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All Costa Rica La Fortuna La Fortuna Hot Springs
AO Edited

La Fortuna Hot Springs

The same water that fills a luxury resort’s pools feeds these free hot springs in the rainforest.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

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Depending on the level of rain, the hot springs can be a tranquil watering hole for a relaxing vibe in the forest.   Tripadvisor user Lerling
Find a spot to soak in this gushing river that provides some of Costa Rica’s best hot springs.   Tripadvisor user Miri V
Submerge yourself in these free natural hot springs amidst the forest of La Fortuna.   Tripadvisor user Miri V
When you see the graffiti tunnel above the hot springs, you know you’re in the right place.   Tripadvisor user Paddi
There’s no official parking for these hot springs so it’s best to look for parking on the side of the road.   Tripadvisor user Arkutis28
  Findingbalance18 / Atlas Obscura User
  Findingbalance18 / Atlas Obscura User
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These serene river hot springs are powered by the Arenal Volcano, the main focal point and attraction of this region of Costa Rica. There are no bathrooms, lounge chairs or cafes on site at this river flowing through the forest. 

La Fortuna Hot Springs, also known as La Choyin, are just off of the main road (Ruta 142). Tabacon Hot Springs, a high-end spa, is fed by the same water source as La Fortuna. But for those interested in a raw and rustic vibe, follow the dirt path off of the main road that leads into the woods. 

It opens up to a creek surrounded by lush trees. Find a watering hole and let yourself relax in this naturally-occurring hot tub. Birds, butterflies and other pleasure seekers abound. There’s also some tunnels decorated with graffiti that the river flows through.

If the free hot springs aren’t crowded, it’s easy to pass the trail entrance. So if you’re coming from the Tabacon parking area, you will walk 100 feet across the bridge to an opening on the left. The path’s marker is a sign advising visitors not to leave their stuff, especially phones and keys, on the rocks that surround the river because of the potential for theft. 

While it’s always been popular with locals, the springs have become a tourist hot spot so it’s best to visit early mornings during the week. There’s also likely to be less traffic at that time because the one lane road gets pretty busy during peak midday hours. But if you’re looking for more of a communal vibe, it gets pretty packed on the weekends especially in the evenings around sunset. Bring water, drinks and snacks as well as a garbage bag to bring all of your trash. A good rule of thumb is to leave it better than you found it. 

Related Tags

Trees Nature Rivers Hot Springs

Know Before You Go

It’s free and there are no set hours because it’s nature! But it’s not advisable to go after dark because of the terrain or potential robbery. Don’t leave any valuables in your car because the parking guides are not security guards. Bring a waterproof pouch to carry your keys and phone around your neck because you’re totally going to want to take photos. 

The hot springs are a 15 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna where there are tons of restaurants, however, there are a few sodas (local restaurants) on the main road into town. There are also numerous hotels of various price points surrounding El Choyin along Ruta 142.

Community Contributors

Edited By

Findingbalance18, heshsf, brandybegood

  • Findingbalance18
  • heshsf
  • brandybegood

Published

September 4, 2023

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Sources
  • https://costaricatravelblog.com/free-hot-springs-la-fortuna/
  • https://mytanfeet.com/activities/el-salto-la-fortuna-el-choyin/
La Fortuna Hot Springs
F7QG+CH4
La Fortuna
Costa Rica
10.49028, -84.72142
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