Las Vegas: Thrilling ATV & Buggy Desert Tour w/ Hotel Pickup

Las Vegas isn’t just about neon lights and slot machines; it’s also the gateway to some seriously exciting adventures, like hitting the Mojave Desert on a powerful ATV or buggy. This tour from Big Dave Tours offers an adrenaline-pumping experience, giving travelers a chance to explore one of America’s most iconic desert landscapes with professional guides. Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or as part of a group, this three-hour tour blends adventure, stunning scenery, and convenience into a package that’s hard to beat.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the seamless hotel pickup service from Mandalay Bay, the safety protocols that make it accessible even for beginners, and the chance to witness breathtaking views of the desert. Plus, the guides—like Blake and Matt—are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which can turn a simple ride into a memorable story. One potential consideration is the need to bring long pants and closed-toe shoes, so it’s good to come prepared. This tour is perfect for adventure-seekers wanting a taste of the wild west without sacrificing comfort or safety.

Who would love this? Outdoor lovers, first-time ATV riders, and anyone craving a break from the Vegas strip with an authentic desert experience. It’s also a solid choice for those looking for a guided tour that balances fun with safety.

Good To Know

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Mandalay Bay simplifies logistics.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Scenic Trails: Experience the Mojave’s stunning vistas, sandy trails, and rugged terrain.
• Safety First: High-quality safety equipment and a detailed orientation ensure a secure ride.
• All Skill Levels: No experience needed—full safety briefing and practice lap included.
• Flexible Timing: Available in the morning or at sunset, offering different desert atmospheres.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Practical Details of the Tour

This tour by Big Dave Tours is designed to be both accessible and exhilarating. For $85 per person, you get three hours of guided riding through the Mojave Desert, which includes safety gear, water, and transportation from the Mandalay Bay hotel. The tour’s duration is perfect for those who want a taste of desert adventure without committing to a full day. It’s a well-balanced option for travelers who value experiences that blend thrill, scenery, and convenience.

Transportation and Logistics

From the moment you book, the process is straightforward. You’ll be picked up at the Mandalay Bay’s front entrance, with pickup times scheduled to fit either a morning or an afternoon slot. The shuttle service is prompt, so arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to ensure smooth boarding.

The shuttle ride to the desert riding location offers a chance to relax and get briefed on safety procedures before hitting the trails. Once there, your guides—who speak both English and Spanish—will gear you up with helmets and goggles, explain how to operate your ATV or buggy, and reassure first-timers with a practice lap. This emphasis on safety and instruction means even complete beginners can enjoy the ride.

The Ride and Scenic Highlights

Once equipped, you’ll start with an hour-long ride through the desert, which is praised for its stunning vistas and diverse trails. The guides are lauded for their explanations of the local flora and fauna, adding an educational element to the adventure. Expect to speed along sandy paths, climb small dunes, and navigate rugged terrain—all while taking in the vast, open landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Travelers consistently mention the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. Alexandra, a visitor from the United States, appreciated how the itinerary was easy to drive and how helpful and friendly the guide was. She summed up her experience by saying, “It was thrilling and wild!” This highlights how accessible the tour is for newcomers but still offers plenty of excitement.

Authentic Experiences and Scenic Views

What sets this tour apart is the spectacular scenery. Reviewers describe the landscapes as breathtaking, with one traveler from France noting, “The landscapes were a real change of scenery!” The Mojave’s expansive horizons, with distant mountain ranges and unique desert flora, create a striking backdrop for your ride.

The guides’ local knowledge also enriches the experience. Vivien from Germany mentioned that guides Blake and Matt explained everything clearly, making the tour informative as well as fun. Their insights add depth and context, turning a simple ride into a memorable adventure.

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Safety and Preparation

Safety measures are a priority. The tour provides helmets, goggles, and a thorough safety briefing before starting. You’ll need to bring your driver’s license, sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, and water—these are essential for comfort and safety. It’s worth noting that participants must be at least 18 years old and able to operate the ATV independently, including handlebars and foot brakes.

A practice lap is required, and failure to complete it may result in removal from the tour with no refund—so paying attention during the briefing is crucial. The tour runs rain or shine, and smoking or drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited during the activity.

Who Should Avoid This?

Pregnant women, people with back problems, or anyone who isn’t comfortable with physical activity should consider whether this adventure is suitable for them. The rugged terrain and the physical demands of operating an ATV mean it’s best suited for active and healthy riders.

Cost and Value

At $85 per person, this tour offers considerable value given the three hours of guided riding, safety equipment, and hotel transportation. When you compare it to other adventure activities in Las Vegas, it stands out as an affordable way to experience the desert’s rugged beauty with professional guides. The small group size—limited to just ten participants—ensures personalized attention, which enhances safety and enjoyment.

Reviewers repeatedly mention how worth the price is. GetYourGuide traveler from France declared, “I’d come back and recommend it without hesitation!” The combination of scenery, guides, and accessibility makes this tour an excellent choice for those seeking adventure without the hassle of planning every detail.

Final Thoughts

This ATV and buggy tour in Las Vegas offers an energetic, scenic, and well-managed desert experience. The hotel pickup makes logistics easy, while the professional guides ensure safety and add educational value. The stunning vistas of the Mojave Desert combined with the thrill of riding a powerful ATV create a memorable adventure that’s suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

If you’re after a fun, safe, and scenic escape from the city’s bright lights, this tour delivers in spades. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but impactful taste of the desert’s wild beauty, with the added comfort of guided instruction and hotel pickup.

For those who prioritize safety, scenery, and small-group attention, this activity is a strong choice. It’s also a great way to add an adrenaline rush to your Vegas trip without the need for prior experience or extensive planning.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour? The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Mandalay Bay, a guided 3-hour ATV or buggy ride, safety equipment like helmets and goggles, and complimentary water.

• Do I need experience to join? No experience is necessary. Full safety instructions are provided, along with a practice lap to ensure you’re comfortable before starting.

• What should I bring? You should bring your driver’s license, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and water. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

• Is there a minimum age to participate? Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old and able to operate the ATV independently.

• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What if it rains? The tour operates rain or shine, so you should be prepared for different weather conditions.

• Are guides bilingual? Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish.

• How many people are in a group? Tours are limited to small groups of up to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

• Is food included? No, food is not included in the tour, but you can bring your own water and snacks.

• Should I worry about safety gear? Not at all. The tour provides helmets and goggles, and guides will ensure you know how to operate the ATV safely.

In summary, this Las Vegas ATV and buggy tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, scenery, and professional guidance. It’s a well-organized experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers, especially those looking for an authentic desert adventure with minimal hassle. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, you’ll appreciate the safety, stunning views, and friendly guides that make this trip worthwhile.

You can check if your dates are available here: