La Fortuna waterfall, Costa Rica 11 Nov 2016
About this photo
Some 5km (3 miles) east of La Fortuna is the turnoff to the Cataratas del Río Fortuna. These falls are accessible in an hour’s easy horseback ride from La Fortuna through pastures and fields of corn, bananas, and peppers. Alternatively, you can drive or hire a scooter or taxi from town and explore at your own pace.
Once at the falls, a short, downhill hike will take you to the base and a small swimming spot. Take your time with the walk down: you'll find several impressive viewpoints and wildlife watching stops along the way. The thundering falls drop a total of 75-metres and make for quite a backdrop as you slip into the chilly waters. If you're looking for a calmer swimming spot, follow the river around the bend, away from the waterfall's full force. Note that the waterfalls is a part of the Reserva Ecologica Catarata Rio Fortuna and requires visitors to pay an entrance fee.
Experience it for yourself on Insight Guides' Beaches and Volcanoes holiday, which includes a stop at La Fortuna to take in Arenal Volcano and the surrounding area.
