LA FORTUNA | COSTA RICA
Wedding Photographer in
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
I’m Joice Dahianna, La Fortuna wedding photographer with 8+ years photographing Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano-view venues — from the thermal waters of Tabacón and Nayara Springs to the panoramic terraces of The Springs Resort and Hotel Los Lagos.
Every wedding includes two photographers and a timeline built around Arenal’s ever-changing light.
VOLCANO VIEW WEDDINGS | HOT SPRINGS CEREMONIES | RAINFOREST VOWS
Why La Fortuna Is the Luxury Wedding Destination in Costa Rica
The only destination where Arenal volcano, rainforest, waterfalls, Arenal lake, and natural hot springs exist within minutes of each other — an entire world to celebrate in, not just a backdrop.
One Destination, Every Landscape
Guanacaste and Manuel Antonio offer stunning beaches, but the scenery stays largely the same. In La Fortuna, your wedding weekend can move from rainforest trails and volcano views to Lake Arenal and natural hot springs — all without long drives in between.
What Makes It Feel Truly Luxurious
Many hotels here are built around the volcano view, so you can take it in from your own balcony — no logistics required. Add secluded rainforest venues and hot springs on-property, and the result feels intimate and authentic, never staged.
CURATED LOCATIONS
Luxury Wedding Venues in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with Arenal Volcano View
La Fortuna is a wedding photography paradise, home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful luxury venues — many with stunning Arenal Volcano views, others overlooking Lake Arenal in the distance, and many tucked into the rainforest. Some even feature natural hot springs.
On golden evenings, the sunset lights up the volcano in a way that leaves you breathless — and even on cloudy or misty days, the landscape still tells its own story. From tropical rainforest lodges to hot spring resorts, every venue offers a unique setting for couples to say “I do.”
The Springs Resort & Spa
Los Lagos Spa & Resort Hotel
Amor Arenal Hotel
Tabacón Thermal Resort Hotel
Nayara Gardens & Springs Hotel
Arenal Kioro Hotel
Private Jungle Villas & Eco Lodges
01 – Rainforest & Volcano
The Springs Arenal Resort & Spa
Tucked into the rainforest with panoramic Arenal Volcano views, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is a five-star retreat built around natural hot springs and a river that winds through the property. Its 165 acres blend lush gardens, a wildlife sanctuary, and horseback trails with 75 luxurious volcano-front accommodations — an unforgettable setting for a luxury wedding celebration in La Fortuna.
GUEST CAPACITY
20-80 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$8,000 – $25,000
02 – Lakeside retreat
Los Lagos Spa & Resort Hotel
Set at the foot of Arenal Volcano and surrounded by rainforest, Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort is defined by its emerald-green Juncos Lagoon — a small lake formed by volcanic flows, found nowhere else in La Fortuna.
Its scenic lookout is a favorite for intimate ceremonies, while ballrooms accommodate celebrations of up to 350 guests. Couples can stay in the hotel’s rooms or rent a private villa for up to 8, all surrounded by lush gardens and natural hot springs.
GUEST CAPACITY
50 – 150 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$3,000 -$10,000
The natural greenery enhances soft, candid, and emotional storytelling photography.
03 – Intimate Weddings & Elopements
Amor Arenal Hotel
Perched on a hillside with sweeping Arenal Volcano views, Amor Arenal is a 106-acre private rainforest reserve designed for intimate, nature-immersed weddings.
Its open-air architecture blends seamlessly into the jungle, with spring-water dipping pools, forest trails, and secluded platforms — like the jungle-set Raindrop Platform and the elevated Meditation Platform — offering ceremony spaces as private as they are breathtaking.
With a world-class spa, locally inspired cuisine, and a deep commitment to sustainability, Amor Arenal creates a romantic, one-of-a-kind celebration you and your guests will remember for years to come.
GUEST CAPACITY
40 -80 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$4,000
An ideal spot for couples who want an elevated, intimate elopement moment surrounded by nature.
