I’ve ridden my fair share of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) throughout my 35 year lifespan. Growing up in a rural area meant snowmobiles in the winter and 4-wheelers once the snow finally disappeared. More recently, in Bryce Canyon I took an interesting ATV tour whilst on my 47 parks trek.

El Salvador is known for its surfing, yet I didn’t feel like spending the money required for a full-day lesson. Instead, I opted for a shorter experience that involved a fun trip up into the mountains, including both on- and off-road maneuvering.

After I showed up at the meet-up spot, I realized that I would be the only person on the tour. The guide, Guillermo, was a friendly local who had a plethora of motorbikes, dirt bikes, and ATVs. I picked my transportation of choice and received a quick demo on gear shifting. The bike had been specially retrofitted to not need a hand clutch in order to shift gears. I got the hang of using my left foot, grateful for the motorcycle class I took eons ago.

Then we were off.

I wasn’t expecting to be able to go so fast. In the U.S., there are particular guidelines regarding speed, especially within tour groups. In El Salvador, speed became my friend.

My guide rode ahead, cruising up and up on his pretty nifty dirt bike. I followed at a safe distance, only slowing down slightly to take the hairpin turns. After about 45 minutes, just as my hands were beginning to cramp, Guillermo geared offroad, leading me down a steep incline.

We ended up in a serene enclave, left our respective vehicles, and took a short stroll to an overlook.

What a gorgeous vista. Pictures didn’t do it justice. We sat on a log, rehydrating with water and quietly appreciating the view.

Then it was back on the ATV! Returning to the starting point involved a downhill adventure. I kept the ATV in high gear to avoid overusing the break, as per Guillermo’s instructions.

We went through a small town, Tamanique, that was having a weekend festival. It was time for a cold cerveza and a little bit of people-watching. El Salvadoreans enjoy finding reasons to celebrate, and there is a strong community culture within these small towns.

By the time Guillermo and I finally made it back, the sun had almost set. It was an experience with just enough adrenaline to make it feel slightly surreal without being overly scary.

Two thumbs up.