20 Dec Cheap(er) Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
One of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica is La Fortuna, famous for its stunning landscapes of volcanoes, hotsprings, and waterfalls.
But beware budget travelers, because this paradise is not necessarily cheap. You may already know this if your Google search of ‘things to do in La Fortuna’ led you to the $80 ziplining, the $90 hotspring, and $50 horseback riding.
However, you’re here now and I can tell you there are still some cheap-er things to do in La Fortuna whether you want to pair them with some splurge activities or purely visit on a tight budget.
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1. Visit the free hotspring
Entrance Fee: Free!
Parking: $5 USD
La Fortuna is notorious for its hot springs but the steep prices of $70-90 entrance are hard to stomach. Instead try the free hotspring – yes, it’s literally just called the “Free Hot Spring.”
It’s several tiered pools underneath a bridge surrounded by lush life. It’s a much more natural experience than the curated resorts but still a relaxing place to bathe and meet new people.
2. Hike the 1968 Arenal Volcano Trail
COST: $17
Breathe a sigh of relief because the most beautiful part of La Fortuna made it to this cheap list – Arenal Volcano!
When it’s not cloudy, you can see the volcanic peak from almost anywhere in La Fortuna, however it’s definitely worth it to hike up close.
To visit, it can be a bit confusing because there’s the National Park and also the private property known as Arenal 1968. I recommend the 1968 trail which takes you along the black, molten rock from the notorious explosion over 50 years ago. Even self-guided you’ll spot an array of biodiversity and enjoy incredible panoramic views. By the end of the trail you can enjoy a coffee or bite to eat from the cafe with an Instagram worthy scene.
3. Paddle Board at Lake Arenal with a view of the volcano
COST: $10 an hour
Another unique way to experience Arenal Volcano is from the water. Just below the lush summit you can rent a stand up paddle board for just $10 an hour and enjoy the stunning scenery while dipping your toes into the lake.
Try renting with Tico Wind, they also offer Windsurfing and Kitesurfing.
4. Jump into the water at El Salto Rope Swing
COST: Free!
Easily missed by many is El Salto rope swing, a swimming hole underneath the bridge that will take you to Catarata La Fortuna. It’s only a 15 minute walk from the town center and a fun little trip to swim, and hangout.
5. Experience the incredible Catarata La Fortuna
COST: $18 USD
One of the most popular waterfalls in Costa Rica is Catarata La Fortuna, and for good reason because it is STUNNING. No real “hike” is required, just a lot of stairs. From the top you’ll get an overhead view of the infamous falls, and after 500 stairs down you can stand at the foot of the cascades.
At the base, you’ll find a dreamy oasis, the perfect picture opportunity and a chance to swim if you’re ready for some cold water. Just be sure to arrive early, because this spot becomes extremely crowded.
6. Visit the Bogarin Wildlife Trail and Sloth Sanctuary
COST: $10 for self-guided; $35 for guided
If you’re a wildlife lover, the Bogarin Trail is a must. Here you can see sloths, tons of birds, amphibians, reptiles and other animals all within a beautiful preserve.
7. Explore the rainforest from the Mistico Hanging Bridge
SELF GUIDED COST: $26 entrance
TOUR COST: $40
Walking through a misty rainforest elevated from the ground is a magical experience. It’s even better with the view of Arenal Volcano and if you get a tour guide you’ll also learn a ton about the biodiversity around you.
If your goal is to just enjoy the view and snap some cool photos, take the self-guided trails, but if you actually want to spot wildlife and learn, then a guide is a must.
Book all tickets here beforehand.
Cheaper Places to stay in La Fortuna:
Selina hostel
This is where I stayed and loved it. The beds are super comfy, the rooms clean, and I met some really fun people. The cost per dorm bed is usually $17-20 USD a night. Selina’s in general can be pricier than other hostels but if you book in advance they’re reasonable. Also a great option for digital nomads since Selina’s have incredible wifi and a co-working space.
→ Check prices on Hostelworld
→ Check prices on Booking.com
Arenal Backpacker’s Resort
This is the most popular hostel in La Fortuna with over 3,000 reviews. It has many room options since it technically calls itself a resort, but the dorms booked ahead are $16-18 USD. If booked last minute they can be pricier.
→ Check prices on HostelWorld
→ Check prices on Booking.com
La Choza Inn Hostel (THE MOST BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTION)
La Choza is the most budget friendly accomodation in La Fortuna and also highly rated by over 1,000 people. Unlike the two hostels above that are in the city center, La Choza is outside the town. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing because it’s walking distance to many main attractions such as La Fortuna waterfall, the rope swing, and the hotspring. Dorm beds are about $11-15 USD a night.
→ Check prices on HostelWorld
Final thoughts on La Fortuna:
As a budget traveler or backpacker, La Fortuna may definitely feel a little pricier than some other places in Central America – but that’s pretty much all of Costa Rica. In my opinion, it’s still definitely worth the visit, if anything for the stunning Arenal Volcano.
If you’re really counting your pennies, consider spending less on things like accommodation (stay in a hostel) or cooking for some meals to compensate for the cost of activities.
More Resources for Your Trip to Costa Rica
Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Costa Rica along with some recommendations:
Hostels
If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others, Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability!
- La Fortuna: Selina
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Selina
- Manuel Antonio: Hostel Plinio OR Selina
- Monteverde: Outbox Inn OR Camino Verde
- Tamarindo: La Botella de Leche
- Santa Teresa: Zeneidas Surf Garden
- San Jose: Selina
Hotels
Booking.com is the way to go when searching for hotels in Costa Rica because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays.
Flights
It’s possible to fly to Costa Rica into either San Jose or Liberia. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner.
Getting Around Costa Rica
Domestic flights aren’t really a thing in Costa Rica, so that leaves two ways to get around: bus and renting a car. Renting a car is extremely popular in Costa Rica, but I recommend reading this blog post first before doing so. Buses are the most affordable option (esp. as a solo traveler) to getting around Costa Rica. My favorite way to navigate buses in Costa Rica is using Rome2Rio.
Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for every trip to ensure you’re covered in unexpected situations. My go to travel insurance is always WorldNomads which is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for travel medical emergency insurance, I also suggest Safety Wing.
Tours & Experiences
A lot of experiences in Costa Rica you can do on your own like hiking, sunbathing and surfing at the beach. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours though for difficult experiences to do on your own then I suggest using GetYourGuide & Viator.
Know Before You Go
Check out my Costa Rica Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.
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