04 – Thermal Waters
Tabacón Thermal Resort Hotel
Fed by a living river flowing straight from Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is home to Costa Rica’s largest network of natural hot springs — 23 thermal pools and waterfalls winding through 900 acres of rainforest reserve.
Wooden bridges and jungle trails connect pools of varying temperature and mood, from quiet hideaways to open-air springs framed by exotic flora, creating unforgettable settings for both ceremonies and photos.
This Green-Certified luxury resort blends its 103 rooms into the surrounding landscape, with Costa Rican artisan details, world-class cuisine, and the Shangri-La Gardens’ adults-only spa completing an experience of pure relaxation and romance.
GUEST CAPACITY
20-80 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$8,000 -$25,000
This venue is among the most iconic thermal-water destinations in Costa Rica for couples’ portraits.
05 – Botanical Garden
Nayara Gardens & Springs Hotel
Hidden deep in the rainforest, Nayara Springs is part of a trio of award-winning luxury properties — alongside Nayara Gardens and Nayara Tented Camp — known for their signature blend of relaxed elegance and deep connection to nature.
Its private villas each feature their own plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, four-poster beds, and indoor-outdoor living spaces framed by indigenous wood and stone.
Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, with in-house guides ready to enhance the experience, Nayara Springs turns every corner of the property into a one-of-a-kind backdrop for wedding photography.
GUEST CAPACITY
2- 50 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$8,000 – $15,000
Larger celebrations may require a full property buyout.
06 – Front – Row Volcano View
Arenal Kioro Green Luxury
Set in the heart of the rainforest with panoramic Arenal Volcano and river views, Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a five-star sanctuary designed for intimate destination weddings — hosting ceremonies in a tropical garden gazebo. Its geothermal hot springs, fed directly by the volcano, offer guests a soothing escape, while farm-to-table dining and a full-service spa round out the experience. Every one of its 53 suites frames the volcano or the Arenal River, making the resort itself part of the backdrop for your celebration.
GUEST CAPACITY
20-50 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$3,000 – $12,000
The couple sits front and center to the volcano — one of the most unforgettable backdrops anywhere in the region.
07 – Private & Secluded
Private Jungle Villas & Eco Lodges
For couples prioritizing privacy and exclusivity, Arenal Volcano’s private jungle villas and eco-lodges provide a secluded and personal destination wedding experience.
GUEST CAPACITY
10-40 guests
ESTIMATED INVESTMENT
$1,000 – $5,000
Under Arenal Volcano’s shadow, these hand-selected private villas give couples an intimate, cloud-forest setting away from the crowds.
Why Choose a Wedding Photographer in La Fortuna?
“My journey as a wedding photographer began right here in La Fortuna — I lived in this rainforest for two years before ever picking up a camera, and eight years later, I still return almost weekly.”
Local Knowledge, Earned Over Years
I know this land the way only someone who’s spent real time in it can — which trails lead to hidden waterfalls, which hot springs feel most private, and why the lookout at Hotel Los Lagos remains one of my favorite spots for photos.
Built For La Fortuna’s Weather
Rain falls here roughly 80% of the time, so instead of fighting it, I’ve built my style around it — ready to shoot through a downpour or wait for the volcano to clear, which it often does right as the ceremony begins. Equipment travels with rain covers, backup gear is always on hand, and drone footage comes out whenever the venue and weather allow.
A Trusted Local Team
Beyond photography, years of working here mean I’ve built a trusted team around me — florists, videographers, makeup artists, officiants, and a wedding planner who all know this area as well as I do. That matters most when the weather turns: everyone already knows how to read the sky and pivot to a plan B without missing a beat.
REAL CELEBRATIONS
Real Weddings in La Fortuna
Explore real weddings and elopements photographed along the road to La Fortuna and around the Arenal Volcano region — every celebration reflecting each couple's own story, planned with intention and captured with care.
Browse the moments below for genuine inspiration and a true sense of what your own La Fortuna wedding day could feel like.
