La Fortuna Travel Guide

La Fortuna, like many places, is generally safe at night. Yet, it’s always wise to exercise the same caution you would in any city. Avoid solo night strolls, stick to well-lit areas, and keep your valuables discreet. Opt for card payments over carrying cash and stay vigilant of your surroundings. Your safety is a priority, so embrace your adventure while staying smart.

Want to stay connected during your La Fortuna adventure? Consider grabbing a Costa Rican SIM card for local internet access. You can either use an extra unlocked smartphone or convert your primary phone, but that means you’ll have a local Costa Rican number. Kolbi SIM cards are a popular choice, readily available in both LIR and SJO airports and around town. They’re budget-friendly; just make sure to carry your passport when purchasing. Be sure to check for local cell signal coverage in the La Fortuna/Arenal area with Kolbi to keep those travel updates flowing.

When it comes to currency in La Fortuna, you’ll find that most tourism-related businesses, shops, and markets readily accept USD. However, keep in mind that the exchange rate may vary depending on where you go, although it typically hovers close to the bank exchange rate. In La Fortuna, it’s quite common to see prices quoted in USD at eateries, bars, and excursion offices. But if you venture to San Jose, where tourists are less frequent, you can expect most “daily product” prices to be quoted in colones. It’s always handy to have some local currency on hand for those charming, cash-only places.

Explore La Fortuna’s downtown area on foot for easy access to its central attractions, with the main bus station located near the Mega Super market. If you plan to venture beyond the town center, consider renting a car to access Arenal’s diverse attractions at your own pace. For affordable shared shuttle options, EasyHop offers rides starting at $3 USD to 13-14 different locations, while La Choza Inn Hostel provides an unlimited daily pass for $15 USD covering six sites. Taxis, both red taxis and Uber, are readily available, with estimated fares of at least $15 USD to the Fortuna Waterfall and $20 USD to the national park, making transportation convenient and flexible for your explorations.