La Fortuna Waterfall (Costa Rica) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids La Fortuna Waterfall |
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| (es) Catarata Fortuna | |
La Fortuna Waterfall in 2006
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| Location | La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica |
| Coordinates | 10°26′53.15″N 84°40′05.72″W / 10.4480972°N 84.6682556°W |
| Total height | 70-75 m |
| Number of drops | 1 |
| Watercourse | Fortuna River |
The La Fortuna Waterfall is a beautiful natural wonder in central Costa Rica. Its name means "the fortune" in Spanish. People also call it Catarata Fortuna. This amazing waterfall is located in the Alajuela Province.
The water drops a long way, about 70 to 75 meters (around 230 to 246 feet)! It sits at the bottom of the Chato volcano, which is a dormant volcano. This means it's not active anymore. The waterfall is about 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) from the town of La Fortuna. It is also close to the famous Arenal Volcano.
The waterfall gets its water from the Fortuna River. This river flows through the lush rainforest in the Arenal Mountain range. Then, it plunges over a tall cliff, creating the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall.
Contents
Visiting La Fortuna Waterfall
If you want to visit the waterfall, there is an admission fee. For adults from other countries, it costs $18. For adults who live in Costa Rica, it's $9. Children under 8 years old can enter for free.
The Hike to the Falls
Getting to the waterfall involves a bit of a hike. You will walk down over 500 steps on a path carved into the hillside. This walk usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes. There are places along the way where you can stop and rest if you need to.
What to Do at the Waterfall
Once you reach the bottom, you can swim in the cool stream and small rapids. A lifeguard is always on duty to keep everyone safe. At the top of the cliff, where you start your journey, there are facilities for visitors. You can find restrooms and showers there. There is also a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat and a gift shop to buy souvenirs.
Hours of Operation
The waterfall is open every day from 7:30 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon. Remember that the walk back up to the parking lot takes a bit longer, usually about 20 minutes.
See also
In Spanish: Catarata La Fortuna para niños
