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6 BEST Chocolate Tours in La Fortuna +Our Top Choice

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

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Sweet treats and vacations just go together and luckily if you’re staying in La Fortuna , you can have both! We love tasting our way through the countries we visit, so while living in Costa Rica, a chocolate tour (or three!) was an absolute must for us.

Who knew we could love Costa Rica more? Well after indulging our sweet tooth on some of the chocolate tours in La Fortuna , we definitely did! These tours let you try tasty chocolate all while embracing the local culture and meeting the people behind these delicious creations. That’s a win-win in our books!

La Fortuna is one of the places in Costa Rica that has some of the best chocolate tours in the country and honestly, the world. Cacao plants are difficult to grow and require “Goldilocks” growing conditions that are just right and happen to be found in this part of Costa Rica.

Chocolate plays a significant role in Costa Rica’s culture and visiting chocolate plantations is a great way to get a farm-to-table look at how this treat is made.

While you’re exploring the nearby volcanoes , lush jungles, and waterfalls in this area, taking a break to eat and learn about chocolate is a day well spent! We’ll take you through the very best chocolate tours in La Fortuna to choose from so you can find the one that’s right for your trip.

Our Top Choice for a Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna

If your mouth is watering already and you don’t have time to read through all the options, not to worry! Our top choice is this North Fields Chocolate and Coffee Tour . It combines two of the things Costa Rica is most known for and tasting both local chocolate and freshly brewed coffee is a perfect way to spend a few hours. You’ll get to walk around the fields and then tour individual stations to see (and help with!) the entire process.

The highly-rated experience (it has hundreds of 5-star reviews!) is on a family-run farm and the $43 USD cost includes transport from La Fortuna. You can book tickets for this chocolate tour online here !

About Chocolate in Costa Rica

La Fortuna, Costa Rica has been producing top-quality chocolate for many generations – we’re talking around the 15th century!

The Indigenous people in this area thought of it as a sacred and valuable crop (we can relate!). Cacao was believed to be a gift from the Gods and used for religious rituals, celebrations, and even currency. Today, it is one of Costa Rica’s biggest exports.

Chocolate begins its journey from the cacao plant which looks similar to papaya. Cacao trees are challenging to grow because they need a really specific climate. The trees are only able to naturally grow in a small area along the equator that gets a good amount of rain. Combine this with the need for sun, well-drained and nutrient-rich soil, and protection from wind, and it’s a challenging crop to grow.

During a good chocolate tour, you get to walk through the fields and see cacao trees up close while a guide explains the intricate chocolate-making process. First, the cacao pods are grown and hand-picked selecting only the finest fruit. It’s then fermented and sun-dried. Next, the pods are roasted over a fire before the seeds are cracked and the shells are removed. 

It’s then stone ground before being put through a process called “conching”. This step works to mix and stir the cacao butter to make it less acidic and gritty. This gives it that velvety melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love so much. Then, it’s time to add sugar and other ingredients to enhance the flavor like honey, chili, coconut, milk, and even corn, before it is put into molds.

Touring the farms is a great way to see how local chocolate goes from cacao bean to finished chocolate bar! We’d say to bring along a bag to carry home the extra chocolates you buy, but if you’re anything like us, we doubt you’ll have many leftovers!

What are the Best Chocolate Tours in La Fortuna?

1. north fields chocolate and coffee tour.

Topping our list is this North Fields Chocolate and Coffee Tour that combines not one, but two of our favorite things – chocolate and coffee. We knew coffee was a labor of love but after going on this tour (and helping brew a cup of our own!), we had a whole new appreciation for our morning java.

We like this excursion because it’s at a family-run farm on a beautiful property near La Fortuna. During the tour, you’ll visit 8-10 “tasting stations” where there are samples of chocolate, coffee, and sugar cane. Along the way, your guide explains everything and even got us involved in the process. One of my favorite parts was helping mix the chocolate!

This La Fortuna chocolate tour starts with pick up from your hotel and then a quick 6-minute drive to the farm in the hills. Once you arrive, a guide is ready to meet you and take you through the fields to see the coffee beans and cacao plants and explain the farming methods and cool facts about these crops.

After you return from the fields, there are shaded stations to see the roasting processes and get those tasty samples! With all the info we learned, it gave us a whole new appreciation for what we were eating.

The outing lasts about 2.5 hours and there are multiple start times (8 am, 10 am, 12:30 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm) to choose from so it’s easy to fit into your Costa Rica itinerary . While the chocolate and coffee are the main draw, we did find this tour had a bit of a sightseeing component to it as well! The location of the farm is gorgeous with stunning views. Bring your camera as there are lots of tropical birds hanging around!

The tour is $43 USD per person and kids aged 6-12 receive a discounted rate of $33 USD with anyone 5 and under joining for free. If you are under 20 minutes from La Fortuna, transportation is also included in this price.

This tour is family-friendly and the outdoor location and farming processes are just as fun for kids to learn about as adults. There were a few kids on our tour and they were especially excited to help out with the chocolate making!

For an inside look at the delicious coffee and chocolate Costa Rica is famous for, book a spot on this in-depth tour online here ! 

2. Eden Chocolate Tour

If your heart is set on tasting delicious, organic chocolate this tour by Eden Chocolate is our pick! It takes place at a local organic farm near La Fortuna. We really enjoyed how interactive our time was here – they do a good job of getting you involved in every step of how chocolate is made.

