Distance 95 km (59.4 miles) | |
Price range US$61-US$680 | |
Ride Duration Range 3h-5h | |
Earliest Departure 18:30 | |
Latest Departure 23:00 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
Fastest minivan: 3h
Cheapest minivan: US$61
Say farewell to the stunning coastal beauty of Jaco and head off to one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and popular destinations: La Fortuna.
This quaint town, only 92 miles (148 kilometers) away, is encircled by a volcano and offers a treasure trove of natural gems.
Travelers can choose between private transfers in a minivan or a car to enjoy the journey at their own pace and with more privacy. Budget-conscious or solo travelers can hop in a shared minivan to reach this idyllic destination.
Whichever option you choose, the spectacular views and greenery will make it almost impossible to leave again.
The volcano-rimmed town of La Fortuna is a paradise for travelers from all over the globe.
Thanks to its proximity to Arenal National Park, numerous waterfalls, and spectacular mountainous scenery, the town is one of the most popular spots in Costa Rica.
La Fortuna is also a massive adventure destination in the Northern Highlands of Costa Rica, with whitewater rafting, ziplining, and so much more.
Despite its many attractions, La Fortuna is still a small town, just a few square blocks centered around the church. This allows the region to retain its charming atmosphere without overcrowding ruining it.
La Fortuna is a small yet mighty tourist destination with seemingly endless attractions to entertain visitors.
Keep these top activities in mind when planning your itinerary:
Visit La Fortuna Waterfall. Known as one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, this 246-foot (75-meter-high) site is a must-visit. Plan your trip for early in the morning to avoid the crowds and prepare for the many, many steps to reach it! Bring along waterproof shoes, too.
Hike a volcano in Arenal National Park. The park centers around the Arenal Volcano, which, until its eruption in 1968, people thought was just another mountain. Nowadays, you can hike up the volcano while exploring the gorgeous forestry that dominates the national park.
Explore the El Observatorio. With over 7 miles (11 kilometers) of self-guided trails, this fascinating observatory is a must-visit for nature lovers. You can visit the Danta Waterfall, marvel at the scenery from the observatory, and, if you’re lucky, see an ocelot!
Fly through the trees with a zipline tour. Numerous tour operators and parks run ziplining adventures in this region. If you’re not afraid of heights, go sailing through the rainforest for the best views of the region.
Take a kayaking or paddleboarding trip on Lake Arenal. Book an excursion to take in the sweeping views of Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano. For a more adventurous option, combine whitewater wafting with a stay at an eco-lodge along the river.
Visit a hot spring. Relax after a full day of adventuring with a dip in one of the many hot springs in and around La Fortuna. Aim to visit first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
When traveling from Jaco to La Fortuna, travelers can choose between a minivan or a car.
You can opt for a private transfer with a group of friends or save cash with a single ticket in a shared minivan.
A shared minivan is the best way for a solo traveler to get to La Fortuna. A one-way ticket costs around $55.
The drive takes approximately three hours, and the driver will pick you up and drop you off at your chosen hotel in both towns.
You can expect air conditioning and a 20-minute rest stop during the journey. The luggage allowance is one 44 lbs (20 kg) bag and one handbag, with an extra charge for any additional luggage.
A private transfer is ideal for people traveling in medium to large groups. You can choose a minivan with room for six to eighteen passengers.
The driver will pick you up from your hotel in Jaco at your chosen time and then drop you off at your hotel in La Fortuna. Prices for a private minivan transfer start at $240, and the drive takes three hours.
Each minivan offers a luggage allowance of two bags per person, bathroom stops upon request, air conditioning, English-speaking staff, WiFi, and water.
You can also opt for a premium service for an extra charge, which includes a mini bar with snacks and wet wipes.
Another option for a private transfer is to take an SUV car, which takes between three and five hours, depending on the operator.
You can take between three and four passengers and expect to pay between $297, split between the passengers, for the ride.
You’ll get picked up at your chosen hotel and then dropped off at your hotel in La Fortuna.
You can pick any departure time that fits your schedule. Amenities include two pieces of luggage per person, rest stops upon request, air conditioning, and WiFi. The driver will also provide snacks and drinks.
The best thing about any drive in Costa Rica is definitely the views of the luscious greenery that defines this country.
For the first part of the drive, you’ll navigate along the coastline overlooking the Gulf of Nicoya before diverting inland.
Most of the journey is spent on main roads, but you’ll still see plenty of rainforest views as you get closer to La Fortuna. Watch out for the spectacular Children’s Eternal Rainforest as you pass by.
When the Arenal Volcano looms over the horizon, you’ll know La Fortuna is just around the corner.
The best time to visit La Fortuna is during the dry season, which starts in December and ends in April.
Expect average temperatures of 80°F (26°C) during the day and 60°F (15°C) at night. While it’s called the dry season, no time of year is truly dry in a country filled with this much rainforest. There will be fewer wet days in the drier months, but come prepared with a lightweight raincoat to avoid getting drenched on your excursions.
Alternatively, visit during the green wet season between May and November. It may downpour a whole lot more, but the views of the forest are unrivaled because the heavy rainfall brings them to life.
Spend three to four days in La Fortuna to tick off all the major sites.
You can explore the surrounding forest in the national park, take on an outdoor adventure, relax in the hot springs, and swim in a waterfall.
If you want to expand your adventures, stay longer to check off horse riding, mountain biking, canoeing, and more! There is no shortage of fun in La Fortuna.
Next, head north to Liberia to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s history with a visit to one of its many museums or galleries. You can also check out Costa Rica’s cowboy culture here.
If it’s beaches you’re after, head to Playa Flamingo to see some of the country’s best offerings. This tropical beach paradise boasts soft white sand and clear blue waters as far as the eye can see.
While you’re in the area, stop by Tamarindo to check off more incredible beachside attractions.
La Fortuna - Hotel List
La Fortuna - Any hotel
La Fortuna - Hotel List
La Fortuna - Hotel List
La Fortuna - Hotel List
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