Las Vegas UTV / Buggy’s Tours: An Off-Road Adventure in the Desert

When you’re visiting Las Vegas and craving something different from the usual bright lights and casinos, a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) tour at Nellis Dunes offers a fantastic escape into the rugged Nevada landscape. For around $397 per person, you get about two hours of guided off-road fun, with hotel pickup on the Strip included. The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced drivers alike, making it a versatile choice for families, groups, or solo adventurers eager to explore Nevada’s desert terrain.
What we love most about this experience is the combination of accessible adventure and professional guidance. The modern, comfortable UTVs are perfect for first-timers, and your guides—especially “Dez” and “Ty”—are praised for their helpfulness and patience, ensuring everyone feels safe and confident. Plus, the scenic views of the dunes and the chance to see fighter pilots performing aerobatics overhead on some days make this tour genuinely memorable.
A potential consideration is weather. This tour operates rain or shine, so if the desert gets a sudden storm, your ride could be a bit muddy or dusty. Also, the $500 security deposit per UTV might seem steep, but it’s standard practice to cover any damages—just a heads-up before you book.
This tour fits best for outdoorsy travelers and families seeking a fun, safe introduction to off-road driving. It’s a particularly good choice if you want a guided experience that takes care of logistics and safety, leaving you free to focus on the thrill of the ride and those incredible desert vistas.
Key Points

- Accessible for beginners with no experience or license needed
- Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics hassle-free
- Two-hour guided ride through the multi-terrain Nellis Dunes
- Family-friendly and suitable for ages 16 and up
- Professional guides, known for patience and helpfulness
- Rain or shine operation, so dress accordingly and expect adventure regardless of weather
Planning more time in Las Vegas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at Las Vegas UTV / Buggy’s Tours