The tour starts with a stroll through the farm fields to see the different parts of the cacao plant and to pick only the freshest fruit. Then we headed back to the ranch for a front-row seat to the entire chocolate-making process.

The best part for us was the end when the samples come out! We tried some of the best dark chocolate I’ve ever had and got to make a tray of our own chocolate bonbons – customized to how we liked. You can even take some of the bonbons home … if you don’t eat it all right away (we didn’t have any leftovers!). There are also a variety of different ingredients you can choose to add to your chocolate bonbons including salt, coconut, and nuts. 

Throughout this tour, we felt really welcomed and learned so much. The guides are incredibly passionate and it’s not hard to get excited about tasting chocolate! Plus, the groups are small with a maximum of 15 people, so you don’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.

I’d recommend wearing comfy shoes as the farm is quite large and there’s a fair amount of walking. There are traditional tools used to grind the beans and some fun surprises like jumping on a makeshift exercise bike to help!

The farm’s grounds are also beautiful to wander around and full of wildlife . If you haven’t taken a sloth watching tour in La Fortuna yet, you just might be in luck! We saw a few sloths hanging around in the trees here along with iguanas and toucans.

The tour doesn’t include transportation so you’ll have to get yourself the 15-minute drive (7 miles/11 km) to the  Eden Chocolate Plantation location . This is a super easy drive if you’ve rented a car in Costa Rica or a quick taxi ride. You can choose between a few different start times (8 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm) with tours lasting about an hour and 45 minutes.

The cost is $33.90 USD per person, but we’ve seen deals when booking on Viator for even cheaper! There’s even a nice little shop selling boho-style souvenirs like cute dream catchers.

So to channel your inner chocolatier and make amazing organic chocolates, book a spot on this tour !

Related Read: If you’re flying into San Jose before your tour, read up on our tips for getting from San Jose to La Fortuna !

3. Rainforest Chocolate Tour from La Fortuna

Calling all chocolate fanatics! This Rainforest Chocolate Tour provides unlimited chocolate to eat. Yup, you read that right – it’s basically like an all-you-can-eat buffet of chocolate! But that’s not all that drew us to book this tour (although it didn’t hurt!).

We also love that this tour dives deep into the origin, history, and cultural importance of chocolate as well as all the components in making it. It made us feel a lot more informed about all that chocolate we were eating! You’ll also learn about, and taste, the traditional cacao drink that has been part of Indigenous traditions for centuries.

Supporting eco-tourism is something we like to do and it was really nice to see how passionate everyone here was about sustainable farming practices and chocolate production. We find that your guide does a lot to set the tone of your experience and our guide was great! All the guides here really go the extra mile to make the experience fun for all ages – there were some very happy kids eating chocolate right off a spoon! 

The entire experience is 1.5 hours as you follow the process of making chocolate from start to finish while sampling delicious treats throughout. You can choose between morning or afternoon start times and there’s no need to rush off either. They have a nice patio with rocking chairs and a tiny store that sells more chocolate (shocker!) so you can pick up a few treats to take back with you.

If you’re looking for a tour in town, this is a good option as the chocolate plantation is located only a 4-minute drive from downtown La Fortuna. The tour costs $30 USD for adults, $22 USD for kids 6-12 years old, and free for 5 and under.

For a tour with unlimited chocolate samples close to La Fortuna, you can reserve your tickets with Viator .

4. Don Juan Chocolate and Coffee Tour

If you only have time for one chocolate tour, the Don Juan Chocolate and Coffee Tour has a lot going for it! Not only is it one of the best chocolate tours in La Fortuna, but it also doubles as a coffee tour !

I think the only thing that makes chocolate taste better is pairing it with a fresh cup of coffee! This tour is the best of both worlds taking you into the heart of a plantation that specializes in both chocolate and coffee. Plus, it has some incredible views of Arenal Volcano!

Starting with a good ol’ cup of joe, the guides at Don Juan will teach you how coffee is grown, processed, and turned into the delicious drink you start your day with. From bean to cup, we walked through every step of the process and gained a new appreciation for how much work goes into every cup of coffee. You’ll then get to taste your creation – trust us it will be the best coffee you’ve ever had. 

Once you’ve got your caffeine boost, the chocolate tour begins. Much like with the coffee tour, you’ll get walked through every step of how your chocolate bar is made. Walking through the fields your guide will teach you how to identify the sweetest fruit, help grind the seeds, and make your chocolate bar.

White chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate are on the menu to taste at the end of this tour. So if you’re not a dark chocolate fan (which is the kind served on most chocolate tours), this is some nice variety for your tastebuds!

Supporting local, small, family-run businesses is our jam so this tour is one we feel great about! Located a short 6-minute drive (1.2 miles/2 km) out of town, this chocolate and coffee tour is ideal if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a few hours in La Fortuna.

Expect the tour to last about two hours with start times in the morning and afternoon to choose from. We went with an earlier tour as coffee just feels like a morning drink to me! It costs $50 USD for adults, $30 USD for kids 7-12 years old, and free for children 6 and under. A really nice extra is that all the pathways are paved with cement, so if you have a stroller, walker, or wheelchair, this is an accessible tour.

With hundreds of 5-star reviews, we aren’t the only ones who loved this tour! Try it out for yourself by booking a spot here .

5. Eden Mocca Chocolate Tour

Okay hear me out, coffee and chocolate are only made better by combining the two into a delicious creamy mocha! This Eden Mocca Chocolate Tour is the full package as you taste organic chocolate and coffee and then combine the two into a steamy mocha drink.

