Biggest Tourist Town Near Arenal Volcano

La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a small city with a very significant history. After hundreds of years of dormancy, Arenal volcano unexpectedly erupted on July 29, 1968 destroying 3 towns.

However, one town called El Burio on the eastern side was incredibly lucky and didn’t get damaged. El Burio, which already felt very lucky due to its fertile farming soil changed its name to La Fortuna (the fortunate), further indicating how lucky they were to escape any harm.

Fast forward 50 years and La Fortuna is now one of the most touristic destinations in Costa Rica with over a million visitors each year. Nearly every single first time visitor (and 2nd!) puts La Fortuna on the itinerary because this area offers the ultimate rainforest and volcano experience. It’s easily accessible, very tourist friendly and is the perfect destination for every visitor.

Continue below to read our guide to La Fortuna.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica Guide

This post has been updated November 2019.

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