Imagine speeding around a race track, in a convertible, with the wind whipping through your hair. What fun! OK — miniaturize that thought and think go-karts! It is a funny thing I have noticed — people of all ages love go-karts. I know I do. Ray always says it is odd, since I can drive and do at speeds much faster than a go-kart goes! But it is still one of those things that when I see it, I want to do! And of course kids love it because they get to drive! Luckily there are a couple places in Puerto Rico that offer go-karts for a reasonable price.

The go-karts are all similar — side-less, topless and easy-to-drive cars with bumpers (though you are not supposed to bump anyone). They have a gas pedal, a brake pedal and steering wheel — just like a real car — only smaller. These are not the all terrain go-karts, these are meant for soft fun. The tracks are asphalt closed loops of varying lengths. They don’t usually have helmets available because I guess they assume it is all pretty safe.

Puerto Rico East Go Karts

Hacienda Carabali in Luquillo is home to Puerto Rico East Go Karts. They start you all off in a group and you race around the track. Each "session" is about 9-10 laps around the track — it lasts maybe about 5 minutes. They have 1 and 2-person cars. You need to be at least 4′6" tall to drive alone. The minimum age to be a passenger in a double car is 3 years old.

• Price is $7/person or $14 for a double car with 2 people. There is no charge for family/friends that just want to watch.
• Hours are 11:00am to 5:30pm. Saturday, Sunday and holidays. They are open 7 days/week during the Summer and Christmas Season (mid-December to mid-January).
• Reservations are not required

Refer to our Hacienda Carabali Horseback Riding article for contact info and driving directions.

Viper Go Carts

Moisty Skate & Family Park in Caguas is home to Viper Go Carts. They offer single and double cars. Each turn is about 5 minutes — maybe about 10 laps around the course. You have to be a minimum 4′6" to drive (so that you can reach the pedals), but little ones (3 years and older) can be a passengers.

• Price is $6 for a single car and $9 for a double car with a rider. There is no charge for family/friends that just want to watch.
• Open 7 days a week in "summer" ( June through mid-August). Hours for the rest of the year are Friday to Sunday from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
• Reservations are not required

Refer to our Moisty Skate Park article for contact info and driving directions.

Fun Valley Park

Fun Valley Park in Arecibo is a small amusement park with rides for kids. One price gets you into the park with all rides included. They offer go-karts also and allow children as small as 3′10" inches to drive. They have 2 tracks " one for little kids, one for bigger kids and adults. Or the little kids can go as a passenger in a double car.