01
Yarit & Brian
HOTEL LOS LAGOS
Yarit & Brian's day began with their ceremony at the church in La Fortuna, before continuing on to Hotel Los Lagos for the celebration. Before the reception, we made a stop at the hotel's lookout point, taking advantage of a rare clear sky to capture some truly spectacular portraits of the couple. Arenal Volcano stood as a quiet witness to their vows and the love between them, clearing just in time for their couple's session. Once the portraits were done, it was time to join the party.
02
Elena & Justin
INTIMATE LA FORTUNA WEDDING
Elena & Justin, intimate La Fortuna wedding — Rain fell throughout the ceremony, and they embraced every minute of it. Whether Arenal Volcano is in full view or hidden behind the clouds, it's always the couple's own energy that makes the photos unforgettable.
Elevated Wedding Photography in La Fortuna - Golden Light, Volcanic & Real Moments.
Planning a wedding near Arenal Volcano deserves storytelling that's thoughtfully crafted and truly reflects your celebration, capturing every genuine moment along the way.
— PACKAGES
Luxury Wedding Photography Package in La Fortuna
From USD 2,250
If you're looking to hire a professional wedding photographer in La Fortuna, I would love to create a custom experience tailored to your vision.
Coverage hours — 5 to 10 hours
2 Photographers
Photography-focused itinerary planning, prep tips
Professionally edited, high-resolution images
Private online gallery (1 year) + printing rights
Gallery delivered within 31 days.
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
Videography — for a more cinematic touch, we work alongside a trusted videographer we love collaborating with (subject to availability).
Full Planning Experience — our team handles decor, a champagne toast, site permits, dinner and more.
TWO PHOTOGRAPHERS, ALWAYS INCLUDED
Every package includes a second photographer — never an add-on — so your wedding day is always beautifully captured from two different angles and two full perspectives, making sure nothing important is ever missed.
HOW TIMELINE GUIDANCE WORKS
Once you share your ceremony plan, we review it to pinpoint the best light for your vows, the ideal window for portraits, and any adjustments to make your photos shine.
DO YOU OFFER DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY?
Drone footage is part of our equipment, though not a fixed package feature — it depends on weather and location authorization. When both align, we're happy to use it, though it's never guaranteed.
Full-Service Planning
Want the full wedding experience in La Fortuna? Our trusted planning partner can handle the venue, décor, officiant, logistics & coordination — so you can simply show up and enjoy your day.
Testimonials
Real Couples. Real Reactions
These are the words of people who trusted Joice Dahianna as their La Fortuna wedding photographer — and received candid, emotional images they'll keep forever.
Hotel Los Lagos, La Fortuna
Joice and Diego made us feel incredibly comfortable and at ease. They have such a beautiful energy and captured every detail in such a natural and meaningful way. The final result completely exceeded our expectations, and the photos reflect exactly how that day felt.
Arianna Parmigiani
The Springs Arenal Resort
Thank the universe for bringing Joice and her team into my life during my wedding journey. She captured every beautiful detail perfectly, taking my dreams and turning them into stunning memories — the quality, warmth, and professionalism were outstanding.
Cin Kokuen
Nayara Springs
We can't thank Joice enough for the stunning photos from our wedding. Every single picture is absolutely beautiful, and we are truly impressed with the final results. Joice has an amazing ability to capture every moment in such a unique and special way.
