The La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, and Arenal Volcano Combo Tour is a thrilling full-day adventure showcasing Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Visitors can hike around the iconic Arenal Volcano, descend 500 steps to swim in the crystal-clear pool of the La Fortuna Waterfall, and explore the lush Mistico Hanging Bridges. With a mix of challenging activities and stunning landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventure or serene exploration, the day’s highlights might just surprise you.
Key Points
- This full-day adventure in the Arenal Volcano region includes hiking Arenal Volcano, visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, and exploring Mistico Hanging Bridges.
- The tour offers a small-group experience with over 1,300 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation.
- Highlights include a 2.5-hour hike around Arenal Volcano, a 500-step hike down to the base of La Fortuna Waterfall, and a 2.5-hour hike through primary rainforest on Mistico Hanging Bridges.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and transportation, with an early start to minimize crowds and maximize wildlife sightings.
- Moderate physical fitness is required, and comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for the rocky terrain and stairs.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The La Fortuna Tour is a full-day adventure that combines some of Costa Rica’s top natural attractions in the Arenal Volcano region.
Travelers can expect to hike the Arenal Volcano, visit the La Fortuna Waterfall, and explore the Mistico Hanging Bridges. With over 1,300 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, this small-group tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and transportation.
Hike the Arenal Volcano, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, and explore Mistico Hanging Bridges on this highly-rated small-group tour.
Highlights include learning about the volcano’s history, swimming at the waterfall, and crossing 16 hanging bridges through the primary rainforest.
The tour’s logistics offer flexibility, with multiple meeting points and an early start to beat the crowds.
Looking for more options in La Fortuna? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Activities Included
The La Fortuna Tour offers a range of activities for travelers to experience the natural wonders of the Arenal Volcano region.
The tour includes:
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A 2.5-hour hike on flat and rocky terrain around the Arenal Volcano, where guests learn about its 1968 eruption and history.
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A visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall, which involves a 500-step hike down to the waterfall’s base, allowing visitors to swim in the pool.
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A 2.5-hour hike through the primary rainforest on the Mistico Hanging Bridges, crossing 16 suspension bridges.
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Admission tickets to the Arenal Volcano and Mistico Hanging Bridges are included in the tour.
Arenal Volcano Hike
Though the Arenal Volcano hike is one of the tour’s main attractions, it’s important to note that the terrain can be challenging, with a mix of flat and rocky paths.
The 2.5-hour hike provides an opportunity to learn about the volcano’s 1968 eruption and its rich history. Travelers will traverse the landscape, taking in views of the iconic volcano.
Despite the physical demands, the hike is designed for moderate fitness levels. Guides are on hand to ensure the experience is safe and informative, offering insights into the local flora and fauna along the way.
La Fortuna Waterfall
After tackling the Arenal Volcano hike, the tour then ventures to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. This free-to-visit natural wonder features a 200-foot cascade plunging into a crystal-clear pool.
The journey includes:
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A 500-step hike down to the waterfall’s base.
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Opportunities to swim in the refreshing pool, weather permitting.
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Chance to spot diverse wildlife, like tropical birds and butterflies.
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Admission is complimentary, making this an accessible part of the day’s adventure.
With its lush surrounding forest and powerful rushing water, the La Fortuna Waterfall offers a serene respite after the volcanic hike.
Mistico Hanging Bridges
Following the Arenal Volcano hike and La Fortuna Waterfall visit, the tour then takes guests to explore the Mistico Hanging Bridges.
This 2.5-hour hike through the primary rainforest includes crossing 16 hanging bridges. Travelers have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife and enjoy the lush, tropical environment.
The hanging bridges provide a unique perspective and access to areas of the forest that are otherwise difficult to reach. Admission to the Mistico Hanging Bridges is included in the tour, allowing visitors to fully experience this captivating nature attraction.
Logistics and Meeting Information
The tour includes free pick-ups for hotels in the Fortuna area, though no pickups are available in San Jose or Guanacaste.
Travelers can select their preferred meeting point. The tour starts at 7:00 am and ends back at the meeting point. This early pickup helps minimize crowds and maximize wildlife sightings.
The tour’s logistics:
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Free pick-ups for Fortuna hotels, no pickups in San Jose or Guanacaste
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Travelers choose their preferred meeting point
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Tour starts at 7:00 am and ends back at the meeting point
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Early pickup to reduce crowds, improve wildlife viewing
Traveler Requirements and Recommendations
A moderate physical fitness level is required for this tour, as it involves hiking and climbing.
The 500-step hike down to the base of the La Fortuna Waterfall and the 2.5-hour hike through the primary rainforest on the Mistico Hanging Bridges trail require a good amount of stamina.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
Travelers should wear comfortable hiking shoes and be prepared for rocky terrain and stairs.
Dietary requirements, such as vegetarian options, should be advised at the time of booking.
Reviews and Feedback
The La Fortuna Tour receives excellent reviews, with an impressive 4.9 rating based on over 1,300 reviews.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides who excel at spotting diverse wildlife like monkeys, sloths, snakes, and birds.
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides excel at spotting diverse Costa Rican wildlife like monkeys, sloths, snakes, and birds.
The lunch is often noted as delicious, with vegetarian options available.
While some mention physical challenges due to hiking and stairs, the overall experiences are overwhelmingly positive.
Some key highlights include:
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Visibility of unique Costa Rican wildlife
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Delicious and accommodating meals
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Guides’ expertise and enthusiasm
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Manageable physical demands for most travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel the tour for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Changes or cancellations within 24 hours may incur fees.
Can I Purchase Photos or Videos From the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers photo and video purchasing options. Travelers can purchase digital or printed pictures and videos captured by the knowledgeable guides to commemorate their adventure through the stunning natural landscapes of the La Fortuna region.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Activities?
Yes, this tour offers some flexibility. Travelers can customize the order of activities and explore additional optional add-ons like a Arenal Volcano hike upgrade or ziplining experience. The tour operator aims to accommodate individual preferences.
What Should I Bring in Addition to the Recommended Items?
Along With the recommended hiking shoes and clothing, it’s advisable to bring sunscreen, bug spray, a camera, a small towel, and extra cash for any optional purchases. Packing light is also recommended for easier mobility during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?
The tour company occasionally offers discounts or special packages, but these are subject to availability and travel dates. Customers are encouraged to inquire about any current promotions when booking to ensure they receive the best available rate.
The Sum Up
The La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, and Arenal Volcano Combo Tour provides an exhilarating full-day adventure in Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes. Highlights include a challenging hike around Arenal Volcano, a visit to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall, and exploring the enchanting Mistico Hanging Bridges. This tour offers a well-rounded experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
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