Nature Field Guide
La Fortuna Waterfall
- Spanish name
- Catarata La Fortuna
- Scientific name
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Join Pico and Tati to discover La Fortuna Waterfall and learn how water shapes Costa Rica’s landscapes.
Species overview
About the La Fortuna Waterfall
A tall waterfall drops through a lush tropical forest into a rocky river basin. The forest surrounding the river helps connect the waterfall with the wider watershed.
Identification
Key Features of the La Fortuna Waterfall
A narrow falling column of water.
Forested slopes around the river.
Mist and wet rocks near the base.
Habitat & range
La Fortuna, Alajuela. Look for the waterfall’s river, rock formations and surrounding vegetation from approved viewing areas.
Local observations
A Costa Rican waterfall location. This card is educational and does not guarantee access, swimming permission or current visitor conditions.
When to observe
Plan a daytime visit after checking current opening arrangements, trail conditions and weather with the site operator. Flow, visibility and access can change with rainfall.
Conservation & care
Visit with an adult and follow the site’s current access rules and staff guidance. Stay on authorized trails and behind barriers. Wet rocks, steep drops, strong currents and sudden rises in water can be dangerous. Do not jump from waterfalls or climb wet rock faces. Enter water only where explicitly permitted and conditions are approved by site staff. Leave plants, rocks and wildlife undisturbed and carry out all litter.
Observation activity
Sketch the waterfall and label the falling water, rocks, forest and river downstream.
Plan Your Visit
La Fortuna Waterfall — ADIFORT visitor entrance
Getting There
Navigate to the managed La Fortuna Waterfall entrance outside La Fortuna. After admission, a long stairway descends through the forest to the waterfall; allow energy and time for the climb back.
Before You Go
Admission supports ADIFORT community projects. Ask staff about current water conditions and permitted swimming areas. The stairway may be unsuitable for visitors with limited mobility.
Visit information reviewed October 8, 2026. Confirm current access before travel.