The guides make this tour what it is. They are great at keeping the coffee and chocolate tour upbeat and fun for all ages – don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing and singing along the way!

The entire experience has lots of hands-on activities as you help brew the coffee, make your own chocolate bonbons, and of course, get a fresh mocha! I think this tour would be a fantastic addition to a honeymoon in Costa Rica as we had a lot of fun as a couple trying all the different samples.

The extras were really what took this experience above and beyond for us – like getting a 50g bag of coffee to bring home with you. We definitely had some nostalgia when we made a cup of coffee back home. Costa Rica’s coffee is my absolute favorite and this blend is so rich and fresh!

The plantation has a beautiful location right along the river . It is the furthest tour away from La Fortuna, so expect about a 45-minute drive. We highly recommend renting a car if you plan to do this one as the tour doesn’t include transportation.

This mocha experience costs $45 USD for adults, $28 USD for children 5-11, and is free for kids 4 and under. It lasts 2 hours and allows you to choose between four start times (8 am, 10 am, 1 pm or 3 pm).

For a mocha in the jungle (not your typical Starbucks order!), book this tour online here .

Related Read: For more tasty treats while you’re in town, these are the top restaurants in La Fortuna you won’t want to miss!

6. Chocolate and La Fortuna Waterfall Adventure

La Fortuna is packed full of Costa Rica bucket list activities and high on our list is visiting La Fortuna Waterfall . So imagine how excited I was for this waterfall and chocolate combo tour – insert happy dance here!

Seeing one of Costa Rica’s beautiful waterfalls AND tasting some delicious organic chocolate is something we can all get behind. This tour combines those two into an epic half-day experience!

The 4-hour tour starts with two hours to spend at a local chocolate plantation. Here, like other chocolate tours, you’ll get the full breakdown of how chocolate is made – the growing of the cacao plant, harvesting and drying, grinding the seeds, and finally molding the chocolate.

We really enjoyed tasting the chocolate drink that the Indigenous people of Costa Rica held so sacred. Not all tours include this. so it’s a nice extra. It’s fascinating to think about how long this drink has been around for!

Once we were happily full of chocolate, it was time for a jungle adventure! This is what really sets this tour apart as you leave the chocolate farm behind and it turns into a La Fortuna Waterfall tour .

You’ll have two hours to spend at La Fortuna Waterfall, which is a nice amount of time, although you may want to go back again. I can’t get enough of this place – it’s gorgeous.

Don’t forget to bring your camera along to snap some photos from the top of the cascade before taking the short trek to the bottom. This is where you’ll find a beautiful pool of water that you can jump into for a refreshing dip. 

The half-day tour costs $107 USD for adults and $85 USD for kids 4-11 years old. Transportation from your hotel in La Fortuna via an air-conditioned vehicle is included in this price. You can choose between a morning or an afternoon start time. We typically enjoy morning tours but the afternoon tours make for a more refreshing waterfall swim. 

This combo tour will have you chasing waterfalls and satisfying your sweet tooth, so don’t miss out on booking a spot here !

Related Read: Only an hour from La Fortuna is another epic waterfall. Rio Celeste Waterfall is an unreal shade of blue you’ll have to see to believe!

Other Things to do While You’re in La Fortuna

With a chocolate tour checked off your itinerary, there are so many other things to do in La Fortuna you won’t want to miss! These are just a few of our top picks:

• Go on a night walk – There are so many daytime activities, which is why we love this night walk and dinner tour . Guides lead you on an easy hike through the rainforest, spotting all the critters that come out after dark. To finish it off, you’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner prepared on a wood-burning stove.
• Hot springs – One of the best free activities in La Fortuna is the natural hot springs! The Free Natural Hot Spring River is a public river running through the  Tabacon Hot Springs Resort . It’s only 15 minutes outside La Fortuna and feels amazing after a day of hiking! If you don’t mind paying for a soak, there are tons of other amazing hot springs in La Fortuna to choose from too.  
• Hanging bridges – Make sure to walk among the treetops! The Mistico Hanging Bridges are some of the best around here. There are 14 total bridges here with 6 of them being hanging bridges. It’s a fantastic place to spot wildlife especially if you join this guided tour ! 
• Arenal Volcano – Arenal Volcano is the centerpiece of La Fortuna! You can wander the trails at Arenal Volcano National Park on your own or as part of a hiking tour . For more unique volcano views, take to the sky aboard the Sky Tram , fly by on an ATV ride , or take a leisurely sunset cruise on Lake Arenal .
• Visit a rope swing – El Salto, or “the rope swing,” is a hidden paradise with a swimming hole, more waterfalls, and a local vibe. You can easily walk to El Salto from town and swing into the refreshing waters – or ask the locals where it’s safe to jump!

Related Read: If you love adventure, read our guide to whitewater rafting in La Fortuna !

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

As if we needed more reasons to love Costa Rica, these La Fortuna chocolate tours added another! While I never turn down buying some chocolate as a treat, it’s totally different to get the ultimate behind-the-scenes tour of where it comes from. Plus the chocolate is so tasty here!

Hopefully, you found a tour that looks good! It may be hard to choose which one … just like it’s hard to pick which chocolate to try first once you arrive! Before your trip, make sure to check out our full blog on Costa Rica . We have lots of tips and ideas to make your vacation the best one yet.

