La Fortuna and Monteverde are incredible natural beauty spots in Costa Rica with unique and distinct features. La Fortuna is famous for its lush tropical rainforest, natural hot springs, stunning waterfalls, and the breathtaking Arenal volcano, making it a perfect spot for Adventure seekers.
Monteverde is a cloud forest with colorful birds, moss-covered trees, hanging bridges, and beautiful butterfly gardens. It is the ideal choice for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
One distinctive feature of La Fortuna and Monteverde is the weather! La Fortuna has a tropical climate, which means you will experience dry and rainy seasons in their actual seasons. However, Monteverde has a cooler climate, which allows for more rain and mist throughout the year.
Tim and I have gone to both towns at different times of the year. The first place I arrived at was Monteverde around March, and I was expecting to experience hotter and dryer weather than other parts of the country, but I was surprised to meet with light showers and a misty climate.
I felt cold at all times, so I abandoned my Tees and Shorts and began wearing a sweater and long pants.
Shortly after, I moved to La Fortuna and enjoyed the dry season I was deprived of in Monteverde, but I had to return to my Tees and Shorts.
This difference in weather conditions of both towns caught my attention, and I decided to visit them again as a tourist to explore.
I have shared all the vital information you need to know about La Fortuna and Monteverde in this guide to help you make an informed decision when planning your trip to Costa Rica.
Key Takeaways
- La Fortuna is a better option for those seeking Adventure.
- Monteverde is a better option for Nature lovers and Wildlife enthusiast
- La Fortuna is more expensive than Monteverde
- Monteverde is Rainier than La Fortuna
- There is no nightlife in Monteverde
How To Get To La Fortuna Vs Monteverde
LA FORTUNA
La Fortuna is located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica. A 3 to 4-hour drive from San Jose International Airport and Liberia International Airport, respectively, will get you to La Fortuna.
The good news is that you do not need a 4×4 vehicle when driving to La Fortuna because most of the road is paved, and even the unpaved parts are motorable.
MONTEVERDE
Monteverde is located in the Tilaran mountain range of Puntarenas Province of Costa Rica and is 4000 feet above sea level.
It takes 2 to 3.5 hours to drive from Liberia International Airport and San Jose International Airport to Monteverde, respectively.
The downside of driving to Monteverde is that the raids are not in good condition. So, you will need a 4×4 vehicle for easy navigation.
Here’s a table comparing transportation options, road conditions, travel times, and cost considerations for getting to La Fortuna and Monteverde from both San Jose International Airport (SJO) and Liberia International Airport (LIR):
| Route | Transportation Options | Road Condition | Time Considerations | Price Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SJO to La Fortuna | Car rental, shuttle bus, domestic flight | Generally good, some areas with potholes, mountainous terrain | Approx. 3-4 hours by car, 30 mins by flight + ground transfer | $50-$100 for car rental, $30-$50 for shuttle bus, $80-$120 for flight |
| Liberia Airport to La Fortuna | Car rental, shuttle bus, taxi | Generally good, some areas with potholes | Approx. 2.5-3.5 hours by car | $40-$80 for car rental, $30-$50 for shuttle bus, $100-$150 for taxi |
| SJO to Monteverde | Car rental, shuttle bus, domestic flight | Poor, gravel roads, steep inclines | Approx. 4-5 hours by car, 30 mins by flight + ground transfer | $50-$100 for car rental, $40-$60 for shuttle bus, $80-$120 for flight |
| Liberia Airport to Monteverde | Car rental, shuttle bus, taxi | Poor, gravel roads, steep inclines | Approx. 2.5-3.5 hours by car | $40-$80 for car rental, $30-$50 for shuttle bus, $100-$150 for taxi |
Quick Tips:
- For La Fortuna:
- From SJO: Approx. 3-4 hours by car or 30 minutes by flight + ground transfer. Road conditions are generally good but expect some potholes.
