La Fortuna: Arenal Volcano ATV Jungle Trail & Maleku Culture

Summary

Ride jungle trails by Arenal Volcano meet Maleku people and cross rivers

You’ll ride ATVs along muddy jungle trails by Arenal Volcano, splash through rivers, and pause for wild views over La Fortuna Valley. Meet Maleku locals who share stories and traditions—maybe even try a new word or two. Includes gear and water, so you can focus on getting dirty and soaking up every sound (and probably some rain).

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the grit of the trail under my gloves, that thick green smell after rain — you know how Costa Rica just smells alive? We met our guide near La Fortuna, helmets on, engines humming. He grinned and pointed out a sloth just hanging there above us, looking like it had nowhere else to be. The volcano was right there too, half-shrouded in mist. I tried to snap a photo but got mud on my lens instead. Worth it.

We took the ATVs off the main road almost immediately — not some boring loop but actual back trails through private land. It felt like we were sneaking into the jungle’s secret places (I guess we kind of were). There was this one river crossing where everyone hesitated for a second — water up to your boots if you hit it wrong. Our guide just laughed and waved us through. I swear my heart was pounding louder than the engine for a minute.

Later we stopped at this spot that our guide called sacred to the Maleku people. He told us stories about their ancestors and showed us some carvings — I didn’t expect to feel so quiet in that moment. The air smelled different there, almost sweet, maybe from all the wet leaves or something burning nearby. One of the Maleku men tried to teach me a word in their language; Li laughed when I butchered it but gave me a fist bump anyway.

I still think about that view back toward Arenal as we rode out — clouds rolling over its peak, everything washed in gold light for a second before another rain shower started up. My shoes were soaked but honestly I didn’t care. If you want an ATV tour with real jungle trails and time with locals near La Fortuna, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour through jungle and culture

• Drive ATV on private back roads
• Cross rivers and wetlands
• View and photograph Arenal Volcano
• Spot local wildlife
• Learn about history, nature, culture
• Visit sacred land of Maleku people

Top questions

Do I need a driver’s license for the Arenal ATV tour?

Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license or permit to drive an ATV on this tour.

Is this ATV tour family friendly?

Yes! Kids from 5 years old can join as passengers; it's suitable for most fitness levels.

Does the tour include meeting local people?

Yes, you’ll visit land sacred to the Maleku people and learn about their culture during the trip.

How much of the route is private trail?

Around 90% of the ATV route runs on private property maintained by Outback.

What should I bring for this day trip near La Fortuna?

Your driver’s license is required; wear clothes that can get muddy and shoes that can get wet.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an ATV with helmet, water to keep you going on those muddy stretches, plus guidance from locals who know every twist of these private jungle trails—just don’t forget your driver’s license before heading out.