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Don Olivo Chocolate Tour: An Authentic Costa Rican Experience for just $30 

Indulge in Sweet Delights: The Ultimate Chocolate Tour Experience in La Fortuna

Don Olivo Chocolate Tour: La Fortuna, Arenal. An Authentic Costa Rican Experience  

Located in the heart of La Fortuna and near the Arenal Volcano National Park, the Don Olivo Chocolate Tour offers a deep immersion into the rich culture of Costa Rican cacao. This thematic park, not only highlights the history and process of chocolate but also celebrates the diversity of products and the Tico lifestyle. A Journey of Flavor and Culture Our tour focuses on cacao, a product that has been essential for many cultures in South and Central America. For centuries, cacao has been both a nutritious food and a central element in religious practices. At Don Olivo Chocolate Tour, we take you on a journey through time, exploring how different regions and cultures have been influenced and have adapted the use of cacao. Commitment to Nature We are proud to say that all our crops are organic. Additionally, our trails are accessible to everyone, from seniors to people in wheelchairs. And don’t worry about footwear; our trails are clean and don’t require special boots. Other pages: Book Now  – Contact Us

Reviews from our visitors

We deeply value the opinions and experiences of our visitors. Here you will find honest and reliable reviews from those who have experienced the Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna. If you have already participated in our tour, we invite you to share your experience and help us improve with your feedback.

Bellísima experiencia es una familia que si sabe cómo complacer a sus invitados , todas las frutas están deliciosas y el guía si que tiene carisma

FROM TRIPADVISOR

I chose this tour to specifically support small businesses. It’s a family-owned estate. They gave us plenty of fruit to sample, 90% cocoa nibs, hot chocolate made with farm-produced chocolate, and freshly harvested and roasted coffee beans. It was fun to learn about the plants.

Christine W

Wonderful tour, the best value for money. I would recommend it to anyone. The fruit, the juice, and the hot chocolate were worth it, and the tour guide also had a lot of fun.

Discover the Magic Behind Our Chocolate Journey

Over 2000 chocolate enthusiasts have shared their experiences with Don Olivo Chocolate Tour. Dive into their stories and discover why our tour is a must-visit in La Fortuna. Your feedback helps us create even more magical chocolate moments. Join the conversation and share your own journey with us!

Recommended on Google by Travellers

Happy travellers, recommended on tripadvisor by travellers, get you tickets from $30.00 usd per person., gallery: dive into la fortuna’s chocolate adventure.

Step into the enchanting world of the Don Olivo Chocolate Tour with our captivating image gallery. From the lush cacao fields of La Fortuna to the hands-on artisanal chocolate-making process, each photograph encapsulates the heart of Costa Rican cacao culture. Experience the vibrant colors, intricate textures, and unforgettable moments that define the Tico lifestyle. Every snapshot showcases the unique blend of nature and tradition near the majestic Arenal Volcano, capturing the essence of our organic farm and the passion poured into every chocolate bar.

Discover La Fortuna’s Premier Chocolate Experience!

Step into the world of Don Olivo Chocolate Tour and immerse yourself in the authentic Costa Rican chocolate culture. Nestled near the majestic Arenal Volcano, our tour offers a unique blend of tradition, flavor, and passion. From organic Criollo cacao trees to artisanal chocolate-making, every moment is a testament to the Tico lifestyle. Secure your spot now and embark on La Fortuna’s ultimate chocolate journey!

Chocolate Blog

Welcome to our sweet and enchanting corner of the cacao and chocolate world! Here, we will unravel the secrets, stories, and fascinating facts of these divine delicacies. From the ancient origins of cacao and its uses in ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs, to the crafting of the most exquisite chocolates and contemporary innovations in regions like La Fortuna. Dive with us into this journey of flavor, culture, and discovery, and let the magic of chocolate envelop you. Whether you are a chocolate connoisseur or a curious mind, we hope you enjoy every bite of knowledge as much as you enjoy a good piece of chocolate!

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We’re thrilled you’re reaching out! Whether you have questions, feedback, or are planning your next chocolate adventure, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and our dedicated team will get back to you shortly. Dive into the world of chocolate with us and let’s create unforgettable memories together in the heart of La Fortuna.

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Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Travel and Moving Blog

North Fields Café: A Delicious Coffee and Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna

• Jenn and Matt
• Activities , Family Travel

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Coffee and chocolate are two of the crops that Costa Rica is most famous for. In fact, Costa Rica’s fine Arabica beans have won competitions across the globe. You may have tried some of this specialty coffee from your local grocer, but it is a completely different experience to taste a cup straight from the farm. In this post, we’ll tell you about our visit to North Fields Café. This small farm in La Fortuna offers tours where you’ll learn how coffee and chocolate are made. You’ll also get to enjoy plenty of delicious tastings at the end!

Coffee and chocolate tours are available in several different destinations in Costa Rica. La Fortuna/Arenal, in the country’s Northern Highlands, is one of the best places for these kinds of tours. There are several tours to choose from here. Each offers a slightly different experience.

North Fields Café is a nice balance. They have a small farm just outside downtown La Fortuna. Their tour includes both a chocolate and coffee tasting component so it’s a good option for kids and adults alike.

North Fields Coffee and Chocolate Tour

Walking the fields.

Our tour began in the coffee fields right across the street from their small office. Alan, our guide and a local from the area, walked us along the well-maintained path.

Alan started by pointing out red and green coffee beans growing from the tall, shiny plants. Since we visited in June, it wasn’t harvest season so most of the coffee cherries we saw were green, but we did see a few ripe red ones.

On the farm, they grew many varieties of coffee. Alan told us about one called Geisha. This type has hints of tea and is favored in the eastern part of the world. In the coffee market, Geisha is one of the most expensive types. In 2019, a Panamanian grower sold just one pound for over $1,000!