- From Liberia Airport: Approx. 2.5-3.5 hours by car. Road conditions are generally good with some potholes.
- For Monteverde:
- From SJO: Approx. 4-5 hours by car or 30 minutes by flight + ground transfer. Road conditions are poor, with gravel roads and steep inclines.
- From Liberia Airport: Approx. 2.5-3.5 hours by car. Road conditions are poor, with gravel roads and steep inclines.
- La Fortuna: For a smoother drive, choose Liberia Airport if possible. Consider flights for quicker access, but they may be more expensive.
- Monteverde: Be prepared for rough road conditions. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended. Shuttle buses and taxis are viable options but expect a bumpy ride.
Additional Information:
- San Jose to La Fortuna:
- Car Rental: The drive is straightforward via Route 702, taking around 3-4 hours depending on traffic. It’s advisable to avoid driving at night due to fog and curvy roads.
- Shuttle Bus: Costs around $30-$50, taking 4-5 hours.
- Domestic Flight: A quick option that takes about 30 minutes and costs $80-$120.
- Liberia to La Fortuna:
- Car Rental: Generally good roads, taking around 2.5-3.5 hours. Rental costs about $40-$80.
- Shuttle Bus: Costs $30-$50, similar travel time as car rental.
- Taxi: A more comfortable option costing $100-$150.
- San Jose to Monteverde:
- Car Rental: The drive takes about 4-5 hours on gravel roads with steep inclines. Costs around $50-$100.
- Shuttle Bus: Costs $40-$60, similar travel time as car rental.
- Domestic Flight: A quick option that takes about 30 minutes and costs $80-$120.
- Liberia to Monteverde:
- Car Rental: It takes around 2.5-3.5 hours and has poor road conditions. Costs about $40-$80.
- Shuttle Bus: Costs $30-$50, similar travel time as car rental.
- Taxi: Costs $100-$150, offering more comfort.
The Overall Vibe
LA FORTUNA
La Fortuna is a completely touristy town packed with people regardless of the season of the year. I think it is safe to say La Fortuna is the most popular and crowded tourist town in Costa Rica.
Aside from the crowd, the prices of things here are very expensive, from transportation to accommodation. And the majority of the people here speak perfect English.
At one point, I felt I was no longer in a Spanish-speaking Country. Overall, La Fortuna is full of activities to do that you can never be bored.
So, if you are an adventurous person and want an outgoing place, then La Fortuna is your ideal choice.
MONTEVERDE
Monteverde is the complete opposite of La Fortuna. It is a less touristy town with a laid-back vibe.
The prices of things are less expensive here, with you spending only half or one-third of how much you will spend in La Fortuna.
What I love most about Monteverde is the authentic Costa Rican vibe and the friendly, down-to-earth locals. However, the downside of this town is that it rains quite often.
So, you will need a sweater and longer pants for the most part of your stay. There is also no nightlife here since there is only one bar in town, and restaurants close around 10 PM, which means there is no dancing and partying to do.
I would advise you to come with your family group of friends or tag along with other tourists if you want to enjoy your stay
Here’s a detailed comparison of the overall vibe of La Fortuna and Monteverde to help you quickly decide which destination suits your preferences:
| Feature | La Fortuna | Monteverde |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Atmosphere | Adventurous, vibrant | Peaceful, serene |
| Popular Activities | Hot springs, hiking, waterfall rappelling, zip-lining | Hiking, wildlife tours, birdwatching, hanging bridges |
| Crowd | Diverse mix of adventure seekers and tourists | Nature lovers, birdwatchers, eco-tourists |
| Top Attractions | Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, hot springs | Monteverde Cloud Forest, Santa Elena Reserve, hanging bridges |
| Accommodation Options | Wide range from budget hostels to luxury resorts | Mostly budget to mid-range hotels, some luxury |
| Dining and Cuisine | Diverse, from local sodas to international cuisine | More limited, focus on local and eco-friendly options |
| Best Time to Visit | December to April (dry season, clear volcano views) | April to July (cooler, occasional rain) |
| Local Culture | Adventurous, vibrant | Eco-friendly, conservation-focused |
| Nature and Wildlife | Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, hot springs | Cloud forests, abundant wildlife, lush greenery |
| Accessibility | Easier access, good roads | More challenging access, often requires 4×4 |
Quick Tips:
- For Adventure and Excitement:
- Choose La Fortuna: Ideal for those seeking thrill and adventure with activities like zip-lining, hot springs, and exploring the Arenal Volcano.
