Costa Rica

ATV Tours

All terrain vehicles (ATVs) are capable of traversing even the most difficult terrain, making these 4x4’s an exhilarating way to see Costa Rica’s countryside. Explore secluded beaches or scale a mountain at sunset on one of the country’s myriad tours. Most excursions are half-day, lasting anywhere from one to four hours. Full-day and combination tours are also available. Guides provide safety equipment as well as driving instructions on every tour.

North Pacific

The north Pacific’s rugged coastline is ripe for exploration: zoom across Nosara’s hanging bridge, explore Tamarindo’s scenic mountains, or investigate the secluded Curu Wildlife Refuge, located on southeastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Sunset tours as well as half and full-day excursions are offered. For the truly adventurous, several operators offer tours combining an exciting 4x4 ride with canopy tours, snorkeling, and wildlife hikes.

Central Pacific

Depart from Jaco for a half-day journey over dirt roads, through picturesque mountains, and along quiet beaches. ATV and dune buggy tours often stop for a refreshing swim beneath a waterfall. Further south, 4x4 tours leave from Manuel Antonio en route to towering mountains, African palm plantations, and cattle farms. Take a swimsuit, as pit stops in the small town of Londres, home to the cool Naranjo River, are a favorite way to end the day.

Southern Caribbean

Explore the Caribbean coast and lush Talamanca Mountains on powerful quads, the only vehicle capable of traipsing through the region’s most secluded jungle. ATV adventures wind along the Carbon River, take a break at gorgeous waterfalls, and visit local indigenous communities. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita are the most common points of departure.

Monteverde & Northern Zone

This region’s rugged paths are easily explored on all terrain vehicles. In Monteverde, speed over more than 12 miles of off-road terrain, trek into cloud forest habitats, and end the adventure at an isolated lookout with views of the Gulf of Nicoya and Arenal Volcano. In Arenal, speed around the base of Costa Rica’s most active volcano, explore La Fortuna Waterfall, and cool off in the crystalline waters of a nearby river.

Southern Pacific

The south Pacific’s remote destinations are ideal for high-adrenaline explorations into the great outdoors. Zip over streams and scale mountainous backcountry on a full-day excursion from Sierpe. Or discover Costa Rican frontier country around the Osa Peninsula’s Puerto Jimenez and Drake Bay. ATV rentals are also available for self-guided tours and as a means of local transportation.