La Fortuna’s shopping scene centers on authentic local experiences that showcase Costa Rican culture. Three standout tours rise above the rest: The excellent Cabanisi Coffee Farm tour (2 hours) gives visitors the full coffee-making story, from bean to cup, with a tasty traditional lunch included. Food lovers will enjoy two terrific cooking classes – the Farm-to-Table and Pura Vida experiences – where you’ll learn to prepare real Costa Rican dishes alongside friendly local cooks. Each of these back-to-basics adventures lets you experience genuine Costa Rican life while supporting local families.
Let’s explore these top-rated shopping tours in detail:
Good To Know
- While the provided background does not mention any shopping tours in La Fortuna, it highlights several culinary, adventure, nature, and cultural experiences that could be of interest to visitors.
- The background suggests that the best options for visitors interested in shopping may be exploring the local farms, cooperatives, and artisan workshops to discover unique, handmade products.
- Some of the tours, such as the Culinary and Cultural Highlights and the Safari Float and Chocolate Farm Experience, could potentially include opportunities to interact with local artisans and purchase crafts or specialty items.
- Visitors could also inquire with their hotel concierge or local tourism boards for recommendations on the best places to find authentic, locally-sourced souvenirs and handicrafts in La Fortuna.
- While there are no specific shopping tours mentioned, the area’s focus on sustainable tourism, local agriculture, and culture may provide alternative avenues for visitors to discover unique shopping experiences.
Farm-To-Table Cooking Class
For those seeking an authentic culinary experience in La Fortuna, the Farm-To-Table Cooking Class offers a delightful opportunity to learn about Costa Rican cuisine.
With a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group tour led by Costa Rica Descents allows participants to cook local dishes using fresh, organic ingredients.
Guests will help collect produce from the farm, then prepare plantain ceviche, empanadas, chicken and rice, and tostones in an open wood-fire kitchen.
After the hands-on cooking session, everyone enjoys a generous family-style meal together.
The class is praised for its educational, intimate, and warm hospitality, making it a must-try experience for foodies visiting the area.
Read our full review: Farm to Table Cooking Class Review
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Canyoning and Rafting With Organic Farm
Situated in the lush, verdant landscape of La Fortuna, the Canyoning and Rafting With Organic Farm tour immerses adventurers in the region’s natural wonders.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and 146 reviews, this thrilling excursion offers rappelling down waterfalls, whitewater rafting, and wildlife sightings like sloths and toucans.
Priced from $176 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, an organic lunch, and professional guides.
While not recommended for those with certain health conditions or the elderly, the experience is suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 7 and up.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this all-inclusive adventure is an excellent way to explore Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: Canyoning and Rafting With Organic Farm Review
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Sarapiqui Rafting With Organic Farm
The Sarapiqui Rafting With Organic Farm tour invites adventurers to experience the thrilling whitewater rapids of the Sarapiqui River while seeing the tranquility of a local organic farm.
With 100% positive reviews and a 5.0 rating, this activity offers a well-rounded excursion. Included in the package are hotel pickup and drop-off, an organic lunch, a professional guide, and optional photographer services.
Safety is a top priority, with the tour not recommended for certain travelers. Prices start from $65 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled rapids or a glimpse into sustainable farming, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Sarapiqui Rafting With Organic Farm Review
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Chocolate and Farm Tour With Local Tico Family
Chocolate and Farm Tour with Local Tico Family offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Rated 5.0 with 97% recommendation, this tour provides a personal interaction with a local farming family.
Travelers can explore a cacao and coffee farm, make chocolate, and enjoy a homemade lunch. With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour offers an authentic, non-commercial experience focused on traditional chocolate techniques and organic farming practices.
While some visitors expected to make chocolate bars, the tour’s hands-on activities and educational components receive overwhelmingly positive reviews for enhancing the cultural experience.
Read our full review: Chocolate and Farm Tour With Local Tico Family Review
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Pura Vida Cooking Class in La Fortuna (From Farm to Table)
For visitors seeking a deeper dive into Costa Rican cuisine, the Pura Vida Cooking Class in La Fortuna offers an immersive farm-to-table experience.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 42 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the half-day class includes a tour of the farm’s orchards and gardens, ingredient collection, and hands-on instruction to prepare traditional dishes like gallo pinto and annatto chicken.
Guests enjoy the meal they’ve prepared with the hosts afterward. Accommodations are made for dietary restrictions, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
Located just south of the Catholic church in La Fortuna, the class provides a rewarding opportunity to bond with fellow travelers and learn about local culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Pura Vida Cooking Class in La Fortuna (From Farm to Table) Review
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Costa Rica Descents Organic Farm
Nestled just south of La Fortuna’s iconic Catholic church, the Costa Rica Descents Organic Farm offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant agricultural landscape of the region.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 32 reviews, this activity includes transportation, a nature guide, lunch, and coffee or tea.
Catering to a maximum of 15 travelers, the farm is wheelchair, stroller, and service animal accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
Priced from $58.67 per person, the experience allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, providing booking flexibility.
Read our full review: Costa Rica Descents Organic Farm Review
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Private Cooking Class in Organic Farm at La Fortuna
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in La Fortuna, Costa Rica can embark on a private cooking class at the Paraiso Orgánico, an organic farm nestled just 2 km from the town’s bullring.
