Phuket is one of Thailand’s most popular destinations and it’s easy to understand why — with this tropical island being home to famous attractions like Phi Phi Island, Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island.

The region also features a host of outdoor activities, earning it the nickname of “Thailand’s Playground.” One of the most exhilarating of these pastimes is an ATV quad biking tour in Phuket, providing visitors with a high-octane day out.

Not only are these four-wheel bikes a whole lot of fun, but they are also capable of going where few other vehicles can — allowing travelers to explore parts of Phuket that visitors don’t usually get to see.

Read on for everything you need to know about ATV quad biking tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Phuket.

What are the most popular quad biking tours in Phuket?

There are a number of quad biking tours available in Phuket, and these outings cater to drivers from all types of experience levels. The tours also explore different areas of the island, making it easy to find an exhilarating outing that will fit your needs.

Phuket guided group ATV tour to the Big Buddha

This larger group tour is the most accessible option to explore Phuket from the back of a quad bike — both in price and competency level. The tour comes with different durations, ranging from 30-minute outings to 2-hour treks through the jungle.

The shorter tours are advisable for less experienced drivers, while the rest is perfect for intermediate and advanced drivers. Either way, these excursions leave three times a day and offer a pickup service from most of Phuket's larger towns — ensuring that your day out will be adrenaline-filled as well as convenient.

Arriving at the tour company’s headquarters, you’ll receive a short safety briefing and the opportunity to familiarize yourself with your safety gear and vehicle. Following this, you’ll set off through a rubber plantation and into the jungle.

Your route will depend on the tour you choose, with longer routes being more challenging but the end destination will always be the Big Buddha. This impressive statue measures 45 meters tall and 25 meters wide and is a sight to behold as the white marble glitters in the sun. After exploring the statue, you’ll head to the starting point where you’ll board the bus back to your hotel.

Quad bike tour to Phuket’s mangrove jungle and hidden beach

This ATV-powered jungle trek comes in two sizes, either 1 or 2 hours long. The longer 2-hour tour is well-suited to more advanced drivers, while the 1-hour trip is perfect for newcomers. There are even automatic quad bikes available to help inexperienced drivers stay comfortable during the trip.

Your day out in Phuket’s wilderness starts with pickup from your hotel, after which you’ll head to the starting point. No matter your level of experience, all drivers will first receive a safety briefing and time to acquaint themselves with their bikes.

Whereas other quad bike tours travel to famous destinations like the Big Buddha or Phuket Old Town, this excursion avoids the beaten track. Instead, you’ll head deep into the mangrove forests and to a secluded beach. After arriving, you’ll soak up the sun or enjoy a swim, as well as some refreshments and fresh fruit.

Finally, it’s time to turn your quad bike around and head back to the tour office, where you’ll board the bus back to your hotel in Phuket.

Private quad bike tour in Phuket

If you want to enjoy a quad bike tour that’s been specifically tailored to suit your needs, you should opt for a private ATV trip. These tours might be more expensive, but they are perfect for experienced drivers who don’t want to worry about other participants slowing things down — making it perfect for couples or people traveling as a group of friends.

Together with your guide, you’ll be able to determine the itinerary, and together you’ll explore parts of Phuket that few visitors get to see. A light meal and some refreshments will be served during the excursion and you may choose a duration of between 1 and 3 hours.

Are there any combos available with ATV tours in Phuket?

Combining your ATV tour with other activities in Phuket is a great way to cut down on overall costs — while maximizing your adventure-filled day.

Phuket’s ATV tour with zip-lining, snorkeling and private city tour

This bumper-packed outing in Phuket will keep you enthralled for an unforgettable 9 hours — during which you’ll enjoy a 1 hour-long ATV tour ending deep in the jungles of Phuket. Here you’ll have the option of zip-lining across the jungle canopy before heading to Ao Sane Beach for lunch and a snorkeling session.

Following this, you’ll head out on a city tour to the famous Big Buddha where you’ll explore the grounds of the massive statue before heading to Wat Chalong. Once at the temple, you’ll learn more about the local Buddhist religion and customs before heading to the picturesque streets of Phuket Old Town.