In addition to coffee, at North Fields, they also grow cacao plants and many fruits, vegetables, and spices.

For tropical fruits, we saw pineapple, seven types of bananas, and guanabana (soursop), a large green fruit with soft spikes and creamy white flesh. Some other interesting things were hot peppers, vanilla, and elephant-ear plant (taro root).

Learning How Coffee is Produced

After a few minutes, we stopped to sit in a covered area where Alan started teaching us about how coffee is made.

The coffee plants start in a nursery. Alan, we learned, has an intimate knowledge of this part of the process. As a kid, he used to help grow coffee plants and sell them to local plantations. He shared memories of adding soil to bags and then planting coffee seedlings in them. Alan has been in the coffee business his whole life, more or less, so we learned a lot from him.

After the coffee plant has had some time to grow, it is transplanted into the fields. Once the plant reaches maturity and begins producing coffee, the coffee cherries are harvested. This is a time-consuming process. In most coffee farms in Costa Rica, harvesting is still done by hand.

After the red cherries are harvested, they are ground to remove the skin from the white beans inside. It is these white beans that will then be dried and roasted into coffee beans.

Learning How Chocolate Is Made

In addition to coffee, we also learned about the chocolate-making process. We got to see the strange-looking pods growing out of short, but strong-looking, trees. Inside the hard, colorful exterior were rows of seeds covered in a thick white pulp. (See cover photo, above.)

These seeds go through a fermentation process. Then, similar to coffee, are dried and roasted. Once roasted, they turn the familiar brown color that we know as chocolate.

Chocolate Tastings!

Back at the office, Alan brought us to a small room and told us to take a seat at the rustic table.

In front of us were little ceramic containers, a small metal container, wooden bowl, and a glass of water. We were going to get to start tasting chocolate.

Alan started a demonstration along with another guy named Christian and Christian’s father. He ground the cacao beans using an old-fashioned machine, then put some of the coarse chocolate into a special grinder. The chocolate needs to spend quite a bit of time in this machine to reach a smooth consistency.

Luckily, Alan and his team had some chocolate already made and ready.

They started bringing out small chunks to each of us and told us that we would be playing a game. We would need to guess which chocolate was the darkest, from 60% to 85%.

We like dark chocolate so it was easy for us to know which one was the 60% with the most sugar. We did the tour with our young kids, and they picked out the 85% right away, their faces grimacing. It was definitely too bitter for them!

After enjoying lots of delicious chocolate, we then got to mix some ourselves. In our metal cup, we could add sugar for sweetness and powdered milk to get a creamier consistency. They also invited us to try spices such as vanilla, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt. The raw taste of the freshly ground cacao was divine, especially when we added some of our favorite flavors.

Coffee Tastings!

Roasting the beans.

With our stomachs full of rich chocolate, it was time to learn about the next steps for making coffee.

Alan added some dried beans into a huge stone roaster. They had made this for demonstration purposes to give an idea of how coffee was processed in the old days. Christian placed the metal drum over a fire, continuously turning it so that the beans would roast evenly. After a few minutes, we began to smell the strong aroma of coffee.

They kept checking the color of the beans, then at the precise moment when they were the right color, Alan released them into a metal base with holes and stirred until they cooled.

Now roasted, these beans were ready to be made into coffee.

Brewing Coffee

Alan walked us over to their small coffee bar and talked about how to make a good cup of joe.

As people who drink coffee multiple times a day, we loved hearing his insight into what it takes to make the perfect cup.

He showed us how coffee is made the traditional way in Costa Rica using a device called a chorreador . This is basic wooden stand with a cloth filter. You put enough coffee in the filter for one cup, then pour hot water over it, letting the coffee slowly percolate into the cup below.

Alan explained that chorreadors are sort of nostalgic in Costa Rica. They are something that most Costa Ricans remember from childhood and seeing one in their abuela’s (grandmother’s) house.

Alan then explained other methods of preparing coffee, including the common drip method, French press, and Chemex brewer.

Finally, the coffee was ready, and we got to taste some for ourselves.

Alan had brewed some of their medium and dark roasts. We tried the medium, black of course so that we could taste the flavor profile, and it was delicious.

Alongside our coffee, they gave us some simple arepas to help absorb the chocolate and caffeine that filled our bellies.

We have done many coffee and chocolate tours in Costa Rica and thought that North Fields was one of the best. They have a nice balance of learning about the production process and getting to enjoy some of the (delicious) results. The chocolate and coffee tastings were elaborate and fun to experience!

North Fields Coffee Tour Details

North Fields does tours daily at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.

Cost (2024)

$43 per person adults

$33 per person children ages 6-12

Free for children ages 5 and under

2.5 hours (approximate)

Round-trip transportation from hotels near downtown La Fortuna (if needed), bilingual guide, and tastings.

Booking Your Tour

If you’d like to book the North Fields coffee/chocolate tour, we would be happy to help. Send us an email at bookings(at)twoweeksincostarica(dot)com with the number of adults, children (with ages), date and time you’d like to do the tour, as well as your pickup location. Booking through us costs the same and helps support our website!

Have a question about coffee and chocolate tours? Leave us a comment below.

Looking for more information to plan your trip to la fortuna check out these posts:.

A Safari River Float in La Fortuna/Arenal : This is another fun activity in the area. It’s good for the whole family and an easy way to see wildlife.

