La Fortuna’s best walking tours showcase Costa Rica’s incredible rainforest and wildlife up close.
Three standout options deliver great value and authentic experiences: The Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour lets you walk among the treetops near Arenal Volcano – perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
We love the intimate Bijagua De Upala Sloth Tour for its expert spotting of these slow-moving creatures in their natural habitat.
After dark, the Rainforest Night Walking Tour reveals a completely different jungle, when nocturnal animals emerge.
These tours include reliable transport and excellent local guides who know exactly where to look for wildlife.
Check out our detailed reviews of each recommended tour below.
Good To Know
- The Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour offers a guided suspension bridge experience around Arenal Volcano, with a high traveler recommendation and available morning and afternoon options.
- The Bijagua De Upala Sloth-Spotting Tour provides a private 1-hour experience to view sloths and other wildlife in the Bijagua de Upala rainforest, with an exceptional 5.0/5 rating.
- The Rainforest Night Walking Tour is a private evening tour focused on observing nocturnal wildlife in the La Fortuna rainforest, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 traveler recommendation.
- All three tours offer hassle-free hotel pickup within a certain radius of La Fortuna, with the Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour having a maximum group size of 50.
- Pricing for the tours ranges from €80.05 per person for the Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour to $68.93 per person for the Rainforest Night Walking Tour, with free cancellation available for most tours.
La Fortuna Arenal: Guided Suspension Bridge Walking Tour
The Mistico Hanging Bridges tour offers visitors a guided suspension bridge walking experience around the breathtaking Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. This highly-rated tour features 68 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, earning it a Badge of Excellence.
Travelers can choose from morning or afternoon tour options, with the opportunity to spot wildlife like howler monkeys and observe the diverse flora and fauna along the way.
The tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup within 6 km of La Fortuna Central Park, though an additional charge applies for pickups further away. Guests not staying in the pickup radius will meet at designated points, such as the Arenal Ecological Park entrance.
With a maximum group size of 50, the naturalist guide provides insights about the local ecosystem. Priced from €80.05 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
However, it’s not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or in the last stage of pregnancy due to the moderate physical fitness required.
Read our full review: La Fortuna Arenal: Guided Suspension Bridge Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bijagua De Upala 1-Hour Sloth-Spotting Rainforest Walking Tour – La Fortuna
Situated within the lush rainforests of Bijagua de Upala, this 1-hour private sloth-spotting tour offers an intimate wildlife experience.
Recommended by 99% of travelers with a 5.0/5 rating from 264 reviews, the tour is operated by Jungle Life Costa Rica and showcases the diverse array of flora and fauna found in the region.
Guests are transported to the meeting point near the Rio Celeste entrance, where they’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable private guide.
Throughout the tour, the guide uses a telescope to provide close-up views of sloths, both two-toed and three-toed, as well as other captivating creatures like vipers, frogs, and toucans.
Participants can take photos on their personal devices, with the guide’s assistance.
At the end of the tour, guests are treated to coffee or tea paired with a traditional Costa Rican pastry.
Despite being non-refundable, the tour’s exceptional reviews and high recommendation rate make it a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting La Fortuna.
Read our full review: Bijagua De Upala 1-Hour Sloth-Spotting Rainforest Walking Tour – La Fortuna Review
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Rainforest Night Walking Tour (Private Property)
For an immersive evening exploration of La Fortuna’s lush rainforest, the Rainforest Night Walking Tour (Private Property) stands out as a must-do activity. Offered by the highly-rated Jacamar Naturalist Tours, this private evening tour allows visitors to observe the forest’s nocturnal wildlife, including frogs, sloths, snakes, and insects.
The tour lasts for the evening, with a start time of 5:30 PM, and a maximum group size of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, as well as lanterns for navigation and snacks and bottled water.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Priced at $68.93 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With 100% of travelers recommending the experience and an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5, the Rainforest Night Walking Tour is a top choice for those seeking to discover the enchanting nocturnal side of Costa Rica’s famous rainforest.
Read our full review: Rainforest Night Walking Tour (Private Property) Review
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Questions About Staying Here
Are Walking Tours Suitable for All Fitness Levels?
Walking tours can accommodate various fitness levels. Many offer options for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes, allowing participants to choose the pace that suits their abilities. Guides are often experienced in tailoring the experience to individual needs.
What Should We Bring for the Walking Tours?
For walking tours, bring comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, hat, and light snacks. These essentials will help ensure you can fully enjoy the experience regardless of your fitness level and the tour’s duration.
Are the Walking Tours Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?
Many walking tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have routes or terrain that’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Can We Take Photos During the Walking Tours?
Participants are generally allowed to take photos during walking tours, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They may have specific guidelines or restrictions to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Walking Tours?
Most walking tours don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies on age limits for participation.
Worth The Stay
La Fortuna offers a range of immersive walking tours that allow visitors to explore the natural wonders of the region. From suspension bridge hikes to sloth-spotting excursions and nighttime rainforest adventures, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re seeking a serene daytime trek or a thrilling nocturnal experience, these tours provide an unforgettable way to discover the beauty and diversity of the local environment.