90 Minutes ATV Riding and Big Buddha From Phuket

Exploring Phuket’s Iconic Big Buddha on a 90-Minute ATV Adventure

If you’re visiting Phuket and crave a mix of adventure and culture, this tour offers an exciting way to see the island’s famous Big Buddha. For around $52.50 per person, you get roughly two hours of guided fun, including a 90-minute ATV ride that takes you through scenic tracks to one of Phuket’s most recognizable landmarks. The tour also includes hotel pickups, safety gear, and a chance to enjoy panoramic views from the Buddha’s hilltop location.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is—no prior ATV experience or license is needed, thanks to the thorough instructions provided. Plus, the guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making even the most cautious feel comfortable. Another highlight is the stunning views from the Big Buddha itself, giving you a real sense of connection to the island’s spiritual and natural beauty.

A possible consideration is the pace—some reviews mention it can feel repetitive or tight in certain sections, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing day. Also, the tour’s duration means the time at the Big Buddha might be a bit quick—around 20 minutes—so if you want a leisurely exploration, you might need to plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for those who want a blend of adventure and culture, enjoy scenic rides, and value knowledgeable guides. It suits travelers with a decent level of physical ability and those eager to see Phuket’s landmarks from a unique perspective.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: No ATV experience or license required, with safety instructions provided.
• Stunning views: Panoramic vistas from the Big Buddha, offering excellent photo opportunities.
• All-in-one experience: Includes hotel transfers, safety gear, water, and an engaging guide.
• Good value for money: Around two hours of fun for just over $50, with positive reviews for the overall experience.
• Customer feedback: Guides are highly praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and support.
• Potential limitations: The ride can feel repetitive, and time at the Buddha might be brief.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickups and Transfers

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the door-to-door pickup service from key locations like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Chalong. This means you don’t need to worry about navigating your way to a meeting point. The transfer takes you along Phuket’s coastline, giving you a sneak peek of the island’s scenery even before the adventure begins.

Depending on your pickup location, additional transfer fees may apply for more distant areas like Phuket Town or Nai Yang Beach. The flexibility of departure times allows you to choose a slot that fits your plans, whether you prefer a morning or afternoon ride.

Safety First: Briefing, Gear, and Support

Once at the safari camp, the team provides a comprehensive safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of following instructions during the ride. You’ll be fitted with safety equipment, including helmets, and given raincoats if needed. Many reviews mention the guides’ attentiveness—often checking on riders’ comfort and offering to take photos or videos to ensure you capture the moment.

The tour’s inclusion of first aid kits and accident insurance (for riders and passengers) adds peace of mind, especially important when riding an ATV in unfamiliar terrain. The guides are experienced, patient, and eager to support first-timers, which makes this activity accessible to most travelers in good health.

The ATV Ride: Scenic Tracks and Highlights

The core of the experience is a 90-minute guided ATV track that takes you through Phuket’s countryside, passing fields, small forests, and scenic pathways. According to reviews, the routes are well-organized, with some riders mentioning that they were filmed or supported during the ride. Guides lead the way, ensuring safety and offering tips for a smooth ride.

What makes this ride special is the combination of adventure and sightseeing. You’ll travel in small groups, following your guide along a track that includes some tight spots and varied terrain. Several reviews note the ride’s intensity—some found it exhilarating, especially if you enjoyed the earlier rain that made the track more fun and muddy.

Reaching and Visiting the Big Buddha

The highlight of the tour is then a visit to Phuket’s iconic Big Buddha—a massive statue perched atop Nakkerd Hill. Here, you get a moment to enjoy panoramic views over the island, with many travelers commenting on how the sight is worth the effort.

Your guide provides background on the Buddha’s significance and history, enriching the visit with context. However, some reviewers mention that the time at the Buddha is limited to about 20 minutes, which may feel rushed if you wish to explore more deeply. Still, the views and photo opportunities often compensate for the brief stop.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After the visit, you’ll head back to the safari camp for a quick refresh and then transfer back to your hotel. The entire experience tends to be well-coordinated, with many reviewers emphasizing the friendly and professional nature of the guides.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

The tour’s price includes round-trip transfers from key locations, safety gear, bottled water, a first aid kit, and accident insurance. Extras, like additional transfers to more remote areas, are available at additional cost—something to consider if you’re staying outside major towns.

The value for money is quite good, especially considering the combination of scenic adventure, cultural sights, and guided support.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviewers agree this tour offers a memorable mix of fun, scenery, and cultural insight. One guest noted, “The guides were fantastic, the views were amazing, and the whole experience was well worth the cost.” Others appreciated the supportive, knowledgeable guides who made even nervous riders feel safe and supported.

However, not everyone was happy; a review pointed out the tight track layout that sometimes creates congestion and repetitive scenery, which could detract from the experience if you’re expecting a more relaxed sightseeing day.

On the positive side, several travelers highlighted how the views from the Big Buddha are truly worth the brief stop, and many appreciated the extra touches like cold towels, photos, and water to make the experience more comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of adrenaline but also want to see Phuket’s cultural landmarks. It’s particularly ideal if you’re looking for a fuller experience—combining sightseeing with a fun outdoor activity—without needing prior riding experience.

Those with mobility issues or pregnant women should note that the activity involves good physical condition and mental alertness, with safety being a priority. If you’re traveling with children, note that child tickets apply for ages 4-11 or under 130cm, but drivers must be over 18 and in good health.

If you’re a solo traveler or part of a family, you’ll find the guides are very accommodating, and the group size often keeps the experience intimate and friendly.

FAQs

Is prior ATV experience required?
No, the tour does not require any experience. Safety instructions and guidance are provided before riding begins.

How long is the ATV ride?
The actual riding time is approximately 90 minutes, led by a guide along off-road tracks around Phuket.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The whole experience lasts around 2 hours, including hotel pickup, the ride, visit to the Big Buddha, and return transfer.

Are transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Patong, Kata, Karon, and Chalong are included in the price. Additional transfer options are available at extra cost.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for riding, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera or phone for photos. Rain gear is provided if needed.

Can pregnant women participate?
No, this activity is not suitable for pregnant women due to the physical demands and safety considerations.

In essence, this tour offers an engaging blend of scenery, adventure, and culture that appeals to a broad range of travelers. With friendly guides, stunning views, and good value, it’s a solid choice for those eager to explore Phuket’s highlights with a splash of excitement.