Nassau is best known for its water, but the island has a rugged, wooded interior too, and the ATV and buggy tour is the most popular way to see it. Guided groups ride off the tarmac and onto dirt tracks, bush trails and sandy back roads on the quieter side of New Providence, away from the traffic of Bay Street and the resorts. The ride usually includes a stop at a beach for photos and a swim or paddle, and some local samples along the way, so it feels like a small adventure with a bit of local flavour rather than a pure thrill ride. Buggies, which seat two or more, suit couples, friends and families who want to share a vehicle, while single-rider ATVs give a more hands-on drive. It is a fun, dusty, laughter-filled few hours, and it suits travellers who would rather get muddy than lie on a lounger. Because pickup from the cruise port or your hotel is part of the experience, it is also one of the easiest adventure tours to fit into a day in port.
How it works
You book a time slot, are picked up at the cruise port or from your hotel, and are driven to the ATV base on the island. After a safety briefing and a short practice, the guides lead the group in convoy along the trails. Exact routes, stops, tastings and the vehicle types available depend on the operator and the day, so read the ticket details when you book and confirm where your pickup will be.
Drivers usually need a valid licence and must meet a minimum age, and the tour operator sets limits on passengers, so check these rules before you commit. Closed-toe shoes are required, and helmets are provided.
What to expect
A ride of a couple of hours through a mix of bush trails, dusty tracks and coastal roads, with a stop at a beach where you can swim, paddle or simply take a break. Expect dust and a little mud, depending on the weather, so wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty, and bring sunglasses or goggles to keep grit out of your eyes.
Guides lead at a steady pace, stopping to point out local plants, view points and bits of island history, and the group generally rides in single file so everyone can follow. The ride is not extremely fast, which makes it suitable for first-timers, but it is bumpy, so anyone with back or neck problems or who is pregnant should check with the operator and may prefer a gentler activity.
Making the most of it
Choose the buggy if you are travelling with a partner or friend and want to share the driving, or an ATV for a more independent ride. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes if you want to dip in the sea at the beach stop, and bring a towel, a change of shirt, sunscreen and a bottle of water. Keep valuables in a small zip bag, or leave them at your hotel, and be ready to get dusty.
If you are on a cruise ship, make sure the tour finishes comfortably before all-aboard, and confirm the timings with the operator. The tour pairs well with an easy evening, such as a stroll along the esplanade and dinner at the Arawak Cay Fish Fry, or a relaxing sunset cruise. Anyone who enjoys the thrill of exploring will find it a lively change from the beach and boat trips that fill most Nassau itineraries, and it adds a different view of the island’s scrubby, green interior.
What to expect
The experience
A guided convoy ride in an ATV or buggy on off-road trails across New Providence, with a beach stop and local samples.
Best time
Morning or early afternoon, when the trails are drier and there is plenty of daylight for the beach stop.
How long
Roughly three to four hours including pickup, briefing, the ride and the beach stop.
Tips
Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty, bring a swimsuit and towel, and check driver age and licence rules.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers, groups of friends and couples who want a fun, hands-on break from beaches and boats.
- Families
- Good for families with older children, with buggies that seat several people, though minimum ages and weight rules apply.
- Couples
- Great as a shared buggy adventure, finishing with a dip at the beach.
- Pair with
- A relaxed evening afterwards, such as the sunset dinner cruise or a plate of fried fish at the Fish Fry.
- Time needed
- Half a day, about three to four hours.
Good questions
Do I need a driving licence for the ATV or buggy?+
Drivers usually need a valid licence and must meet a minimum age set by the operator. Check the ticket details before you book.
Is pickup included?+
The tour is set up with pickup from the cruise port or your hotel. Confirm the exact pickup point and time when you book.
What should I wear?+
Closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dusty or muddy. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim at the beach stop.
Is it suitable for beginners?+
Yes, guides give a safety briefing and lead at a steady pace. The trails are bumpy, so check with the operator if you have back or neck problems or are pregnant.
Is it good for cruise passengers?+
Yes, pickup from the port makes it easy. Check the finish time against your ship’s all-aboard time and leave a safe margin.