- For Peace and Nature:
- Choose Monteverde: Perfect for those looking for a tranquil escape surrounded by the beauty of cloud forests and abundant wildlife.
- La Fortuna: Best visited during the dry season (December to April) for clear views of the volcano and great outdoor activities. The town offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of dining and accommodation options.
- Monteverde: Known for its cooler, misty climate and lush cloud forests, Monteverde is ideal for eco-tourists and nature lovers. The area is quieter with a focus on conservation and wildlife.
Weather
LA FORTUNA
The weather here is very humid and hot. During the dry season, it will feel very dry; in the rainy season, it will rain cats and dogs.
On average, La Fortuna’s dry season temperature is 29°C, with March being the hottest month and September and October being the peak months of the rainy season.
However, because La Fortuna is a tropical rainforest, I advise you to bring a waterproof jacket and shoes, as it can rain at any time.
MONTEVERDE
One significant aspect of Monteverde is the constant rains and colder weather. This is because Monteverde is 4000 feet above sea level.
The thing is, it experiences the dry and rainy season just as in other parts of the country. However, you will notice that the dry season is windy, and there are light showers in the morning and afternoon and rainier during the rainy season.
Here is a table comparing the year-round weather of these two cities:
| Feature | La Fortuna | Monteverde |
|---|---|---|
| Climate | Tropical rainforest | Cloud forest |
| Temperature | Highs: 81°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C) | Highs: 61°F to 76°F (16°C to 24°C) |
| Lows: 68°F to 76°F (20°C to 24°C) | Lows: 61°F to 68°F (16°C to 20°C) | |
| Dry Season | December to April | December to April |
| Clear skies, lower humidity, less rain | Relatively less rain, cooler temperatures, strong winds | |
| Rainy Season | May to November | May to November |
| Frequent afternoon thunderstorms, highest rainfall in July and October | Nearly constant drizzle or mist, heaviest rains in September and October | |
| Humidity | Highest in October (81.5%), lowest in February (49.8%) | Consistently high year-round |
| Best Time to Visit | December to April for dry weather and outdoor activities | December to April for less rain |
Quick Tips:
- For Consistently Warm Weather, Choose La Fortuna for its tropical rainforest setting and warmer temperatures. Best visited from December to April.
- For Cooler, Misty Conditions: Choose Monteverde for its cooler climate and cloud forest environment. Best visited during the dry season from December to April.
- La Fortuna: Ideal for exploring the Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and waterfalls during the dry season. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms in the rainy season.
- Monteverde: Expect cooler temperatures and bring waterproof gear. The rainy season enhances the mystical quality of the cloud forest.
What to Wear/Bring?
LA FORTUNA
The season of your visit determines the clothing and other things you should bring. In the dry season, you can wear T-shirts and shorts; in the rainy season, you can wear a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Pro Tip
I would advise you to bring sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and insect repellent to most tourist attractions in La Fortuna.
MONTEVERDE
No matter the season of the year, I would advise you to come along with a sweater, long pants, a rain jacket, and waterproof shoes.
Also, bring insect repellent along for an insect-bite-free hike!
Wildlife
If you are a wildlife enthusiast and want to see an abundance of it, visit either town.
La Fortuna has many iguanas, sloths, toucans, monkeys, snakes, and other creatures around. You will see these creatures on your hotel balcony if you are lucky enough.
