Ride the Wild Side: Best ATV Trails Through Costa Rica’s Jungles

Costa Rica is a land of untamed beauty, where rainforest trails twist through ancient trees, rivers cut through the earth, and wildlife stares back from the shadows. For adventure seekers, few experiences match the thrill of riding an ATV trail through Costa Rica’s jungles.

Whether you’re powering through muddy forest paths, climbing to a jungle lookout, or cruising alongside tropical rivers, an ATV lets you go deeper into the wild, beyond where the roads end. And with dozens of world-class trails across the country, every region offers something unforgettable.

In this article, we’ll explore the top ATV jungle trails in Costa Rica, highlight what to expect on the ride, and show you how to book the perfect tour, especially with Savannah X‑treme Tours in Santa Teresa, one of the most trusted names in off-road adventure on the Nicoya Peninsula.

🌿 Why Costa Rica is Perfect for Jungle ATV Trails

Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity, with over 25% of the country protected as national parks or reserves. That means endless terrain for exploring on four wheels—dense jungle, mountainous terrain, hidden waterfalls, and wild river crossings.

What makes jungle ATV trails in Costa Rica so special?

  • Tropical landscape, unlike anywhere else

  • Opportunities to see monkeys, toucans, sloths, and more

  • Diverse trail types: rocky, muddy, steep, or scenic

  • Year-round access, with even more adventure during the green season

🏆 Top Jungle ATV Trails in Costa Rica

Here are some of the best places to ride ATV trails through Costa Rica’s jungles, including hidden gems and bucket-list destinations:

🌴 Santa Teresa Jungle Trails – Nicoya Peninsula

📍 Best operator: Savannah X‑treme Tours

Santa Teresa is known for its beaches, but what lies just inland is even more thrilling: miles of jungle ATV trails that cut through hills, dry tropical forest, and unpaved backroads that lead to secret beaches and waterfalls.

Top trail features:

  • Jungle paths to Montezuma Waterfalls

  • Trails to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

  • Steep hill climbs with ocean and canopy views

  • Wildlife like howler monkeys, coatis, and parrots

  • Less tourist traffic than major beach towns

With Savannah X‑treme Tours, you can choose from guided or self-guided jungle routes, and all ATVs are well-maintained Hondas built to handle the terrain.

🌄 La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano Trails

📍 Region: Northern Highlands

Home to Arenal Volcano and lush tropical rainforest, La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s premier adventure destinations. The jungle trails here often include volcanic views, river crossings, and deep rainforest ecosystems.

Highlights:

  • Trails near Arenal Volcano National Park

  • Pass through farms, forests, and lava rock areas

  • Combine with hot spring visits or waterfall hikes

🦥 Manuel Antonio / Quepos Rainforest Trails

📍 Region: Central Pacific

Known for its biodiversity, the Manuel Antonio area offers scenic jungle trails perfect for families and nature lovers. Most tours are guided and focus on wildlife viewing and light adventure.

Expect:

  • Shaded rainforest routes with frequent wildlife encounters

  • Stops at waterfalls and rural villages

  • Option to combine with cultural tours or local meals

🌊 Jaco & Herradura Backcountry Trails

📍 Region: Central Pacific Coast

This region offers exciting, moderately rugged jungle trails just minutes from the beach. Many tours include hilltop viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Trail features:

  • Forest trails with occasional steep climbs

  • Riverbeds and small waterfalls

  • Easy access for beginners and groups

🛵 What to Expect on a Jungle ATV Tour in Costa Rica

Every ATV jungle ride in Costa Rica offers a slightly different experience depending on location and weather, but here’s what most tours include:

✅ Equipment

  • Well-maintained ATVs (usually Honda or Yamaha)

  • Helmets and, sometimes, goggles or face coverings

  • Safety briefing and basic training

✅ Trail Conditions

  • Dirt, mud, rocks, and river crossings

  • Narrow single-tracks or wide ranch-style paths

  • Shaded jungle corridors and occasional canopy breaks

✅ Wildlife & Scenery

  • Howler monkeys, iguanas, butterflies, parrots

  • Jungle canopy views, rivers, and natural pools

  • Photo stops at lookouts or waterfalls

✅ Tour Options

  • Self-guided rentals with maps or GPX routes

  • Guided tours with bilingual local experts

  • Combo options: ATV + zipline, waterfall, or beach

🧭 Why Choose a Guided Jungle ATV Tour?

While experienced riders might enjoy renting an ATV and heading out solo, guided tours offer unique advantages, especially in jungle terrain:

  • Local guides know the safest, most scenic trails

  • Trail conditions can change—guides know which routes are best

  • Learn about local wildlife, plants, and culture

  • Stop at hidden spots most tourists never find

  • Get help quickly if weather or mechanical issues arise

At Savannah X‑treme Tours in Santa Teresa, guides are trained in safety and customer care, and they know the jungle like the back of their hand.

☔ Can You Ride Jungle Trails During Rainy Season?

Yes—and it’s actually more fun for many riders! Costa Rica’s green season (May to November) means:

  • Lusher jungle and stronger waterfalls

  • Fewer tourists on the trails

  • Cooler, more comfortable temperatures

Rain typically falls in the late afternoon, so tours and rentals are best in the morning or early afternoon. Just expect mud, puddles, and wild fun!

🎒 What to Bring on Your ATV Jungle Ride

  • Closed-toe shoes (preferably water-resistant)

  • Lightweight clothing you don’t mind getting dirty

  • Bug spray and sunscreen

  • Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

  • GoPro or waterproof phone case

  • Swimsuit and towel if stopping at waterfalls

Final Thoughts: The Jungle Is Calling

Riding an ATV trail through Costa Rica’s jungles is one of the most immersive, exciting, and unforgettable adventures you can have. It’s a chance to leave the pavement behind and discover the raw beauty of this country from behind the handlebars.

Whether you’re carving through the hills of Santa Teresa or exploring the rainforest near Arenal, Costa Rica’s trails are ready—and waiting—for your next ride.

Book Your Jungle Ride with Savannah X‑treme Tours Today

👉 Explore the best ATV jungle trails in Santa Teresa with Savannah X‑treme Tours.
📞 Safe, reliable rentals. Expert local guides. Unbeatable scenery. This is an off-road adventure done right.