircase to the baseWalk down the steps through the forest, about half an hour at an easy pace.
- Pool at the baseSpend time by the water, swimming only where and when it is safe.
- Optional lunch and the climb backIf you chose the lunch option, eat at the on-site restaurant, then climb back up at your own pace.
What's included
- Skip-the-line admission ticket to the La Fortuna Waterfall
Not included
- Lunch
- Transport
Not suitable for
- People who cannot manage many steps
- Anyone with serious heart or mobility problems
- Wheelchair users who need a step-free route to the base
Meeting point
There is no meeting point and no guide. Go to the waterfall entrance on your chosen day, during opening hours (about 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM), and show your booking voucher. Transport is not included.
Important information
- Wear closed shoes with good grip and light clothes; steps and rocks can be wet.
- Bring water, a towel if you plan to swim, sunscreen and a rain jacket.
- The ticket is valid for the day you choose; the lunch option needs a visit between 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM.
- The default option includes the skip-the-line entry ticket only; lunch and transport are not included.
- With the lunch option, the set meal is a main course and a natural drink of the day.
- Swimming depends on the water level and conditions; follow the staff's signs.
- Come early or late in the day to avoid the busiest hours.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the La Fortuna Waterfall ticket cost?
The price depends on the option you choose and the number of adults and children. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option, adult and child.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. This is an entry ticket only, so you arrange your own transport to the waterfall.
How long does the visit take?
Most visitors need about one to two hours, including the staircase, photos and time at the pool.
What is the difference between the two options?
The first is the skip-the-line entry ticket only. The second adds a set lunch, a main course and a natural drink of the day, at the restaurant inside the waterfall facilities.
Is the ticket suitable for children?
Yes, children can visit. The booking panel shows the age range for the child price. Note the many steps on the way down and up.
What should I wear and bring?
Shoes with grip, light clothes, water, sunscreen and a rain jacket, plus swimwear and a towel if you want to swim.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, depending on availability; the booking panel shows the open dates and the last time you can reserve.
What are the opening hours of the La Fortuna Waterfall?
Entry is available from about 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but hours can change by season, so check your confirmation.
Is the La Fortuna Waterfall worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the most beautiful natural sights in the region, and a skip-the-line ticket saves time on busy days.
Can I swim at the waterfall?
Usually yes in the pool at the base, if the staff say conditions are safe. Do not swim close to the falls.
