La Fortuna Waterfall Canyoning: 4 Rappels and the Monkey Drop Adventure
Descend basalt walls, feel waterfalls at your back and finish with a free-fall 'Monkey Drop' on this guided half-day canyoning trip near Arenal Volcano. Expect four rappels, slick rock, close wildlife encounters and a garden-fresh lunch back at base.
The Experience
Before You Go
Secure footwear
Wear water shoes with straps—no flip-flops—to keep toes protected on slippery rock and during swims.
Bring a change of clothes
Pack a dry set for the return ride; hypothermia isn’t likely but wet clothing is uncomfortable in transit.
Hydrate before you go
Drink water ahead of the trip and bring a small bottle—effort and humidity dehydrate faster than you expect.
Declare health issues
Tell guides about back, heart, or pregnancy concerns; this tour isn’t recommended for those conditions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Arenal viewpoint stops along the shuttle for quick panoramic shots of the volcano
- •Small side cascades and pools upstream of the main route that guides sometimes stop at for a quieter swim
Wildlife
- •Sloth
- •Toucan
Conservation Note
Operators limit group sizes, use established rigging to avoid new anchor points and encourage guests to avoid single-use plastics—local guides support reforestation and river clean-up efforts.
The canyons around La Fortuna were shaped by volcanic flows from Arenal and decades of heavy tropical rainfall; modern commercial canyoning began here in the early 2000s with operators formalizing routes and safety systems.
What to Bring
Strap-secure water shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet rock and stay attached during swims.
Quick-dry clothingEssential
Dries fast after descents and keeps you comfortable back at base.
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Useful in the rainy season when flows increase and showers are common.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential
Protects electronics and essentials while moving through waterfalls.
Common Questions
Do I need prior rappelling experience?
No—guides provide instruction and safety for each descent; basic comfort with heights helps but is not mandatory.
What ages are allowed?
Minimum age is 5 years, though participants should be able to follow instructions and handle wet, uneven terrain.
Will I see wildlife during the trip?
Yes—toucans, sloths and monkeys are commonly sighted from the canyon and shuttle route, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Is lunch included?
Yes—Pure Trek serves a garden-fresh lunch at their headquarters after the canyoning loop; vegetarian options are available with prior notice.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
La Fortuna, Alajuela
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: comfortable with steep footing, short climbs, and repeated rappels.
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