ATV Tours in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
Choose a guided ATV or 4-seat UTV ride from Jaco: 3 hours for countryside trails, 4 hours for Sutton Waterfall, or 5 hours for Sutton, Coyote and Jaguar. ATV prices start at $100 per driver. Round-trip pickup is included from Jaco, Herradura, Los Sueños and Playa Hermosa.
Compare the 3 ATV tours
Same trails, same guides, same machines. What changes is how many waterfalls you reach and how long you stay out.
Pick one and we will price it for your group right below.
3-Hour ATV Riding
$100per person, one ATV each
The classic backcountry ride. Cross rural villages and dirt trails to the iconic iron Tulín River bridge, for a viewpoint and photo stop. If group driving pace and time allow, ride up to the El Tigre lookout deck for mountain views and cold drinks before heading back. No waterfall stop, which is why it fits easily in a morning.
- Duration3 hours
- WaterfallsNone
- Swim stopNo
- UTV for up to 4$230
Best for: Half a morning, or a first taste of the backcountry trails
Choose the 3-hour ride4-Hour ATV Adventure
$120per person, one ATV each
The sweet spot for most riders. Everything on the 3-hour route plus an hour inside a private rainforest reserve with exclusive access. Stop at the iron Tulín River bridge, ride to Sutton Falls to swim in natural pools and sit under the cascade for a soothing back massage, and relax on the high deck at El Tigre for homemade food while supporting local reforestation.
- Duration4 hours
- Waterfalls1
- Swim stop✓
- UTV for up to 4$290
Best for: Most riders: the ride plus one private waterfall swim
Choose the 4-hour ride5-Hour Best ATV Tour
$130per person, one ATV each
The complete backcountry expedition. Ride across the countryside to the Tulín River bridge, then enter an exclusive private rainforest property with three distinct waterfalls: Sutton (park your ATV right at the base), Coyote (lush greenery, deep swimming pool and muscle massage falls), and Jaguar (the tallest and most awe-inspiring). Finish with panoramic views at El Tigre, where meals and drinks are available to buy separately.
- Duration5 hours
- Waterfalls3
- Swim stop✓
- UTV for up to 4$340
Best for: A full adventure day, visiting three different private waterfalls
Choose the 5-hour rideSee the full comparison table
| 3-Hour ATV Riding | 4-Hour ATV Adventure | 5-Hour Best ATV Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price per person (own ATV) | $100 | $120 | $130 |
| Second rider on the same ATV | + $30 | + $30 | + $30 |
| UTV up to 4 people | $230 | $290 | $340 |
| Duration | 3 hours | 4 hours | 5 hours |
| Waterfalls | None | 1 | 3 |
| Swim stop | No | Yes | Yes |
| Stops | Tulín River Iron Bridge · El Tigre Lookout Point (pace permitting) | Tulín River Iron Bridge · Sutton Waterfall (private reserve) · El Tigre Lookout & Deck | Tulín River Iron Bridge · Three Private Waterfalls (Sutton, Coyote, Jaguar) · El Tigre Lookout & Deck |
| Pickup where you stay | Included | Included | Included |
| Bilingual guide | Included | Included | Included |
| Best for | Half a morning, or a first taste of the backcountry trails | Most riders: the ride plus one private waterfall swim | A full adventure day, visiting three different private waterfalls |
Plan your ride quickly and effortlessly
Pick your tour, then tell us who rides how. You get the real total, not a “from” price, before you talk to anyone.
Count people, not machines: mix them any way you like.
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What's included
Included
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel, condo or vacation rental in Jacó, Hermosa, and Herradura
- Bilingual guide (English and Spanish) + extra safety guides for larger groups
- ATV or UTV, helmet and safety equipment
- Comprehensive safety briefing and practice loop before departure
- Exclusive private access to the waterfall property
- All taxes
Not included
- Food and drinks at El Tigre Restaurant
- Guide tips
- Professional photo packages
- Refundable damage hold: $500 for groups of 1–4, $1,000 for groups of 5+
What the ride actually looks like
Stop by stop, from your door and back to it.
We pick you up
An air-conditioned van collects you from your hotel, condo or vacation rental in Jacó, Herradura, Los Sueños or Playa Hermosa.
Safety briefing and machines
You meet the ATVs, get your helmet, and ride a short practice loop before leaving. Automatic transmission: if you can ride a bicycle, you can ride these.
Tulín River bridge
Ride dirt roads through rural towns and along the riverbanks to the Tulín River iron bridge for a photo stop. In the dry season the trails get dusty and fast; in the green season expect muddy puddles and a lot of splashing. ATVs stay out of the river.
The waterfalls
4-hour, 5-hour onlyOn the 4-hour ride, swim at Sutton Falls. On the 5-hour ride, explore three private falls: Sutton, Coyote, and Jaguar. Swim in natural pools, sit under the cascades for a soothing massage, or relax on the river rocks.
El Tigre lookout
A private deck high over the valley with panoramic mountain and ocean views. Enjoy cold drinks, homemade Costa Rican food, and know that your visit directly supports a local reforestation and wildlife conservation project.
