One of the first questions people ask before an off-road buggy safari near Side, Manavgat or Antalya is a simple one: who actually drives? The buggies we use are two-seat side-by-side machines, which means two people share one buggy and one price. Instead of a single-seat racer, you sit next to your partner behind a full roll cage, both strapped in with seatbelts, and you take turns at the wheel. If you have ever wondered how the driving is shared out, this guide explains exactly how it works on the trail.
Two people, one buggy, one price
Our buggies are built for two. That is not a compromise — it is the whole point. Two friends, a couple, a parent and older child, or two family members climb into the same cabin, and the price covers the pair. There is no hidden second charge for the passenger seat. You share the adventure, share the dust, and share the water crossings side by side, which is a big part of why these trips are so much fun. Booking direct gives you the best price, and there is no prepayment — you simply pay the guide on the day.
Who drives and who rides
Because there are two seats, one of you drives while the other rides shotgun. The driver handles the steering wheel and the pedals; the passenger holds on, spots the trail ahead, and shouts encouragement (or warnings) through the corners. No licence and no previous experience are needed to drive — the buggies are automatic and forgiving, and before you set off there is a full safety briefing plus a short practice lap so you can get comfortable with the controls at low speed.
Swapping halfway through the ride
Here is the part everyone loves: you don't have to pick one driver for the whole trip. Most of the time the ride includes a natural stopping point — a photo spot or a short break in the Taurus foothills — where you can safely swap seats. The person who rode as passenger on the way out takes the wheel for the way back, so both of you get a proper turn at driving. Just let your guide know at the briefing that you'd like to swap, and they'll make sure it happens at a sensible, safe place rather than mid-trail.
Age to drive versus age to ride
This is an important distinction. Younger children can come along as passengers, seated safely beside an adult driver, so families are very welcome. Driving, however, is only for older participants who can reach and manage the controls, and there is usually a minimum age to take the wheel. Ages vary by conditions and the day's route, so the honest answer is to tell us the ages in your group when you book and we'll confirm who can drive and who should ride. We would rather give you the right answer for your family than promise something on paper.
What's provided and what to wear
Everything you need for the driving is provided: the buggy, helmets and safety gear, the briefing, and the practice lap. Free hotel pickup is included, with pickups arranged for the morning or afternoon depending on your session — we'll confirm an approximate window rather than pin you to an exact minute, since trails and traffic vary. Wear old clothes and closed shoes, because these trails are genuinely dusty and muddy, with water crossings and often a cheerful water fight to finish. You will get wet and messy — that's the plan.
Making the most of sharing a buggy
Sharing a two-seat buggy turns a solo activity into a shared story. You'll spend half the ride learning the controls and half enjoying the view, and you'll both have your own memories of driving through the dust and splashing through the crossings. It also means nobody is left standing on the sidelines — everyone in the buggy is part of the action.
Ready to see who takes the wheel first? Learn more and book your seats on our buggy safari page, or browse the full range of adventures on our tours page. Tell us your group and ages, and we'll sort out the driving so everyone gets their turn.