Costa Rica: Zip Line & 3hr ATV Waterfalls Combo Tour

Summary

Zip line treetops then muddy ATV trails to waterfalls near Jaco

You’ll start high in Costa Rica’s rainforest canopy on zip lines with ocean views before rumbling down muddy trails by ATV toward hidden waterfalls. Expect fresh fruit breaks, laughter with your local guide, and plenty of stories to take home — plus the chance for a classic casado lunch if you’re hungry after all that adventure.

What’s the experience like?

We hopped onto this rattling old tractor just outside Jaco — I could smell the wet leaves and that earthy scent you only get after rain. Our guide, José, grinned as we climbed higher up the mountain, pointing out a sloth (I almost missed it, honestly). The view from the top was wild — ocean on one side, green everywhere else. Strapping into the first zip line felt scarier than I expected. My palms were sweaty. But once I pushed off, it was just wind and this weird mix of fear and laughter echoing behind me. There’s something about flying over those treetops that makes you forget you’re even wearing a helmet.

After twelve platforms (I counted because my legs were shaking by number seven), we peeled off our harnesses and switched to ATVs. The helmets still smelled like last week’s rainstorm — not bad, just honest. José led us down these muddy tracks where puddles splashed up to my knees (bring extra clothes, trust me). We stopped at a river crossing where some local kids waved and tried to race us barefoot — they won. The waterfall wasn’t huge but felt cold enough to wake up every cell in my body when I dunked my head under. Someone handed out pineapple slices; they tasted sweeter than anything back home.

I kind of wish I’d tried ordering the “casado” plate for lunch at Vista Los Sueños — it looked like something you’d want after getting covered in mud all morning. Next time, maybe I’ll have more Spanish ready so I don’t just point at things on the menu. There’s a lot I didn’t expect from this day trip near Jaco Beach: how loud the birds are when you stop moving, or how good it feels to laugh with strangers while scraping mud off your shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zip Line and ATV Waterfall Adventure

• Take 15-minute tractor ride up
• Descend 12 platforms and 10 cables
• Start 3-hour ATV tour
• Explore trails, rivers, and ocean views
• Enjoy fruits and water provided

Top questions

How long is the ATV & Waterfalls tour?

The ATV & Waterfalls part lasts about 3 hours.

Is lunch included in this combo tour?

No, lunch isn’t included but you can buy a traditional “casado” meal at Vista Los Sueños after the tour.

Do I need experience to drive an ATV?

No experience needed, but drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a credit card for deposit or insurance.

What should I bring for the tour?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for zip lining; bring swimwear, towel, extra clothes for the ATV (you’ll get dirty).

Is there a weight limit for the zip line?

The maximum weight limit is 250 pounds (113 kg) for zip lining.

Are guides bilingual?

Yes, bilingual guides are included throughout both parts of the tour.

How far is this tour from Jaco Beach?

The starting point is only about 10 minutes from Jaco Beach and Los Sueños Resort.

Can children join this adventure?

The minimum age for zip lining is 4 years; minimum age to drive an ATV is 18 years.

What’s included

Your day includes two hours of guided zip lining through Costa Rica’s treetops with all safety equipment provided, plus bottled water and fresh fruit breaks along both tours. Afterward comes a three-hour ATV ride with waterfalls — all led by friendly bilingual guides using Honda Fourtrax or Kymco vehicles. Lunch is available separately at Vista Los Sueños if you’re hungry after adventuring.