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Spend a long day rolling from San José to Jacó Beach, then up into volcanic coastal ridges on ATVs to two rainforest waterfalls. This combination tour pairs adrenaline on dirt trails with cooling swims and easy hotel facilities back on the shore.
Spend a long day rolling from San José to Jacó Beach, then up into volcanic coastal ridges on ATVs to two rainforest waterfalls. This combination tour pairs adrenaline on dirt trails with cooling swims and easy hotel facilities back on the shore.
Morning arrives on the Pacific coast as an air-conditioned minivan peels out of San José and the smell of baked coastal sand and wet earth follows. By the time you hit Jacó Beach the sun is bright, palm fronds clack in a steady breeze and the ATVs stand ready—mud-smeared, tires hungrily compacted for the trails ahead.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Destiny Travel Costa Rica · Jacó, Puntarenas
Morning arrives on the Pacific coast as an air-conditioned minivan peels out of San José and the smell of baked coastal sand and wet earth follows. By the time you hit Jacó Beach the sun is bright, palm fronds clack in a steady breeze and the ATVs stand ready—mud-smeared, tires hungrily compacted for the trails ahead.
The route winds into the coastal mountains carved from ancient volcanic activity: steep ridgelines, lateritic soils and dense primary rainforest that feeds a network of waterfalls. Jacó grew from a small fishing village into Costa Rica’s surf-and-adventure gateway; local guides blend that laid-back beach culture with a deep respect for the land.
On the two-hour ATV segment you climb roughly halfway to the mountain crest, cross creek beds daring you to pick a line, and arrive first at Cascada del Zorro, a 35-foot drop where the pool invites a cool reset. Higher still sits the Pura Vida jump and swim falls, a narrower 15-foot drop framed by heliconia and strangler figs. Birds call from the canopy; howler monkeys and toucans may mark your progress.
Practical notes: the full day runs about 11 hours door-to-door with hotel pickup from San José. Expect moderate physical exertion and basic ATV handling; drivers must be 16+ and all participants sign waivers. Bring closed-toe shoes, sun protection, swimwear and a light rain layer for the wet season. Stay on designated tracks, carry water and follow your bilingual guide’s instructions for a safe, high-reward day on Costa Rica’s Pacific edge.
moderate.
11 hours.
Moderate fitness — able to climb on/off ATVs, handle uneven terrain and tolerate heat for several hours
Yes — the tour includes air-conditioned hotel pickup and drop-off from San José as noted at booking.
Drivers must be at least 16 years old; children under 16 can ride as passengers with a licensed driver and life-safety gear will be provided.
No — the ATV segment is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to uneven terrain and the physical demands of the ride.
Bring swimwear, a towel, secure footwear and a waterproof phone case or dry bag for quick photos at the cascades.
Jacó transitioned from a small fishing town to a surf-and-adventure hub over recent decades, reshaping the coastline economy while keeping strong local traditions.
Operators emphasize “tread lightly” rules—stay on designated tracks, avoid disturbing wildlife, and use provided gear to minimize erosion and habitat impact.
Destiny Travel Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Morning arrives on the Pacific coast as an air-conditioned minivan peels out of San José and the smell of baked coastal sand and wet earth follows. By the time you hit Jacó Beach the sun is bright, palm fronds clack in a steady breeze and the ATVs stand ready—mud-smeared, tires hungrily compacted for the trails ahead.
Morning arrives on the Pacific coast as an air-conditioned minivan peels out of San José and the smell of baked coastal sand and wet earth follows. By the time you hit Jacó Beach the sun is bright, palm fronds clack in a steady breeze and the ATVs stand ready—mud-smeared, tires hungrily compacted for the trails ahead.
The route winds into the coastal mountains carved from ancient volcanic activity: steep ridgelines, lateritic soils and dense primary rainforest that feeds a network of waterfalls. Jacó grew from a small fishing village into Costa Rica’s surf-and-adventure gateway; local guides blend that laid-back beach culture with a deep respect for the land.
On the two-hour ATV segment you climb roughly halfway to the mountain crest, cross creek beds daring you to pick a line, and arrive first at Cascada del Zorro, a 35-foot drop where the pool invites a cool reset. Higher still sits the Pura Vida jump and swim falls, a narrower 15-foot drop framed by heliconia and strangler figs. Birds call from the canopy; howler monkeys and toucans may mark your progress.
Practical notes: the full day runs about 11 hours door-to-door with hotel pickup from San José. Expect moderate physical exertion and basic ATV handling; drivers must be 16+ and all participants sign waivers. Bring closed-toe shoes, sun protection, swimwear and a light rain layer for the wet season. Stay on designated tracks, carry water and follow your bilingual guide’s instructions for a safe, high-reward day on Costa Rica’s Pacific edge.