Side by Side Tour (Arenal Volcano) SBS La Fortuna

Experience the Heart of Costa Rica with the Side by Side Tour at Arenal Volcano

Imagine cruising through lush landscapes, feeling the spray of river crossings, and catching glimpses of wildlife with the iconic Arenal Volcano looming in the background. For around $315 per group, you and a partner can spend about two and a half hours exploring Costa Rica’s vibrant countryside on a side-by-side vehicle. This tour offers a lively mix of adventure, scenic vistas, and opportunities to learn about local biodiversity. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a taste of off-road fun without the extreme challenge of hardcore ATV riding.

What we love most about this experience is how it provides easy access to diverse terrain—from muddy trails and river crossings to scenic overlooks—giving you a well-rounded Costa Rican adventure. Plus, the guides, like Juan and Pablo, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip both safe and enjoyable. But one consideration is that during peak times or busy seasons, the group sizes can get quite large—up to 30 people—which might mean some waiting or slower-paced sections. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a family-friendly adventure or those new to off-road riding but still eager to see a lot of the countryside.

If you’re after a sightseeing adventure that combines wildlife, beautiful views, and a bit of mud-slinging fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for families with children or anyone wanting to see Costa Rica’s natural beauty from a unique perspective while staying comfortable and well-guided.

Key Points

• Family-friendly with options like car seats for young children
• Beautiful views of Arenal Volcano and surrounding volcanoes
• Guides are knowledgeable, safe, and friendly
• Includes river stops for swimming and wildlife spotting
• Group sizes can reach up to 30, but private tours are available
• Value for money with varied terrains and memorable experiences

In-Depth Review of the Side by Side Tour at Arenal Volcano

Overview of the Experience

This tour, run by PACR, is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Costa Rica’s off-road landscape on a side-by-side vehicle—popularly called a UTV. For $315, you get about 2 hours and 30 minutes of guided exploration, which includes trails, river crossings, and scenic viewpoints. The tour begins at a designated meeting point near La Fortuna, with a short drive to the start of your adventure. The itineraries are flexible enough to accommodate families with kids, as well as those who prefer a more relaxed pace, thanks to multiple guides and the possibility of private tours.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Arenal Volcano Vista Point

Your first stop is a spectacular overlook of the Arenal Volcano. Here, your guides will bring you close enough to see the volcano’s impressive slopes. It’s an ideal spot for photos, especially with the volcano’s shape perfectly framed. The quick 10-minute stop gives you a chance to snap some shots, hydrate, and soak in the view before the ride continues.

Trails and Off-road Terrain

From there, your journey takes you through a variety of terrains—dirt trails, pastures, muddy patches, and hilly terrain. Many reviews highlight how muddy and fun these sections are, especially if it rains, turning the landscape into a playful mess. One guest raved about the muddy ride being “unforgettable,” especially since the guides often take you into puddles and riverbeds for some splashy fun.

River Crossings and Wildlife

Most tours include stops at rivers, like Rio Arenal, where you can take a refreshing swim or simply enjoy the scenic backdrop. Guides often point out wildlife—like monkeys, anteaters, or sloths—adding to the excitement. Several guests mentioned spotting animals or even helping pull out a vehicle stuck in the mud, making the experience feel authentic and adventurous.

Farm Visit

An unexpected bonus for families is a stop at a local farm. Guests loved petting animals and seeing Costa Rican farm life firsthand. One reviewer appreciated that guides did a fantastic job ensuring everyone, including the youngest family members, was safe and engaged, even providing a car seat for the small child.

Scenic Views of Multiple Volcanoes

A highlight that many travelers cherish is the view of three volcanoes from a vantage point. It’s a rare sight and makes for memorable photos—something that sets this tour apart from more typical jungle excursions.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, especially about the knowledgeable guides and the overall value. Jeremy from the U.S. mentioned feeling safe while having fun with his family, and others appreciated how guides like Pablo and Jason made the experience both informative and lighthearted. The balance of adventure and safety seems to be a core strength.

