La Fortuna invites families to explore the landscapes around Arenal: forest trails, flowing water and a volcano that changes how we see the horizon. Use the town as your base, then choose a manageable outing that leaves time to notice leaves, birds and the weather.
Explore San Carlos
San Carlos is a canton in Costa Rica’s Alajuela province. Ciudad Quesada, La Fortuna and the wider San Carlos landscape connect farms, rivers and communities with the forests and volcanic scenery around Arenal. Discover the stories shared by local people, support their work and help keep community spaces and natural surroundings clean.
La Fortuna Town
Begin with a short walk around the town center. Notice how the community connects with the surrounding volcano landscape, then choose one question to investigate on your next outing.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Marked visitor trails offer a way to explore the landscape around Arenal. Observe volcanic rock and forest from permitted routes; the volcano summit is not a visitor hiking destination.
La Fortuna Waterfall
A waterfall outing connects moving water with forest observation. The approach includes many steps; consider your family’s mobility and energy before visiting and follow staff guidance near the water.
Lake Arenal Landscape
The lake adds a broad water landscape to an Arenal visit. From a permitted viewpoint, compare the lake, hills and sky; boat or paddling outings require separate planning and suitable safety equipment.
La Fortuna Rainforest Patterns
On a permitted forest route, search for leaf shapes, water droplets and roots. Draw what you notice and leave plants, fungi and small animals where they belong.
Arenal Hanging Bridge Forest Walk
A managed hanging bridge walk can reveal forest layers at different heights. Choose a site and route suited to your family and follow its access rules; bridges are separate attractions from the national park.
Arenal Hot Spring Learning
Geothermal water offers a chance to ask how heat moves through the Earth. Choose a managed facility, check temperature and child policies, and keep any visit within your family’s comfort level.
La Fortuna Bird Observation
Slow down along an established garden or forest path and listen before looking. Compare bird shapes and calls without feeding wildlife or using playback to attract it.