Exploring the ATV Forestal Special Tour Near Mexico City

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush combined with stunning views just outside Mexico City’s busy streets, the ATV Forestal Special might be right up your alley. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, it’s highly recommended by nearly everyone who has, earning a perfect 5-star rating from 79 reviews. This adventure offers a fantastic chance to escape the city, breathe fresh forest air, and challenge your driving skills—whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner.
Two things really stand out: First, the beautiful landscape of pine and oak forests in Ajusco that make for an incredible riding backdrop. Second, the convenient private transportation makes this a hassle-free escape, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to be comfortable with all levels of terrain and riding at your own risk, as insurance isn’t included. This tour suits adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to add some excitement to their Mexico City trip.
Key Points
- Stunning natural scenery of Ajusco forests and mountain vistas.
- Private pickup and drop-off ensure a smooth, personalized experience.
- All levels welcome with safety gear and training included.
- Flexible for advanced drivers wanting to test their skills on Pelado Volcano.
- Cost reflects value, offering a fun, well-organized half-day adventure.
- Ideal for those 14+ with a taste for outdoor adventure.
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What to Expect from the ATV Forestal Special Tour

This tour is designed to give you a thrilling ride through some of Mexico City’s most scenic wild terrain, all within easy reach of the city. Starting with a pickup from Mexico City—specifically from La Condesa area, just about an hour away depending on traffic—you’ll head toward Ajusco, a forested region famous for its sprawling pine and oak woods. The journey itself hints at the escape awaiting you: lush greenery, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the urban chaos.
The Ride: Exploring Ajusco’s Forest Trails
Once at the location, you’ll get a brief safety and riding instruction—important for making sure everyone can enjoy the experience confidently. Here, the emphasis is on all levels of riding ability, but the experience is especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge. The trails wind through the forest, offering a mix of smooth paths and more rugged terrain. We loved the way the natural environment creates a perfect backdrop for the ride, making each turn feel like an adventure.
The ATV equipment includes helmets, goggles, and gloves—good quality gear that enhances safety and comfort. After a quick practice run, you’ll be ready to hit the trails. Expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours riding, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape and test your skills, especially if you’re an experienced driver who wants to push the limits. Advanced riders might even want to try the route up to Pelado Volcano at 3,609 meters, which offers an exciting challenge and a chance to see some spectacular mountain views.
Visiting El Capulin
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the charming mountain town of El Capulin. It’s a small but picturesque spot that offers a glimpse of local life and some fantastic photo opportunities. You’ll have time to relax, take in the scenery, and maybe grab a quick snack or drink in this peaceful mountain village.
Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
What sets this tour apart is how genuine it feels. As one reviewer, Ricardo, put it, “This will probably be the best ATV tour you do anywhere in Mexico. This was a badass experience.” His comment also highlights the personalized attention, mentioning that even if a friend chickened out, the guide (Enrique) provided an alternative driver. That kind of flexibility shows that ATV Forestal truly cares about making sure everyone has a good time.
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The Volcanic Challenge
For more seasoned drivers, there’s the opportunity to take on Pelado Volcano, which stands at 3,609 meters. While the reviews don’t detail the ride up to the volcano, the fact that it’s included in the experience means it’s likely a more challenging and rewarding part of the adventure, perfect for those wanting to push their skills further.
The Practical Details

Duration and Timing
The entire experience lasts around five hours, including transport, safety briefing, riding, and visiting El Capulin. The tour starts at 9:00 am, which gives you plenty of daylight hours to enjoy the scenery and avoid the midday heat. The pickup and drop-off are included, making it a very hassle-free option for visitors unfamiliar with the local area.
Cost and Value
At $330 per person, this experience strikes a good balance between affordability and fun. When you consider the private transport, safety gear, and the guided riding, you’re getting a lot of value for a half-day adventure. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the experience as worth the price, especially when considering the quality of the trails and the views.
Group Size and Customization
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate—perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family. The maximum group size is four people, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized. The tour is designed for adults and teens 14+, making it accessible for most who are comfortable on an ATV.
What’s Not Included
You’ll need to bring your own clothes, shoes, or boots—nothing fancy required, but sensible, durable footwear is a good idea. Food and beverages are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks, especially if you want to stay energized during the ride. Insurance isn’t included either, so you’re riding at your own risk.
Authenticity and Personal Experiences from Riders

One reviewer, Jessica, mentioned her teens loved the freedom they had after the safety lesson, emphasizing how much fun they had exploring the trails and enjoying the views. N_M highlighted how easy the pickup was and expressed appreciation for the included training and practice, noting, “Bring something to drink and wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.” These comments reinforce the flexibility and fun of the experience.
Ricardo’s account really captures the thrill: “The ride to El Capulin was only 42 minutes—meaning it’s a quick, exhilarating trip. The scenery is just fantastic,” he says, adding that the entire day was a “bad ass experience,” and praising the guide’s attention and care.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an adventure lover looking for a scenic outdoor escape near Mexico City, this tour offers just that. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience the forested landscapes and mountain views up close. The private transportation makes it convenient, especially if you prefer a more personalized experience. Since it’s suitable for ages 14 and up, it’s also a great option for teens eager for some adrenaline.
This tour might not be ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing or cultural experience—it’s pure adrenaline and nature, with minimal downtime. Also, if you’re uncomfortable riding without insurance or are very cautious on uneven terrain, you should consider your comfort level before booking.
Final Thoughts

The ATV Forestal Special is a solid choice for travelers seeking an adventure outside Mexico City that combines scenic beauty, physical activity, and a bit of thrill. The reviews confirm that it delivers on its promise: great views, quality equipment, and a friendly, attentive guide. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and who want to see a different side of Mexico’s natural landscape.
While it’s not a tour that offers cultural commentary or historical insights, it provides a pure dose of outdoor fun and spectacular scenery. The private transport, safety gear, and flexible routes make it a low-stress way to add a dash of adventure to your trip. Plus, the consistently high ratings suggest you’re likely to have a memorable day, no matter your riding skill level.
If you’re craving a scenic, active day trip and love the idea of exploring forests and mountains on an ATV, this could be a highlight of your Mexico City visit.
Atvforestal Special for 2 people (2 Atv´s), 2-3 hour ride. Reserve Only 1 person
“To start off, this will probably be the BEST ATV tour you do anywhere in Mexico. This was a bad ass experience. One of my friends apparently chicke…”
FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private pickup and drop-off from Mexico City, specifically from La Condesa, are included in the tour.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including transportation and riding, lasts about 5 hours.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants should be at least 14 years old to join the ride.
Do I need my own clothes or shoes?
No, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and sturdy shoes or boots. You’ll receive helmets, goggles, and gloves.
Is insurance included?
No, personal or ATV insurance is not included, so you ride at your own risk.
Can I test my skills on Pelado Volcano?
Yes, advanced drivers have the opportunity to challenge themselves on the 3,609-meter-high Pelado Volcano.
What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, and clothes suitable for outdoor riding. Since safety gear is provided, just focus on being comfortable and prepared for a forest adventure.
In all, this ATV tour offers a fantastic way to combine outdoor fun with beautiful scenery, making it a worthwhile addition for those wanting to explore outside Mexico City in a more active way.
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