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Explore the lush jungles and volcanic landscapes of Costa Rica with a guided La Fortuna ATV tour. Choose from thrilling 2 to 4-hour rides featuring private trails, hot spring combos, and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
Free Cancellation Explore private jungle trails and wetlands on an ATV with exclusive views of the Arenal Volcano.
Free Cancellation Navigate rainforest trails, muddy crossings, and local villages on this 2-hour ATV adventure near La Fortuna.
Private, customized ATV tours on 500cc 4x4s through the rainforest, finishing at secluded, natural hot springs.
Free Cancellation Explore the jungle on an ATV, featuring Arenal Volcano views, the Arenal River, and a visit to Maleku Village.
Explore forests, streams, and plantations on a 2-hour ATV tour with a swim in the Fortuna River's natural pools.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting La Fortuna — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Riding an ATV through La Fortuna is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Costa Rica's adventure capital. You will navigate rugged jungle trails, splash through natural river puddles, and cruise along private backroads, all while taking in spectacular views of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Many trails cut right through the shadow of the 5,358-foot Arenal Volcano. On clear days, you will get incredible, unobstructed views of the imposing volcanic cone as you ride.
Drive through dense primary and secondary rainforests. Because you are often on private property, the quiet environment makes it easier to spot wild sloths, monkeys, and toucans.
Prepare to get dirty! The routes feature muddy trails, natural puddles, and shallow stream crossings that make for a thrilling, splash-filled off-road adventure.
Tours typically operate on private farms and local backroads closed to the general public. You might even ride past traditional cassava plantations and historic local cemeteries.
Some excursions pair your rugged ATV ride with a relaxing finish. After tearing up the trails, you can soak your tired muscles in the region's famous geothermal hot springs.
A few unique tours stop at local rivers to let you apply natural volcanic mud directly from the earth, offering a fun, rustic spa experience right in the middle of the jungle.
Before you rev up your engine, there are a few essential logistics to sort out. From driver's license rules to weather expectations, here is what you need to know before booking your La Fortuna ATV tour.
You absolutely must have a valid driver's license to operate an ATV. Most operators accept a physical license or a clear photo alongside a passport photo. Those with only a learner's permit must ride as a passenger.
The minimum age to drive an ATV is typically 14 to 16 years old, depending on the operator. Passengers can usually be as young as 5 to 8 years old. Keep in mind there is a strict weight limit of 330 lbs (150 kilos) per vehicle.
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety. You should wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind ruining with mud, and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from flying dirt. Packing a change of clothes is highly recommended.
Regular rain is part of the tropical rainforest experience and tours will run regardless of normal showers—in fact, the rain makes the mud trails even better! Tours are only delayed or modified in the event of active thunderstorms.
You can choose between shared group experiences, which are great for budget travelers, or fully customized private tours. Private options often use heavier 500cc 4x4 machines with power steering for a more tailored, stable ride.
Most tours include free round-trip transportation from hotels in downtown La Fortuna or within a 3-kilometer radius. If you are staying at more distant resorts like The Springs or Lost Iguana, expect to pay an extra pickup fee.
ATV riding is a bumpy, physical activity. It is strictly not recommended for pregnant travelers, anyone with spinal injuries, or individuals with poor cardiovascular health.
Check the specific terms before booking. Many tours offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, but some private or discounted combo tours state that all sales are final with no refunds available.
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| Guided Group ATV Tour | Private ATV & Hot Springs Combo | Discovery Jungle Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 to 3 hours | 4 hours | 3 hours |
| Best for | Budget-conscious travelers and families | Couples and those wanting a customized pace | Wildlife spotting and deep jungle exploration |
| Includes | ATV, helmet, water, bilingual guide, hotel pickup (local) | Private guide, 500cc 4x4 ATV, hot springs entrance fees | ATV, safety gear, water, guide, free lockers |
| Price from | $94 USD | $160 USD | $119 USD |
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ATV Tour Schedules: Most ATV excursions in La Fortuna operate during daylight hours, typically offering morning departures around 8:00 AM and afternoon slots around 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Night riding is generally not permitted for safety reasons.
Nearby Attractions: If you are planning to combine your ride with other sights, keep in mind that the La Fortuna Waterfall is open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM). Local hot springs typically operate from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though some resort springs stay open later into the evening.
From San José (SJO): La Fortuna is located about 75 miles (120 km) from the capital. You have several options to reach the town:
To the Tour Start: Most ATV operators provide free hotel pickup within a 3km radius of downtown La Fortuna. If you drive yourself, operators usually offer free, secure parking at their headquarters.
Dry Season (December - April): This is generally considered the best time to visit La Fortuna. The weather is sunny, making for clear, unobstructed views of the Arenal Volcano while you ride. However, the ATV trails will be dustier and less muddy.
Green Season (May - November): If you want the ultimate off-road mud experience, the rainy season is fantastic for ATV tours. The trails become slick, natural puddles fill up, and the jungle is incredibly lush. Just be sure to pack a raincoat and expect heavy afternoon downpours. Tours run in the rain and only pause for thunderstorms.
ATV Tour Limitations: Due to the rugged, bumpy nature of the trails and the physical requirements of driving or holding onto an ATV, these tours are not wheelchair accessible. They are also strictly not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health.
