Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in La Fortuna/San Carlos gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from FON to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi or Shared Shuttle, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside FON
Before heading into La Fortuna/San Carlos, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Costa Rica vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: La Fortuna/San Carlos is roughly 60 minutes from FON via Taxi or Shared Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CRC. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
The Best Way Into La Fortuna/San Carlos from FON
From FON, the Taxi or Shared Shuttle gets you to La Fortuna/San Carlos in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi or Shared Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for La Fortuna/San Carlos:
Transport to the city and back runs about $12 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $24 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $46 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in La Fortuna/San Carlos:
Start with La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata La Fortuna). You can see the main features in a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to La Fortuna Central Park (Parque de La Fortuna). A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside FON, you can spend time at Small Terminal Waiting Area or try Local Souvenir & Snack Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into La Fortuna/San Carlos: Soda La Hormiguita and Don Rufino. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Arenal Airport Cafe & Snack Bar or Airport Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at FON may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in La Fortuna/San Carlos’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at FON, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in La Fortuna/San Carlos itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Costa Rica that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at FON, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in La Fortuna/San Carlos doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from FON, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.