Fany & Phil
----- MORE REVIEWS ON GOOGLE -----
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. WOW!! I cannot say enough good things about Joice and her photography team. We had a surprise proposal in Costa Rica and they made the experience amazing. The moment we got to the spot they were well hidden so the surprise wouldn’t be ruined. They shot the proposal and pictures afterward. When we received the album back it was better than we could’ve imagined. I highly recommend using Joice and her team for photos!!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El mejor equipo de fotos y video! Nos sentimos super comodos! Y divino tooodo! Lo améPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ¡La mejor decisión que tomamos fue escoger a Joyce como nuestra fotógrafa! Desde la sesión de fotos de compromiso nos enamoramos de su trabajo. Las fotos quedaron espectaculares y desde ese momento supimos que queríamos que fuera quien capturara también el día de nuestra boda. Además de tener un talento increíble, trabajar con Joyce es un verdadero placer. Es un amor de persona, transmite una energía lindísima y hace que todo se sienta natural y sin estrés. Gracias a eso disfrutamos muchísimo tanto la sesión de compromiso como el día de la boda. Cuando recibimos las fotos de la boda volvimos a revivir cada momento. Logró capturar todas las emociones y los detalles de una forma preciosa, y no podríamos estar más felices con el resultado. Sin duda la recomendaría una y mil veces, y volvería a contratarla para cualquier otro momento especial. ¡Gracias, Joyce, por regalarnos recuerdos tan lindos que vamos a atesorar para siempre! ❤️❤️❤️Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Joice for our surprise proposal was truly one of the best decisions my fiancé made. She captured one of the most important moments of our lives so beautifully, and every photo brings us right back to that day. Her eye for detail, ability to capture genuine emotion, and calm, encouraging presence made the experience even more special. We are beyond grateful to have these memories preserved so perfectly. If you’re looking for a photographer who genuinely cares and delivers stunning photos, I cannot recommend Joice enough. Thank you for giving us memories we’ll cherish forever!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joice is excellent and was the perfect choice for our wedding day. Her online gallery is stunning and I only dreamed ours could be captured the same. Start to finish Joice was very easy to work with, reasonably priced, and incredibly sweet. Picture turnaround was quick with an abundance of gorgeous photos to pick from.Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Desde el primer momento nos hicieron sentir demasiado cómodos y tranquilos. Tienen una vibra súper linda Durante la boda captaron cada detalle de una forma súper natural y especial, y el resultado final superó completamente nuestras expectativas. Las fotos transmiten exactamente cómo se sintió ese día, la emoción, la felicidad y todos esos momentos tan especiales Además de su talento, el trato y la dedicación fueron increíbles durante todo el proceso genuinamente se preocuparon por que disfrutáramos cada momento Solo tengo un problema. Las fotos quedaron tan hermosas que no se cuales imprimir ni compartir No podríamos estar más felices con el resultado. Súper recomendados 🤍Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hola Nuestra experiencia con Joyse fue maravillosa!!! Hicimos una cesión de fotos madre he hija. Y bueno. Nos tuvo mucha paciencia. Siempre fue atenta con los detalles. Comunicativa y con la dedicación que requiere un adulto mayor de 89 años. Así que recomiendo muchísimo sus servicios. Es una joven profesional, talentosa y con mucho carismaPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dahianna y Diego fueron una extraordinaria elección para congelar la memoria de una etapa muy importante de nuestra familia a través de las fotos, desde el min 1 nos inspiraron confianza, amistad y un trato hermoso, nos tuvieron máxima paciencia especialmente a mis pequeños en un clima retador de 37 grados, con un resultado espectacular…. Ver esas fotos, es un sueño hecho realidad!! Siempre estaré agradecidaPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Quedé encantado con el servicio. Al principio estaba un poco nervioso, ya que no vivo cerca de Costa Rica y todo lo estaba organizando a distancia para una propuesta de matrimonio muy importante para mí. A pesar de que siempre fue muy profesional y clara en todos sus mensajes, no deja de existir ese miedo cuando contratas un servicio en línea. Sin embargo, superó completamente mis expectativas. Antes de la propuesta me ayudó en absolutamente todo: planeamos cada detalle y todo salió exactamente como lo imaginé. Durante el momento, fue increíblemente profesional, atenta y con la mejor actitud. Nos hizo sentir muy cómodos en todo momento. Si pudiera repetir la experiencia, sin duda la contrataría mil veces más. No van a perder su tiempo ni su dinero — es, sin duda, la mejor opción.Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had such a wonderful experience working with Joice and Diego for our wedding in Costa Rica. From the very beginning, they went out of their way to support us and were incredibly attentive all the way up to the wedding day. We really appreciated the tender care and thoughtfulness they gave to all of our requests. They made us feel heard, supported, and genuinely cared for throughout the process, which meant so much during such a special and emotional time. And the photos were absolutely beautiful. They captured everything so naturally and artistically, and we were also delightfully surprised by the drone footage — such an amazing bonus that made our memories feel even more cinematic and special. Joice and Diego are truly an excellent team. We loved their energy and felt so comfortable with them. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone planning an elopement or wedding in Costa Rica!Posted on Google
PLANNING AHEAD
Planning a wedding in La Fortuna? Let's check if your date is available.