Finally, you’ll give your weary legs a break as you get into an air-conditioned van for your journey back home. The best part of this trip is the fact that it’s a private affair, making it the perfect day out to share with your loved ones.

Phuket quad biking tour with white water rafting and Monkey Cave

Outings in Phuket don’t come much more than this ATV tour during which you’ll hop on a quad bike, splash down for some river rafting and zip-line your way across the island. You’ll start off your day in comfort with an air-conditioned vehicle picking you up from your hotel.

First up is a visit to the famous Monkey Cave and Suwan Kuha Temple — where you’ll more about the Buddhist religion, as well as the cave complex.

Next up, you’ll tame the wild waters with the help of your raft and your guide, before ziplining your way over the jungle canopy. Finally, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute quad bike tour back to the starting point, where you’ll board the bus and head back home.

How much do ATV tours in Phuket cost?

Quad bike and ATV tours in Phuket range from US$30 to US$160 per person for trips including more than one activity.

The Phuket guided group ATV tour to the Big Buddha costs US$30 per person for the most basic option — while the more advanced 2-hour tour option will cost US$100 per person.

A quad bike tour to Phuket’s mangrove jungle and hidden beach will set you back US$60 per person for an hour-long outing. Longer tours with more demanding terrain are available at US$80 per person.

A Phuket quad biking tour with white water rafting and a Monkey Cave visit will cost US$100 but a couple of activities are included. You’ll also enjoy a complimentary lunch as well as a couple of refreshments.

Phuket’s ATV trip with zip-lining, snorkeling and a private city tour will cost US$160 per person — but this exhilarating outing will keep you occupied for 9 hours. During this time all of your needs will be taken care of and you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch as well as refreshing drinks.

What is included?

A quad bike tour in Phuket will always include the vehicle you’ll be using as well as the fuel for the trip. You’ll also receive a safety briefing and all of the basic equipment like helmets and protective padding.

A facemask isn’t included, so bring one along as the trail can get quite dusty. Some trips include insurance covering damage to the vehicle and injuries to the participants, but this varies from tour to tour. A light lunch and some refreshments are usually served at the halfway point of the excursion.

Where does it start?

If your hotel or place of residence is located in one of the bigger towns on Phuket Island, your tour will start at your door — with a dedicated pickup and drop-off service included in most quad-bike tour packages.

The quad bike tour itself will usually depart from the tour company’s office or the garage where the ATVs are housed. After your quad bike tour, you’ll return to the office where you’ll board the bus back to your hotel.

How long does it last?

A quad bike tour in Phuket usually lasts between 30 minutes and 3 hours. The duration of the tour typically depends on the cost and the proficiency level of the drivers — with longer trips costing more and covering more challenging terrain. Excursions that combine ATV tours with other activities can last anywhere from 5 to 10 hours.

Is it safe?

Yes, quad tours in Phuket are safe, as they provide expert guides and safety equipment. These excursions are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are allowed, but the age limits for driving and being a passenger is slightly different for each tour provider. Generally, you must be at least 15 years old to drive your own ATV and at least 5 years old to ride as a passenger.

Do I need a driving license?

No, a driving license isn't necessary for quad biking tours in Phuket. However, you're required to sign a waiver and wear the appropriate protective gear.

What happens in case of bad weather?

In case of bad weather, your ATV tour will be canceled. When this happens, you can either receive a full refund or rebook the activity for another date.

When is the best time for a quad bike tour in Phuket?

The dry season from November to April is the best time for a quad bike tour in Phuket. You can choose to go during the cooler months from November to February, which is also the high tourist season, or during the hotter months from March to April.

The wet season from May to October isn't the most pleasant time for quad biking as the tracks will likely be muddy and slippery. On the upside, everything will be green and lush. Also, there'll be much fewer tourists during this time.

Which other outdoor activities can you do in Phuket?

Travel tips

Use a GoPro or Action Camera. Capture your adventure without using your hands by attaching a camera to your helmet or vehicle.
Be Prepared for Mud and Dust. Depending on the season, trails can be dusty or muddy, so be prepared to get a bit dirty.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes. Protect your feet with sturdy shoes suitable for rough terrain.

Quad Tours in Phuket