Night Tour at Arenal Oasis : Read about our experience on the night tour at the Arenal Oasis Reserve. We got to see lots of frogs and even snakes.

Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica: Safety and What to Look for – Thinking of renting an Airbnb? Check out our article for Costa Rica-specific tips.

• [email protected]
• tel. 2479 7195

Coffee and Chocolate tours

Tours in la fortuna, san carlos..

North Fields Coffee offers you an authentic tour in a plantation owned by a family, dedicated to the production of specialty coffee and in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

The coffee and chocolate tours are from our farm to your cup, we take care of each one of the processes we do.

· Nursery · Plantation · Harvest · Drying · Roasting · Grinding · Preparation · Coffee with arepas, cacao and sugar cane tasting.

In addition our coffee and chocolate tours have a farm with animals and small plantations of sugarcane, cocoa and some other products that all together are part of a whole Costa Rican peasant culture.

We offer shuttle service from your hotel. Schedule: 8:00am – 10:00am – 12:00pm – 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Tour rating

4,7 of 5 stars

Every step to get a coffee cup.

Coffee and Chocolate Tour

• Lowest Price Guaranteed  
• Flexible Cancellation
• Book now & Pay Later

Tour overview

Enjoy the sweetest experience in the tropical forest, discovering the millennial secrets of chocolate: from its discovery and use in the tropical regions of America, to its transformation, into the product we know and love today. Considered as "a gift from the Gods", the cacao tree had great importance for the culture, not only for the ceremonial use of its drink but also for its economic value, to the point of being used its seeds as currency in many regions of Mesoamerica, including Costa Rica. An easy walk through our plantation will give you a very enriching experience on the crops that are the basis of our economy and culture.

Enjoying a very sweet experience and learn about the history and process of turning coffee and cocoa crops into the tasting and most famous beverages in the world

• Transportation
• Bilingual naturalist guide
• Park entrance
• Bottled Water
• 08:00 AM Check rates
• 02:00 PM Check rates
• • Camera
• • Comfortable clothing
• • Raincoat
• • Walking shoes
• • Insect repellent
• • Sunscreen
• Price per person (USD). / Taxes included.
• Children rate: between 5-11 years old.
• Minimum age: 5 years old.
• Minimum persons required: 2.
• The pick-up time will be indicated in the voucher. It depends on the place's location.
• Add $10 per person if the pick-up is at Observatory Lodge, Arenal Lodge, The Springs Resort, or Linda Vista hotel.

Similar tours

North Fields Coffee offers you an authentic tour in a plantation owned by a family, dedicated to the production of specialty coffee and in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

The coffee and chocolate tours are from our farm to your cup, we take care of each one of the processes we do.

• Preparation

In addition our coffee and chocolate tours have a farm with animals and small plantations of sugarcane, cocoa and some other products that all together are part of a whole Costa Rican peasant culture.

We offer shuttle service from your hotel.

Information.

• tel. 2479 7195
• [email protected]

To subscribe

An experience that tastes like coffee and chocolate

“we teach, you create”.

It is the path that we trace on our trails so that you can live a sensory and adventurous experience. Here a rural, safe, comfortable and innovative environment awaits you; where you can transform every bit of knowledge into coffee and chocolate-based products.

Años de trayectoria

Accessible and indoor trails

Personalized experience at each stage of your visit.

Exploration

Explore each trail making connection with the flora and fauna of our ecosystem.

Our environment provides the opportunity to share, relive memories, and discover new trails with family, a partner, friends, or even by yourself, in a natural setting.

Accessibility

Our facilities are designed to offer you a fully accessible experience, both indoors and in safe environments

Experiential experience

Experience, create, compare, and savor your own creations. Each cup of coffee and every bite of chocolate will bear the personalized mark of your journey along our trails

Connect with the land, the flavors and the views

2 in 1 Coffee and Chocolate

Secure parking and alternative to collective or private transportation

Price: U$45 (0 – 7 years free pass)

Night walk and chocolate

Secure parking

A completely different experience under the cover of night, become a spectator of nocturnal fauna and prepare with us your own chocolate bar.

Price: U$50 (0 – 7 years free pass)

A space with a Costa Rican flavor

Discover our online store, where we gather the finest flavors of our country in chocolate and coffee. You can also choose from various souvenirs that capture the essence of Don Juan Tours. An authentic experience with unforgettable memories!

Exfoliante de cacao

Cacao 100% Puro

Café Don Juan tueste medio

Bebida de los dioses

Accommodation, convenience and connection, in one place.

We offer rooms that enable you to connect with nature and fully enjoy your journey. From sunrises accompanied by a traditional cup of coffee to nights filled with the sounds of the environment, adding authentic moments to your experience.

Prices from: US$60

Those who have lived the experience of Don Juan Tours, tell us their story

‘‘Excellent tour where they show from the seed to the final product, with a super friendly guide named Axel and with a lot of knowledge in the area, I loved the cocoa fruit and we were able to see the different procedures of both products, very pleased and I would completely recommend it’’

‘‘We loved this tour. We have been able to see the entire process of making chocolate and coffee. We have been able to try different chocolates and coffees, we have learned many things… and we left this tour delighted… many thanks to our guide Justin who has transmitted his knowledge to us and has learned many things with great passion. If you pass through Arenal you can’t miss it… 100% recommended’’

‘‘Don’t miss this tour – our family of five joined our guide Jorge for two hours as he walked us through the process and history of chocolate and a bit about coffee. We got to experience and learn about the process and learn about Costa Rican economy We made our own chocolate bars, tried various fruits, sipped on coffee and even saw a toucan and a sloth’’

‘‘We weren’t sure what to expect. It was great. Informative, fun, and tasty. Our guide Alex was fabulous. If you love coffee, chocolate, and learning about the region Don Juan’s is a must’’

‘’Magical experience for my wife and I. We’re both huge chocolate fans and I love geeking out on coffee. We were surprised to find out not only were we on a great chocolate and coffee adventure but our guide went out of her way to step up the experience and point out the local wildlife in and around the grounds. We were able to see a massive iguana! Beautiful birds!’’