With a 100% traveler recommendation across 25 reviews, the class includes cooking traditional Costa Rican dishes like homemade tortillas, picadillos, and chicken rice. Guests will also enjoy a guided tour of the farm and freshly made juices from garden produce.
The private experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
At €72.27 per person, the class offers a memorable and authentic cultural experience with accommodating hosts.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class in Organic Farm at La Fortuna Review
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Costa Rica Campesino Farm Tour
The Costa Rica Campesino Farm Tour provides travelers with an immersive glimpse into the traditional farming lifestyle of La Fortuna.
During this half-day tour, guests can partake in activities like milking a cow, extracting cane juice, and making artisanal cocoa.
They’ll also enjoy a farm-fresh lunch featuring local, organic products and learn about indigenous cocoa processing at a small archaeological ranch.
With a recommendation rate of 95% and an overall 5.0 rating, this tour offers an authentic, educational experience for up to 30 travelers.
Transportation, a welcome drink, and other amenities are included, though alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately.
Read our full review: Costa Rica Campesino Farm Tour Review
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La Fortuna Waterfall Hike & Farm Lunch
Towering over 200 feet, the La Fortuna Waterfall captivates visitors with its sheer power and scenic splendor.
This popular activity combines an invigorating hike to the waterfall with a farm-to-table lunch experience. Travelers are transported to the trailhead, then guided through the lush vegetation to the impressive waterfall.
After exploring the falls, they’re treated to a delicious meal sourced from a nearby farm. The activity is rated 5.0 and includes transportation, a guide, entrance fees, lunch, and even alcoholic beverages.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate hike is suitable for most travelers in good physical condition. With flexible pickup options and a cancellation policy, this excursion offers an unbeatable blend of natural wonder and culinary delight.
Read our full review: La Fortuna Waterfall Hike & Farm Lunch Review
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FULL DAY COMBO 1: Hanging Bridges + Waterfall Hike + Farm Lunch + Volcano Hike
Offering an unparalleled adventure, the Arenal Fusion Adventure (1) combines the captivating Hanging Bridges, the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall, a farm-to-table lunch, and a hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park.
This full-day combo tour, located in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, provides an exhilarating experience for up to 12 travelers. Guided by naturalist experts, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, lunch, snacks, and bottled water.
Although not recommended for those with mobility issues, the moderate fitness level required rewards adventurers with stunning vistas of the iconic Arenal Volcano.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this fusion adventure is an excellent choice for an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: FULL DAY COMBO 1: Hanging Bridges + Waterfall Hike + Farm Lunch + Volcano Hike Review
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2 in 1 Safari Float and Chocolate Farm Experience
Embarking on a Safari Float and Chocolate Farm Experience, travelers enjoy the natural beauty of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
This half-day tour offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural exploration. Guests will float along the river, observing the diverse wildlife, followed by a visit to a local chocolate farm.
Here, they’ll learn about the chocolate-making process and indulge in delectable treats. The tour includes a traditional Costa Rican lunch, snacks, and transportation.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience ensures personalized attention. Accessible by public transportation and suitable for most visitors, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to connect with the natural and culinary wonders of the region.
Read our full review: 2 in 1 Safari Float and Chocolate Farm Experience Review
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Farm to Table Food Experience
The Farm to Table Food Experience in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, immerses visitors in the region’s vibrant culinary landscape. This 2.5-hour tour offers a chance to savor local specialties, including grilled ginger chicken with passion fruit sauce and stir-fried rice with fresh hearts of palm and vegetables.
The experience caters to various dietary needs, making it accessible to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free travelers. The tour starts and ends at the Geckos at the Waterfall meeting point, giving participants the opportunity to explore the area further.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and personalized culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Farm-to-table Food Experience Review
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2-Hour Cabanisi Coffee Farm Activity
On the 2-Hour Cabanisi Coffee Farm Activity in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, visitors can explore the rich history and production process of the region’s renowned coffee.
Priced from $25 per person, the activity accommodates up to 50 travelers and is operated by Tico Trails. The experience is available year-round, with opening hours from 7 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 7 AM to 6 PM on weekends.
Participants meet at a designated location and have the option of hotel or airport pickup. The activity includes a traditional Costa Rican lunch, and breakfast can be arranged prior to the tour.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and is conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Cabanisi Coffee Farm Activity Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for shopping tours is typically casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes as they’ll be on their feet for extended periods exploring various shops and markets.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can typically bring their own food and drinks on the tours. It’s advisable to pack a small cooler or bag with snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursion. However, check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Most shopping tours accommodate dietary restrictions, offering options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with food allergies. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure the appropriate accommodations are made.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled 24-48 hours in advance. Shorter notice may result in partial or no refund, so it’s important to review the specific policy before booking a tour.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children?
The tours are generally suitable for children, though parents should consider their child’s age and interest level. Some activities may not be appropriate for very young kids, so it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
The Sum Up
La Fortuna offers a variety of farm-to-table and outdoor adventure tours for visitors. From cooking classes and chocolate tastings to canyoning and rafting, travelers can enjoy the local agricultural and natural wonders. These tours provide an authentic experience, showcasing Costa Rica’s sustainable practices and vibrant culture. Whether seeking culinary, adrenaline, or a combination of experiences, La Fortuna’s diverse tour options cater to a range of interests and preferences.