Good news: driving a buggy is really easy. It handles much like an automatic car. No clutch, no manual gear changes. You just focus on the basics: going forward, reversing, braking, steering and keeping your distance.
The controls: just like an automatic
Drive, reverse, park
The gear selector is the same as on a regular automatic: D to go forward, R to reverse and P for park, which also acts as the parking brake.
Good habit when changing position: keep your foot on the brake while stationary before moving from D to R or P, just like in an automatic car.
Accelerating and braking
Two pedals, right foot only. Ease gently onto the accelerator and brake in a straight line, smoothly.
A common mistake for people used to a manual gearbox: reaching for the clutch and instinctively pressing the brake with the left foot. If it happens right at the start, don’t panic – you’ll get used to it very quickly.
The fix: rest your left foot on the footrest and leave it there.
Indicators and controls
The indicators work just like in a normal car. The guide will tell you when to use them on road sections or when approaching junctions.
Steering and holding the wheel
Semi-power steering
The steering is a little heavier than in a modern car. Nothing complicated – it just feels more “physical” off-road.
The key safety habit
Keep both hands on the wheel and don’t hook your thumbs inside it. Off-road, if a rock or a rut makes the wheel jerk suddenly, this stops you from hurting yourself.
Recommended position: hands at quarter to three (the standard in motorsport – forget the old “ten to two” some driving schools still teach), with your eyes looking well ahead to read the track.
Distance and pace in the convoy
It's not a race
You drive in a convoy behind the guide, without overtaking. The point is the ride and the scenery, not speed.
Leaving space pays off
Keep a sensible distance from the buggy in front. It’s safer and you breathe in less dust. On the tracks, anticipation is everything: leave yourself some margin, especially before a blind bend or the crest of a bump.
Simple off-road driving tips
Braking and cornering
- On gravel, brake in a straight line and before you go into the bend.
- Ease off the brake slightly as you turn, then accelerate gently on the way out.
- Avoid jerking the wheel and sudden acceleration.
Uneven sections
- Let the guide pick the line. If you have to go over a dip, approach it straight and slowly, without turning sharply.
- Keep a firm grip on the wheel and look where you want to go, not at the obstacle.
Grip and weather
If it’s rained recently, the track may be softer or muddy. The guide adapts the pace. Stay smooth on the controls and all will be fine.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Driving with both feet: no. Right foot only on the pedals.
- Thumbs inside the wheel: no. Keep them on the outside.
- Tailgating the buggy in front: no. Leave some space so you can see the track and react.
- Looking just over the bonnet: no. Look far ahead to anticipate.
Driver's quick checklist
- Selector on D to go forward, R to reverse, P to park.
- Right foot to accelerate and brake, left foot resting.
- Both hands on the wheel, thumbs outside.
- Eyes far ahead, a comfortable safe distance.
- Follow the guide. It’s not a race.
Related questions to explore next
How does a buggy tour work from start to finish?
→ Read: How a buggy tour works
Cancellations, weather and safety: how does it work?
→ Read: Policies and weather
What to wear and bring on a buggy tour?
→ Read: What to wear and pack
Buggy tours with children or health issues: is it suitable?
Ready to try it for real?
- Check out the Buggy page for practical info and prices.
- To check availability and book, message me on WhatsApp at +33676820702 or via the Contact page.