Back to your door
Same van, same address. Muddy, and with a phone full of photos you will not be able to explain to anyone at home.
Three private waterfalls, one ride
The 4-hour tour visits Sutton; the 5-hour tour adds Coyote and Jaguar. The 3-hour countryside ride has no waterfall stop. All three waterfalls sit inside a private rainforest farm. For the route and packing details, read our Jaco ATV waterfall tour guide.
Sutton Waterfall
Park your ATV right at the base and dive straight into the natural swimming pool.
Coyote Waterfall
Vibrant jungle all around, a large pool for swimming and a natural massage cascade for your back.
Jaguar Waterfall
The tallest and most awe-inspiring of the three. Swim, jump, relax and explore.
The trails, the falls, the group
1,000+ riders and counting
Not everyone leaves a review, but here are a few of the ones who did.
We did the 4-hour tour and it was absolutely incredible! From the scenic Tulin River to the breathtaking views at El Tigre Sightseeing, every stop was memorable. The guide was professional and made sure we were safe and having fun. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Jaco!
We chose the 5-hour tour, and it exceeded our expectations. From the panoramic views at El Tigre to the adventure of splashing into the pools at Sutton’s Waterfall, every moment was worth it. Can't wait to come back and try another tour!
Booking through JacoTourDesk.com was so easy. The team was responsive and helpful. We felt well-prepared with the safety instructions before heading out on the 3-hour tour. Every stop was well-timed, and the whole experience felt seamless.
The Jaguar Waterfalls on the 5-hour tour were simply stunning. Riding through rural areas and rainforest trails was an experience like no other. This tour lets you see a side of Jaco that most tourists miss.
We rented a Side-by-Side for our group of five and joined the 4-hour tour. It was so much fun navigating the trails together. The guide was knowledgeable and patient, and we appreciated the option to enjoy the adventure as a family.
The 3-hour tour was the perfect introduction to the countryside. We loved riding along the dirt roads, taking pictures at the Tulin River, and learning about the reforestation project at El Tigre. It's a must-do for adventure lovers!
Before you book
Requirements
- Drivers must be at least 18 with a valid driver's licence. US, Canada, UK, EU and Latin American licences are all accepted in Costa Rica.
- Teens 16+ with a valid driver's licence may drive if an adult is present on the tour.
- Youths 12 to 16 may ride as passengers with an adult, or drive their own ATV if highly experienced (mandatory test drive required before departure).
- For children under 12, a 4-seater Side-by-Side (UTV) is strongly recommended for enhanced stability and family comfort.
- Group formation: slower and more cautious drivers are placed near the front to set a safe pace, and extra guides are assigned for larger or mixed groups.
- Not recommended if you are pregnant, have back problems, or a heart condition.
- Arriving before your ride? Book private transportation from SJO airport to your hotel or vacation rental in Jaco.
What to bring
- Valid driver's licence (for anyone driving)
- One credit card per group for the refundable security hold ($500 or $1,000)
- Closed running shoes or sneakers (no sandals or flip flops)
- Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting muddy or dusty
- Swimsuit and towel (for the waterfall stops on 4h and 5h rides)
- Ziploc bag or waterproof case for your phone and camera
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Cash or card for homemade meals, drinks at El Tigre, and guide tips
The tour runs in the rain
Costa Rica's green season is part of the adventure and the trails are even more fun wet! Waterfalls are at peak flow, while the dry season brings dusty trails and lighter waterfall flow. If extreme weather or trail conditions require adjustments, our guides adapt the route to guarantee safety while ensuring you get your full booked riding time. We only cancel for electrical storms or torrential conditions (another date or full refund).
ATV rental in Jaco vs. a guided ride
We don't rent ATVs. Every ride we run is guided, into the mountains and waterfalls behind Jaco Beach.
That is not a sales line. It is where the two things actually differ. A rental is a machine and a set of keys. What we sell is access to riverbank trails, three private waterfalls and a mountain lookout that are not on any public route. Here is the honest version of when each one is the right call.
Rent one if…
- You want to get around Jaco town and Playa Hermosa on public roads, on your own schedule.
- You want the machine for a couple of days, not for a few hours.
- You would rather go at your own pace than ride with a group.
- You already know the area and just need wheels.
A rental will not get you…
- Private riverbank trails and farms. These routes require a guide and permission from the landowners.
- To the private waterfalls. Sutton, Coyote and Jaguar sit inside a private rainforest farm. Access goes through exclusive landowner agreement, and it goes with a guide.
- Up to the El Tigre lookout. The trail is not signposted and it is not on a map.
- Out of trouble. If a machine breaks two hours into the mountain, that is on you. On our rides there is a support vehicle and a spare.
