St. Maarten: ATV Tour Dutch & French Sides with Guide

Summary

ATV ride across two nations coastal roads beach time iguanas

You’ll ride an ATV through Dutch & French St. Maarten with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Feed iguanas, try the “Jesus walk” in a quiet nature reserve, feel sea breeze on coastal roads, and bounce through a bit of off-road fun before heading back—still grinning under your helmet.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to cross from Dutch to French St. Maarten without even noticing—except maybe the road signs change? That’s how our day started, bouncing a little on the seat of my ATV, helmet slightly crooked (I never get those straps right). The air smelled salty and sweet, like sunscreen mixed with fried plantains from a food cart we passed early on. Our guide, Marcus, waved us over for the first stop—he knew everyone along the way, which made me feel less like a tourist and more like someone tagging along with a local friend who just happens to have a fleet of ATVs.

The loop took us past bright houses and sleepy iguanas sunning themselves near the roadside—one actually blinked at me when I tried to snap a photo. We fed them bits of fruit (Marcus called it “iguana breakfast”), and for some reason that tiny moment sticks with me more than any postcard view. There was this spot in the French Nature Reserve where we did something called the “Jesus walk”—it’s just a path really, but you’re surrounded by wild green and there’s this hush except for birds arguing overhead. I didn’t expect to feel so calm right there.

Most of the ride was smooth along main roads—you can see both turquoise water and hills in one glance—but then suddenly we hit this short off-road patch that rattled my teeth and made everyone laugh nervously (me included). It wasn’t long or scary, just enough dirt to make you feel alive, you know? We stopped for photos every so often—Marcus had opinions about which angles were best (“Trust me, put your back to the wind!”)—and I still think about that view over the coast where clouds moved so fast you could almost watch shadows race across the sand. The whole thing lasted maybe four hours but honestly it felt both longer and shorter at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided ATV tour of St Maarten highlights

• Join guided ATV tour
• Ride main roads and off-road
• Visit French Nature Reserve
• Experience Jesus walk
• Feed iguanas
• Enjoy coastal sightseeing
• Stop for beach time
• Take several photo stops

Top questions

How long does the St. Maarten ATV tour last?

The tour lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours total.

Is there any off-road driving on this ATV tour?

Yes, there is a brief portion of off-road riding during the loop.

Are helmets provided for the ATV tour?

Yes, helmets are included for all participants.

Do I need a driver’s license to drive an ATV?

Yes, anyone steering an ATV must show a valid driver's license.

What is the minimum age for drivers and passengers?

The minimum age for drivers is 18; passengers must be at least 6 years old.

Are there stops during the tour for photos or sightseeing?

Yes, there are several 15-20 minute stops at key highlights around St. Maarten.

Is lunch included in this ATV tour?

No lunch is included; only use of ATV, helmet, fuel, and guide are provided.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an ATV with helmet and fuel provided throughout your guided loop around Dutch & French St. Maarten—plus all those short stops for photos, feeding iguanas, and seeing local highlights before returning to your starting point.