Are you planning your next family getaway? Costa Rica is the ultimate travel destination with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. La Fortuna, home to the active Arenal Volcano, is brimming with tropical vegetation and offers many family-friendly activities such as ziplining, hanging bridges, hiking to waterfalls, and soaking in the geothermal hot springs.
Discover the best family-friendly activities in La Fortuna, one of Costa Rica’s top destinations for adventure and relaxation!
The Best Family-Friendly Activities in La Fortuna
La Fortunade San Carlos is a must-see destination with beautiful architecture and natural wonders. With its pleasant climate, national parks like Arenal National Park, coffee plantations, and active volcanoes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The lush jungle surrounding the area offers guided walks to uncover the wildlife and biodiversity, making it a popular destination for wildlife tours. Here are the top 10 family activities to make your La Fortuna adventure unforgettable!
1. Relaxing in Hot Springs
A visit toLa Fortuna wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its famous hot springs nestled in the tropical rain forest. Thanks to the geothermal energy from the nearby Arenal Volcano, these natural hot springs provide breathtaking views and a cozy, relaxing environment. Perfect for families, the hot springs offer a therapeutic retreat where you can unwind and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature.
Some popular hot springs resorts include:
- Baldi Hot Springs Hotel
- Tabacon Resort
- The Springs Resort & Spa
- Paradise Hot Springs
- Ecotermales Hot Springs
You can also consider a the Arenal Volcano Hike tour that ends with a relaxing hot springs visit, like the Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot springs
2. Ziplining and Canopy Tours
For families seeking a bit of adventure, zip lining is a fantastic option to get their adrenaline pumping. Soar through the treetops and take in the lush rainforest from a unique perspective. Many tours are suitable for kids and offer incredible views of Lake Arenal, the Arenal Volcano, or the Big Ama family-friendly zipline tour over the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall.
The Big Ama is a popular tour that begins at an 18-meter-high tower and includes 12 extreme zip lines, providing an exhilarating experience for the whole family.
3. Horseback Riding
Explore La Fortuna’s stunning landscapes on horseback. This family-friendly activity allows you to take in the beautiful views at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, horseback riding offers a unique way to see the area’s natural beauty.
Tours typically include rides through rain forests, lava fields, and volcanic lagoons, with panoramic views of Arenal Volcano.
4. Canyoning
For adventurous families, canyoning (or waterfall rappelling) is an exciting way to explore La Fortuna’s natural beauty. Descend through the rainforest and rappel down waterfalls for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The Pure Trek Canyoning popular tour includes a 4×4 ride to the rainforest, safety equipment, and guidance from local experts. You’ll rappel down pristine canyons, zip-line across the canyon, and enjoy a thrilling “Monkey Drop” before finishing with a scenic trail hike
5. Visiting National Parks
La Fortuna is home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful national parks. Explore the Tenorio Volcano National Park with its stunning Rio Celeste or visit the Arenal Volcano National Park for more adventure, including the impressive Fortuna Waterfall with its 246-foot drop and emerald pools.
Guided tours are available, offering educational and fun experiences for the whole family. Learn about local flora and fauna, discover amazing natural wonders, and appreciate Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation.
6. Hanging Bridges
Experience the rainforest from above at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Just a short drive from La Fortuna, this park offers a unique perspective of the rainforest’s vibrant ecosystem. What do families love about this tour? Families love deep dive into the lush greenery of the tropical jungle. Walk over the canopy, looking down, down, down, to the jungle floor on a 148 foot tall hanging suspension bridge. Just imagine the view from up there!
Family-friendly tours with naturalist guides will help you learn about the area’s flora and fauna and spot wildlife you might not see on your own.
7. Bird Watching and Wildlife Tours
La Fortuna is a paradise for bird and wildlife enthusiasts, surrounded by lush jungles. With colorful toucans, majestic hummingbirds, and charming sloths, there’s plenty to see.
Join a sloth-watching tour or a nature safari float to spot these fascinating creatures. A popular tour option is the Sloth Nature Hike, where you’ll walk through sloth territory with a local expert, providing plenty of opportunities to see these slow-moving animals up close.
8. White Water Rafting at Balsa River
For a thrilling family adventure, try white water rafting on the Balsa River. This activity is perfect for families with children over 8 years old, offering a mix of excitement and beautiful scenery. Navigate through rapids while surrounded by lush rainforests, and keep an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks in the rainforest.
Guided tours provide all necessary safety equipment and instruction, ensuring a fun and safe experience for everyone.
9. Coffee and Chocolate Tour
A visit to Costa Rica wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its rich coffee and chocolate culture. Take a family-friendly tour of a local coffee plantation and chocolate farm to learn about the production process from bean to bar.
These tours are both educational and interactive, with opportunities to taste freshly brewed coffee and sample delicious chocolate. It’s a fun and tasty way to learn about two of Costa Rica’s most famous exports.
10. Exploring Downtown La Fortuna
Don’t forget to explore downtown La Fortuna! Visit local shops, enjoy delicious Costa Rican cuisine, and take a leisurely stroll through this charming town. You can also visit the El Salto rope swing or enjoy a delicious Churchill ( ice shaved ice cream).
When to Visit La Fortuna for These Activities
Planning your visit to La Fortuna according to the weather is essential, especially for outdoor activities. The weather is generally warm year-round, with more rain in May, September, and October. The best months to visit to avoid rain are January, February, March, April, and December.
For a detailed look at La Fortuna’s weather, check our Costa Rica For Kids month-by-month weather guide.
Exciting Adventures Await in La Fortuna!
La Fortuna, often referred to as Costa Rica’s adventure, offers action-packed adventures for the entire family. Besides the activities mentioned, you can also visit local attractions and take on new adventures.
If you’re ready for an unforgettable family trip, contact Costa Rica For Kids now and let us help plan your exciting getaway! With the assistance of our local guides, we’ll ensure you have a fantastic family adventure in La Fortuna.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time to visit La Fortuna?
The best time to visit La Fortuna is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. These months offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, La Fortuna is a year-round destination, and even the rainy season (May to October) has its charms, with lush greenery and fewer tourists.
2. What age is appropriate for canyoning and waterfall rappelling?
Canyoning tours typically have age and weight restrictions for safety reasons. Most tours are suitable for children aged 8 and older who are comfortable with physical activities and heights. Always check with the tour operator for specific requirements.
3. Is white water rafting safe for children?
White water rafting on the Balsa River is generally safe for children, particularly older kids who enjoy adventure. Most tour operators offer different levels of difficulty, ensuring that families can choose a suitable and safe option. Life jackets and helmets are provided, and guides prioritize safety.
4. Are there any family-friendly restaurants in downtown La Fortuna?
Yes, downtown La Fortuna has a variety of family-friendly restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Many establishments have kids’ menus and welcoming atmospheres, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for the whole family.
5. What is the weather like in La Fortuna?
La Fortuna has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season (December to April) offers the most pleasant weather, while the rainy season (May to October) brings more rain and lush landscapes. Average temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).