La Fortuna

Usually known simply as La Fortuna, the town of Fortuna de San Carlos is the entrance to the magnificent Arenal Volcano. Not to be confused with a town of the same name 70 km northwest of here. La Fortuna de San Carlos is located in the province of Alajuela and connects the Arenal Volcano area with the Monteverde and Santa Elena cloud forest and the lowlands of the north of the country.

One of the most active volcanoes

La Fortuna, a charming and quiet town easily accessible from the capital San José, 3 hours away by car, offers a spectacular setting of Arenal, the most active volcano in Costa Rica. The Arenal volcano is located about 10 kilometers from the town and from a time here it regularly sends out huno and ashes, becoming the biggest tourist attraction in the country and that must be taken into account. The volcano has not been active recently since December 2010 but is still considered active. It is the third most active volcano in the country, behind the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and the Turrialba Volcano. The main reason the Arenal Volcano has stopped erupting is that the chimney or hole where material used to come out has been filled with debris and volcanic material. It is very possible that the pressure can reopen this hole or a new one will form. Without having to worry, the Arenal Volcano is also considered one of the safest in the area.

The best Spas in Costa Rica

Particularly in the last five years, La Fortuna has become quite an active town. Either way, there are plenty of accommodations, hotels, and resorts to suit every budget. Something to do when you are in La Fortuna is to try the amazing spa resorts around the volcano. When in town try to stay in the main plaza area as the hotels here offer a spectacular view of the Arenal Volcano in the distance. On a clear day you have the opportunity to watch the volcano burp and if you wish you can wait for the sunset when the Arenal shows its brilliant lava flows.

Other attractions.

In addition to the volcano, this town has many other attractions such as La Fortuna Waterfall, a refreshing waterfall that falls from a dizzying height of 70 meters. A wonderful thing worth seeing and a lovely short hike that gives the opportunity to portray one of the best moments in this beautiful waterfall. Another key and very close attraction is Tabacón Hot Springs where one can relax and calm the nerves after a tiring vacation. Located within a wonderful lush green, rare orchids, and a stupendous waterfall is the Tabacón Hot Springs, one of those that offer the greatest gratification for those who want some peace and silence.

For the more adventurous, this region of the country has a lot to offer. Rafting, hiking tours, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, canopy tours, and boat rides in Caño Negro are just some of the activities you can enjoy while you are here.