La Fortuna Guide
Best time to visit La Fortuna
The best time to visit La Fortuna is the dry season, from December to April, when there is less rain and Arenal Volcano is easier to see. The green season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers, fewer visitors and a greener forest, and mornings are often clear. Our tours run every day of the year.
- Dry seasonDec–Apr
- Green seasonMay–Nov
- Clearest viewsEarly morning
- Temperature21–31 °C
Dry season: December to April
This is the high season in La Fortuna. Days are drier, trails are less muddy and the summit of Arenal Volcano shows more often, especially from January to March. It is also the busiest time of year, so book tours and hotels early, above all around Christmas, New Year and Easter week.
Green season: May to November
Rain is more frequent, usually as showers in the afternoon after a brighter morning. The forest is at its greenest and there are fewer visitors. Plan hikes in the morning and keep the afternoon for a soak in a hot river.
When to see Arenal Volcano
Clouds often cover the summit, in any season. Early morning usually gives the clearest view, before clouds build around the peak during the day. Our Morning Volcano Hike leaves La Fortuna at 7:30 a.m.
Temperature
La Fortuna is warm and humid all year, roughly 21 to 31 °C (70 to 88 °F). Higher up on the slopes of the volcano it feels cooler.
Seasons at a glance
| Season | Months | Weather | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | Dec–Apr | Less rain, warm days, the volcano shows more often | Volcano views, longer hikes, Río Celeste |
| Green | May–Nov | Afternoon showers, clearer mornings, greener forest | Morning hikes, hot rivers, fewer visitors |
What to pack
- A light rain jacket, in any month
- Closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip
- Quick-dry clothes and long pants for the trails
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and a hat for the dry season
- A swimsuit and a towel for the hot rivers
Tours and rain
Our tours leave every day of the year. If we have to cancel a tour for weather or safety, we reschedule it when possible or refund it.
Tours for this trip
Tours for any season
Prices per adult in USD, VAT not included. Pick a departure time and book in a secure checkout.
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Questions
Weather questions
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Contact usIn the green season, from May to November, usually as afternoon showers. La Fortuna is in a rainforest, so rain can fall in any month.
Yes. Mornings are often clear, there are fewer visitors and the forest is greener. Plan outdoor activities early in the day and bring a rain jacket.
January to March usually give the clearest views. In any month, early morning is the best time of day to see the summit.
In the dry season, especially around Christmas, New Year and Easter week. Book tours and hotels well ahead for those dates.
Bring a rain jacket and shoes with good grip. If we have to cancel a tour for weather or safety, we reschedule it when possible or give you a full refund.
More in the La Fortuna guide
La Fortuna · Arenal Volcano
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