Jungle & Maleku ATV Tour – Arenal Volcano Scenic Ride

The Jungle & Maleku ATV tour is a 2-hour scenic ride that connects rainforest, river and indigenous culture in one compact, family-friendly loop just outside La Fortuna. You start at the Outback Adventures base with a technique and safety briefing on automatic-transmission quads suitable for riders of any experience level, then head out along rainforest trails and mountain backroads that climb into the foothills of the Arenal Volcano. The route fords the Palma River — a fun, splashy crossing on shallow gravel bars — and reaches a respectful cultural stop at the Maleku Indigenous Village, one of Costa Rica's smallest surviving indigenous groups, where a community member introduces you to their language, medicinal plants and traditional crafts. From there you continue through secondary rainforest to El Congo Waterfall, a small hidden cascade tucked deep in the jungle that is not part of the standard tourist circuit. The pace is set for observation and scenery rather than speed, so there are natural chances of toucans, motmots, coatis and, in wetter months, sloths. Ages 5 and up are welcome as passengers; drivers require a valid license. Includes helmet, goggles, gloves and professional bilingual guide. Transport is not included — we quote it separately by hotel and zone. A private upgrade with flexible timing and dedicated guiding is available. Operated by Outback Adventures.