Dune Buggy Adventures in Kazakhstan: Thrilling Off-Road Rides Near Almaty
Imagine Genghis Khan swapping his horse for a powerful 220cc dune buggy. Dune buggy rides offer an exhilarating way to explore the modern Silk Road, providing unforgettable thrills fully clothed. Located just 40 minutes west of Almaty along the Tashkent-Bishkek-Almaty Highway, the Dune Buggy Centre lets visitors channel their inner Mad Max warlord for a day.
Housed in a repurposed shipping container amid the rolling foothills of the Alatau Mountains, the centre was founded by two Kazakh enthusiasts of dirt bikes and dune buggies. They've created a challenging dirt track with chicanes to build your confidence and skills. Once prepared, hit the open steppe at full speed for an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Expert guides lead routes through farmlands, rivers, wild gorges, open countryside, and stunning scenery. Choose your duration—no limits apply. Spot soaring eagles, ford streams, and greet nomads in Kazakhstan's raw, untamed landscapes (both literally and figuratively).
Getting There
Look for the camels at the popular Shubat (Camel Milk) Restaurant. From Almaty, spot the buggies ahead of the restaurant on the highway's left. A dirt track through the adjacent field leads to the shipping container centre.
Iain Shearer travelled to Kazakhstan on assignment for Lonely Planet.
