Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour

If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure outside the usual Las Vegas glitz, this UTV Safari and Zoo Tour offers a perfect blend of off-road excitement and wildlife encounters. While it’s not your typical Vegas activity, it’s a fantastic option for those craving a mix of adventure, nature, and quirky animal experiences—all within a manageable day trip.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the all-terrain vehicle (UTV) ride takes you through rugged trails in the Mojave Desert, where you can enjoy the thrill of rock climbing and splashing at the Virgin River. Second, the zoo visit promises a close-up look at exotic animals like zebras, camels, and even a two-toed sloth—something you might not expect just outside of Vegas. Lastly, the interactive animal encounters and photo ops elevate the experience beyond just a scenic drive, allowing you to capture memories and learn about the animals from passionate guides.

A potential consideration is that the tour is approximately 2.5 hours long—great for a half-day outing but not ideal if you’re seeking a full-day adventure. The drive from Las Vegas to the tour start point is about an hour, so plan your day accordingly. This experience will appeal most to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and hands-on animal encounters, especially those wanting to escape the city for a while.

Good To Know

• Unique combination of off-road UTV adventure and wildlife zoo visit
• Scenic trails through the Mojave Desert and Virgin River
• Close animal encounters with camels, llamas, zebras, and more
• Photo opportunities with camels and exotic animals
• Small group size (up to 15), ensuring personalized experience
• Good value for the overall mix of adventure and animal interaction

What You Can Expect from the UTV Safari and Zoo Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded experience combining off-road adventure with engaging animal encounters. It’s a carefully curated outing, designed to satisfy both thrill-seekers and animal lovers alike.

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV at 10:00 am. From Las Vegas, expect about an hour’s drive, which makes it convenient for a morning escape from the city’s hustle. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy each element without feeling rushed.

The UTV Ride: Trails and Water Play

Once you’re settled into your UTV, the guides will lead you through winding rural desert trails in the Mojave, showcasing the stark beauty of this arid landscape. Expect to navigate rock climbing sections—which, depending on your comfort level, can be more or less challenging—and perhaps some splashing at the Virgin River if conditions allow. The guides, whose names aren’t specified but are described as passionate, will ensure safety and fun while sharing interesting tidbits about the desert environment.

We loved the way the ride offers a genuine sense of adventure—you’re not just cruising but actively engaging with the rugged terrain.

The Virgin River Stop: Splash and Sightseeing

The Virgin River provides a scenic and refreshing pause in the middle of your ride. Reviewers mention splashing as a highlight, which implies some interactive water fun. This stop allows for some photos, light exploration, and a break from the rugged ride, making it accessible even for less experienced riders.

The Wildlife Zoo and Animal Encounters

After the UTV ride, the tour transitions seamlessly into the zoo experience, where you’ll board a safari tram to view over 40 animals, including camels, llamas, alpacas, and zebras. As one reviewer put it, “Unique animals that you wouldn’t expect to see outside of Vegas,” which hints at the zoo’s charm—more than just a standard petting zoo, it’s a curated collection of exotic and interesting creatures.

The camel photo-op is a highlight, with the opportunity to pose and snap memorable shots. You may also get the chance to meet animals like a very charismatic porcupine and a two-toed sloth, adding an educational touch to the experience. The guides here are described as passionate and engaging, which enhances the educational aspect and makes the encounter more meaningful.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $299 per group, which typically accommodates up to two people, the price is quite reasonable considering the mix of activities and included amenities. The package covers UTV rental, fuel, helmets and goggles, bottled water, and photo ops, ensuring you have everything needed for a comfortable ride and memorable photos.

However, souvenirs are not included, so if you’re keen on a memento, be prepared to purchase that separately.

Practical Notes and Considerations

• Most travelers can participate, meaning the activity is accessible to a broad audience, but it’s good to check if you have any mobility or health concerns that might affect your comfort on the rugged trails.
• The activity tends to be booked about 12 days in advance, so early planning is advisable.
• The maximum group size of 15 helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
• Weather can affect the tour; if conditions are poor, you might need to reschedule or get a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

From reviews, one thing stands out: this tour is appreciated for its good value. Combining off-road adventure with an engaging zoo visit offers multiple experiences in one trip. The guides’ enthusiasm and the animal care are frequently praised, adding a layer of authenticity that elevates the day beyond a simple excursion.

The scenery and animal encounters are described as “well worth the drive”—a sentiment that hints at surprising quality given the somewhat remote location. The tour’s flexibility with cancellations (free if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind, especially for travelers wary of spontaneous weather changes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers eager to explore the desert landscape in a fun, hands-on way. It’s also perfect for animal enthusiasts curious about exotic creatures, especially those wanting to get a close-up without traveling abroad. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a half-day outdoor activity near Vegas will find it particularly well-suited.

It’s a great choice for those who prefer a small-group setting and value authentic animal encounters that blend education and fun.

The Sum Up

The Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour offers a compelling mix of outdoor adventure and wildlife fun that surprisingly exceeds expectations for a half-day trip. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting a break from Vegas’s usual attractions—combining scenic trails, water splash fun, and memorable animal encounters into one affordable package.

You’ll love the authenticity of the animal interactions, the thrill of navigating desert terrain, and the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Although it’s a bit of a drive from Vegas, the uniqueness of the experience and the friendly guides make it a worthwhile addition to any adventure itinerary.

If you’re after a value-packed activity that combines adventure and education, this tour is an excellent choice—especially if you’re traveling with a partner or small group craving something different and engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best suited for those comfortable with riding UTVs and moving around on uneven terrain. Check with the provider if you have specific age or health concerns.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the UTV ride, zoo visit, and animal encounters.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress comfortably in weather-appropriate clothing, and wear closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor activity. Helmets and goggles are provided.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but for safety, it’s wise to confirm if there are specific age or height restrictions with the tour operator.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be refunded.

Is there transportation from Las Vegas?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point in Bunkerville, about an hour from Vegas. Arranging your own transport is recommended.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic escape into desert scenery and exotic animal encounters—perfect for those craving a memorable, off-the-beaten-path adventure near Las Vegas.