- Away from surprise damage bills. Most rental shops in Jaco hold a big deposit and charge for every scratch.
| Renting on your own | Our guided ride | |
|---|---|---|
| The machine | Yours for the rental period | Included in the price |
| Where you can ride | Public roads only. Riding on the beach is now illegal in Jaco and Costa Rica | Mountain and riverbank trails, private farms, private waterfalls |
| Private waterfall access | No access to private waterfalls | Countryside and riverbank trails on every ride · private waterfalls on the 4 and 5-hour |
| Guide | None | Bilingual, riding front and back of the group |
| If a machine breaks | Your problem | Support vehicle and a spare machine |
| Damage charges | Large deposit and a bill for every scratch | Refundable hold on one card, released after the ride |
| Getting there | Your own transport | Pickup and return included, wherever you're staying |
| Best for | Getting around town | Mountain and riverbank trails, private waterfalls |
We do not book ATV rentals. If you only need wheels around town, a rental shop can do that, just read the damage terms twice. If you want the riverbank trails, the mountain and the waterfalls, that is the whole reason our ATV tours exist, and the machine is included either way.
Make it a bigger day
Frequently asked questions
Everything riders ask us before they book.
How much does an ATV tour in Jaco cost in total for my group?
On an ATV you pay per driver ($100, $120 or $130 depending on the tour), plus $30 for a second person riding behind. A UTV is a flat price for up to four people: $230, $290 or $340. Use the calculator at the top of this page to see your total before you write to us.
Can I rent an ATV in Jaco without a guide?
We don't rent ATVs. Every ride we run is guided. If you want to cruise around Jaco town, a rental shop is the right call and we'll point you to one. If you want the Tulín River bridge, the El Tigre lookout and the private waterfalls, those need a guide and a landowner agreement, and the machine is included in the tour price anyway.
How do I book an ATV tour?
Pick your tour on this page, then message us on WhatsApp or send the form at the bottom. We confirm availability the same day and take payment when we pick you up.
Do I need a driver's licence?
Yes, to drive. US, Canada, UK, EU and Latin American licences are all accepted in Costa Rica. Passengers riding behind the driver do not need one.
What is the minimum age to drive or ride?
Drivers must be at least 18 with a valid driver's licence. Teens 16 and 17 with a valid licence can drive if an adult is present on the tour. Ages 12 to 16 may ride as passengers with an adult, or drive if highly experienced (a test drive is required before departure). Children under 12 must ride in a 4-seater Side-by-Side (UTV) for enhanced safety.
Do you pick up from Los Sueños and Herradura?
Yes. Jacó, Herradura, Los Sueños and Playa Hermosa are all included at no extra cost, whether you're in a hotel, a condo or a vacation rental. Anywhere else, ask us and we will quote it.
What happens if it rains?
The tour runs in the rain. Costa Rica's green season is part of the fun: waterfalls are at peak volume and the muddy trails are unbeatable. If heavy rain or trail conditions require adjustments, our guides modify the route for safety while always guaranteeing your full booked riding time.
What is the difference between rainy season and dry season?
In the green season (May to November), expect muddy jungle trails, puddles and plenty of splashing, with waterfalls at peak flow. In the dry season (December to April), the trails get dusty and fast and waterfall flow is lighter. ATVs ride along the riverbanks, never inside the river.
Which waterfalls do we visit on the tour?
On the 4-hour tour, you visit Sutton Waterfall inside an exclusive private rainforest property, swimming in the natural pool and relaxing under the cascade. On the 5-hour tour, you visit three private waterfalls: Sutton (park right at the base and dive in), Coyote (jungle pool with natural massage falls), and Jaguar (the tallest and most awe-inspiring fall in the reserve).
What should I bring?
Valid driver's licence, one credit card per group for the refundable damage hold, closed running shoes or sneakers, clothes you don't mind getting dirty, swimsuit and towel for the waterfalls, sunscreen, and a Ziploc bag or waterproof pouch for your phone.
Is food included?
No. There is a stop at a local bar along the route and a restaurant at El Tigre where you can buy a meal, snacks and drinks. Purchases at El Tigre directly support local reforestation and wildlife conservation efforts.
What is a UTV and when does it make sense?
A UTV (also called a side-by-side) seats up to four people with a roll cage and seatbelts. It is the better choice for families with children under 12, for anyone who would rather not drive, and for groups of three or four, where the flat price usually comes out cheaper than four separate ATVs.
Which tour is best for families?
The 4-hour ride in a UTV. It includes the Sutton Waterfall swim, everyone sits together safely, and four hours is the sweet spot for kids.
Is it hard to drive? What if someone in our group is a beginner or slower?
The ATVs are automatic: throttle and brake, no gears. Before leaving you receive a safety briefing and a practice loop. On the trail, slower drivers are positioned near the front behind the lead guide so everyone stays together comfortably, and extra guides are assigned for larger groups.
Do you offer minibike racing or expert technical off-road rides?
Yes! We offer access to a private Minibike track featuring Honda CRF 110cc 4-stroke bikes (1 practice lap + two 15-minute timed sessions). For advanced or professional riders looking for aggressive technical enduro trails, contact us for a private custom Off-Road tour quote.
Do you take large groups?
Yes. Groups of five or more need a $1,000 refundable hold instead of $500, and we usually mix ATVs and UTVs. Tell us the size of your group and we will put the combination together.
What other tours do you run?
There is also an ATV and zipline combo, canyoning and waterfall rappelling, and catamaran party boat charters to Tortuga Island.
Ready to ride?
Tell us the date and how many of you there are. We answer the same day.
Free round-trip transportation from