Kualoa Ranch ATV/UTV Review: Exploring Jurassic Valley

Looking for an adventurous ATV tour along stunning oceanfront trails with epic views? Get ready for an incredible ride through Jurassic Valley at Kualoa Ranch on Oahu’s spectacular eastern shore. This is one ATV tour you won’t want to miss!

Introduction

Nestled between towering mountains and the sparkling blue Pacific Ocean, Kualoa Ranch has a rich history dating back to 1850 when it was purchased by Dr. Gerrit P. Judd. Today, it is one of Hawaii’s most popular visitor destinations. And for good reason – this 4,000 acre ranch is home to ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites, quiet valleys, lush rainforests, and some of the island’s most picturesque landscape along Kaʻaʻawa Valley.

So how exactly can you experience the natural beauty and thrill of adventure at Kualoa Ranch?

There are several scenic ranch and ocean tours to choose from like horseback, bus, or helicopter. But if you’re seeking a more adventurous way to explore with the wind in your hair and adrenaline pumping, then an ATV or UTV tour is the way to go. Get ready to blaze your own trail through the famous Jurassic Valley at exhilarating speeds up to 25 mph while taking in gorgeous views of the nearby Mokoliʻi island and Pacific Ocean.

In this complete guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Jurassic Valley Adventure Tour at Kualoa Ranch including:

• Booking details like pricing and transportation
• What to expect on the ATV tour from start to finish
• Insider tips to maximize your experience
• Whether the tour is worth the splurge

Let’s hit the gas and dive right into all the rugged excitement this ATV adventure has to offer!

Booking Your ATV Tour

The Kualoa Ranch Jurassic Valley Adventure Tour operates daily with tours starting between 8:30am and 3:30pm. Each 2-hour tour can accommodate up to 15 guests and includes hotel transportation to and from Waikiki.

Pricing is set at a flat rate of $94 per person. Children must be at least 4 feet 7 inches tall to drive their own ATV or ride along with an adult. The ranch also offers private 2 or 4 hour tours ranging from $429 to $859 depending on group size.

You can easily book online through the Kualoa Ranch website or partners like Expedia and TripAdvisor. For large groups, it may be best to call ahead to the ranch. Keep in mind tours often sell out completely during peak seasons.

If you need transportation to Kualoa Ranch, a convenient roundtrip shuttle from Waikiki hotels is included when booking the ATV tour online or over the phone. The shuttle bus picks up at 7:45am in Waikiki and departs the ranch at 4:45pm after the last tour. You can also drive a rental car or take public transportation via TheBus route #55.

What to Expect on the Tour?

Ready to hop on a 4-wheeler and blaze through lush valleys? Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the exciting 2-hour Jurassic Valley Adventure Tour:

Safety Briefing and Gearing Up

Safety comes first before hopping on an ATV. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the Tour Center and watch a thorough safety video briefing you on operating your vehicle responsibly. Listen closely as guides will test your knowledge after!

Next up is gear distribution – each guest will be issued a helmet and goggles to wear throughout the tour. The ranch takes sanitizing gear very seriously between uses. Feel confident knowing your equipment is clean.

Choosing Your Vehicle

Now comes the exciting part – picking out your ride for the day! You’ll head down to the ATV storage area and can choose from:

• 2-seater ATVs – Most suited for couples and allows both drivers to enjoy the views
• 4-seater ATVs – Fun for families or small groups to ride together
• 2-seater UTVs – For those who prefer a more enclosed side-by-side

Both automatic and manual transmission vehicles are available. Instructors will ensure you’re comfortable operating the ATV you select. All are well maintained and in good working condition.

Stunning Scenery and Epic Trails

After everyone in your small group has their vehicle ready, you’ll follow the lead guide in a convoy leaving the ranch grounds. Buckle up for an exhilarating ride through the famous Jurassic Valley!

Some highlights along the way include:

• Winding along cliffside trails with panoramic ocean views
• Weaving through rainforest lined with towering bamboo groves
• Crossing bridges over crashing waterfalls and streams
• Off-roading over rocky terrain and muddy trails

The guides will stop several times for photo opportunities overlooking the valley and ocean. Be sure to pack a waterproof camera!

Film Location Highlights

In addition to jaw-dropping scenery, a major draw of the tour is seeing famous filming locations. As you pass through Jurassic Valley, guides will point out unique landscape features used in major Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic Park, Godzilla, 50 First Dates, and LOST.

Learning about Kualoa Ranch’s rich cinematic history dating back to the 1930s adds a special twist on top of the already incredible views. Fans of certain movies will get a kick out of seeing their iconic settings in person.

Insider Tips for the Best Experience

Follow these handy insider tips to ensure your ATV adventure is as thrilling and memorable as possible:

• Arrive early – Give yourself extra time in case the shuttle bus runs late from Waikiki
• Bring sun protection – Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must to avoid burns
• Dress accordingly – Wear clothes and closed toe shoes you don’t mind getting splashed with mud in
• Pack a waterproof camera – Capture photos of the epic valley views without worrying about damage
• Hold on tight! – The trail gets bumpy, so grip those handles to avoid getting tossed around

By planning ahead and coming prepared, you’ll be ready for the off-road ride of a lifetime through Jurassic Valley!

Is Jurassic Valley Worth It?

At nearly $100 a person, is experiencing Kualoa Ranch’s famous ATV tour worth the investment? Let’s weigh the pros and cons:

Pros

• Get your adrenaline pumping on a thrilling off-roading adventure unique to Oahu
• See gorgeous ocean views you can’t experience anywhere else on the island
• Learn about the valley’s Hollywood history and famous movie scenes shot here
• 2 hours provides ample time to soak up the sights after safety instructions

Cons

• One of the more expensive activities you can do on Oahu
• Early start times and long days may not appeal to everyone
• Potential to hit crowds during peak season

Compared to other Oahu ATV tours like Kahuku Training Area, Kualoa Ranch stands out for its iconic movie history and coastal views. For many, the splurge will absolutely be worth the lifetime memories exploring where blockbuster films were shot.

Overall, the Jurassic Valley Adventure Tour offers a truly exceptional experience you can’t get anywhere else on the island. Visitors looking for a heart-pounding excursion with epic valley panoramas will find this ATV-tour a thrilling highlight.

Conclusion

A ride through Jurassic Valley in a 4-wheeler is clearly one of the most exciting activities on Oahu. With incredible coastal views, lush rainforest trails, and access to an iconic movie filming location, this Kualoa Ranch ATV tour is bound to get your heart racing and create lifelong memories.

By booking in advance, arriving prepared, and following all safety instructions, you’re set up for an unforgettable adventure barreling through valleys, streams, and muddy trails. Hold on tight and let the skilled guides peel you away to paradise in a side-by-side or quad!

This one-of-a-kind opportunity to off-road and uncover new perspectives of Oahu’s natural beauty simply can’t be missed. Just be warned – once you cross through the gates of Jurassic Valley, you may never want to leave!