Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour

A Unique Adventure Just Outside Vegas

Looking for a break from the bright lights of Las Vegas? The Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure and animal encounters about an hour from the city. Priced at $299 per group (up to 2 people), this roughly 2.5-hour experience is perfect if you crave a mix of rugged desert riding and close-up animal encounters.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to drive an all-terrain vehicle through the Mojave Desert, feeling the wind and dust as you follow winding trails and even do a bit of rock climbing. The highlight for many is stopping at the Virgin River, where splashing around is often part of the fun. Plus, the zoo portion, with its exciting array of exotic animals like camels, alpacas, zebras, and even a very charismatic porcupine, adds a surprising twist to an already memorable outing.

A small potential downside is that the tour is somewhat dependent on good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a hands-on adventure coupled with animal interaction, especially if you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group looking for a unique outdoor activity.

This tour fits well for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, or travelers wanting a meaningful outdoor experience outside of Las Vegas. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate a personalized, small-group vibe—with a maximum of 15 travelers, you won’t feel lost in the crowd.

Key Points

• Unique combo of desert UTV riding and zoo encounters offers a versatile experience.
• Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Animal interactions, including a camel photo-op, add a fun and memorable element.
• It’s good value, considering the mix of activities and the guided nature.
• Weather can impact the experience, so planning for good conditions is wise.
• Advance booking is recommended, as most travelers book about 12 days ahead.

Exploring the Desert with a UTV

When we talk about the UTV ride, it’s more than just transportation — it’s an adventure that lets you feel like a true desert explorer. The vehicle itself is provided, along with fuel, helmets, and goggles, making safety and comfort straightforward. As you follow winding rural trails through the Mojave, you’ll appreciate how expansive and quietly stunning Nevada’s desert landscape truly is.

The route includes rock climbing, giving a sense of challenge for those who want it, with the payoff being a stop at the Virgin River. This is often a highlight, as the river can be a refreshing splash zone, especially in warmer months. The chance to see desert flora and fauna along the way makes it more than just a ride — it’s an immersion into Nevada’s rugged environment.

While the ride lasts roughly 1 hour, the entire experience, including preparation and stops, totals about 2 hours and 30 minutes. It’s a manageable time commitment for a day trip and fits well into a broader Nevada itinerary.

Animal Encounters and the Zoo Experience

After your desert ride, you’ll transition to a guided zoo tour. This isn’t a typical zoo visit — here, the focus is on exotic animals. You’ll get a chance to see over 40 animals, including camels, alpacas, llamas, zebras, and more. The tour is guided, ensuring you learn about each species and their unique traits.

One of the most beloved parts of this experience is the camel encounter, which includes a photo-op. Many travelers find this a highlight — a chance to snap a memorable picture with a camel or even a friendly porcupine and a two-toed sloth. The passionate caregiver adds depth to the experience, sharing interesting facts about the animals and their care.

The zoo component is not just entertainment but also educational, providing insight into animals that are rarely seen outside of specialized environments. For animal lovers, this part of the tour offers a surprisingly intimate look at a variety of species.

Practical Details and Logistics

Starting at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV, the tour begins promptly at 10:00 am. The meeting point is straightforward, and since the activity ends back at the start, you don’t need to arrange additional transport. The small group size—up to 15 travelers—means you’ll likely have a more personalized experience.

Included in the price are UTV rental, fuel, helmets, goggles, bottled water, and photo-ops — no hidden fees or extras for basic safety gear or refreshments. Souvenirs are not included, so if you want a keepsake, plan to bring some cash or cards.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, with most travelers reserving about 12 days ahead. The tour is designed to be accessible for most people, but those with mobility issues or concerns about safety should inquire beforehand.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

One Tripadvisor review captures the essence of this experience: “A hidden gem just outside of Vegas is well worth the drive. The reviewer loved the unique animals and the passionate caretaker, emphasizing that the experience exceeded expectations.” Many appreciated the personalized attention and the fact that it offered more than just a typical zoo or outdoor activity.

Another note that stands out is the value: “This tour offers a good mix of adventure and animal fun for the price,” making it a great option for those seeking a fuller experience without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples, nature lovers, or families looking for something different from Las Vegas’s usual attractions. It’s especially suited for those interested in exotic animals and wanting to explore Nevada’s wilderness in a hands-on way. The mix of thrilling desert riding and animal encounters offers both excitement and education, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

If you’re after an authentic outdoor adventure with a splash of wildlife, this tour delivers in spades. Keep in mind the weather and book ahead to secure your spot. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a memorable day outside the city, this combined UTV and zoo tour is well worth considering.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable on an all-terrain vehicle and able to handle a physical outdoor activity.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including UTV riding and the zoo tour.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers UTV rental, fuel, helmets, goggles, bottled water, and photo opportunities.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Souvenirs are not included, so if you want to buy mementos, bring extra cash or cards.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for desert conditions, and consider sunscreen and hats.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good for wildlife enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The zoo features diverse exotic animals and offers close-up encounters that are both fun and educational.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Do I need prior experience with UTVs?
No, but some comfort with outdoor vehicles is helpful; safety gear is provided.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV, starting at 10:00 am.

This Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour stands out as a well-balanced, engaging outdoor experience. Combining rugged desert adventure with up-close animal encounters offers real value, especially for those seeking something beyond the usual Vegas attractions. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, it’s a day that delivers both excitement and memories—one that’s worth considering for your Nevada itinerary.