Spotlight: Costa Rica - La Fortuna Waterfall

Spotlight: The La Fortuna waterfall is a powerful torrent of water that free falls 70-75 meters before pounding the pool below. The falls are fed by the Arenal River which flows through the rain forest on its way down to Lago Arenal.

Location: The La Fortuna waterfall is located at the base of the dormant Volcan Chato, 1.5 km south and 3 km west from the Catholic Church, Alajuela Province, La Fortuna de San Carlos, 21007, Costa Rica.

Cost: $15 for adult foreigners, $5 for children

Time: The trail is open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm; plan on spending 1-2 hours

Description: La Fortuna is probably the most popular waterfall in Costa Rica. Before heading down the trail to the base of the falls, stop at the overlook on the opposing cliff, where you can get a preview of what you'll see and take a few pictures.

     The hike down to the Falls consists of a series of staircases with more than 400 steps and takes about 10-15 minutes. The hike back to the top will take about 20-30 minutes. You can also take a horseback tour down a different trail.

     Once you reach the bottom, you finally get to appreciate the majestic grandeur of the waterfall. The water crashing into the pool sounds like a turbine as water and mist explode out from the point of impact.

     You can swim in the river below the falls, but it wouldn't be wise to swim underneath the falls themselves. The water is chilly but enjoyable. Further down the river, the water is calmer and better suited for children.

Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: -  Although you can see the falls from the overlook, you need to hike down the stairs to the base if you want to get a close look at them.There are more than 400+ steps to hike down to the bottom of the falls. There is no handicap trail, so make sure you can make it back up before heading down. I would recommend wearing something sturdier than flip-flops.
- There is another waterfall to the right of the La Fortuna waterfall. It would be impressive in its own right if it wasn't located right next to La Fortuna Falls. Due to its proximity, though, it rarely gets much more than a second glance.

- Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail. It was here that I got my first view of a howler monkey.

- If you do swim, wear sandals or water socks to protect your feet from the sharp rocks.
- There are facilities, so you can bring your swimsuit to change into there.
- There is a restaurant and souvenir shop at the trail head.

Nearby: Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal, Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Hike, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, Bosque Eterno de los Ninos