La Catarata de la Fortuna : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost

Approach

You must first make your way to the town of Fortuna, located on the west slopes. There are several options. Leaving from San Jose is the most popular option. For other options and cities, check any of the travel agencies in Monte Verde, Tilaran, or Punta Arenas. Just about every hotel in Costa Rica seems to double as a travel agency, so you don't have to look around for one. It does pay to check prices at several locations, however. To reach Fortuna from San Jose, meet one of the three times a day buses at Atlantico Norte terminal. Buses currently leave (as of 2004) at 6:15 AM, 8:40 AM, and 11:30 AM. Alternately, you can take any number of guided tours from San Jose. There's too many too list, and every hotel or hostel in San Jose can book one. Make sure to shop around. The walk to La Catarata de la Fortuna begins right at the chuch in the town center.

Route Description

From the chuch near the Fortuna town center, find the road running south. There are signs pointing hte way to the waterfall and the sign indicates that the distace to the waterfall is 5.5 kms (3.5 miles). After 1 km (.6 mile) the road makes several curves and becomes gravel. Keep a close eye out for signs pointing out the correct road. The road passes along several farms and plantations before reaching a fee station at the overlook at the top of the falls. There is a $3 fee for using the very steep (and slippery!) trail down to the falls. There are several pools (filled with fish) at the base of the falls and the setting is very spectacular.

Essential Gear

Bring a camera and a swimsuit.

Miscellaneous Info

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