If you’re craving a break from the neon glow of Las Vegas’s famous Strip, this UTV tour offers a fantastic peek into the Nevada wilderness just 14 miles north of the bustling city. During the ride, you’ll traverse the multi-terrain Nellis Dunes, an area that provides a dramatic backdrop of sweeping sand dunes, rugged hills, and open skies. The experience is designed to give you a taste of desert adventure without the need for prior off-road experience, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned thrill-seekers alike.
Booking and Price Point
At $397 per person, this experience offers good value considering the included hotel pickup and drop-off along with unlimited bottled water and gear. The price might seem high compared to simply renting an ATV, but consider the guidance, safety, and convenience it provides. The included transportation means you avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar routes or renting a vehicle, and having a guide helps unlock some of the local secrets and safety tips.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package includes all necessary safety gear: helmets, goggles, and gloves, plus bottled water to keep you hydrated. The pick-up/return service from selected Strip hotels—Bally’s, MGM Grand, and Treasure Island—adds a lot of convenience. You’ll spend about two hours door-to-door, which includes briefing, gear-up, and the ride itself.
What isn’t included are gratuities (as is customary but optional) and shoes—be sure to wear closed-toe footwear, as open-toe shoes are not allowed for safety reasons. Also, keep in mind the $500 security deposit per UTV, which covers potential damages and is standard practice in off-road tours.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Your adventure begins at the staging area near Nellis Bypass, Nellis AFB, where you’ll meet the guides and go through a short safety lesson. Once suited up, you’ll hop into your 2- or 4-seater UTVs. The guides will lead you along the dunes, trails, and rugged terrain, allowing you to drive or ride along depending on your preference and comfort level.
The scenic vistas are a highlight, with vast sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. On some days, if you’re lucky, you’ll witness fighter pilots performing aerobatics overhead—a spectacle that adds a layer of excitement to your desert ride.
The Guides: Knowledgeable and Patient
Reviews consistently praise guides like Dez and Ty for their friendly, helpful attitude. One customer noted, “Dez was our instructor and it was one of the most amazing rides ever!” Their patient approach makes beginners feel comfortable, and their knowledge about the terrain makes the ride more engaging. They are also attentive to safety, ensuring everyone wears helmets and goggles throughout.
The Drive: A Mix of Terrain and Views
During the ride, you’ll experience multi-terrain driving—sand, dirt, and rugged hills—offering a lively and varied experience. The guides often customize the route based on the group’s skill level, which means less experienced riders are encouraged and supported. Multiple reviews mention that the trails are great and the scenery stunning.
Authentic Experiences and Paddock Insights
Many travelers highlight how professional and approachable the guides are, which adds to the overall enjoyment. One review shared, “We loved the driving experience, and also how the bus came back to pick us up on time.” This punctuality and organization make the whole process smooth and stress-free.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventurous families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun, guided off-road adventure. Its family-friendly status means ages 16 and up can participate, with drivers required to be at least 18 years old to operate the UTVs. If you’re craving stunning desert vistas, a thrilling ride, and professional guidance, you’ll find this experience well worth the cost.
Possible Drawbacks
While the tour is highly praised, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact the experience. Rain might make the terrain muddier or less predictable. The $500 deposit could also be a surprise if you’re not prepared, but it’s standard for off-road gear and vehicle rental.
The Sum Up: The Right Trip for Adventure Enthusiasts
Choosing this UTV tour in Las Vegas means opting for a guided, safe, and exhilarating desert experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hands-on adventure without the hassle of rentals or self-guided routes. The friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized logistics make it a top choice for outdoor lovers and families seeking a memorable, off-the-beaten-path activity.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a fun way to see the desert, this tour offers good value and authentic fun. Just pack your closed-toe shoes, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for some dusty, exhilarating hours on the Nevada dunes.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pricing for the Las Vegas UTV / Buggy’s Tours per person or per vehicle?
The price is per person, so each participant pays the listed dollar amount for their spot on the tour.
Do you offer pickup from all hotels in Las Vegas?
Pickup is available from Bally’s, MGM Grand, and Treasure Island. If you’re staying elsewhere, you’ll need to select the nearest hotel for pickup or arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
How do I arrange pickup at my hotel?
When you book, you’ll select your hotel, and afterward, you’ll need to call the local operator at the provided phone number to confirm your pickup time and details.
How early should I be ready for pickup?
Allow about 10 to 15 minutes for the driver to arrive. The guide will contact you ahead of time with an estimated pickup window.
Where do we check in and get gear?
You’ll be taken directly from your hotel to the staging area at Nellis Dunes, where you’ll check in and receive safety gear including helmets and goggles.
How long do we actually spend driving?
The guided ride lasts approximately one hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the dunes and scenery.
Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for all skill levels, with guides providing instructions and support for first-timers.
What safety equipment is provided?
All drivers and passengers will wear helmets and goggles, with gloves provided if you choose to wear them.
Do I need a driver’s license?
No, a driver’s license is not required. Just bring a valid photo ID or passport if you plan to drive.
Exploring the Nevada desert in a UTV offers a combination of adrenaline and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s safe, guided, and packed with spectacular views, this tour hits the mark. It suits outdoor enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a different kind of Vegas experience—one that’s guaranteed to leave you with stories to tell.
More Tours in Las Vegas
- Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour with Lunch
- Las Vegas Kayak Tour to the Emerald Cave
- 2 Hour Private Limo Photo Tour
- Las Vegas to Zion & Bryce Canyon: An Intimate Small-Group Tour
- Small Group Hoover Dam: From Above, On Top and Below Tour
- Hidden Valley and Primm Extreme Dirt Bike Tour from Las Vegas
More Tour Reviews in Las Vegas
More Las Vegas experiences we've covered
- Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour with Lunch
- Ultimate 4D Experience at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino
- Las Vegas Kayak Tour to the Emerald Cave
- 2 Hour Private Limo Photo Tour
- Las Vegas to Zion & Bryce Canyon: An Intimate Small-Group Tour
- Piff the Magic Dragon at the Flamingo Las Vegas
- Euro High Speed Go Kart Racing on the Longest track – Las Vegas
- Small Group Hoover Dam: From Above, On Top and Below Tour
- Hidden Valley and Primm Extreme Dirt Bike Tour from Las Vegas
- Small Group Ghost Town Gold Mine Tour with Hoover Dam Experience
- Las Vegas Custom Luxury Bronco Rental
- Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Tour from Las Vegas
