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Explore the rugged jungle trails and private farms surrounding Arenal Volcano on an off-road ATV adventure. Choose from quick rides to full-day combos featuring hot springs or white water rafting.
Free Cancellation Ride private jungle trails and cross rivers on an ATV tour with exclusive views of the Arenal Volcano.
Free Cancellation Explore Vestmannaeyjar’s volcanic landscapes and historic shipwrecks on a one-hour guided ATV adventure.
Free Cancellation A 2-hour ATV ride through rainforest trails, river crossings, and local villages near La Fortuna.
Custom 4x4 ATV adventures through rainforest trails, ending with a soak in secluded, natural hot springs.
Free Cancellation Explore the Arenal jungle on an ATV, visiting the river, scenic volcano lookouts, and a local Maleku Village.
Free Cancellation Combine high-speed action with scenic views on a multi-activity adventure built for families and couples.
Free Cancellation Explore jungle trails and river crossings by ATV with views of Arenal Volcano and a swim in the Arenal River.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Arenal Volcano — from practical tips to personal highlights.
An ATV tour around Arenal Volcano is an exhilarating way to explore the region's lush tropical landscapes and rugged terrain. You will navigate private jungle trails, splash through muddy wetlands, and stop at scenic clearings for breathtaking, unobstructed views of Costa Rica's most iconic conical peak.
Leave the paved roads behind as you navigate dirt paths, deep mud puddles, and dense rainforest canopies on private farms.
Stop at designated viewpoints to take in the majestic, 5,479-foot symmetrical peak of Arenal Volcano towering over the landscape.
Splash your way through shallow streams and wetland areas, adding an extra layer of adrenaline to your off-road adventure.
While the engines are loud, stops along the trail often yield sightings of howler monkeys, sloths, and vibrant tropical birds.
Some tours include a stop at a local river where you can apply mineral-rich volcanic mud directly to your skin for a natural spa treatment.
Upgrade your experience with a combo tour that ends with a relaxing soak in natural, volcanically heated thermal pools.
Booking an ATV tour in La Fortuna requires a bit of planning, especially regarding driving requirements, weather expectations, and choosing the right combo package for your group.
A valid driver's license is strictly required to operate an ATV. Most operators accept a physical license or a clear photo of it along with your passport. Drivers with only a permit must share a vehicle with a fully licensed adult.
The minimum age to drive is typically 14 years old, while children as young as 5 can ride safely as passengers. Be aware that most ATVs have a strict maximum weight limit of 330 lbs (150 kg) per vehicle, which may require heavier couples to book separate ATVs.
You can choose from standard 2-to-3-hour group rides, private tours tailored to your skill level, or full-day combo adventures that pair the ATV ride with white water rafting or hot springs access.
Closed-toe shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) are absolutely mandatory for safety. Wear lightweight clothing that you do not mind getting completely soaked and covered in mud, and bring a change of clothes for afterward.
Tours run rain or shine. In fact, regular tropical rain makes the muddy trails even more fun! However, in the event of severe thunderstorms, operators will typically wait up to 30 minutes before modifying or rescheduling the ride.
Due to the bumpy and rugged nature of the trails, ATV tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers, or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.
Most tours include free round-trip transportation from hotels in downtown La Fortuna or within a 3km radius. If you are staying at resorts further out (like Arenal Observatory or The Springs), an extra transportation fee will apply.
Standard group ATV tours usually offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure. However, some private or highly customized combo tours may have strict all-sales-are-final policies.
| Standard ATV Jungle Ride | Private ATV & Hot Springs | White Water Rafting & ATV Combo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 to 3 hours | 4 hours | 7 hours |
| Best For | Families and beginners wanting a quick, muddy thrill | Couples and riders wanting a tailored pace and post-ride relaxation | Adrenaline junkies looking for a full-day multi-sport adventure |
| Included Extras | Helmets, water, safety briefing | Hot springs entrance, customized route | Lunch, snacks, rafting gear, transport |
| Price From | $95 - $119 | $160 | $167 |
While ATV tours operate at various scheduled times (typically morning and afternoon slots), the Arenal Volcano National Park has strict operating hours if you plan to visit before or after your ride:
It is highly recommended to book morning ATV tours to take advantage of clearer skies, as clouds tend to roll in around the volcano peak by the afternoon.
La Fortuna serves as the basecamp for Arenal Volcano activities, located about 140 km (87 miles) from San José (SJO Airport).
For your ATV tour, operators typically provide free hotel pick-up within a 3km radius of downtown La Fortuna.
The dry season (December to April) is widely considered the best time to visit Arenal. During these months, you have the highest chance of enjoying clear, unobstructed views of the volcano's 5,479-foot peak.
The rainy season (May to November) brings heavy afternoon downpours, particularly in September and October. While the clouds may obscure the volcano, the rain actually enhances the ATV experience by turning the jungle trails into a muddy, splash-filled playground.
ATV Tours: Due to the physical demands of off-roading, ATV tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with spinal injuries, or individuals with poor cardiovascular health. However, infants and small children can often wait at the base camps in strollers, and kids 5+ can ride as passengers.
National Park: If visiting the park, the Peninsula Sector offers a fully wheelchair-accessible, 1-mile paved concrete trail with excellent views of Lake Arenal. The main Volcano Sector trails (like Las Coladas) feature rugged lava rocks and are not wheelchair friendly.
ATV tour base camps in La Fortuna are well-equipped for visitors. Most operators provide:
If you book a combo tour with hot springs, you will have access to luxury resort facilities, including landscaped thermal pools, showers, and towel service.
ATV Rules: A valid driver's license is required to drive. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Drivers must adhere to the guide's instructions and stay on the designated private trails to protect the local environment.
