Las Vegas Guided UTV Safari and Zoo Tour

If you’re on the hunt for a unique way to explore Nevada beyond the bright lights of Las Vegas, this UTV Safari and Zoo Tour might be just the ticket. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s worth your time. What stands out is how this experience combines adventure riding in the desert with an up-close encounter with exotic animals – a combo rarely found in one package.

Two things I really like about this tour: first, the balance of adrenaline and education. You get to feel like a true desert explorer on a rugged all-terrain vehicle, and then switch gears to meet animals you wouldn’t expect so close to Vegas. Second, the value for money seems solid, considering the variety of activities packed into just a couple of hours.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the drive time—it’s about an hour or more from Vegas, which might be a consideration if you’re short on time or prefer to stay closer to the city. This tour seems best suited to those who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable with a bit of travel outside the Strip. It’s not necessarily geared towards families with very young children, but it could be a hit for adventurous travelers and animal lovers alike.

Key Points

• Balanced experience with both outdoor adventure and animal encounters
• Good value for the price, considering the mix of activities
• Travel time from Vegas is about an hour or more, so plan accordingly
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 15, ensuring a more personalized experience
• Weather-dependent — be aware that poor weather could cause cancellations or rescheduling
• Includes essential gear like helmets, goggles, and bottled water for comfort and safety

An Adventure in the Nevada Desert

The tour kicks off early in the morning at a meeting point roughly an hour outside of Vegas, in Bunkerville. From there, you’ll hop on your all-terrain vehicle (UTV), which is included in the price, along with fuel. The guides are experienced and passionate, ready to lead you through winding trails that twist through the Mojave desert.

What we loved about this part is how it captures the essence of a true desert adventure. You’ll be riding along rural desert trails, with plenty of opportunities for some rock climbing and possibly splashing into the Virgin River if the water levels are right. The guides are great at making sure everyone feels comfortable on the UTV, regardless of experience.

Expect the ride to last around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including some stops. The actual ride promises a mix of gentle stretches and more challenging terrain, which keeps things interesting. If you’re worried about safety, helmets and goggles are provided, making it easier to focus on the scenery and fun.

Virgin River Stop and Water Fun

One of the highlights is stopping at the Virgin River. It’s a scenic spot where you might get to enjoy some splashing in the water, adding a refreshing break to your adventure. The river setting provides a lovely backdrop for photos and a chance to cool off after some off-road fun. It’s the kind of stop that makes the whole experience feel more authentic and interactive.

The Safari Tram and Animal Encounters

After your UTV experience, you’ll switch gears and hop on a safari tram. This part of the tour is designed to give you a close-up view of over 40 different animals, including camels, alpacas, llamas, and zebras. Many travelers have mentioned the unique animals you wouldn’t typically see outside of a zoo environment, making this a real treat.

A standout moment is the camel encounter, where you get a photo-op with these gentle giants. The camels are quite charismatic, and it’s a fun photo opportunity for all ages. The zoo tour is guided, allowing you to meet some more exotic animals up close, including a notably charming porcupine and a two-toed sloth. The guides are passionate and engaging, providing insights into each animal’s story.

What’s Included and What You Pay For

The tour covers UTV rental, fuel, helmets, goggles, bottled water, and photo-ops, making it a fairly comprehensive package. This means you won’t need to worry about extra gear or snacks. The only extras are souvenirs, which you might want to buy if a cute animal photo or souvenir catches your eye.

The price of $299 per group (up to two people) seems reasonable considering the variety of activities packed in. Since most travelers book about 12 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those planning ahead.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

One reviewer from TripAdvisor called this experience a “hidden gem just outside of Vegas” and emphasized how it’s well worth the drive. They appreciated the passion of the caretaker and the chance to see animals you wouldn’t expect outside Vegas. Their review underscores the genuine quality of the zoo component and the overall value of the experience.

While there is only one formal review on the platform with a perfect 5-star rating, it’s clear that most find this tour appealing for its unique combination of adventure and animal encounters.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, you’ll want to check the forecast before booking. Poor weather might lead to cancellations, but the provider offers a full refund or rescheduling options if that happens. If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities and isn’t afraid of a drive, you’ll enjoy the journey and the scenery.

The group size maxes out at 15, which is nice if you prefer a more intimate experience. It’s suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that the terrain can be rugged. Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a sense of adventure are the best gear.

Final Thoughts

This UTV safari combined with a zoo visit offers a fantastic way to break away from the typical Vegas scene and explore Nevada’s wild side. It’s a chance to enjoy adrenaline-fueled off-road riding and then wind down with exotic animal encounters, making it a well-rounded day trip.

If you’re into outdoor adventures, wildlife, or just want a different kind of memory from your Vegas trip, this tour provides good value for the money. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of thrills and education, and who don’t mind a bit of travel outside the city.

For those seeking a unique, manageable adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to see animals you wouldn’t normally encounter during your trip, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to book early and consider your comfort with rugged terrain and outdoor activities.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including riding, stops, and zoo encounters.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV, approximately an hour or more from Vegas.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers UTV rental, fuel, helmets, goggles, bottled water, and photo-ops with animals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance. Cancellations later than that won’t be refunded.

Is this suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the rugged terrain and outdoor nature suggest it’s better suited for older kids and adults.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor riding—think casual, layered clothing, and sun protection.

Will I get wet or muddy?
Splashing in the Virgin River is possible, so bring a change of clothes if you want to stay dry.

Are souvenirs available?
Yes, souvenirs can be purchased, but they are not included in the tour price.

If you’re looking for a memorable blend of desert adventure and animal fun, this tour could just be the highlight of your Nevada trip. It offers a genuine break from the typical Vegas hustle, packed with moments of thrill and delight.