Atrações Principais

The main attraction in Fortuna is of course the Arenal Volcano, which has been producing menacing ash columns, massive explosions, and streamers of glowing molten rock almost daily since 1968. There are also many other activities to be enjoyed including: soaking in relaxing natural hot springs, canyoneering, white water rafting, horseback riding, canopy tours and much more.

Other possible excursions are a visit to the Arenal Butterfly Conservatory, Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge (home to some of the richest biological diversity in Costa Rica), Cerro Chato, La Catarata de La Fortuna (worth the climb to view these beautiful waterfalls) and the Venado Caves. Even with an active volcano spewing smoke and fireworks overhead, the quiet, rural town of La Fortuna is a relaxing place to kick back for a few days.

Quando ir

The average temperature in La Fortuna is in the low to mid 80's all year long. It is a bit cooler than in other parts of Costa Rica due to its higher elevation.

If you're sensible and visiting in the dry season (December to April) you may wish to time your visit to coincide with the town's big annual bash, Fiestas de la Fortuna. If you're planning to visit in the wet season, you'll certainly avoid the crowds and spend less on accommodation. The downside (apart from the constant rain!) is that some roads can become muddy and impassable.

Como chegar

All buses currently stop at Parque Central. Keep an eye on your bags, particularly on the weekend San José run. Travel times are: Ciudad Quesada (1hr), Monteverde (6-8hrs), San José (4.5hrs) and Tilarán (3.5hrs).

The fastest route between Monteverde/Santa Elena and La Fortuna is a jeep-boat-jeep combo (3hrs), which can be arranged through almost any hotel or tour operator in either town. A taxi from La Fortuna takes you to Laguna de Arenal, meeting a boat that crosses the lake, where a 4WD taxi on the other side continues to Monteverde. This is increasingly becoming the primary transportation between La Fortuna and Monteverde as it's incredibly scenic, reasonably priced and it'll save you half a day of rough travel.

Informação de Vistos

Most travelers do not need a visa to enter the country including those from Canada, U.S., Europe, Australia, the UK, Argentina, Israel, Japan, Panama, South Korea and Uruguay. Visitors can stay for up to 90 days. Note that it may be required to show a return ticket, ticket to another country, or proof of funds to purchase such tickets before being permitted to enter the country.

Gratificação

On guided tours, tip the guide US$1.00 to US$5.00 per person per day, and tip the tour driver about half of what you tip the guide. Naturally, tips depend upon quality of service. Taxi drivers are not normally tipped, unless some special service is provided. Upscale restaurants may add a 10% service charge to the bill. If not, you might leave a small tip to show your appreciation, but it is not required.