Guanacaste is the off-roading capital of Costa Rica, with rugged trails winding through dry tropical forests, cattle ranches, and hidden beaches. Most tours start in Tamarindo, Flamingo, or Playas del Coco and take you through winding backroads leading to “top of the world” ocean-view ridges, secret surf spots, and even waterfalls.

Must-Sees: Playa Conchal (with its seashell-covered beach), Diria National Park (for monkeys and iguanas), and secluded coastal lookouts.

Wildlife Bonus: Howler monkeys, iguanas, and coatimundis often line the trails.

Pro Tip: Time your ride for sunset—the golden glow over the Pacific from a mountaintop is unbeatable. Bring a bandana if you're traveling from December-May as dry season riding can kick up a lot of dust.

Plan Your Day: Start with an early surf lesson, then unwind with a beachside lunch in Tamarindo or Flamingo before catching an evening ATV tour for sunset.

Booking note: Guanacaste tours frequently advertise pick-up from major hotels; confirm vehicle condition and group size if you prefer smaller groups

If you want to combine jungle, mountains, and ocean views, Manuel Antonio’s ATV trails are hard to beat. These rides take you through thick rainforest paths, past waterfalls, and up to viewpoints overlooking the Pacific.

Must-Sees: Nauyaca Waterfalls, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Savegre River Valley.

Wildlife Bonus: You’re almost guaranteed to spot sloths, toucans, and squirrel monkeys along the way.

Pro Tip: Choose a tour that includes a waterfall swim—it’s the best way to cool off after a dusty ride.

Plan Your Day: Book a morning ATV tour, then spend the afternoon on Playa Biesanz or head into Quepos for fresh seafood tacos and a sunset cocktail.

Booking note: Many Manuel Antonio tours include lunch/snacks; drivers are often required to show a license

Want to ride an ATV with a volcano looming overhead? La Fortuna’s off-road trails let you do just that. The terrain varies from open farmlands to dense jungle, with plenty of mud to splash through if you time it right.

Must-Sees: The famous lava fields of Arenal, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Mistico Hanging Bridges.

Wildlife Bonus: Keep an eye out for toucans, sloths, and blue morpho butterflies.

Pro Tip: Go during the rainy season (May–November) for an extra-muddy, extra-fun ride.

Plan Your Day: Pair your ATV ride with a dip in the Tabacón or Ecotermales hot springs to soothe your muscles after all that adrenaline. Some tour operators even offer combo tours, so you don’t even have to think about the logistics.

Jaco is known for its party scene, but its backroads are just as wild. Here, you’ll ride through dense jungle trails, ford rivers, and stop at scenic waterfalls where you can take a refreshing swim.

Must-Sees: Bijagual Waterfall, Carara National Park, and the Tarcoles River (home to massive crocodiles).

Wildlife Bonus: Scarlet macaws flying overhead, white-faced capuchin monkeys swinging through the trees.

Pro Tip: Wear quick-dry clothing—you’re almost guaranteed to get wet on these trails. The sun is also very strong this close to the equator, so cover up and use sunscreen on these tours!

Plan Your Day: Combine your tour with a visit to Playa Hermosa for some of the best surfing in the country, or head to a beachside restaurant for a fresh seafood lunch.

Booking note: Jaco tours are family-friendly and often paired with zipline or horseback combos.