La Fortuna: Pure Trek Waterfall Rappel & Canyoning with Lunch

Summary

La Fortuna canyoning adventure with waterfall rappels, wildlife and garden lunch

You’ll step straight into La Fortuna’s wild side as you rappel waterfalls with Pure Trek canyoning guides, splash through pools on the Monkey Drop, spot wildlife hidden in the green, then share a garden-fresh lunch back at base. Expect nerves, laughter, wet shoes—and one of those days you’ll replay long after you leave Costa Rica.

What’s the experience like?

I blinked awake in La Fortuna, still half-dreaming about the Arenal Volcano we’d glimpsed from the shuttle window — it really does loom over everything here. By the time we pulled up to Pure Trek’s base, I could already hear water somewhere close by. Our guide, Diego, handed out harnesses with this easy confidence that made me feel slightly braver than I was. He grinned at my shoes (“good choice — you’ll need them!”) and then we were off into the green tangle of the canyon.

The first waterfall rappel looked taller than I’d pictured. You know that weird feeling when your stomach drops before your feet do? That was me, clinging to the rope and trying not to overthink it. But Diego called down encouragement (“just trust your legs!”), and after a few wobbly steps I actually started to enjoy it. The spray hit my face — cold but kind of electric — and suddenly I was laughing like a kid. At one point I swear I saw a toucan flash past overhead, but maybe that was just adrenaline messing with me.

There’s this thing they call the Monkey Drop — basically you zipline out and then splash down into a pool below. My landing was less “graceful descent” and more “awkward cannonball,” but everyone cheered anyway. Between rappels, Diego pointed out a sloth curled up in a tree (I almost missed it — they really do blend in), and someone spotted tiny frogs on a mossy rock. The whole place smelled like wet earth and something sweet I couldn’t name.

Back at headquarters, we peeled off our soaked gear and sat down for lunch in this open-air garden spot — rice, beans, chicken, lots of fresh fruit. It tasted better than any fancy meal after all that effort. There’s a photo of me somewhere looking both terrified and happy on one of those drops; I still think about that moment sometimes when things get too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canyoning adventure and lunch in La Fortuna

• Shuttle with Arenal Volcano view
• Experience waterfall rappelling
• Enjoy rock climbing and Monkey Drop
• Spot toucans, sloths, and monkeys
• Return to headquarters for lunch

Top questions

How long does the Pure Trek canyoning tour take?

The canyoning tour is a half-day experience starting with hotel pickup and ending after lunch back at Pure Trek headquarters.

Is hotel pickup included for this La Fortuna canyoning tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in La Fortuna area hotels.

What should I wear for waterfall rappelling in La Fortuna?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get wet with straps (no flip flops). Bring dry clothes for after the tour.

Are meals included on this Pure Trek canyoning adventure?

Yes, lunch is served at Pure Trek Canyoning headquarters after your adventure.

Is there an age limit for this La Fortuna waterfall rappel tour?

The minimum age is 5 years old for participants on this group tour.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

A vegetarian option is available; please advise when booking if required.

Will I see wildlife during the canyoning tour?

You might spot toucans, sloths, monkeys or frogs along the way—keep your eyes open!

Is this tour suitable for people with health conditions?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned van, all necessary equipment for canyoning and rappelling with professional guides leading each step, plus time to enjoy a garden-fresh lunch at Pure Trek headquarters before heading back dry (or mostly dry) to your hotel. Photos are taken throughout—available to purchase if you want proof of your bravery!