Jumping onto an ATV in Costa Rica is a fantastic way to see the country’s varied landscapes in a way that’s both exciting and authentic. This 2-hour private tour takes you through river crossings, jungle trails, and sandy beaches near Jaco Beach, with the added bonus of fewer crowds and personalized attention. For about $68 per person, you get a blend of adventure and scenic beauty, guided by knowledgeable locals like Enrique, who receives rave reviews for safety and friendliness.

What we really love about this tour is how flexible and tailored it feels — your private guide adjusts to your pace and interests, and the stops for photos or a quick beach relax are a nice touch. Another highlight? The diverse landscapes you’ll experience — from lush green forests to wild river crossings and the shimmering coast. The only thing to consider is that good driving skills and a valid license are required, as safety and control are emphasized. This tour suits those who love outdoor adventure, spontaneous exploration, and are comfortable on rugged terrain.

If you’re looking for a lively yet personalized Costa Rican adventure that combines nature, culture, and fun, this ATV tour might be just what you need. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want to avoid large group tours and enjoy a more intimate experience with local guides and scenery.

Key Points

Private Experience: The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, making it more personal and flexible.
Scenic Diversity: Cross rivers, explore jungle paths, and relax on the beach — all in one trip.
Expert Guides: Guides like Enrique and Mariela are praised for their safety instructions and local knowledge.
All Equipment Included: You don’t need to bring your own gear; safety equipment and bottled water are provided.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
Good for Most Travelers: The activity is suitable for most, but requires a valid driver’s license and testing of riding skills.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Riders Adventures center, located just 100 meters north of Hotel and Club Punta Leona in Quebrada Ganado, Tarcoles. This well-organized meeting point makes it easy to find, and the tour ends back at the same spot, so no worry about complicated logistics. The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough time for a hearty adventure without feeling rushed. Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, indicating its popularity.

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What the Tour Covers

The itinerary offers a mix of scenic highlights and authentic local flavor. The journey begins with river crossings and jungle trails—expect muddy paths, lush greenery, and possibly some wildlife sightings. One reviewer mentioned a “beautiful waterfall,” which suggests that some routes feature natural scenery that photographers will love.

Next, the group visits Playa Mantas, a quiet beach spot where you can take photos and soak up the sun for about 10 minutes. While it’s a short stop, it’s enough for a quick break and some memorable snapshots. The tour also passes around the National Park area, giving you views of protected forest without actually entering the park—this means you get stunning green vistas without the need for a separate entry fee or lengthy permit.

Highlights and Special Features

Diverse Landscapes

One of the biggest draws is the variety of landscapes. The guides keep things interesting by crossing muddy trails, navigating river beds, and skirting coastal views. This diversity ensures you’ll never feel stuck on monotonous terrain, and the mix keeps the adrenaline flowing.

Educational and Fun Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides for being knowledgeable and friendly. Enrique, in particular, gets high marks for safety instructions and making the ride enjoyable. Another reviewer highlighted Israel’s “intensive” guiding style, ensuring everyone feels confident on their ATV. Expect your guide to share some local insights, making the experience richer than just a thrill ride.

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Safety and Equipment

All safety gear—helmets, goggles, and instruction—is included, which speaks to the tour’s commitment to security. A deposit for damages is required at check-in, so travelers should be prepared to show a valid driver’s license and demonstrate riding competence.

Photo and Relaxation Opportunities

Photo enthusiasts will appreciate the stops for pictures — from lush forests to beach vistas. The final beach stop is a chance to unwind, take more photos, or simply enjoy the surf. Several reviews mention how incredible the scenery is and how much they enjoyed the relaxed yet adventurous pace.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are quite enthusiastic. One guest said, “Enrique was an awesome guide, and we had a blast for my friend’s birthday.” Others appreciated the beautiful scenery, with comments like “The views were incredible, and the instructor was great.” The consistent theme is the combination of fun, safety, and scenic beauty.

The Cost-to-Value Ratio

At $67.99, the tour offers great value for a personalized, half-day adventure. For roughly two hours, you’re getting a tailored experience that includes all equipment, bottled water, and guidance. Compared to larger, less personal tours, the small group size and quality of guides make this a worthwhile investment for adventure lovers.

This ATV experience is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting a little muddy or dusty. It’s ideal for those wanting to see diverse landscapes without relying on a large group or crowded tour. If you enjoy personalized service, learning about the local environment, and exploring Costa Rica off the beaten path, you’ll find this tour very satisfying.

However, you’ll need to be comfortable riding an ATV and have a valid driver’s license, as safety is prioritized. Families with older children or groups of friends looking for a shared adventure will also find this experience rewarding.

This ATV tour in Jaco Beach strikes a fine balance between adventure, scenery, and personal service. It’s a fantastic way to step beyond the usual beach relaxations and see Costa Rica’s lush jungles, rivers, and coastlines up close.

What makes it stand out is the guides’ professionalism and local knowledge, which add a layer of authenticity and safety that many other tours lack. Plus, the diverse landscapes keep the ride engaging from start to finish.

If you’re after a small-group, memorable experience that combines nature, adventure, and local charm, this ATV tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but you need to be able to operate an ATV safely, which requires a valid driver’s license and some riding skills.

How long does the tour last?
The activity takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including stops for photos and a brief beach visit.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring your driver’s license. The tour provides all safety equipment and bottled water.

Are there any restrictions or requirements?
Yes, you must pass a riding test to demonstrate competency, and a deposit for damages is collected at check-in.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Will I see wildlife during the tour?
You might spot local wildlife, but it isn’t guaranteed. The focus is on scenery and adventure rather than wildlife viewing.

This ATV tour in Jaco offers a well-rounded taste of Costa Rica’s wild side, perfect for those wanting a personal, scenic, and exciting experience. Clear, safe, and diverse — it’s a ride you’ll remember long after your vacation ends.