La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

La Fortuna Waterfall and its river canyon

The La Fortuna Waterfall falls about 70 metres into a green basin and is the most photographed sight in the valley. On this tour your guide walks you along the crystal-clear river, past a high suspension bridge, and down the jungle staircase to the base of the falls, in a canyon shaped by volcanic activity long ago. Many travellers search for how to get to La Fortuna Waterfall on their own; here the transfer and the park fee are already arranged.

Allow time at the bottom to take photos and, when conditions are safe, to swim in the cool pool. The climb back up is the toughest part of the morning, so the group sets an easy pace. If you are asking whether the La Fortuna Waterfall is worth visiting, the answer is yes, and a guide adds wildlife spotting and the geology behind the view.

Maleku cultural stop and lunch

Between the waterfall and the volcano, the tour stops at a village of the Maleku, one of the few indigenous peoples of northern Costa Rica. Seated in their main house, you listen to stories about their language, art and traditions, and you can look around a small garden before the meal is served. Lunch is a typical hot Costa Rican meal and is included in the default option, so there is nothing extra to pay at the table.

This part of the day is a welcome pause after the steps at the waterfall, and it gives the trip a human side that a simple sightseeing drive does not. Ask your guide about the Maleku craft objects and about how the community keeps its traditions alive today.

Arenal Volcano National Park hike and viewpoint

Arenal Volcano rises about 1,633 metres above the plain and has an almost perfect cone. After a short drive, the group walks through primary forest with giant buttressed trees, where birds, monkeys, sloths and coatis are often spotted. The trail crosses old lava fields from the 1968 eruption, which destroyed a nearby village and kept the volcano active for more than four decades. It is now in a resting phase, which is why hiking here is safe.

The route continues to a high viewpoint with sweeping views of Lake Arenal, the valley and the summit, weather permitting. Clouds can hide the peak by midday, so ask your guide for the best photo spots. Anyone asking about the best time to visit Arenal Volcano will hear that mornings are usually clearer, but this route is planned to make the most of the day.

Natural hot springs resort

The day ends at a hot springs resort at the foot of the volcano, where mineral-rich water heated underground flows through a series of pools set among tropical gardens. You have around an hour to soak, and the entry fee is already covered in the default option. The warm water is a real treat after several hours of walking.

Bring swimwear and a towel if you can, and keep valuables in your bag at the pools. After relaxing, the group is driven back to the accommodation in La Fortuna, so you do not need to drive after a tiring day.