EXPERTS IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & PLANNING
Meet Your Costa Rica Wedding Photography & Planning Team
We're a Costa Rica–based team of two photographers and a dedicated wedding planner, with over 8 years photographing destination weddings across Costa Rica and beyond. From beach ceremonies to rainforest elopements to full-day celebrations, we cover every angle of your day — a second shooter and drone coverage on the photography side, and seamless planning behind the scenes, so nothing is left to chance.
Joice Dahianna
Lead Photographer & Founder
Joice works exclusively as a destination wedding photographer in Costa Rica, guiding every couple with genuine care from first consultation to final delivery. She's your main point of contact throughout, and also leads the creative direction and marketing behind the brand itself.
Diego Ramírez
Second Shooter & Drone Pilot
Diego is the second photographer on every wedding, capturing key moments from a different angle so nothing gets missed. He's also the drone pilot behind every aerial shot, and the one filming the behind-the-scenes videos you'll see across the brand's social media.
The White Wedding
Experience Planner
Ceilyn Castro designs and coordinates the experience behind proposals, elopements and weddings, so couples can stay fully present while every detail unfolds seamlessly. From planning and logistics to personal touches, she creates the ideal environment for unforgettable moments — the kind meant to be beautifully captured.
Things to Do in La Fortuna for Your Wedding Guests
A destination wedding means your guests get more than a ceremony — they get a trip. Here's what makes La Fortuna worth the journey, whether they're staying for the weekend or the whole week.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Guided trails wind through rainforest and old lava fields at the base of the volcano, with panoramic views most guests won't forget.
Lake Arenal — Boat Tours & Kayaking
From leisurely boat rides to paddling across calm morning waters, Lake Arenal offers an easy, scenic way to spend a free afternoon.
Mistico Hanging Bridges Park
Walk suspended above the rainforest canopy at Mistico Park, one of La Fortuna's most iconic experiences for spotting wildlife and dramatic views.
Natural Hot Springs
Thermal pools fed naturally by the volcano offer the perfect way to unwind before or after the celebration — a favorite for guests traveling from colder climates.
Scenic Viewpoints
Several lookout points around town offer postcard views of Arenal Volcano — perfect for a quiet morning walk or a sunset photo before the wedding.
La Fortuna Waterfall
A short hike leads to this iconic waterfall and natural pool — one of the most photographed spots in the region, and a memorable outing for guests of all ages.
Planning Ahead
Best Time of Year for Weddings in La Fortuna
La Fortuna's weather shifts throughout the year, and after 8 years photographing here, we've learned when the volcano tends to clear — sunrise, sunset, and often right after a heavy afternoon downpour. Temperatures stay steady between 24-27°C (75-81°F) with high humidity year-round, and on clear days, the golden hour light against the volcano is unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica.
Dry Season | December – April
The most requested season for outdoor ceremonies, with the best odds of a clear volcano at sunrise and sunset. Weather stays sunny and predictable — though even here, a clear view is never fully guaranteed.
Green Season | May – November
Mornings tend to stay clear, with skies often opening up again after a strong afternoon downpour — a pattern we've seen repeat for years. Rainforest colors turn richer, and an indoor backup keeps every wedding day worry-free.
