Jaco: ATV Jungle Waterfall Tour with Two Swims & Pickup

Summary

Rainforest trails waterfalls and muddy laughter near Jaco

You’ll ride an ATV through Costa Rica’s rainforest trails near Jaco, splash in two wild waterfalls—including a jump at Pura Vida Falls—and catch glimpses of ocean from mountain lookouts. With a bilingual local guide leading the way and pickup included, expect mud, laughter, and moments you’ll want to replay long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the handlebars tighter than I’d admit, I followed our guide up into the hills behind Jaco. He waved us to slow down just as a blue morpho butterfly zipped across the trail—honestly, I almost missed it, too busy dodging puddles. The air smelled like wet earth and sweet leaves after last night’s rain. Our group was a mix of nervous laughs and those who’d clearly done this before (I was not in that second group). The ATVs rumbled under us as we climbed higher, mud splattering my shoes—should’ve worn older socks.

The first stop was Cascada del Zorro, this 35-foot waterfall tucked into green so thick you can’t see sky unless you look straight up. Our guide—Luis, who switched between Spanish and English like it was nothing—showed us where to stand for photos but mostly let us wander. Cold spray on my face felt good after the climb. There was this moment when everything got quiet except for the water pounding rock and some bird calling out from somewhere above. Didn’t expect to feel so small in a good way.

We kept going along the ridge, stopping at a lookout where you could see all the way down to Manuel Antonio’s beaches and even out toward Nicoya Peninsula if you squinted through the haze. Luis pointed out fishing boats far below; he said his cousin works one of them but “never likes to visit Jacó—too many tourists.” Made me laugh. Then we hit Pura Vida waterfall—the main event for most people on this day trip from Jaco—and yeah, some folks jumped off that rock ledge into the pool below (not me; maybe next time). The water was freezing but everyone cheered anyway.

The ride back skirted Carara Park’s edge—just flashes of green and sudden bursts of birdsong as we bounced down muddy tracks toward town again. My arms were sore by then but in that way that makes you grin every time you remember why. I still think about that view from the mirador sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour to two waterfalls

• Start tour behind Jacó mountains
• Ride to 35ft Cascada del Zorro waterfall
• Stop at mirador with ocean views
• Continue through rainforest to Pura Vida waterfall
• Optional jump into waterfall pool
• Ride loop near Carara National Park
• Return to Adventure Tours in Jaco

Top questions

How long is the ATV jungle waterfall tour from Jaco?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Are there swimming opportunities during the ATV tour?

Yes, there are two stops at waterfalls where you can swim or get wet.

Is hotel pickup included for this ATV tour?

Pickup service is available upon request in the Jaco area only.

Do I need prior ATV experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; guides will provide instructions before starting.

What should I bring for the day trip to Pura Vida waterfall?

Bring closed-toe shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, swimsuit, sunscreen, bug spray (optional), and a camera.

Is there an age requirement to drive an ATV?

You must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to drive an ATV.

Can children join this rainforest ATV adventure?

Children under 4 cannot ride; unlicensed participants or those under 16 must ride as passengers.

Does the tour operate in rainy weather?

Yes, it operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for changing conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip local transportation with pickup in Jaco if requested, all equipment rental fees for your ATV adventure, entrance fees to both waterfalls along the route—including Pura Vida Falls—a bilingual guide switching easily between Spanish and English throughout your ride, plus plenty of chances to swim or just soak up rainforest air before heading back into town together.