Arenal: 12 Zipline Cables Over La Fortuna Waterfall & Volcano

Summary

Zipline above la fortuna waterfall feel the rainforest rush see arenal volcano up close

You’ll clip in and soar above La Fortuna Waterfall on 12 zipline cables with views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato all around you. Expect local guides who know every bird call, a short walk through rainforest before your first jump, hotel pickup in La Fortuna included—and that wild rush when you look down mid-flight and realize you’re really doing it.

What’s the experience like?

"You ready for this?" our guide, Andrés, grinned as we clipped in at the first platform. I could hear the waterfall somewhere below — that low, steady roar mixing with birds I couldn't name. The walk from the van was short but my legs still felt wobbly, maybe nerves or just too much gallo pinto at breakfast. There was this sweet, earthy smell in the air, like wet leaves and something floral I couldn't place. Andrés checked our harnesses twice and told me not to worry about my hands sweating — apparently everyone does before their first cable.

The first zipline wasn't even the highest one but wow, it hit different. Wind in your face, trees flashing by so fast you can't focus on any one leaf. And then suddenly you’re out over open space — and there’s La Fortuna Waterfall right under your feet. It’s loud and bright white against all that green. I tried to yell something but it just got swallowed up by the wind (and probably my own nerves). The main keyword here is adrenaline, honestly — this Arenal zipline tour is nothing like those little park ziplines back home.

Between cables, we’d wait on these wooden platforms built into thick trees. Some guy ahead of us kept making monkey noises (not bad ones), and Andrés just rolled his eyes and started pointing out birds — motmots? — and a tiny blue butterfly that landed on his glove for a second. The whole thing took maybe three hours but it didn’t feel rushed; there was time to look around at Arenal Volcano when clouds moved off the top for a minute. At some point my fear turned into this weird giddy feeling — like I wanted to go again as soon as we finished the last cable.

Afterwards, back in the van with helmets still crooked on our heads, someone passed around pineapple slices from a plastic bag (sticky hands everywhere). My arms were shaking a bit but not from fear anymore. I keep thinking about that moment hanging over the canyon with nothing but green below — you know how some things just stick with you?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline adventure over La Fortuna waterfall

• Walk 0.28 miles to first platform
• Zipline across 12 canopy cables
• View La Fortuna Waterfall from above
• See Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato
• Enjoy rainforest flora and fauna

Top questions

How long does the Arenal zipline tour take?

The whole experience lasts about half a day, including transport and all 12 zipline cables.

Is hotel pickup included for this La Fortuna zipline tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you're staying in La Fortuna.

What’s the minimum age for the Arenal zipline cables?

The minimum age is 7 years old, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to be very fit to do this canopy tour?

You should have moderate fitness since there’s a short walk and some platforms to climb.

Are there weight or size limits for participants?

The maximum weight is 240 pounds; harness width limits are 65 cm (legs) and 110 cm (hips).

Does this zipline cross directly over La Fortuna Waterfall?

Yes, one of the cables goes right above La Fortuna Waterfall—it's a highlight of the tour.

Is lunch provided during this Arenal ziplining activity?

No lunch is included, but snacks may be offered after finishing all cables.

Are professional guides provided during the experience?

Yes, experienced local guides lead every group and handle safety checks throughout.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within La Fortuna town, all equipment like helmet and harnesses fitted by professional guides who stay with you throughout every cable—plus plenty of encouragement along each platform stop before heading back into town together at the end.