Heaviest Rains | July – September
These months bring the heaviest rain, sometimes causing landslides or flooded rivers along the roads into La Fortuna. Indoor luxury venues remain a stunning, safe alternative for your ceremony.
Travel in Costa Rica
Getting to La Fortuna for Your Wedding Day
La Fortuna is easily reached from Costa Rica's two international airports. The route from Liberia is often the easier drive, winding along the shores of Lake Arenal, while San José tends to involve more traffic leaving the city.
For couples and guests who prefer to fly, a small local airstrip sits just minutes away.
From San José
Juan Santamaría Int'l Airport
Expect heavier traffic leaving the city and airport area. Private transportation or shuttle services are available directly to La Fortuna, making the drive easy despite the busier roads.
From Liberia
Daniel Oduber Int'l Airport
A smoother, more rural drive with far less traffic than from San José — and the most scenic route, tracing the shores of Lake Arenal along the way. Private and shuttle transportation available.
Local Airstrip
La Fortuna Airstrip
Sansa Airlines operates the only flights to La Fortuna, at roughly $457 per couple round trip — a fast, scenic option for couples and guests who'd rather skip the drive entirely.
GOOD TO KNOW
FAQs
Everything couples usually ask before booking their La Fortuna wedding photography — if your question isn't here, write to Joice directly.
Can You See Arenal Volcano Year-Round?
Not always — it really depends on the weather. Cloud cover is common in La Fortuna, and it can hide the volcano at different times throughout the year. Your best chances for a clear, unobstructed view are early morning, before the clouds build, and during dry season (December–April). Even if the volcano decides to stay wrapped in clouds on your wedding day, this place still feels magical — the mist, the rainforest, and the golden light create their own kind of beauty, and we always know how to make the most of it for your photos.
Can we shoot at Arenal Volcano trails and viewpoints?
Yes, depending on the exact location and access rules. Some areas may require permits or have specific regulations, so I’ll guide you toward the best options.
Do you offer drone photography in La Fortuna?
Yes, where permitted. Drone use always requires prior authorization from the venue — it's not allowed inside national parks, near airports for safety reasons, or near guest rooms out of respect for privacy. We coordinate approval with your resort ahead of time to see what's possible for your day.
Do we need a legal wedding, or is a symbolic ceremony better for us?
Both are common here — it's almost an even split. Many couples legally marry back home in the U.S. beforehand, then come to La Fortuna purely for their symbolic ceremony: reading their vows, taking their photos, and celebrating with family without any paperwork getting in the way.
For symbolic ceremonies, we work with a wonderful officiant who builds her ceremonies around cacao rituals — deeply emotional and personal.
For legal weddings, we work with two trusted officiants who go beyond the legal requirements to make the ceremony feel just as meaningful. By the time couples reach out to us, they usually already know which one they wan
Do I Need A Wedding Planner If I'm Getting Married In La Fortuna?
It's not required, but strongly recommended for destination weddings — especially for legal ceremonies, permits at certain venues, and coordinating vendors across a rural area like La Fortuna.
How Far In Advance Should I Book My La Fortuna Wedding Photographer?
We recommend booking 6–12 months in advance, especially for dry-season dates (December–April), which fill up quickly. That said, if you have less time, feel free to reach out anyway — we may still have an opening available.
Do You Offer Multi-Day Coverage (Welcome Dinner, Rehearsal, Day-After Session)?
Yes — multi-day coverage is common for destination weddings, and we're happy to build a custom package around it. Whether you need your welcome dinner documented, a rehearsal captured, or a relaxed day-after session, we tailor the days and hours to exactly what your celebration needs.
GET IN TOUCH
Yes, Let's Do This!
Tell me a little about your celebration and I'll get back to you personally to start planning your wedding photography in Costa Rica.
photo@joicedahianna.com
Based in Monteverde, Costa Rica. We travel to La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, throughout Costa Rica, and around the world.
Real Moments, Shared Daily
