The mountains behind Sharm el-Sheikh are crossed by open desert tracks, and the standard evening excursion takes you into them on a quad bike (ATV), then to a camp for a camel ride, dinner and a show. The trip runs about five hours, and it has the biggest review record of any desert option, with a 4.8 rating from more than two thousand reviews. A guide leads the convoy, so you do not need to have driven a quad before, though a short briefing is given. At the camp you sit on low cushions for tea, a barbecue-style dinner and a performance, then stargazing if the sky is clear. Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring a scarf for dust, and layer up, as the desert cools quickly after sunset.
The shape of the evening
Pickup comes in the afternoon, and you are driven to the base, where you are fitted with a helmet and given a short lesson. The quad ride is an easy hour or so of tracks and dunes at a moderate pace, with a stop for photographs. Then you move to the camp for camel riding, tea, dinner and the show. After dinner there is usually time to lie back and look at the stars, with the Milky Way visible on moonless nights.
Safety and comfort
Quad bikes are loud and dusty, so a scarf or buff over your nose is a good idea, along with sunglasses. Follow the guide's speed and spacing, as the tracks are uneven. If you are nervous, ask about a passenger seat or a buggy option, which some operators offer. Pregnant travellers and people with back problems should avoid quad biking. Children's age and weight rules vary by operator, so check with the operator before you book.
Making the most of it
Choose a sunset departure for the best light and the coolest riding temperature. Food at these camps is simple and filling rather than gourmet, and vegetarian options usually need to be requested when you book. Drinks may be extra. Carry small notes for tips, and keep your phone in a zipped pocket on the quad. This is a lively, touristy evening, so if you want a quieter desert experience, ask the operator about smaller groups or a private option.
What to expect
The experience
An afternoon-to-evening desert excursion with a guided quad ride, a camel ride, a Bedouin-style dinner and a show.
Best time
Choose a sunset departure for good light; autumn to spring is more comfortable than midsummer.
How long
About five hours including the transfer.
Tips
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring a scarf and a warm layer, and check age rules and drink prices when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers who want a fun, easy introduction to the desert and a Bedouin-style evening.
- Families
- Popular with families, but check age and weight limits for quads and ask about a buggy or passenger seat.
- Couples
- Lively rather than intimate, although the stars after dinner are memorable.
- Pair with
- A reef day on the water, so you see both sea and desert.
- Time needed
- One evening.
Good questions
Do I need quad bike experience?+
No, a guide gives a short briefing and leads the group at a moderate pace. Tell the guide if you are a beginner.
Is dinner included?+
A Bedouin-style dinner and show are included. Drinks may be extra, and special diets should be requested when you book.
What should I wear?+
Long trousers, closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf for dust. Bring a warm layer, as the desert cools quickly after sunset.
Is it safe for children?+
Many families join, but age and weight rules vary. Ask whether a child can ride as a passenger or in a buggy.
Will I see the stars?+
Usually yes on a clear night, as the desert is dark away from the resorts. Moonlight and haze can reduce the view.
