Do You Drive the Buggy Yourself in the Dominican Republic?
Wondering if you drive the buggy yourself in the Dominican Republic...
Buggy excursions are among the most exciting activities you can experience in the Dominican Republic. Travelers love the mix of adventure, off-road landscapes, mud, splashes, and the feeling of freedom that comes with driving your own vehicle through rural trails. But one question comes back constantly: Do you actually drive the buggy yourself, or is it guided by a chauffeur?
The answer is simple — yes, you drive the buggy yourself, and that’s exactly what makes the activity so fun and memorable.
A buggy tour is not a passive ride. It’s an immersive experience where you control the steering wheel, navigate the terrain, and enjoy the adrenaline of driving through dirt roads, puddles, villages, and countryside scenery. Here is everything you need to know before jumping behind the wheel.
Yes, you are the driver — full control of the buggy
In the Dominican Republic, buggy excursions are designed so that participants personally drive the vehicles, making the adventure much more engaging. Each buggy usually accommodates two passengers, with one acting as the driver and the other as the co-pilot.
You do not sit back while someone else drives — you are in charge of the vehicle’s direction and speed, following the guide at a safe pace. This autonomy is what gives buggy tours their reputation for excitement and authenticity. Travelers get to experience local landscapes in a way that feels real, raw, and adventurous.
The feeling of driving through mud, water, and bumpy paths is often the highlight of the day. The goal isn’t speed but exploration, and guides always ensure that each participant is comfortable, confident, and enjoying the ride.
Age and license requirements: safety first
While the activity is accessible and family-friendly, there are clear safety rules. To drive a buggy in the Dominican Republic, the person behind the wheel must meet two essential conditions:
Be at least 18 years old
Hold a valid driver’s license
Both the driver and the passenger need to have a license, because either one may choose to drive during the excursion. Even if one person doesn’t plan to drive, having a license is mandatory, as guidelines and insurance policies require it for all participants seated in a buggy’s front seats.
Guides check licenses before departure, so it’s important to bring yours with you.
These rules ensure that everyone on the tour is capable of handling a motorized vehicle, making the experience safe and enjoyable for the entire group.
Switching drivers during the tour is allowed
One of the biggest questions families and couples ask is whether they can switch drivers halfway through the tour. The answer is yes — and many groups choose to do so.
This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy both sides of the adventure: the thrill of driving and the pleasure of relaxing as a passenger while taking in the scenery.
The switch is typically done during one of the stops — whether at a beach break, a cultural visit, a natural pool, or a countryside viewpoint. The guide will let you know when it’s safe to change drivers.
This option is especially appreciated by families with adult children, couples who both want to enjoy the wheel, and groups of friends who like to share the experience fairly.
What to expect during the ride: dirt, mud, and pure fun
Driving a buggy is not like navigating a paved road — it’s wild, messy, and incredibly fun. Expect:
mud splashes,
water puddles,
dusty trails,
off-road bumps,
and plenty of laughs.
This is part of the experience. In fact, people love buggy tours precisely because they are not clean or predictable. You should come ready to get dirty and fully embrace the adventure.
For safety reasons, protective goggles and bandanas are usually provided on site, helping you keep dust and mud out of your face. Closed shoes are recommended, and comfortable clothing is ideal since everything you wear will likely get splashed.
Guides lead the group in a safe formation, adjusting the pace depending on the terrain and weather conditions. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, buggy tours remain operational — and many say it’s even better under the rain!
Conclusion: Yes — you drive the buggy, and that’s why it’s unforgettable
Driving your own buggy in the Dominican Republic is one of the most exciting activities you can choose during your vacation. With simple requirements — being 18 and licensed — the excursion is accessible, fun, and safe. Having the possibility to switch drivers makes the experience fair and inclusive, while the off-road terrain guarantees a full dose of adventure.
If you’re looking for an activity that mixes adrenaline, authenticity, laughs, and incredible landscapes, a buggy tour is exactly what you need — and yes, you will be the one behind the wheel.
Who are we?
Based in Bayahibe, Quetzal Excursions is a local agency specialized in small-group sea trips to Saona, Catalina, and the most beautiful hidden gems of the Dominican Republic. We focus on comfort, safety, and authenticity, aboard high-end boats with a professional crew.
📱 CONTACT US ON WHATSAPP : +1 (809) 979-7359
Our Regular Excursions
Saona by Catamaran – All Comfort
Our Excursion to Catalina Island
Snorkeling Tour to Catalina
Our Private Excursions
Private rental of the Quetzal catamaran
📌 Need help planning your excursion?
Contact Quetzal Excursions to plan your activities from your place of stay, with included transport, small group, professional guide, and high-end services.