ATV (quad) and UTV (side-by-side) are often booked interchangeably, but they're very different vehicles. Picking the right one for your group makes the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a frustrating week.
What they are
An ATV is a single-rider straddle vehicle — handlebars, throttle on the right, motorcycle-style seating. The Honda FourTrax is the workhorse we rent.
A UTV (utility task vehicle, also called a side-by-side) is a 2- to 6-person seated vehicle with a steering wheel, pedals, roll cage and seat belts. Polaris Ranger, Polaris RZR and Honda Pioneer are the dominant models.
Who each one is for
- Solo or two-rider adventure crowd, comfortable on a motorcycle: ATV.
- Couples or families who want to ride together: UTV.
- Groups of 4–6: UTV (Polaris Ranger 6-seater or Honda Pioneer 1000-5).
- First-time off-road drivers: UTV (steering wheel feels familiar).
- Sport-focused riders who want quick handling: ATV or sport UTV (RZR).
What they can do
Both are 4×4 and handle Guanacaste's dirt access roads, beach approaches, river crossings (in dry season) and inland trails. UTVs carry more (cargo bed, larger fuel range), ATVs are more agile in tight single-track.
Cost in Costa Rica
Daily ATV rental in Tamarindo runs roughly $90–$130/day; UTV from $200/day for smaller models up to $400+/day for the 6-seater Polaris Ranger XP. Multi-day discounts apply, insurance is included, and we deliver to your villa.
Recommendation by trip type
- Adventure couple or solo: 1–2 ATVs.
- Family with kids: UTV (Honda Pioneer 700 or 1000-5).
- Friend group of 6 doing trail rides and beach trips: Polaris Ranger XP 6-seater.
- Mixed group, mostly town driving: golf cart in town + 1 ATV for adventure days.
Where to ride in Guanacaste
Most popular routes from Tamarindo: south to Avellanas and Negra, inland to local viewpoints and waterfalls, and around the Hacienda Pinilla trail network. We brief every renter on routes, conditions and safety before you head out.
Pick the right ride for your Tamarindo trip.
200+ vehicles, delivered to your villa across Tamarindo, Hacienda Pinilla, Reserva Conchal, Playa Grande, Flamingo and Avellanas.
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