General Town Accessibility: Downtown La Fortuna is very flat and easy to navigate. If you have members of your group who cannot participate in the ATV tour, they can enjoy accessible attractions nearby, such as the 1-mile concrete path at the Peninsula Sector of Arenal Volcano National Park or the accessible trail at Mistico Hanging Bridges.
At the Tour Headquarters: Most ATV operators are well-equipped for tourists. You can expect:
Provided Gear: Operators provide all necessary safety equipment, including DOT-approved helmets and the ATVs themselves. Bottled water is almost always included, and some tours offer fresh fruit snacks at the end of the ride.
Driving Requirements: A valid driver's license is absolutely mandatory to drive an ATV. A physical copy or a clear photo of the license alongside your passport is usually accepted. If you only have a learner's permit, you must ride as a passenger with a licensed driver.
Safety Regulations:
Yes, a valid driver's license is strictly required to operate an ATV. Most tour operators will accept your physical license or a clear photograph of it along with your passport.
Absolutely. While they cannot drive, children as young as 5 to 8 years old (depending on the specific tour) can ride as passengers on a double ATV, provided they are accompanied by a licensed adult.
You must wear closed-toe shoes for safety. It is highly recommended to wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting dirty or muddy, and to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris.
Yes, for safety and vehicle stability, there is a strict maximum weight limit of 330 lbs (150 kilos) per ATV. This applies whether you are riding single or sharing a double ATV.
Regular rain is part of the tropical rainforest experience and tours will proceed as scheduled—the mud actually makes the ride more fun! Tours will only be paused or canceled in the event of dangerous thunderstorms.
Yes, many of the ATV trails navigate the base and surrounding areas of the volcano. On clear days, you will have spectacular, unobstructed views of the volcanic cone.
No prior experience is necessary. Every tour includes a comprehensive safety briefing and a short practice ride to ensure you are comfortable handling the vehicle before heading into the jungle.
Most operators offer free round-trip transportation from hotels located in downtown La Fortuna or within a 3-kilometer radius. If you are staying at a distant resort, an extra pickup fee will apply.
Generally, no. Many La Fortuna ATV tours operate on private farms and exclusive backroads for up to 90% of the route, allowing you to avoid the general public and enjoy a quieter environment for spotting wildlife.
Yes, several operators offer combo tours. You can spend a few hours riding through the muddy jungle trails and then finish your day relaxing in the local geothermal hot springs, with entrance fees included in the package.
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This tour takes you through private property for 90% of the route, using back roads and jungle trails that are closed to the general public. Because these areas are managed and protected, the paths are well-maintained and offer a quiet environment that is ideal for spotting local wildlife among the native vegetation. The trail crosses rivers and moves through regional wetlands, leading to specific lookout points designed for photographing the Arenal Volcano. Along the way, guides share details about the history, nature, and culture of the area. Please note that a valid driver's license or permit is required for all individuals operating an ATV.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
This two-hour tour begins at La Naciente, a private farm located just a few minutes from downtown La Fortuna. After a safety briefing and a brief practice session to get comfortable with the vehicle, you will head into the rainforest. The route takes you through muddy trails, natural puddles, and small stream crossings, navigating the bumps and uneven terrain of the forest. As the ride continues, you will pass through the small village of La Guaria to see the local church and a traditional pulpería. The final stretch follows open trails toward the Arenal River, where—weather permitting—the group stops to rest. This break includes time for photos and a fresh fruit snack before returning to the starting point.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
These private ATV tours are fully customized based on your experience level. We use 500cc 4x4 machines equipped with power steering and automatic transmissions, which are heavier and more stable than standard tour rentals. Your bilingual guide can lead you along easy back roads for a relaxed family outing or navigate more technical trails for experienced riders. Each tour includes one person per ATV, though additional adults or children can join as passengers for an extra fee. The route leads deep into the rainforest to a set of secluded, rustic hot springs. Unlike the large commercial pools in La Fortuna, these are natural and uncrowded, offering a quiet place to soak in the middle of the forest after your ride.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This ATV excursion takes you through the dense jungle surrounding the Arenal Volcano. The route covers various terrains, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and native flora as you ride toward the Arenal River. The tour is designed for both adults and children, making it a versatile option for families looking for an active way to see the landscape. During the trip, you will stop at elevated viewpoints for clear sights of the volcano from the hills. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Maleku Village to learn about indigenous culture and a stop at the Ecological Park Arenal Volcano. The experience combines off-road driving with several scenic and cultural stops within the rainforest.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This two-hour guided tour takes you through a variety of landscapes including primary and secondary forests, cassava plantations, and several stream crossings. Along the route, you will visit the first cemetery of La Fortuna, located directly on the property. Our guides share information about the local wildlife and community history throughout the ride to provide context to the surrounding environment. The experience includes a break at the Fortuna River, where you can swim in natural pools. We provide 250cc Honda ATVs for solo riders and 420cc models for those riding in pairs. Helmets and hydration are included for every guest. Complimentary transportation is available from most local areas. For hotels located outside the standard pickup zone, transportation can be arranged for a nominal additional fee.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish