Revving Up for Adventure

The sun was just beginning to cast its golden glow over the horizon as my wife and I found ourselves in Playa Hermosa, ready to embark on an adventure that promised a different kind of thrill. As a professional surfer, I’m no stranger to adrenaline, but the idea of trading my surfboard for an ATV was a new kind of excitement. We were picked up in a comfortable van, complete with air conditioning—a welcome relief from the tropical heat—and whisked away to the base camp.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by our guide, Luis, whose enthusiasm was infectious. After a thorough safety briefing and a quick check of our licenses, we were fitted with helmets and given a chance to get acquainted with our ATVs. The anticipation was palpable as we revved the engines, ready to explore the dry forest canopy in a way that only an ATV could offer.

Into the Heart of the Forest

The trail was a thrilling mix of rugged terrain and serene beauty. We navigated through small streams, the cool water splashing up as we powered through, and the forest around us came alive with the sounds of nature. It wasn’t long before we spotted a troop of howler monkeys, their calls echoing through the trees. Luis was a wealth of knowledge, pointing out various flora and fauna, making the journey as educational as it was exhilarating.

Halfway through our adventure, we reached a small waterfall—a perfect spot to pause and take in the surroundings. The waterfall, though modest, was a refreshing sight, and the provided water was a thoughtful touch. As we rested, we couldn’t help but marvel at the white-faced monkeys that seemed to have made this place their playground. Their antics provided endless entertainment, and it was a joy to watch them up close.

The Ride Back and Reflections

The return journey was just as thrilling as the ride out. With the sun now high in the sky, the forest took on a different hue, and the ride back felt like a new adventure altogether. The ATVs handled the terrain with ease, and by the time we returned to the base camp, we were both exhilarated and a little reluctant for the ride to end.

Back at the camp, we took a moment to browse the souvenir shop, picking up a few mementos to remember the day by. The shuttle ride back to Playa Hermosa was a time to reflect on the adventure, and we both agreed that this was an experience worth repeating. The combination of adrenaline, nature, and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers made for a day that was as memorable as any perfect wave I’ve ever ridden.

For those looking to add a bit of land-based excitement to their Costa Rican adventure, I can’t recommend the ATV Tour enough. It’s a chance to see a different side of this beautiful country, and one that I would gladly do again.