Northern Costa Rica’s vast territory is volcanic, verdant and teeming with wildlife. Seeing it all on a trip to the area can be difficult, but on an ATV or quad biking tour in La Fortuna, discover more territory in less time.

Let a guide lead you to sublime views, secret swimming holes and centuries-old settlements for a breathtaking and enlightening excursion.

Here's all you need to know about ATV Tours and Quad Biking, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in La Fortuna.

What are the best ATV and quad biking tours in La Fortuna?

Arenal Volcano ATV and quad biking tours

The highlight of La Fortuna looms 1,670 meters above the town. Arenal Volcano is a striking conical mound that last erupted in 2010. Its volcanic activity has sculpted the region’s rocky canyons, cliffs and the basin of Lake Arenal.

Explore the area safely on an ATV tour that takes place on private land around the park in order to protect the ecosystem. Many tours travel through trails on private working farms. As you soak in your tropical surroundings, learn about local crops. Pass by plantations of bananas, papayas, yucca and black peppercorns.

Tour providers have chosen trails that avail you of exquisite views of the peak and neighboring areas, as well as winding paths through the rainforest. Keep your eyes out for sloths and monkeys, and cool off with a dip in the Arenal River at the end of your outing.

For an unforgettable dose of culture, choose a tour that introduces you to the area’s Maleku community. Receive a warm welcome into a Maleku home to see how this culture has thrived in Costa Rica’s northern forests for centuries.

Private tours

Create a special day with the luxury of a private tour. Choose a partner or group to join you on an ATV and quad biking tour with a set or customizable itinerary. Enjoy the company of your favorite people while you speed through the tropical forest and learn about the region’s geology and biodiversity.

How much do ATV and quad biking tours in La Fortuna cost?

Arenal Volcano tours lasting 2 to 3 hours cost from US$70 per person for a two-person ATV and US$90 per person for a solo ride.

There are solo-ride Arenal tours that include a visit to Arenal River for a swim, costing US$120 per person. Almost all tours include pickup and drop-off from La Fortuna hotels, safety debriefing and gear, and all taxes and fees.

Private tours cost from US$100 per person for a two-person ATV to US$155 for a solo ATV ride. Most private tours include pickup and drop-off at accommodations in La Fortuna.

What is included?

ATV and quad biking tours in La Fortuna include a quick safety and operation lesson, use of a solo or shared vehicle, a helmet and a guide. Many tours also provide you with bottled water, as well protective boots and goggles. Some tours include a snack or lunch.

Where does it start?

The majority of ATV and quad biking tours provide pickup and drop-off at hotels in La Fortuna. Reach the trail in under 30 minutes by car from La Fortuna. Most tours include a visit to the Arenal Volcano area, which starts at a private farm outside the national park.

How long does it last?

Book an ATV or quad biking tour for as little as 2 hours or for a full day. Most tours last from 2 to 4 hours. Combo trips of ATVing and rafting or canyoning last 8 hours.

When is the best time for an ATV and quad biking tour in La Fortuna?

La Fortuna experiences the best weather from December through April. However, the area’s tropical climate can make an ATV experience here pleasant at most times of the year. Avoid an excursion during September and October, when the area gets the most rain.

Are there any combo available with ATV and quad biking tours in La Fortuna?

ATV tour plus rafting

Fill a day with fun on a morning ATV tour followed by an afternoon rafting adventure. Zoom along jungle trails through a canyon, past fruit plantations and waterfalls and to viewpoints to capture photos of the volcano.

After lunch, set out on the Balsa River for an adventure on class II and III rapids. Try to spy tapirs, toucans and ocelots as you paddle. An 8-hour tour includes door-to-door service, lunch and soft drinks as well as the use of towels. Guides make stops at great swimming spots and rocks that are ideal for jumping off into the water.

ATV tour plus hot springs

Arenal’s geothermal activity has gifted La Fortuna with idyllic hot springs. Make easy work of the rugged trail to the springs on an ATV. Set in the jungle, the hot springs consist of a series of rock pools that descend alongside a river. Hot springs tours start at La Finca Lodge, about 40 minutes outside of La Fortuna.

ATV tour plus canyoning

Enjoy the double thrill of speeding through a rainforest and rappelling down canyon walls and waterfalls. Take a dip in the Arenal River, fly through the jungle on a zip line and refuel with an included lunch.

ATV and zip line adventure

Speed through forested and prairie trails with expansive views of Arenal Volcano. At the end of a 28-kilometer trek, reach Arenal Canopy Adventure and Tarzan swing. Test your courage on zip lines as long as 600 meters from platforms as high as 90 meters. Recover with an included lunch.

Is it safe?

ATV and quad tours are safe, but should be avoided by pregnant travelers, as well as those suffering from back or heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Are children allowed?

Children are generally allowed on ATV and quad tours as passengers, but must be accompanied by an adult. Additionally, there may be age and height restrictions in place, so consult the tour operator before booking.

Do I need a driving license?

To operate an ATV or quad bike in Costa Rica, you need a motorcycle driver's license and bet at least 16 years old. Anyone visiting the country can ride an ATV with their regular driving license, provided it covers motorcycles up to 500cc.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If your ATV tour is cancelled due to poor weather, then it will be rescheduled for a later date. Should that not be convenient, you may request a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in La Fortuna?

Travel tips

Wear clothing that’s appropriate for an active day and that can get very dirty.
Bring swimwear, a towel and insect repellent.
Many tour providers require that you wear closed-toe shoes.
Bring a bottle of water if your tour does not offer it.

Quad Tours in La Fortuna