However, some travelers noted issues with group size and pace. For example, one guest felt the experience was “boring as hell” because of a large group and slow start. The company responds by clarifying that they do practice grouping based on experience and offer private tours for those seeking more speed and independence. This suggests that if you’re looking for a more intense or personalized experience, you might consider booking a private ride.

The Ride: What to Expect

Expect a mixture of gentle off-road driving and more rugged sections. Your guides will lead you on trails that showcase Costa Rican countryside, with plenty of opportunities to get a bit muddy. Since some reviews mention how wet and muddy it can get—especially after rains—you’ll want to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and perhaps bring a change of clothes if you plan to continue sightseeing afterward.

The ride is designed for safety first, with a practice track at the start so guides can assess your driving ability and split the group if needed. Many reviewers said they felt confident and safe, even with children as young as five or six.

Duration, Group Size, and Value

At just over two and a half hours, this tour offers solid value for the price, especially considering the variety of scenery and the inclusion of wildlife sightings, river swimming, and farm visits. The maximum group size of 30 ensures everyone gets plenty of attention, though during busy seasons, it can feel a bit crowded.

Private tours are available for those who want more flexibility or a more adventurous ride—something to consider if you’re a confident rider or traveling with a small group who wants a tailored experience.

Practical Considerations

• Booking: Book about 43 days in advance on average, especially during peak season.
• Weather: Rains can make the ride more muddy and exciting, but also a bit messier.
• Transportation: The tour includes pickup options, and the meeting point is close to public transportation.
• Age: Most travelers can participate, and special provisions like car seats are offered for young children.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families with kids, given the safety measures, the farm visit, and the fun of splashing through mud. It’s also great for couples or small groups wanting a scenic, active experience—especially if you’re new to off-road riding but eager to explore Costa Rica’s countryside from a different vantage point. If you’re after a more intense or faster-paced ride, private options or other tours might suit better.

Who Might Not Love It?

Those seeking a challenging, high-speed thrill may find this tour too tame. Similarly, if you dislike getting muddy or prefer a more structured sightseeing tour, you might want to look for alternatives.

The Sum Up

The Side by Side Tour near Arenal Volcano offers a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and family-friendly fun. With knowledgeable guides and opportunities to see wildlife, cross rivers, and enjoy spectacular views of multiple volcanoes, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a well-rounded outdoor experience. The value lies in the variety—riding through terrains, stopping at scenic overlooks, and interacting with farm animals—all in a safe, guided environment.

This tour truly shines when the weather is muddy and the landscape is alive with activity. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate safety and comfort but still want to enjoy an outdoor adventure that’s full of character. Whether you’re traveling with kids or your partner, it’s a memorable way to see Costa Rica’s natural side with a touch of excitement.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families with young kids, participate comfortably. The tour offers car seats and safety measures to ensure children are secure.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and transfer times.

What’s included in the price?
Guided off-road riding, helmets and goggles, scenic stops, and farm visits. Photos can be purchased for an additional fee.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available if you prefer a more personalized pace or want to avoid group experiences.

Is prior experience necessary?
No, the tour includes a practice track to assess skill levels. Guides split groups by experience to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can join, and special accommodations like car seats are provided for young children.

What should I wear?
Clothes suitable for getting muddy and wet—think quick-drying shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Bring a change of clothes if you plan to explore afterward.

What if it rains?
Rain turns the landscape into a muddy playground, making the ride more fun. The tour is still on unless weather conditions are dangerous.

How many people are in a group?
Up to 30, though private options are available for smaller groups or more speed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. No refunds within 24 hours unless the tour is canceled due to weather.

In the end, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and fun—perfect for those wanting to see Costa Rica’s countryside from an adventurous perspective. Whether you're chasing children’s giggles or your own thrill-seeking spirit, the Side by Side Tour makes an excellent addition to your La Fortuna itinerary.