La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano: Guided Hike, Waterfall Swim, Local Lunch

Summary

Hike Arenal Volcano trails then swim at La Fortuna Waterfall

You’ll hike through Arenal Volcano National Park with a local guide who shares stories about eruptions and wildlife, then descend to swim beneath La Fortuna Waterfall’s spray before relaxing over a home-cooked lunch at a family ranch. Expect real Costa Rican flavors, friendly faces, and moments that stick with you long after your shoes dry out.

What’s the experience like?

"Don’t worry, we’ll go slow — the volcano’s not going anywhere," our guide Marco grinned as we laced up our shoes just outside La Fortuna. He’d already pointed out a toucan in the parking lot, so I figured he knew what he was talking about. The air smelled like wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t place — maybe those tiny yellow flowers everywhere. We started along the trail in Arenal Volcano National Park, and Marco kept stopping to show us weird plants or tell stories about eruptions. I didn’t expect to feel so small next to all that old lava rock. It’s not a hard hike but you do get sweaty fast, especially when the sun comes out from behind the clouds for five minutes and then disappears again.

After the volcano, we drove over to La Fortuna Waterfall. There are 500 steps down — I counted for a while but lost track after 200 because I got distracted by these blue butterflies everywhere. The sound of the water gets louder as you go down, kind of like it’s pulling you in. When we finally reached the bottom, it felt cooler and everything was green and dripping. Some people jumped right into the pool under the waterfall but I just sat on a rock for a minute watching it all — honestly, my legs were shaking from the stairs anyway. The water is cold but not in a bad way; more like it wakes you up.

Lunch was at this family ranch nearby (Los Rodriguez), which felt more like someone’s backyard than a restaurant. There was rice and beans (of course), chicken with some sauce I still think about, and fresh fruit that tasted way better than what I buy at home. Marco sat with us and told stories about growing up here — his mom apparently makes better coffee than anyone else in town (he said she’d fight you if you disagreed). It was nice just sitting there listening to birds and forks clinking around.

I didn’t really want to leave after that — maybe because everything felt slower here or maybe because my shoes were finally dry again. If you’re looking for a day trip from La Fortuna that isn’t rushed but still packs in real Costa Rica stuff (volcanoes, waterfalls, local food), this one’s worth it. Just bring shoes you don’t mind getting muddy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arenal Volcano hike and waterfall visit

• Hike around Arenal Volcano base
• Learn about volcano and rainforest
• Walk down 500 stairs to waterfall
• Swim in La Fortuna Waterfall pool
• Relax and have traditional lunch
• Enjoy coffee and local ranch views

Top questions

How difficult is the hike at Arenal Volcano National Park?

The hike is moderate; you won’t climb to the top but will walk along lava trails with some uneven ground. It’s suitable for most people with average fitness.

Can I swim at La Fortuna Waterfall?

Yes, swimming is allowed in the natural pool below La Fortuna Waterfall. The water is cool and refreshing.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, lunch is included at a local family ranch near La Fortuna after visiting the waterfall.

Are hotel pickups available from anywhere?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included only from hotels in La Fortuna or Arenal areas.

How many stairs are there to reach La Fortuna Waterfall?

You’ll descend about 500 stairs to reach the base of La Fortuna Waterfall.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with knee or back problems?

No, due to stairs and uneven terrain, it’s not recommended for travelers with knee or spinal issues.

What should I bring on this day trip?

You should bring hiking shoes or tennis shoes, water bottle, raincoat, insect repellent, swimsuit, and camera.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from La Fortuna or Arenal areas, entry fees for both Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna Waterfall, guidance from a bilingual naturalist guide throughout your adventure, fresh fruits along the way, plus a traditional home-cooked lunch served at a local family ranch before heading back in comfort.