First, of all, I think I screwed up not once but twice in booking my one hour dune buggy ride with Sun Buggy. To their considerable credit they accommodated me both times without argument. Thanks.
This was a gift to my 25 year old son (I'm 55) who wanted to go "dune buggy-ing" during his trip to LV. I initially inquired about the ATV tour (offered as a Groupon) but couldn't make the Groupon dates work. So opted for the dune buggy experience. Glad I did. Fretted about whether 1/2 hour or hour was better option, but decided to go with the hour...glad I did. I think the 1/2 hour is too short...and since you made the trip already why not go for a whole hour? It's worth it.
Their website accurately depicts the experience. These are real dune buggies and the "chase" is exactly that - you race around the desert, over dunes you would never think you could summit, chasing your guide in and effort that is both futile and fantastic.
My extra two cents for you to consider:
- This is a real dune buggy that goes at considerable speed over very rough terrain. It can be tough on your joints and back. Both my son and I were elated as well as exhausted after our one hour trip. Both of us were sore the next day.
- You go as fast as the slowest member of group...I think they only take out groups of 7 -- so if you can afford it, get the VIP package which includes a personal guide and only includes people you want in your group.
- If you get stuck, the time spent digging out of the sand comes off of your hour. Generally, if you follow the guide there isn't a problem and we never got stuck. But, again, if you can afford the VIP package you don't have to worry about digging some stranger out and wasting your time.
- BTW mechanical issues do not count toward your hour. We didn't have any problems in this regard.
- Safety is a primary concern, but I thought they did a nice job of informing you what to do to stay safe without going overboard on the issue. The disclaimer/indemnification you're required to sign, though, is longer than a mortgage document. There is risk...these are real machines that need some level of common sense and maturity to operate safely.
- It's the desert so wear clothes you don't mind getting dusty. I advise long sleeves and if the weather allows, long pants.
- Bring a bandana to cover your mouth/nose. They provide helmets and googles.
- Watch the weather. We went mid-morning in March and the temperature was perfect. Summer could be really hot, and earlier in the morning might have been too chilly. Plan accordingly.
- Book on a weekday and avoid Sat/Sun as you ride on public land that can be used by the general public and which can get crowded on weekends. We went on a Monday and essentially had the desert to ourselves.
- At 6'6" and 260 lbs I was a bit concerned about "fitting" into the vehicle, but no problems. Granted, getting my butt over some of those dunes might have stressed out the engine a bit.
- The Thunderbirds were practicing over our heads for the entire hour...extra value! The course is right next to Nellis AFB.
We traveled by car to the location, as I live in LV, so can't comment on the experience of getting picked up or dropped off at a hotel.