Scouting Trip to La Fortuna, Costa Rica: 3–5 Day Checklist

Thinking about moving inland instead of the coast? La Fortuna, at the base of Arenal Volcano, offers a completely different lifestyle than the beach towns of Guanacaste. With hot springs, waterfalls, and year-round greenery, it’s a favorite among expats who want fertile land, and a slower pace of life.

A 3–5 day scouting trip is enough to give you a real sense of whether La Fortuna could be home. Here’s what to do:

✅ Day 1–2: Explore the Heart of La Fortuna

Walk the town center – Check out the central park and church square, the hub of local life.
Visit cafes and restaurants – Try local spots like Soda Viquez or Soda La Hormiga for traditional Costa Rican meals.
Check out the main supermarkets – Super Cristian #4 and Mega Super will give you a sense of grocery prices and availability.
Stroll the artisan shops – Notice how tourism blends with everyday living.

✅ Housing & Lifestyle Scouting

Tour rentals and homes – La Fortuna has options from modest tico homes to mountain-view villas.
Explore neighborhoods – Check areas in town versus more rural spots like El Castillo or near Chachagua.
Ask about utilities – Internet can be strong in town but weaker further out—important if you work online.
Note transportation needs – Unlike coastal towns, many residents here find having a car necessary.

✅ Experience Everyday Living

Do a grocery run – Compare chain stores with local ferias (farmers markets).
Visit the local health clinic (EBAIS) – See what basic medical care is like.
Check out gyms or yoga studios – If wellness is part of your lifestyle, La Fortuna has options.
Try banking in town – Step into Banco Nacional or Banco de Costa Rica to see wait times and processes.

✅ Adventure & Surroundings (Because Lifestyle Matters Here)

Soak in hot springs – From luxury resorts to free rivers, this is part of daily life.
Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall – Imagine having this in your backyard.
Day trip around Lake Arenal – Explore small towns like Nuevo Arenal, where many expats live.
Check out El Castillo – Quieter, with lake and volcano views, popular among those who want more seclusion.

✅ Connect with the Community

Talk with expats – Ask why they chose inland over beach life. Many appreciate cooler evenings and farming opportunities.
Visit bilingual schools (if relevant) – Options exist for families, though fewer than in coastal towns.
Meet locals at the farmers market – Friday afternoons and Saturdays are great times to connect.

✅ Where to Stay During Your Scouting Trip

Hotel Secreto La Fortuna – Comfortable and central, walking distance to town.
Arenal Observatory Lodge – Stunning views of the volcano, more remote.
Casa Torre Eco-Community rentals – Good if you want a feel for expat neighborhoods.
Airbnb in El Castillo – Perfect if you want to test out more rural living.

Final Thoughts

La Fortuna offers a different version of “pura vida” than the beaches—lush green landscapes, fertile soil, endless adventure, and a small-town community feel. A few days here will help you decide if trading the surf for the volcano views is the lifestyle upgrade you’re looking for.

👉 Next up, compare this with Costa Rica’s beach towns like Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, or Sámara to see which feels more like home.