La Fortuna Waterfall: Skip-the-Line Ticket & 70m Swim

The roar gets louder as you descend into the rainforest canopy

You skip the entry line and descend 500 forest steps to a 70-meter waterfall fed by mountain streams. Swim in the clear pool at the base, surrounded by rainforest and volcanic rock formations. The ticket includes entry only. Last admission is 4pm, and children under 8 are free. Plan for moderate physical exertion and wet gear on the return climb.

Step-by-step itinerary

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

• Arrive at La Fortuna Waterfall
• Descend 500 steps to waterfall
• Admire 70-meter waterfall
• Swim in crystal-clear waters

The experience

The sound hits you before the view does: a low rumble that builds as you make your way down the 500 steps carved into the forest floor. La Fortuna Waterfall sits inside Arenal Volcano National Park, a 70-meter drop of water that's been drawing over 100,000 visitors a year for good reason. The skip-the-line ticket means you don't spend your morning in an entry queue. You walk straight through and start your descent while the air is still cool and the mist hasn't yet turned the stone slick.

The waterfall itself is fed by the Fortuna River and its tributaries, which run down from the volcanic mountains above. Around you, the rainforest is dense: temperatures swing between 18 and 35 degrees Celsius depending on the time of day, and that temperature range is what keeps the vegetation so thick and the wildlife so varied. You'll notice the sound of the water changes as you get closer, and the spray starts to cool your skin. The pool at the base is clear enough to see the rocky bottom, and swimming is allowed as long as weather permits it.

The last entrance time is 4pm, so if you're planning to spend time in the water and take photos, an earlier arrival gives you more breathing room. The path down is steep and requires moderate fitness, not a casual stroll, but manageable for most travelers who aren't dealing with spinal issues or serious cardiovascular concerns. Children under 8 get in free, and the site is wheelchair accessible if you're staying at the top, though the 500 steps themselves aren't passable with a chair. Bring a towel, wear shoes with grip, and plan for wet clothes on the way back up.

What’s included

• Your ticket includes skip-the-line admission to La Fortuna Waterfall.
• Access to the 500-step descent, the waterfall pool, and swimming are included.
• Children under 8 enter free.
• The site is open until 4pm for last entry.
• Towels, food, and transportation to the park are not included.

Options for this experience

2 options

Option 1No fixed time

Option 2No fixed time

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (9 and older) · Child (under 9): free

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by La Fortuna Waterfall

Is this one for you?Right for travelers with moderate fitness who want to swim in a mountain waterfall without waiting in an entry line, and who can handle a steep forest descent. Not suitable if you have spinal issues, heart conditions, or limited mobility. The 500 steps are the core of the experience.

Traveler reviews

4.51★★★★★★★★★★

762 verified traveler reviews

5 ★522

4 ★154

3 ★52

2 ★22

1 ★12

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 9): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

How long does it take to reach the waterfall from the entrance?

The 500-step descent typically takes 15–20 minutes depending on fitness level and photo stops. The return climb takes longer.

Can you swim in the waterfall pool?

Yes, swimming is permitted as long as weather conditions allow it. Bring a towel and water-friendly shoes.

What time should I arrive?

The last entrance is 4pm. Arriving earlier gives you more time to swim and explore without rushing the climb back up.

Is the waterfall accessible for wheelchairs?

The entrance area is wheelchair accessible, but the 500 steps down to the waterfall itself are not passable with a chair.

What should I wear?

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the wet steps. Bring a towel, change of clothes, and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Is this tour physically demanding?

Yes. You need moderate fitness to handle the 500-step descent and return climb. It's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart conditions, or poor cardiovascular health.

What's the temperature like?

Temperatures range from 18 to 35 degrees Celsius. The rainforest stays humid and the waterfall area is cool and misty.