Grand Turk ATV Tours
Taking an ATV excursion can be a fun way to explore Grand Turk. Tours typically start near the Grand Turk Cruise Center and last 2-4 hours. Most ATV tour durations fit with cruise ship visits, yet will still allow a little extra time for the beach or to browse the shops and restaurants of the Grand Turk Cruise Center. The guides will ensure that you’re back in time for your vessel departure.
Sights and Attractions
Most ATV tours begin near the South Base area, a little north of the cruise center. Adjacent to the Cruise Center is Hawkes Nest Salina, where blindingly white sea salt can be seen. Continuing on you’ll pass the Grand Turk JAGS McCartney International Airport (GDT), where there’s a replica of the Mercury Friendship 7 space capsule (Grand Turk was the splashdown location for John Glenn’s historic 1962 orbit of Earth).
Next up is Front Street. The tour continues along the historical oceanfront settlement of Cockburn Town, passing many colonial-era buildings, the old post office, and the Turks and Caicos National Museum. You’ll also drive by our beachfront House of Assembly (parliament/senate) building.
From Front Street, you’ll navigate up to North Creek, a popular birdwatching and kayaking spot.
Finally, you’ll drive to the Grand Turk Lighthouse, which was built in 1852. The route follows the twisty clifftop off-road path on the north coast, which takes you to an exceptional overlook and the water collection field at the abandoned Grand Turk's U.S. Navy NAVFAC 104 Base.
No maps are needed as ATV tours are fully guided.
Beaches and Coastlines
ATV tours typically visit several of the island’s top beaches, including Governor's Beach, Cockburn Town Beach, Pillory Beach, and the cliffs near the lighthouse.
You’ll have time to take photos, yet the schedule generally doesn’t allow for a swim.
The wetlands near North Creek offer a bit of tropical wilderness. Coastal and wading birds such as brown pelicans, ospreys, terns, reddish egrets, cattle egrets, yellow-crowned night herons, and great blue herons can be spotted.
You’ll also likely get a close-up encounter with the friendly and feral Turks and Caicos donkeys!
Reservations and Booking
ATV tours must be booked directly with local businesses, as ATV tours are not available from the cruise line as a shore excursion. If you’re arriving via a cruise ship, we recommend booking early to ensure a spot.
ATVs accommodate one driver and one passenger. Age requirements may apply. About half the typical tour route travels on unpaved (dirt) roads, and it’s advised to wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear, as well as have sun protection.
