Just north of San Jose is La Fortuna, area of the Arenal Volcano. The girls and I spent 2 days here, hiking and visiting a waterfall. We also went to the hot springs but due to my really bad sunburn I went back to get a refund as there was no way I could get in the water. We stayed at a small hotel that we found just outside of town. Arriving late we didn’t have mush choice but the room was quaint.
Arenal Volcano
This volcano is active and has great lava trails, hot springs and clearly is a site to see. The entry fee is around 20 USD and the path to the viewing point is a steep rocky climb. I would see it is a price worth it if you are in shape. I had really swollen feet so the climb was not fun but I love the view. We hiked up the lava stone from the 1992 eruption and it was amazing to see mother natures art work.
La Fortuna Waterfall
The Fortuna River Waterfall is located in the biological reserve. Another stop where being in shape is a must. The 530 steps down to the waterfall are plentiful. Was it worth it, yes. Be sure to bring water shoes as it is slippery getting into the water. We had a few people in the water with us but everyone wanted that famous picture so we all took turns. Getting back up the 530 steps was a treat. I took a few breaks on the way back up but also knew there was a coffee shop at the top calling my name. The entry fee was around 15 USD which was a little steep but I personally thought it was average for tourists spots.
On our Way to Monteverde
Well this is the part of the trip that went South real quick. As we were making our way to Monteverde, the one place is was really looking forward to, I crashed the car. Now I was so happy that no one was hurt and even more thankful we were not in the mountains at the time. We turned down the wrong street and as I was backing down the road, I reversed right into the ditch. Which let me tell you is no ordinary ditch.
In costa Rica they have concrete runoffs lining the streets for rainy season. I managed to hit the end of it putting the car on a tilt that I could not drive off. As we sat in the dark trying to figure out how to get out of this mess a white pickup truck pulled up. We were in an area that was not so safe and I was crapping my pants. I was so beyond thankful that they were great people. Not only were they an amazing couple they called their friends to help out, one which turned out to be a mechanic. With their help we got out of the ditch and were on our merry way. I wish I had their contact info but for now they remain my Costa Rican heroes.
