What is the difference between an ATV and a dune buggy?

ATVs and dune buggies are very different off-road vehicles. See definitions and differences below. ATVs are factory-built off-road vehicles. They are professionally engineered and manufactured, and feature four wheels, a straddled seat for the operator, and handlebars for steering control. They are designed for travel on a variety of terrains, including deserts and dunes. A dune buggy is a term commonly used to describe a modified off-road vehicle, based on a car chassis. It’s designed for recreational use on beaches, dunes and other off-road environments. It’s typically not designed for high performance. Polaris does not manufacture dune buggies.

How do you ride an ATV in sand dunes?

Riding an ATV over sand dunes can be an exhilarating experience when equipped with the right gear and proper handling techniques. Check out our dune riding tips article for expert advice.

What do you wear when riding in the sand dunes?

It’s critical to always wear proper protective gear when riding in sand dunes. This includes a helmet and goggles —tinted goggles can improve visibility in the sun. You should also wear long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots and other essential off-road protective gear. Check out our dune riding tips article to learn more.

DESERT & DUNES ATVS & SIDE BY SIDES

COMPARE DESERT & DUNE VEHICLES

Polaris ATVs and side-by-sides equip you to cover ground across the sand desert, or other rough terrain with vehicles that specialize in superior suspension, width, and horsepower to get you where you want to go.

Compare All Desert and Dunes Vehicles

SIDE-BY-SIDE

RZR

Whether you’re hauling through the desert or climbing up dunes, RZR’s got you covered with incredible performance, design, and technology.

Usable Suspension Travel

Available Horsepower

Seating Capacity

Up to 74" Wide

Explore Featured Sportsman Dune & Desert ATVs.

ATV

SPORTSMAN

Take on sand, rocks and more with Sportsman and Scrambler ATVs—delivering a smooth ride and confident handling.

Suspension Travel

Available Horsepower

Seating Capacity

Up to 55" Wide Vehicle

FEATURED DESERT & DUNE ATVS & SIDE BY SIDES

2027 RZR XP S

Take on brutal rock crawls and grueling trails with a machine designed for uncompromising performance.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $28,799

2027 RZR PRO S

Unmatched performance, unbeatable value. Conquer dunes, deserts, rocks, mountains and more with the nimble and powerful RZR Pro S.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $34,599

2027 RZR PRO R

Unleash a force of nature with RZR Pro R, our most powerful naturally aspirated RZR with race-proven durability.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $54,399

2027 RZR PRO R BOOST

Our most powerful RZR ever. RZR Pro R Boost delivers turbocharged power for unrivaled desert performance.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $63,999

2027 SCRAMBLER XP 1000 S

Built to handle demanding terrain with a 55" stance, 14.5" of ground clearance, and Walker Evans adjustable shocks that help smooth out rough trails and maintain confident control.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $19,999

2027 SPORTSMAN XP 1000 S

Take on tougher terrain with 55" width, Walker Evans adjustable shocks and 14.5" of ground clearance to keep you in control.

1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Starting at $20,699

DESERT & DUNE ACCESSORIES

Customize your side-by-side or ATV for the ultimate dune and desert riding experience. Explore curated accessory packages for featured models below.

RZR Pro R Dune Package

Add accessories to your RZR Pro R for dune riding.

Rockford Fosgate^® Audio
RIGID^® Lighting
Lock & Ride Cooler
Side Mirrors
Shoulder Storage Bag

Shop RZR Pro R Dune Package >

RZR Pro S Desert Package

Add accessories to your RZR Pro S for desert riding.

Half Windshield
RIGID^® Lighting
Lock & Ride Cooler
Door Storage Bags
Spare Tire Carrier

Shop RZR Pro S Desert Package >

RZR Pro R Desert Package

Add accessories to your RZR Pro R for desert riding.

RIGID^® Lighting
Front Bumper
Forward/Rear Cargo Boxes
Door Storage Bags
Spare Tire Carrier

Shop RZR Pro R Desert Package >

RZR Pro S Rock Package

Add accessories to your RZR Pro S for rock crawling.

Front/Rear Bumpers
Rock Sliders
Pro Armor Rock Lights
4,500 LB Winch
Pro Armor Crawler XG Tires

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FAQs When Shopping for Dune or Desert ATV

ATVs and dune buggies are very different off-road vehicles. See definitions and differences below.

ATVs are factory-built off-road vehicles. They are professionally engineered and manufactured, and feature four wheels, a straddled seat for the operator, and handlebars for steering control. They are designed for travel on a variety of terrains, including deserts and dunes.

A dune buggy is a term commonly used to describe a modified off-road vehicle, based on a car chassis. It’s designed for recreational use on beaches, dunes and other off-road environments. It’s typically not designed for high performance. Polaris does not manufacture dune buggies.
Riding an ATV over sand dunes can be an exhilarating experience when equipped with the right gear and proper handling techniques. Check out our dune riding tips article for expert advice.
It’s critical to always wear proper protective gear when riding in sand dunes. This includes a helmet and goggles—tinted goggles can improve visibility in the sun. You should also wear long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots and other essential off-road protective gear.

Check out our dune riding tips article to learn more.

DESERT & DUNES ATVS & SIDE BY SIDES

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