Join the kayaking tours in La Fortuna and discover the rich animal and plant life of Costa Rica’s tropical forests.

Float on your kayak down the Peñas Blancas River, only 15 minutes away from La Fortuna’s downtown, and discover an impressive variety of fauna species. Or paddle on the lovely Lake Arenal and marvel at the grandness of the Arenal volcano and extensive birdlife.

Here's all you need to know about kayaking tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in La Fortuna.

What are the best kayaking tours in La Fortuna?

Kayak safari in La Fortuna

Enjoy this kayak safari from La Fortuna, leisurely floating down Peñas Blancas River in a single or double kayak while discovering Costa Rica’s unique wildlife.

From the operators’ base, you will travel to the Peñas Blancas River to begin your safari, after a safety and handling briefing. Float down the river at a leisurely pace, enjoy the views and sounds of Costa Rica’s wildlife.

You will see monkeys, iguana, caimans, the sluggish sloths and a wide variety of birds in its natural habitat. You have a choice of morning or afternoon departure and you will also enjoy a taste of Costa Rican food and drinks. When you finish, you return to the meeting point in La Fortuna.

Lake Arenal kayaking tour

Paddle along on a kayaking tour of Lake Arenal and discover Costa Rica's natural beauty and wildlife from your kayak. You will also have a chance to enjoy spectacular views of the nearby Arenal volcano.

You have the option of departing in the morning or afternoon, which includes a pickup and drop-off from your hotel in La Fortuna or Arenal. Before departing on the tranquil man-made lagoon amidst lush rainforest, you will learn basic kayaking techniques.

You will be rowing on Costa Rica's most famous lake, rich in birdlife, so look out for blue herons, snakebirds, migratory kingfishers and flycatchers. Around the lake, you will find the ubiquitous howler monkeys swinging and wailing in the forest. Your kayaking tour will finally finish at the meeting point.

How much do kayaking tours in La Fortuna cost?

Prices of kayaking tours in La Fortuna range from US$55 to US$70 per person, depending on the location and size of the group.

Kayak safaris in La Fortuna cost US$55 per person, which floats down Blanca River and includes transportation and snacks.

The Lake Arenal kayaking tours cost about US$70 per person and includes birdwatching along Costa Rica's largest lake.

What is included?

Your kayaking tours in La Fortuna include an air-conditioned vehicle, single or double kayaks, a professional guide, snacks and bottled water.

Where does it start?

Kayaking tours in La Fortuna start from various meeting points in La Fortuna, such as 142 Alajuela or the public dock by the Arenal Lake.

How long does it last?

Kayaking tours in La Fortuna typically last about 3 to 4 hours.

When is the best time for a kayaking tour in La Fortuna?

The best time for kayaking in La Fortuna is in the morning or late afternoon, when the wildlife is most active. Mornings are normally quieter with better weather conditions.

December to April is a good time to visit for outdoor activities, but this is also the busiest period, meaning higher prices. In the wet season from mid-April to November, there are fewer people and rivers are at their fullest.

Are there any combos available with kayaking tours in La Fortuna?

Lake Arenal kayaking and biking combo tour

On this 4.5-hour special combo tour in Arenal you can discover Costa Rica by water and land, saving both time and money. Enjoy a 2-hour kayak paddle across Lake Arenal and watch out for birds such as ospreys and kingfishers, and howler monkeys, spider monkeys and sloths.

Then relax by the lakeside, enjoy a light fruit picnic and take off on your mountain bike along natural trails, neighborhoods and rivulets. The combo tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a fresh fruits picnic, entrances fees, a local guide and lunch. The cost of the tour is about US$95 per person.

Is it safe?

Kayaking tours in La Fortuna are safe and are guided by experienced kayak instructors. For your further safety, life jackets are provided. These tours are not recommended for people with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Are children allowed?

There is no age restriction for the La Fortuna kayak safari, but infants must sit on laps. Alternatively, infant seats are available. The minimum age for the Lake Arenal kayaking tour is 8 and 5 for the kayaking/biking combo tour.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Kayaking tours in La Fortuna are dependent on good weather. If your tour is canceled because of poor weather, you can choose a different date or request a refund.

Which other water activities can be done in La Fortuna?

Travel tips

Make sure to book your La Fortuna kayaking tour in advance.
Wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses and a sun hat.
Bring swimwear, a towel and spare clothes.

Kayaking Tours in La Fortuna