La Fortuna: ATV Adventure with Arenal Volcano & River Swim

ATV ride through La Fortuna villages to Arenal River with volcano views

You’ll ride ATVs through La Fortuna’s backroads with a local guide, cross rivers (and maybe swim), meet villagers and try homemade snacks, all with Arenal Volcano looming nearby. Expect mud on your shoes, laughter with strangers, and real Costa Rican flavors along the way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour with river and volcano views

• Meet at private estate
• Get acquainted with ATVs
• Drive to La Guaria village
• Cross and swim in Arenal River
• Ascend to Alto de Monterrey viewpoint
• Enjoy views of Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
• Experience cultural interaction with animals
• Enjoy tic snacks

The Experience

I was already a little muddy by the time we reached La Guaria — not that I minded. The ATVs rattled over rocky paths and every so often a cow would just stare at us from the edge of a field, chewing slowly like we were the odd ones out. Our guide, Diego, waved to everyone (I think he knew half the town) and pointed out a cluster of bright red flowers I’d never seen before. He called them “güitite” — I probably spelled that wrong. The air smelled like wet earth and something sweet I couldn’t place.

Crossing the Arenal River was way more fun than I expected. The water was cold but not shocking — just enough to wake you up if you decide to hop in for a swim. Some of us did; others just sat on the rocks with our feet in. Diego handed out fresh pineapple slices while telling us how the river starts right at the volcano’s base. It’s wild to think about how close everything is here — volcano, river, farms, people’s homes all mixed together.

The climb up Monterrey was bumpy (my arms are still sore), but when we stopped at that viewpoint... well, it’s hard to describe without sounding dramatic. You see Arenal Volcano rising up out of nowhere, sometimes hiding behind clouds, sometimes clear as day. La Fortuna looked tiny from up there. Someone’s dog followed us for part of the way — no idea whose it was but it seemed happy enough just running alongside.

I liked that this wasn’t just about speeding around on ATVs; we actually met some local farmers and tried these little corn snacks they called “tics.” Not sure what went into them but they were salty and warm and perfect after all that dust. By the end, my shoes were soaked and my face hurt from grinning too much. I still think about that first splash into the river when I’m stuck in city traffic now.

Top questions

How long is the ATV adventure in La Fortuna?

The tour lasts about 2 hours from start to finish.

Can kids join this ATV tour near Arenal Volcano?

Children over 6 can ride as passengers with an adult; drivers must be at least 16 years old.

Do I need prior ATV experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; guides will show you how to use the ATVs before starting.

Is swimming in the Arenal River included?

Yes, there’s a stop at the river where you can swim or relax for about 15 minutes.

What should I wear for an ATV adventure in La Fortuna?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet; closed shoes are best.

Are snacks provided during this tour?

Yes, fresh pineapple and local “tic” snacks are included during breaks.

Is hotel pickup included for this ATV tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you start at a private estate near La Fortuna.

What safety gear is provided on this ATV tour?

You’ll get helmets and protective glasses before starting your ride.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an ATV with helmet and protective glasses, fresh pineapple slices and tic snacks during breaks, access to toilets at the base estate, plus plenty of time to swim in the Arenal River or chat with locals along the way before heading back muddy and happy.