Ride to a hidden mountain pool on horseback, then switch to an ATV for two hours of jungle tracks, river fords, and ocean lookout points near Jaco Beach. Expect a mix of calm swimming and muddy adrenaline with bilingual guides and a required credit-card ATV deposit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You start on the low, humid slope above Jaco with the smell of wet earth and sea in the same inhale. Horses shift impatiently as guides fit helmets and cinch saddles; then the trail climbs through pasture and scrub, opening onto a thin ridge with an ocean view. The ride to the mountain top takes about 45 minutes — rhythmic hooves, farm fences, and a scatter of tropical birds — before a short hike down to a cool, natural swimming pool tucked behind a curtain of ferns.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate — comfortable mounting a horse, able to walk short uneven trails, and handle bumpy ATV rides.
Wildlife
History
Jaco evolved from a fishing and ranching community into a surf and adventure hub over recent decades; many trail routes cross family farms and former cacao plots.
Conservation
Stick to marked trails, avoid washing sunscreen in the pools, and follow guides’ instructions to minimize erosion and protect river health.
Reserve your spot on the ATV Adventure + Horseback Riding and Natural Swimming Pool today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a credit card
A Visa or Mastercard is required for the refundable ATV deposit; you can alternatively buy the company insurance on arrival.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sturdy sneakers or light hiking shoes protect your feet for riding, short hikes, and wet river crossings.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before the swim to protect local waterways and coral downstream.
Hydrate and pace yourself
The combination of heat, riding, and off-road driving means drink the provided bottled water and rest at shaded stops.
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet during mounting, rocky hikes, and river crossings.
Quick-dry clothing
Dries fast after swims and is comfortable in tropical humidity.
summer
Small dry bag or zip-top bag
Keeps phone, wallet, and camera dry during river fords and waterfall stops.
Sunscreen (reef-safe) and insect repellent
Protects skin from sun and tropical insects without harming waterways.
summer