La Fortuna, Costa Rica on 18/03/10

The area of La Fortuna, Costa Rica has long been a favorite tourist destination for those looking for a little off the beaten track adventure. Home of the Arenal Volcano, the La Fortuna area offers its visitors a wonderful array of ecotourism activities that will leave you begging for more. The area is home to some of Costa Rica’s best canopy tours, hot springs, hiking trails, white-water rafting and horseback riding. There are a number of great companies, so make sure to shop around for the best tour deals.

The famous Arenal hot springs are an absolute must to experience. The Baldi Hot Springs offer 25 different pools of differing temperatures, 3 pool bars, 2 restaurants, spa, sauna, parking and even a toboggan. On a clear evening visitors can even witness Arenal Volcano’s impressive lava flows. Rates to enter start at 26 USD for adults and 13USD for children ages 2-4.  Also make sure to check out the Tabacon Thermals. Though a bit pricier the mineral pools and waterfalls are spectacular. Rates here vary depending on the hour, but start at 70 USD for adults and 35USD for children.

If you are interested in exploring the Arenal Volcano more, there are a number of tour companies that provide excellent packaged tours, offering a number of activities. Prices and duration of tours and packages varies.

The actual town of La Fortuna is very quaint. There are a number of good restaurants and accommodations that can fit every budget, as well as some souvenir and boutique shops. Make sure to check out these great accommodations before planning your vacation to La Fortuna:

www.gringopeteshostel.com