Desert Safari Tour by ATV Quad Bike and Camel Ride – Hurghada

Exploring the Desert in Hurghada: An Adventure You Won’t Forget

This review covers the popular Desert Safari Tour by ATV Quad Bike and Camel Ride in Hurghada, an experience that promises a mix of adrenaline, cultural insight, and breathtaking natural scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, numerous satisfied travelers highlight what makes it special—like the stunning desert vistas, the fun of riding quad bikes, and the chance to connect with Bedouin life.

Three reasons stand out about this experience: the value for money (at just $18 per person), the variety of activities, including quad biking and camel riding, and the authentic cultural elements like Bedouin tea and bread-making demonstrations. One potential consideration is the additional governmental fees that aren’t included in the initial price, which travelers should budget for.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a combination of adventure and culture, especially travelers seeking a budget-friendly yet memorable desert experience. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a curious explorer, or a family with kids, this tour offers something for all wanting to see the Egyptian desert from a fun perspective.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for a memorable desert outing.
• Includes both quad biking and camel riding, providing varied ways to experience the landscape.
• Cultural stops like Bedouin tea and bread-making add an authentic touch.
• Pickup and drop-off included make logistics easy for travelers.
• Limited group size (max 15) ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Additional fees apply on-site, so budget extra for government safari fees and transfers from some locations.

What to Expect from the Hurghada Desert Safari

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it straightforward to start your adventure without the hassle of organizing transport. Once at the quad bike station, you’ll receive a brief orientation—key for first-timers—before hopping onto your ATV. Expect a test drive, where you’ll learn how to handle the bike, and then you’ll be off to conquer the dunes.

The sand dunes are the main attraction, offering a chance to speed up and down the sandy slopes, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you take in the vastness of the desert. The guides typically lead the way, and the tour is designed to be accessible even if you’re a novice—though some reviews mention driving fast, so expect some excitement.

After the quad biking, you’ll ride to a Bedouin village, a highlight where you can relax with traditional Bedouin tea and water, observe how bread is made in the desert style, and learn about Bedouin customs. This cultural aspect elevates the experience beyond mere adventure, providing insight into local life.

The camel ride is often a memorable part of the tour. Travelers describe it as “quite nice”, with some quoting that the ride across the dunes during sunset offers a “spectacular natural experience”. The camels add a slower, more relaxed pace before heading back to the starting point.

Finally, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel or chosen location, making it a seamless outing. The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, offering a well-paced mix of thrill, culture, and scenic relaxation.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s itinerary is straightforward but packed with key highlights. First, the hotel pickup ensures a smooth start, especially important if you’re staying in Hurghada or nearby. Once at the quad bike station, you’ll be introduced to your vehicle—getting familiar with controls, safety gear, and riding tips. Some reviewers mention that the staff is helpful and attentive, which enhances the experience for beginners.

After a brief test drive, you’ll head into the desert dunes. The guides usually lead small groups (up to 15 travelers), which helps maintain safety and personalized assistance. The dune riding is the core activity, and the guides often encourage you to go fast for an adrenaline rush—but always with safety in mind. The view along the route is described as “breathtaking”—vast, golden sands stretching to the horizon with occasional rocky formations for contrast.

Reaching the Bedouin village, you’ll stop to relax, sip traditional Bedouin tea, and observe how locals prepare their bread. This cultural stop is appreciated for providing an authentic taste of desert life, with some reviews noting the friendly Bedouin hosts who share stories and tips.

The camel ride is optional but highly recommended—many travelers describe it as a “nice” and “unforgettable” experience, especially during sunset. Riding a camel across the dunes offers a different perspective of the landscape, with some noting the golden sands glowing at dusk as a truly spectacular view.

The return journey involves heading back to the starting point, often with some free time to take photos or simply enjoy the surroundings. The entire tour balances adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, making it suitable whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with family.

Additional Practical Details

Pricing at $18 per person makes this tour an accessible option for many travelers. However, keep in mind that governmental safari fees (around five dollars per person) are paid in cash on the spot, so budget accordingly. Some transfers from locations like El Gouna, Safaga, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi, or Soma Bay incur an additional $10 per person fee, which is also paid cash.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours, which is a good length for those wanting a quick but immersive desert experience without sacrificing a full day.

Group size is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and safer adventure. The tour offers group discounts, which could be beneficial if you’re traveling with friends or family.

What’s included: The trip provides helmets for safety, an ATV quad ride, camel riding, Bedouin tea, water, and air-conditioned transportation—key features that add comfort and value.

What’s not included: Additional costs such as the governmental safari fee and transfers from specific locations are paid on-site, which is typical for tours of this nature and should be factored into your budget.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler, Hugo, commented, “It was fantastic. I had never driven a quad before and really enjoyed it. We drove really fast, and the view was breathtaking.” This highlights how the tour is accessible even for beginners and offers stunning scenery.

Another reviewer appreciated the cultural aspect, stating, “The Bedouin tea and bread were the highlight, giving real insight into local traditions.” The opportunity to ride a camel during sunset was described as “spectacular”, emphasizing the visual appeal.

Many reviews also mention the good value for money, with the tour costing just $18 and including multiple activities and cultural stops. The small group size and helpful guides contributed positively to the overall experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This desert safari provides an excellent balance of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to experience the Egyptian desert without sacrificing quality. If you’re looking for adrenaline-filled dunes, combined with a taste of Bedouin traditions, this tour hits the mark.

Families, solo travelers, and couples will all find value here, especially considering the small group size and inclusive nature of the activities. Just remember to budget extra for additional fees and be prepared for a roughly 3-hour adventure that will leave you with plenty of stories and photos.

This tour offers stunning vistas, genuine cultural moments, and a dash of adrenaline, making it a worthwhile addition to any Hurghada itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it convenient for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, offering enough time for riding, cultural stops, and enjoying the surroundings.

What activities are included?
You’ll get to ride an ATV quad bike, enjoy a camel ride, and visit a Bedouin village where you can drink Bedouin tea, see how bread is made, and learn about Bedouin life.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, on-site governmental safari fees (around five dollars per person) and optional transfers from certain locations (like El Gouna or Safaga) at $10 per person are paid in cash.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The tour begins with a short orientation, and many reviews mention first-time drivers enjoying the ride, often going fast and feeling safe.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for riding and exposure to the sun is recommended. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making the experience accessible to travelers with disabilities.

To sum it up, this Hurghada desert safari offers a genuine blend of fun, culture, and scenic beauty at an accessible price point. Ideal for those seeking a quick, authentic desert experience with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Egypt trip.