I often saw a monkey climbing my hotel balcony or a bird sitting on it.
I didn’t get to see much of the wildlife in La Fortuna, Monteverde, because of the weather. However, the beautiful bird species on the treetops of the cloud forest were so amazing to watch.
Whether you are a birder or not, you will definitely fall in love with the colorful bird species in Monteverde.
Cost
LA FORTUNA
La Fortuna is expensive compared to Monteverde. However, there are varied options to choose from that suit your budget and lifestyle.
Accommodation options range from $25 to $900 per night. The same goes for restaurants, transportation, entrance fees to tourist attractions, and other expenses.
How much you spend depends on your vacation type and the period you visit.
MONTEVERDE
One good thing about Monteverde is how cheap it is to tour around. There are quite a number of accommodation options, ranging from $15 per night for hostels to $250 for the most luxurious hotels.
In addition, transportation fares, eating at restaurants, and entrance fees to most tourist sites are cheaper compared to La Fortuna.
And there are also free tourist spots you can take advantage of. So, if you are on a budget and would not mind the cold, then Monteverde is an excellent choice.
| Feature | La Fortuna | Monteverde |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Budget) | $15-$30/night | $15-$30/night |
| Accommodation (Mid-range) | $60-$150/night | $60-$150/night |
| Accommodation (Luxury) | $200-$500+/night | $150-$300+/night |
| Dining (Budget) | $5-$10/meal | $5-$10/meal |
| Dining (Mid-range) | $10-$25/meal | $10-$25/meal |
| Dining (Fine dining) | $30-$70/meal | $30-$60/meal |
| Transportation (Car rental) | $30-$50/day | $30-$50/day |
| Transportation (Shuttle bus) | $30-$50/ride | $30-$50/ride |
| Transportation (Taxi) | $100-$150/ride | $100-$150/ride |
| Activities (Adventure) | $50-$100 | $40-$80 |
| Activities (Nature) | $10-$30 | $10-$30 |
Quick Tips:
- Budget Travelers: Both destinations offer affordable accommodation and dining options.
- Mid-range Travelers: Similar costs exist for mid-range accommodations and dining in both places.
- Luxury Travelers: La Fortuna has higher luxury accommodation costs than Monteverde.
- La Fortuna is great for those looking for diverse dining options and adventure activities like zip-lining and hot springs.
- Monteverde is ideal for nature lovers with more budget-friendly adventure activities and a focus on eco-tourism.
Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, La Fortuna is your go-to place. It is bigger than Monteverde, so there are lots of event centers and nightclubs that operate around the clock, unlike in Monteverde, where there is no nightlife and no restaurants, and the only minibar in town closes by 10 PM.
La Fortuna is your best bet if you are looking for a place to party all night.
Accommodation
LA FORTUNA
La Fortuna has over 100 accommodation options, ranging from hostels to luxurious hotels.
The price of hostels starts at $25 per night, while standard and luxurious hotels range from $150 to $900 per night.
The good thing is that most of these hotels offer free Wi-Fi, private parking, and everything else you need to make your stay comfortable, regardless of the price.
Some are Tabacon, Nayara Gardens, and Hotel Las Colinas.
Aside from the hotels, there are a lot of Airbnbs and rental apartments in La Fortuna.
MONTEVERDE
Monteverde has fewer accommodation options compared to La Fortuna. However, most of the accommodations give you this natural feel.
When visiting Monteverde, I chose to live in an Airbnb apartment because I wanted a full house, and it turned out great.
However, there are quite a number of hostels like Pension Santa Elena and luxury hotels like Senda Monteverde and Hotel Belmar. You should budget $15 for the hostels and $200 to $300 for luxury hotels.
Fun Things To Do
LA FORTUNA
La Fortuna Waterfall: Visiting the gorgeous 75-foot La Fortuna waterfall should be one of the top things to do. This park is just a few kilometers from La Fortuna town, and you must pay an entrance fee of $18 before accessing it.
