La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most extraordinary regions to explore. Dense rainforest, open farmlands, river sections, and sweeping views of the Arenal Volcano create the perfect setting for an ATV tour. But once travelers decide to book, one question always comes up:
Should I choose a private ATV tour, or is a group tour enough?
Both options offer a memorable way to see La Fortuna. The difference lies in how you want to experience the landscape, the level of comfort you prefer, and how personalized you want your adventure to feel. Below, you’ll find a clear comparison designed to help you choose the right tour for your trip, along with insights into why many travelers ultimately prefer private experiences in this region.
Why Many Travelers Prefer Private ATV Tours in La Fortuna
A private tour is ideal for travelers who want more than a standard route. It offers flexibility, comfort, and a direct connection with your guide. With Outback, a private tour allows you to explore at your own pace, stop when something captures your attention, and enjoy the rainforest without following a regular tour.
Private tours are especially popular among:
- Couples who want a more intimate and relaxed experience
- Families with children or beginners who prefer a gentler pace
- Travelers celebrating a birthday, honeymoon
- Photographers and content creators looking for better angles and extra time
- Visitors who want to learn more about the area rather than rush through it
If your goal is to explore comfortably and take in the scenery, a private tour gives you the space and flexibility to enjoy every part of the ride.
Advantages of Standard Tours
Regular tours offer great value and a social atmosphere. They follow a structured route with a steady pace suitable for riders of different experience levels. This option is ideal for:
- Solo travelers
- Groups of friends
- Budget-conscious guests
- Travelers who enjoy meeting new people
Group tours cover classic viewpoints, river crossings, and accessible forest trails. They’re an excellent introduction to ATV riding in La Fortuna, especially for those who prefer a more energetic, shared experience.
Main Differences Explained
1. Customizable Route, Tour Style Options, and Flexible Pace
Private tours offer a level of personalization, but always within approved routes and conditions. When the weather, terrain, and safety standards allow, your guide can choose the most suitable version of the route for your group.
You can also choose the style of ride you prefer, without affecting route length or duration:
- Naturalism: More focus on scenery, observation, and learning.
- Exploration: A steady, balanced ride with programmed scenic stops.
- Adventure-Style: A more active feel along the approved trail, ideal for confident riders.
Beyond choosing the route variation and tour style, the pace is adjusted to what feels comfortable for your group, while staying within Outback’s established safety standards. Your guide can make controlled adjustments based on experience levels, ensuring the ride feels personal and comfortable without stepping outside our approved routes or protocols.
2. Cooler Included with Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Your private tour includes a cooler with drinks for your group. Beverages are provided to enjoy during designated, safe stopping points along the route.
3. Option to Bring Your Own Snacks or Drinks
Guests are welcome to bring additional drinks or snacks if they wish. These can be enjoyed during scheduled stops, always following the same safety guidelines applied throughout the tour.
Which Tour Should You Choose?
Choose a Private Tour if you want:
- A personalized pace
- Extra comfort for kids, beginners, or older adults
- More time for photos and observation
- A calm, curated experience
- A special outing with your partner or family
- A route adapted to your preferences when possible
Private tours offer the highest overall value for travelers who want a smooth, flexible, and memorable ride.
Choose a Group Tour if you want:
- A budget-friendly option
- A social atmosphere
- A classic, shared ATV experience
A steady pace suitable for all levels
Final Recommendation
If you’re visiting La Fortuna for the first time and want to enjoy the region’s landscapes without rushing, a private ATV tour gives you the best balance of comfort, safety, and meaningful exploration. It’s the ideal way to experience the rainforest, volcanic views, and river sections at a pace that feels natural and unhurried.
For travelers who enjoy meeting others and want a more social ride, a group tour offers excellent value and an energetic atmosphere.
Both tours deliver unforgettable views of La Fortuna. The difference lies in how personal you want the experience to be.
FAQ
Yes. If you want a customized experience, flexible pace, more photo opportunities, and personalized guide attention, private tours offer exceptional value.
Most tours last 2–3 hours. Some private tours allow extended or customizable durations.
No. Both private and group tours include beginner-friendly instructions and practice time.
Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt. Expect mud!
Private tours are considered safer for beginners because the guide focuses solely on your riding ability and comfort level.
Whether you prefer a more personalized experience or the shared energy of a group, every Outback tour reveals the best of La Fortuna. Private tours offer a comfortable, guided pace tailored to your group, while group tours deliver a fun, social ride. Both options let you enjoy rainforest trails, volcanic scenery, and pura vida at its finest, all with Outback’s trusted safety and reliability.
