Family-Friendly ATV Tours in Costa Rica: Safe and Exciting Adventures for All Ages

Planning a vacation to Costa Rica with kids or a multigenerational group? Add a bit of adventure to your family trip with a family-friendly ATV tour! These guided excursions are not just for thrill-seeking adults—they’re designed with safety, fun, and education in mind, making them one of the best ways for families to explore the beauty of Costa Rica’s natural landscape.

Whether you’re cruising through tropical jungle trails, spotting wildlife in the mountains, or riding along scenic coastlines, ATV tours in Costa Rica offer a one-of-a-kind way to bond, explore, and make unforgettable memories.

Why Choose an ATV Tour for Your Family Vacation?

ATV tours offer a unique blend of excitement and access. With rugged terrain, hidden waterfalls, and jungle-covered hills across the country, Costa Rica’s geography is tailor-made for off-road adventures. Here’s why ATV tours are great for families:

  • ✅ Easy to learn – No experience necessary for beginners.

  • ✅ Safe equipment and instruction – Reputable tour companies provide helmets, safety briefings, and well-maintained vehicles.

  • ✅ Customizable routes – Choose short, scenic rides or half-day jungle adventures.

  • ✅ Guided and informative – Learn about local wildlife, plants, and culture along the way.

Most importantly, kids absolutely love it! For families traveling with children over the age of 5 or 6, ATV tours can turn an ordinary day into a highlight of the trip.

Best Places for Family-Friendly ATV Tours in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is full of amazing ATV destinations, but these areas stand out as particularly good for families:

🌴 Santa Teresa

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is known for its gorgeous beaches, lush jungle trails, and laid-back vibe. ATV rentals and tours are popular here because many attractions—like Playa Hermosa, Montezuma Waterfalls, and Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve—are best accessed by off-road paths.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Quiet jungle routes and beach roads

  • Family-friendly tour guides like Savannah X-treme Tours

  • Easy-to-moderate terrain for beginners

🌊 Jaco & Los Sueños

One of Costa Rica’s most accessible beach towns, Jaco offers a mix of nature, ocean views, and family-focused tour operators. Tours often include river crossings, canopy zipline combos, and ocean-view trails.

Top features:

  • Close to San José and the international airport

  • Add-ons like ziplining or waterfall hikes

  • Options for younger riders (passenger seats or side-by-sides)

🦥 Manuel Antonio / Quepos

This area combines ATV riding with wildlife viewing. Some tours take you deep into the rainforests where you may see monkeys, toucans, and sloths—all while navigating safe trails with expert guides.

Why it works for families:

  • Wildlife-rich jungle areas

  • Cultural stops at local farms or villages

  • Tours often include lunch and rest stops

What to Expect on a Family-Friendly ATV Tour

When you book with a reputable company, you can expect a smooth, fun experience that’s tailored to your group. Here’s what a typical ATV tour includes:

🛵 ATVs and Gear

You’ll get a well-maintained ATV (usually a Honda or Yamaha), helmets, and sometimes goggles. Many tours also offer two-person ATVs, so kids can ride as passengers with a parent.

📋 Safety Briefing

Before you hit the trail, the guide will show you how to use the ATV, go over safety rules, and do a quick test ride to make sure everyone’s comfortable.

🌄 Scenic Routes

Most tours take you through jungle paths, small rivers, and hills with ocean views. Stops may include:

  • Jungle waterfalls

  • Panoramic lookout points

  • Local villages

  • Fruit stands or sodas (small Costa Rican diners)

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Guides

Local guides love working with families and often go the extra mile to point out wildlife, take photos, and make kids feel like part of the adventure.

What Ages Are Allowed on ATV Tours in Costa Rica?

Rules vary slightly by operator, but here’s a general guideline:

  • Kids under 5: Usually not allowed on ATVs.

  • Ages 5–12: Can ride as a passenger with an adult on a double ATV or side-by-side UTV.

  • Ages 13+: May be allowed to drive their own ATV, depending on size and coordination. Parental consent is required.

If you’re traveling with young kids, ask about UTV (side-by-side) tours—these are like off-road golf carts and can fit the whole family comfortably.

Tips for Booking a Safe & Fun Family ATV Tour

To make the most of your experience, keep these tips in mind:

✅ Book with a reputable tour company

Look for strong reviews, good safety records, and properly licensed guides. Companies like Savannah X-treme Tours in Santa Teresa or Adventure Tours in Jaco are known for their family focus.

🧃 Pack water and snacks

Some tours include refreshments, but it’s smart to bring a small backpack with essentials, especially if you have kids.

👕 Dress appropriately

Wear closed-toe shoes, lightweight long sleeves, and sunglasses. You’ll likely get dusty, and sometimes muddy!

📸 Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera

Many ATV tours offer stunning photo opportunities—some guides even bring a camera and share the pics afterward.

Combine Your ATV Tour With Other Family Adventures

Want to make the day even more special? Many tour operators offer combo experiences, which are a hit with families:

  • ATV + Zipline

  • ATV + Waterfall Hike

  • ATV + Surf Lessons

  • ATV + Wildlife Sanctuary Visit

These packages often come at a discount and help you maximize your time in Costa Rica.

Final Thoughts: ATV Fun for the Whole Family

When it comes to adventure, Costa Rica delivers—and ATV tours are one of the most exciting, accessible, and memorable ways for families to explore its natural beauty. With family-friendly ATV tours across destinations like Santa Teresa, Jaco, and Manuel Antonio, there’s an experience for every skill level and age group.

So don’t leave the fun to the grown-ups. Buckle up, grab your helmets, and let your family ride into the heart of Costa Rica’s wild side—together.

Ready to Book Your Family ATV Adventure?

👉 Visit Savannah X-treme Tours for guided, family-friendly ATV tours in Santa Teresa.
📞 Safe, fun, and personalized service for kids and adults alike. Adventure awaits!