Rio Celeste Waterfall: The Rio Celeste waterfall is a stunning turquoise watercolor that attracts tourists and nature lovers.
I would advise you to pack some lunch and water and make the one-hour-and-fourty-five-minute drive from La Fortuna town to this natural wonder.
Ziplining: If you are in for adventure and want to get a spectacular view of La Fortuna and its surroundings,. I would recommend going on a zip-lining trip.
This takes you about 600 feet above ground level. Imagine the adrenaline and how much you will feel closer to being a bird. It is definitely one of the best things to do in La Fortuna.
Horseback Riding: Riding through farmland, the countryside, rivers, under canopies of trees, the valley, hilltops, and extraordinary viewpoints on horseback is one of the mind-blowing things to do in La Fortuna.
Imagine getting to places where cars cannot take you and hearing the melodious calls of animals in the wild. This is a must-try adventure.
Hot Springs
There are plenty of hot springs in La Fortuna. Some are natural, while others are man-made.
Natural hot springs occur due to the geothermal activity of the Arenal Volcano in the river, while man-made hot springs are swimming pools and hot tubs owned and heated by hotel owners.
I prefer natural hot springs to artificial hot tubs because they give me a more relaxed feeling.
If you travel to La Fortuna, you should visit the hot springs.
Lake Arenal
If you want a place to have fun on the water, visit Lake Arenal. It is the biggest artificial lake in Costa Rica and was created to produce hydroelectric power.
However, it is also used for recreational activities like Jet skiing, Kayaking, Fishing, Sunset boat rides, and so on. From this lake, you can also see the towering Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Volcano
Hiking the Arenal Volcano is also one thing to do when visiting La Fortuna. The entrance fee into the national park is $15, and you can either hike alone or hire a tour guide.
This is the best place to see the lasting effects of the volcanic eruption that happened in 1968.
MONTEVERDE
Coffee Tour
Going on a coffee trip is one fun thing to do because coffee production in Monteverde is massive. A class on the processes involved in cultivating, harvesting, and brewing coffee is also very educational and fun.
There are many cocoa farms in Monteverde that are ready to take you on this tour. What I love the most is the friendliness of the instructors and the different coffee tastings.
Butterfly Garden
Visit the beautiful butterfly garden nearby to see these stunning creatures.
There are over 30 species in their different shapes, colors, and sizes. You can take pictures and learn a thing or two about butterflies
Ziplining
One thing you will enjoy in Monteverdes, besides the peaceful forest and wildlife, is adrenaline-pumping Ziplining.
This will give you an opportunity to fly above ground level and see the forest from an elevated height. Which is very stunning and breathtaking.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Visiting the cloud forest is one of the top things to do in Monteverde. Here, you will find an abundance of wildlife beautiful ferns, and moss-covered trees.
The entrance fee to this park is $25, but it is nothing compared to the tranquility and calm you will feel when hiking.
Pro Tip
- Wear long pants and a sweater because here it is always chilly
- Come along with a rain jacket, cause it can rain at any time.
- Bring insect repellents to ward off insects
Bird Watching
Whether you are a birder or not, the moment you step into the Monteverde cloud forest, you will fall in love with the colorful birds on the treetops.
One very common species is the Resplendent Quetzal. You will also find hummingbirds and toucans here.
If you are looking for a choice of other Costa Rican cities to explore, you can check out our comparative guide on Manuel Antonio vs. Guanacaste.
Conclusion
La Fortuna and Monteverde have distinct attributes and offer a variety of ways to view wildlife and nature. With one being more expensive or Rainier than the other, you now have to decide which one is better.
Whatever your choice is, have a fun-filled tour!
About Michelle Schmidt
Born in California, Michelle traveled extensively through the USA and Europe before moving to South Florida during the pandemic. Her career in Marketing has taken her all across the world. Her favorite country is France but she'll never turn down a beach vacation!