Adrián Bertolini

”Excellent option to spend some time learning about the history of coffee and cocoa (and their role in the history of Costa Rica as well). Our guide, in addition to being very friendly, demonstrated great mastery of the topics. There is also a tasting of the products, all very beautifully presented and served. Although you can opt for the coffee tour or the cocoa tour, it is really worth taking both”

Do you have any questions about your visit?

Wander With Alex

Small Town, Big Adventures: La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

Small Town, Big Adventures: Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna is a popular town in Costa Rica, receiving over a million visitors from around the world each year. Travelers are lured by the hot springs, but it is best known for its jungle adventures and the nearby Arenal Volcano National Park.

If you are an adventurous, thrill-seeking traveler, you can find a variety of unique and fun things to do in La Fortuna. Raft down the white waters of the Balsa River or hike among the volcanic rock of Arenal. You can also find more gentle approaches to submerging yourself into the exotic rainforest of Central America and having encounters with the animals that make it their home.

Here are the ten great things to do in La Fortuna: activities that give an adrenaline rush and calm but exciting outings. Find which one you’d like to add to your next La Fortuna, Costa Rica trip .

[This article contains affiliate links to trusted partners.]

Canyoning in the Jungles of La Fortuna

Perfect for those seeking a unique adventure, canyoning screams “Costa Rica.”  Many canyoning tours will pick you up, drive you to a waterfall, and teach you how to descend the rock amidst the rushing water.

This activity is a straight-up jungle adventure, giving you an experience of a lifetime. You’ll begin on a mini waterfall and work to a larger one, allowing you to feel confident.

Feel the rush of water coming down while you descend into a jungle. This is an incredible Costa Rica experience in La Fortuna.

Rafting on the Balsa River

Another great adventure in La Fortuna is heading to the waters of the Balsa River. Try beginner rapids (classes 2 and 3) or intermediate/advanced rapids (classes 3 and 4) on the Upper Balsa River.  

As a bonus, many tour companies combine rafting with lunch after your adventure. Thrill seekers will love hitting the rapids, relaxing for a swim, and getting a taste of Costa Rica.

Hiking Arenal Volcano National Park

Just a short drive away from the town of La Fortuna is Arenal Volcano National Park. This is one of the main highlights of visiting Costa Rica, and the volcano is featured in many marketing materials for tourists.  So it may look familiar when you get there.

Arenal Volcano is a beautiful site, and sometimes the smoke coming out of the top can be seen. But the volcano hasn’t erupted in more than a decade, and experts think it’ll be a while until it does again.

In the meantime, you can enjoy hiking through this gorgeous, green, dense park to enjoy views of the volcano and lake beyond. Many hikes at Arenal Volcano National Park are around a mile or less. Though short, they take you through the beautiful jungle and lava fields to witness the volcanic marvel. There is a per-person fee to enter the national park, which you can pay at the entrance.

Zip Lining Through the Jungle

When people think about going to Costa Rica, the first thing they often picture is zip-lining through the canopy of the jungle, surrounded by monkeys, sloths, and other rainforest animals.

There are many zip line adventures to choose from in La Fortuna, each allowing you to soar through the trees in the safety of a steel cable and harness. You’ll soar past waterfalls, through jungles, across canyons, and enjoy unique views of Arenal Volcano up high.

Coffee and Chocolate Tour

Costa Rica is well known for its coffee, sugarcane, and cacao production, so most places around the country will present tour options. Taking a coffee and chocolate tour in La Fortuna is a classic activity and perfect for all ages. Learn about these resources' growing process, harvest, and end product.  

Most tours include seeing the plantation, helping create a product, and tasting a bit of sugar, coffee, and chocolate.  

ATV Adventure

Take a wild ride on an ATV through the hills and jungles of La Fortuna. Many tours take you near Arenal Volcano (but not quite inside the park) to give you stunning backdrops to this adrenaline-filled activity.

You’ll have plenty of time to ride and get some thrills, but also time to stop and learn about the area, the history of the Volcano, and the beneficial mud that exists because of it.

Find Sloths on Bogarin Trail

Back in 2000, a woman named Joanne Bogarin decided to try and restore a large amount of farmland in La Fortuna. With the city's continuing development, she wanted to make sure plenty of animals had a home nearby. The barren farmland is now a forest within the city limits of La Fortuna, filled with wildlife that naturally made their way to this new home.

The Bogarin Trail isn’t a hidden gem but a trendy thing to do in La Fortuna. Why do people like the Bogarin Trail? First, it’s accessible, meaning kids, strollers, and wheelchairs will all have an easy time.  The guides are even trained to provide an incredible experience for those who are blind.

Second, this trail provides ample opportunities to see sloths.  While arguably the best place in Costa Rica to see sloths is Manuel Antonio , the Bogarin Trail walks you through a land where you’re almost guaranteed to see one. 