National Park Rules: If you visit the park independently, remember that entering the restricted high-risk zones near the active crater is strictly illegal due to lethal volcanic gases. Drones are completely prohibited inside all Costa Rican national parks, as are pets and single-use plastics.
Yes, a valid driver's license is strictly required to operate an ATV. Most tour operators will accept a physical license or a clear photograph of your license alongside your passport.
Yes, ATV tours are very family-friendly. Children as young as 5 years old can ride as passengers with a licensed adult. The minimum age to drive your own ATV is typically 14 years old, depending on the specific tour operator.
No, motorized vehicles are not allowed on the national park trails. The ATV tours operate on private farms, back roads, and dense jungle trails that surround the volcano, still offering spectacular views of the peak.
Tours run rain or shine! In fact, rain is welcomed as it creates the best muddy conditions for off-roading. Tours are only delayed or modified if there is a severe thunderstorm with lightning.
Yes, most operators enforce a strict maximum weight limit of 330 lbs (150 kg) per ATV. If two passengers exceed this combined weight, they will not be allowed to ride double and must rent separate vehicles.
You must wear closed-toe shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) for safety. It is highly recommended to wear lightweight clothes that you don't mind getting stained with mud, and to bring a change of clothes for afterward.
While the ATV trails offer amazing views of the volcano and surrounding jungle, you cannot ride ATVs directly onto the historic lava fields. To walk on the 1968 lava flows, you need to hike the specific trails inside the national park or the Arenal 1968 reserve.
Hot springs are only included if you specifically book an 'ATV and Hot Springs Combo' tour. Standard ATV tours just cover the ride, but you can easily visit local resorts like Tabacon or Baldi on your own afterward.
No, hiking to the summit of Arenal Volcano is strictly prohibited and highly illegal. The upper slopes are a high-risk zone due to toxic volcanic gases, unstable terrain, and the potential for sudden landslides.
Most ATV tours include free pick-up and drop-off from hotels located in downtown La Fortuna or within a 3km radius. If your hotel is further out, such as Arenal Observatory, an extra transportation fee will apply.
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This ATV tour operates almost entirely on private property, utilizing back roads and jungle trails maintained specifically for this experience. By avoiding public roads, the route offers a more secluded ride through dense vegetation and wetlands, providing frequent opportunities to spot native wildlife away from the crowds. As you navigate the terrain, the trail crosses several rivers and climbs to specific lookout points designed for photographing the Arenal Volcano. Throughout the trip, your guide provides context on the area's natural history and the local Maleku culture. 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 one-hour tour covers the rugged landscapes and historical landmarks of Vestmannaeyjar. You will visit Prestvik beach, the site of the Pelagus shipwreck, and see where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson reached the shore after swimming six kilometers through the freezing sea from the sunken Hellisey VE 503. The route also leads through the lava fields and directly into the crater of the Eldfell volcano before heading along the coastline. The ATVs are automatic and simple to operate, so no previous experience is required. Each vehicle seats two people. Drivers must have a valid driver's license, and all passengers must be at least six years old.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
This two-hour tour takes place at La Naciente, a private farm located a few minutes from downtown La Fortuna. After a safety briefing and a brief practice session to ensure everyone is comfortable, you will navigate a mix of muddy trails, small streams, and forest paths. The terrain features natural puddles and uneven ground throughout the rainforest. The route passes through the village of La Guaria, where you can see the local church and a traditional grocery store. Depending on the weather, the tour continues to the Arenal River for a break. This stop includes time for photos of the landscape and a snack of fresh seasonal fruit before heading back to the farm.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
These private ATV tours are tailored to your skill level, led by bilingual guides who adjust the route based on your experience. Families and beginners can stick to easier back roads, while seasoned riders can tackle more demanding technical trails. You will ride high-performance 500cc 4x4 vehicles featuring power steering, power brakes, and automatic transmissions for a more controlled experience than typical tour-grade machines. The tour concludes at a set of rustic, natural hot springs tucked away in the rainforest. These are quiet, uncrowded alternatives to the commercial springs found in La Fortuna, providing a simple and clean environment to relax after the ride. Each tour is priced for one operator per vehicle, with an additional fee for adults or children riding as passengers.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish
This ATV tour takes you through the dense jungle surrounding the Arenal Volcano. The route is designed for both adults and children, focusing on the local landscape and the diverse wildlife found in the area. You will navigate various terrains while surrounded by tropical vegetation. The itinerary includes stops at the Arenal River and elevated viewpoints on the hills for clear sights of the volcano. You will also visit the Maleku Village to learn about indigenous culture and pass through the Arenal Volcano Ecological Park. The trip combines off-road driving with opportunities to observe the region’s native flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This combo tour transitions through several different types of terrain using a range of specialized outdoor equipment. Participants can expect a fast-paced itinerary that emphasizes hands-on operation of the gear while moving through the local environment. The route covers a wide array of natural landscapes, offering a mix of technical challenges and open views. Because the activities are scaled for different skill levels, the experience is accessible for both families traveling with children and couples looking for a shared outdoor excursion.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This ATV tour begins with a safety briefing and a practice session on a warm-up track. Once you are comfortable with the controls, you will follow your guide into the jungle to navigate muddy paths and river crossings. As the trail climbs closer to Arenal Volcano, the group stops at a viewpoint overlooking the La Fortuna mountain ranges while the guide shares information about the local ecosystem. The route continues through the backcountry to the Arenal River. Here, you can take a break to have a drink and swim in the water, weather permitting. After the break, you will ride back through the forest trails to the entrance. All tours are fully insured, and the minimum age to operate an ATV is 16.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish