La Fortuna in 1 Day for Couples - Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall
In Collaboration with Arenal Hike & Adventures. Updated on February 19, 2026.

Early morning visit to La Fortuna Waterfall followed by a 2–3 hour hike in Arenal Volcano National Park. Lunch in the park area and a restorative soak in the Tabacón hot springs river to finish the day.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Arenal Hike & Adventures, inspired by the tour La Fortuna Waterfall & Arenal Volcano Hike. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall
- Hike to the foot of Arenal Volcano across lava fields
- Soak together in Tabacón hot springs
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in La Fortuna for a morning waterfall visit, an afternoon hike in Arenal Volcano National Park with lunch, then finish with time at Tabacón hot springs before return.
La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata La Fortuna) – hike & swim
Begin at the famous La Fortuna Waterfall. Hike down the stairs to the waterfall (roughly 500 steps total round-trip), enjoy a supervised swim at the base, then return to trailhead and transfer toward Arenal Volcano park.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, grippy shoes for the steep stairs and wet rocks; bring a dry bag or waterproof phone case for electronics.
- Bring a change of clothes and a quick-dry towel; lockers or secure storage at the entrance may be limited—leave valuables at your hotel if possible.
- Arrive with sun protection and a light layer; the descent/ascent can feel cooler near the falls but hot in the exposed areas.
Arenal Volcano National Park – hike to volcano foothills & lunch
Transfer to Arenal Volcano National Park for a guided hike toward the volcano’s foothills across historical lava fields. Hike time is approximately 2–3 hours depending on group pace. After the hike, pause for lunch in the park area before departing to the hot springs.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear supportive hiking shoes; trails include uneven lava rock sections—use trekking poles if you prefer extra stability.
- Bring insect repellent and a light rain jacket (weather can change quickly); carry a small personal water bottle though bottled water is excluded from the tour.
- Pace the hike comfortably—this tour is designed for steady, moderate effort; inform the guide if you prefer a gentler tempo or frequent breaks.
Tabacón – natural hot springs river soak (end of tour)
Transfer to the Tabacón natural hot springs river area to relax after the hike. Time allotted for a warm soak and quiet relaxation together before return transfers to La Fortuna hotels.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring your swimsuit, a quick-dry towel and sandals for ease in the springs area; consider packing a light cover-up for the return to the vehicle.
- Confirm with the guide about changing and drying facilities; secure small valuables in a locked bag or at your hotel before the soak.
- Plan for a leisurely soak to enjoy a calm, shared moment—avoid alcohol before soaking and rehydrate afterwards with water from your hotel or personal bottle.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Outdoor, Experience |