The land has 30 sloths but is also home to dart frogs, coatis, Toucans, and plenty of other exotic birds and wildlife. It’s a great place to experience the unique animals of Costa Rica without having to go far.

You can take a guided or a self-guided hike on the Bogarin Trail, both of which have a fee.  The fee is used to preserve and protect the land for the animals.

As a bonus, you can also head to Bogarin Trail for a night walk. These night walks present a different group of exotic animals that come out once the sun is down and it’s cooler.

Explore Nearby Caves

Many don’t know about the caves within Costa Rica. Some have heard of Barra Honda National Park in the Nicoya Peninsula as the place to see caverns, but you may not be traveling in that direction.

If you are looking for caves near La Fortuna, consider a stop at the Venado Caves. These caves are one of the lesser-known, hidden gems of La Fortuna. The caves were first discovered in 1945 but didn’t really get explored until over 20 years later. Today, you can walk through the ten discovered caverns in these tall, beautiful underground rooms.

The Venado Caves are about 35 kilometers from La Fortuna. What’s cool about them is not just the fact that they are caverns but that you’ll get a lot of the Costa Rica beauty inside. Inside the caves, you’ll admire the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites and enjoy waterfalls falling into underground rivers, bats, insects, and fish. The Venado Caves also have an outdoor swimming pool to take a refreshing dip after exploring. 

Kayak the Peñas Blancas

A short drive from La Fortuna provides access to the Peñas Blancas River. This is an ideal way to spot wildlife along the river.  And in this case, you’ll be on the river.

There are different ways of floating down the river. Families may enjoy a river safari on a raft, but other visitors will love sitting atop the water as you leisurely paddle in a kayak.

The kayak adventure down the river will present plenty of wildlife spotting. Enjoy the monkeys that swing on the branches right about you, birds unique to Costa Rica, exotic lizards, and even crocodiles. Having a guide will make finding the best spots for seeing animals in the river's habitat easy.

SUP Lake Arenal

La Fortuna may not present both beach and jungle , but it is home to an incredible lake, giving you some calm water activity options.

Lake Arenal is a beautiful doormat to the popular Arenal Volcano. If you want a relaxing adventure, rent a stand-up paddleboard, or take a tour , and get out on the water for a day.  

The mountains surrounding the lake are covered in rainforests, and you’ll have stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. This will easily become the most beautiful place you’ve ever gone paddle boarding.  

Just because you’re not in the middle of a jungle doesn’t mean you won’t encounter wildlife. Watch for Blue Herons and Toucans above and Machacha and Rainbow Bass below as you enjoy the water.

Winding Down from Your Adventures

After a day of adventures in La Fortuna, get a truly local experience by stopping at one of the sodas in La Fortuna . These restaurants are delicious, affordable, and true local cuisine.

Relax sore muscles, and a tired body at the beautiful Tabacon Hot Springs.  You can stay as a guest or visit on a day pass. The hot springs here are magazine-worthy, designed with beauty and relaxation in mind.

Top Things to Do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna is a central hub of adventure in Costa Rica. You can stay here for a week and do something new each day. Whether you want some high-adrenaline activities like canyoning down a waterfall or something a little more gentle like strolling down the Bogarin Trail to spot wildlife, you can pack your days with endless, unique opportunities in Costa Rica.  

There are many other things to do in La Fortuna, but these give you a good feel of everything it offers and some unique experiences to make your trip memorable.

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THE 10 BEST La Fortuna de San Carlos Coffee & Tea Tours

Coffee & tea tours in la fortuna de san carlos.

• Coffee & Tea Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. North Fields Cafe: Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour

2. Sloths Observation and Coffee, Chocolate, Sugarcane Experience

3. La Fortuna Eden Chocolate Tour

4. Don Olivo Chocolate Tour

5. Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour at North Fields, La Fortuna Costa Rica

6. Coffee and Chocolate Regular Tour

7. Costa Rican Coffee and Chocolate Crafting Experience: North Fields Cafe

8. Eden Mocca Tour

9. Chocolate Tour and Night Tour

10. Transfer Fortuna - Monteverde with Coffee Tour on The Way

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Coffee, Chocolate & Sugar Cane Tour (Regular)

Bites and Sights: Walking Food Tour in San Jose, Costa Rica

Chocolate and Coffee Tour Farm Don Jorge

San Jose By Night Tour: Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class

Bar Crawl in Downtown San Jose

Palo Verde Boat Tours, Ortega

Explore San Jose By Night: Food and Culture Tour with Local Dinner

Zip line, Hot Springs, horses and More Aventure.

Taste of Costa Rica: Traditional Food Tour in Jacó

Chocolate Experience in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos

Chocolate Making and Tasting at a Local Factory in San José

Authentic experience of Coffee, Cane and Caco inside the forest

Chocolate and Farm Tour with local Tico family

Costa Rican Bread Making in Monteverde

San Jose Bike & Bites Ride

Bar Crawl in San Jose in a Deluxe Party Bus

Vandará Nature Pass

Half Day Nature Safari Float Tour and Chocolate Tour from La Fortuna-Arenal

Private Cocktail Tasting Monteverde Conceptual Mixology

Costa Rica Central Valley Wine, Beer, and Mead Tour and Tasting

What travelers are saying.

• North Fields Cafe: Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour
• La Fortuna Eden Chocolate Tour
• Don Olivo Chocolate Tour
• Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour at North Fields, La Fortuna Costa Rica
• Coffee and Chocolate Regular Tour
• Experience Costa Rica
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• Tickets Costa Rica
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• North Fields Coffee Tours