A Travel Price Comparison for Costa Rica Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) vs. La Fortuna for Couples, Hiking, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a stunning, scenic, and popular town. La Fortuna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See La Fortuna travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Arenal Volcano


Is there more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Fortuna. Although Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna are popular destinations, La Fortuna has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Fortuna is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and resorts, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and small town charm. La Fortuna is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is known for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. It is also well known for Arenal Volcano. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between La Fortuna and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

La Fortuna offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time outdoors exploring the area, but there are also some museums that highlight local art and culture.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

La Fortuna has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It's a touristy mecca, and there are a number of decent restaurants around town. The area has some of the freshest local ingredients and the food reflects that. You'll find restaurants both in the center of town and along the road between the town and the hot springs.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is very good for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Fortuna. The larger resorts usually have a couple of bars onsite. There are also local bars and pubs throughout the town. While things often quiet down by 9:00, you will probably be able to find a laid back place to enjoy a drink with friends.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is very popular for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, La Fortuna is a perfect choice. There are many larger international resorts in the area. Many offer spectacular views, spas, and beautifully maintained pools that take advantage of the area's hot springs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Beaches?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is notable for the beach. However, La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for it's beautiful beaches. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

You'll find high quality hiking in both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular spot for hiking. Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting La Fortuna. The area is filled with stunning hikes that take you through different landscapes and ecosystems. You'll likely see some wildlife, visit spectacular waterfalls, and, of course, catch views of the impressive Arenal Volcano.


Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna are reasonable shopping destinations.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a good destination for shopping. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

If you're looking to go shopping, La Fortuna has some nice offerings. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, lush rainforests, and dramatic views of the volcano. There are countless hikes and a plenty of opportunities to soak up the natural setting.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Families?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, La Fortuna is very family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the outdoors and seeing some of Costa Rica's best environments. There are plenty of hiking trails, but if you're looking for short and simple, head to Ecocentro Danaus, which has a half mile flat walking loop and a butterfly garden. Another good option is Bogarin Trail, where you might see a sloth. And of course you have to check out Arenal Volcano National Park.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is very popular for romance. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, La Fortuna has plenty to offer. There are amazing resorts and spas in the area that make for a truly luxurious and romantic holiday. Many couples visit for their honeymoon, and whether you enjoy exploring nature or pampering yourself in a five star setting, there really is something for everyone.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Many backpackers visit La Fortuna. As one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica, this town has a number of hostels that cater to the backpacker crowds.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna offer nice public transit options.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a few public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

La Fortuna has some public transit options. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
La Fortuna

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable town. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

La Fortuna is a somewhat walkable town. While the town itself is very walkable, many of the area's attractions can only be reached by car.

For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting? and Is La Fortuna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

How long in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna. In our opinion, La Fortuna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in La Fortuna than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), and 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

Families should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than La Fortuna. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in La Fortuna than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Fortuna that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than La Fortuna if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).


  • How many days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4 
    La Fortuna 2-4

One day in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the remote town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In La Fortuna, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In La Fortuna, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful town offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Fortuna has to offer.


Five days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

La Fortuna is a popular choice for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

La Fortuna is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, La Fortuna or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
    La Fortuna Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $141
    La Fortuna $124

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $141, while the average daily cost in La Fortuna is $124. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $50
    La Fortuna $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $100
    La Fortuna $102
Compare Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


Hotels in La Fortuna


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices and La Fortuna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    La Fortuna $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Fortuna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Fortuna:

  • La Fortuna or Monteverde: One-Way Boat Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Tabacón Arenal: $39
  • Transfer From Liberia Airport To Arenal La Fortuna San Carlos: $42
  • Scenic Transfer to Monteverde via Arenal Lake: $56
  • One-Way Transfer from La Fortuna to Monteverde through Arenal Lake: $57
  • White Water Tubing Tour with Guide and Transfers: $57
  • Sloth Watching Tour with Transfer and Snacks: $68
  • From One way shared transfer to Monteverde: $74
  • From San Jose: One way shared transfer to La Fortuna: $74
  • From Lake Arenal Kayaking Trip with Transfer: $90
  • Private Transfer from La Fortuna to Juan Santa Maria Airport: $110
  • From Fortuna: 2 Day Hike to Monteverde with Hotel Transfer: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or La Fortuna?

Prices for flights to both La Fortuna and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
    La Fortuna $48
Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Fortuna

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Fortuna.

  • 2 Hours Private Cooking Class in La Fortuna: $45
  • Typical Costa Rican Cooking Classes in La Fortuna: $48
  • cooking class la fortuna: $50
  • Costa Rican Breakfast & Cooking Experience in La Fortuna: $50
  • Organic Farm Visit & Farm-to-Table Cooking Class: $50
  • Costa Rica The Chela Cooking Experience : $55
  • Costa Rican cuisine Cooking Class at Rancho Don Lelo: $60
  • Cooking Class "Cook Like a Local" La Fortuna: $63
  • 3-Hour Costa Rican Cooking Class with Dinner: $68
  • Private typical cooking class with a Costa Rican family: $70
  • Combo Cooking Class and Salsa Dance Lesson: $80
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking Class: $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $120
    La Fortuna $44

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $62
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • Mermaid Corcovado Tour of the Day : $90
  • Parque Nacional Corcovado- Sirena day tour desde Puerto Jiménez : $100
  • Corcovado Sirena Day Tour : $115
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Corcovado National Park: Mermaid day tour all inclusive : $190
  • One Day Tour to Corcovado (La Leona Station) From Puerto Jiménez: $230
  • 30-minute Corcovado National Park Tour by Plane: $256

Tours and Activities in La Fortuna

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Fortuna are as follows:

  • Skip-the-Line La Fortuna Waterfall Admission Ticket: $20
  • Sloth & Wildlife Walking Tour: $20
  • La Fortuna Waterfall Admission Ticket: $20
  • Three hours walking tour around the deep Tropical Rain Forest: $20
  • Private Guaranteed Sloth Watching Tour in La Fortuna: $30
  • arenal fortuna city tour: $30
  • Sloth and Monkey Wild Life Tour : $30
  • San Carlos: The Art of Chocolate Making Tour at Don Olivo: $30
  • Don Olivo Chocolate Tour: $30
  • Rainforest Chocolate Tour: $32
  • Ticket to Rio Celeste Waterfall & Tenorio Volcano National Park: $32
  • Night tour through the Tropical Forest at Tifakara : $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    La Fortuna $11


When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and La Fortuna, we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Central America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive? and Is La Fortuna Expensive?.