Costa Rica ATV Tour: Medium Waterfall Swim & Mountain Views

Summary

Ride ATVs past cattle fields to a jungle pool then mountain views

You’ll ride ATVs through real Costa Rican countryside, passing cattle fields and forest before reaching a hidden waterfall with a swimmable pool. After cooling off (or just relaxing), pause at El Tigre for local snacks and mountain views. Expect laughter, muddy boots, and moments that linger long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked up dust right away, engines humming as we left the edge of town and started weaving through Costa Rica’s countryside. I kept blinking at how quickly the scenery changed—one minute it was open fields with cows barely noticing us, then suddenly we were bouncing under thick trees, the air cooler and smelling a bit like wet earth. Our guide, Diego, waved us on whenever we slowed down to stare too long at something (I mean, there were these bright birds everywhere). He told us to keep close since some parts of the road got pretty loose with gravel. I almost lost my hat once—should’ve just left it behind.

The waterfall stop came after a short walk that felt longer because I was still buzzing from the ride. You could hear water before you saw it—a kind of hush mixed with birds and our own footsteps crunching leaves. The pool below was clearer than I expected, cold enough to make me gasp when I jumped in (Diego cheered from the rocks). Some folks just sat on the edge with their feet in, but honestly, that swim felt like hitting reset on my whole body. There was this moment where sunlight cut through the leaves and everything went quiet except for water splashing—still sticks with me.

On the way back we stopped at El Tigre for a snack—nothing fancy, but good coffee and fried plantains hit different after you’ve been riding all morning. The view up there is wild; you can see hills rolling out forever if the clouds cooperate. Local families were chatting over lunch and one little kid kept waving at us from his table. We took photos but mostly just sat around catching our breath before heading down again. If you’re looking for a day trip ATV tour in Costa Rica that doesn’t feel rushed or staged, this is probably it—even if you end up muddy like I did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV ride and waterfall visit

• Ride through mountain countryside
• Pass small villages and farms
• Travel on mixed gravel and paved roads
• Walk 5 minutes to waterfall
• Swim or relax at waterfall pool
• Stop at El Tigre Sightseeing
• Take pictures of panoramic views
• Visit local restaurant for snacks or drinks

Top questions

How long does the Costa Rica ATV waterfall tour last?

The tour lasts about 3 hours total, including riding time and stops.

Is swimming at the waterfall included in this ATV tour?

Yes, there’s time to swim or relax at the natural pool by the waterfall.

Are food or drinks included during the ATV day trip?

No meals are included, but you can buy snacks or drinks at El Tigre restaurant during a stop.

Do I need previous ATV experience for this Costa Rica tour?

No prior experience is needed; guides will explain how to operate the ATVs safely before starting.

What should I bring on this medium waterfall ATV tour?

Bring closed shoes, swimwear if you plan to swim, sunscreen, and a card or cash for snacks or drinks.

Is pickup included in this Costa Rica ATV adventure?

No hotel pickup is not mentioned; check your confirmation details for meeting point instructions.

Are children allowed on this ATV waterfall tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult during the entire tour.

What happens if we don’t reach the waterfall on time?

If group speed is too slow to meet timing, routes may change and reaching the waterfall isn’t guaranteed.

What’s included

This small-group adventure includes a local guide leading your ATV ride through rural roads and forest trails toward a jungle waterfall with time to swim or relax by its pool. You’ll also stop at El Tigre sightseeing spot where you can buy snacks or typical meals before returning—all under expert guidance for safety throughout.