Riyadh: Desert and Quad bike Safari

Planning a desert adventure in Riyadh? This 6-hour tour offers a taste of the wild, red sands just outside the city, blending adrenaline-filled activities with cultural touches. While it’s not a remote escape—since it departs directly from Riyadh—the experience still packs in plenty of fun and memorable moments.

What truly stands out are the expert Bedouin drivers who handle the dune bashing with skill, the opportunity to try sandboarding, and the chance to test your balance on a quad bike. Plus, being picked up and dropped off at your hotel makes this hassle-free. However, if you’re seeking a more secluded or longer desert retreat, this might feel a bit short and commercial for some.

Best suited for those craving an active day with a mix of adventure and culture, this tour balances thrill with a sense of local authenticity. Just keep in mind that the price of $260 per person reflects a comprehensive experience, but some might consider it on the higher side for a shorter desert trip.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Riyadh hotels make planning easier.
• Includes a variety of fun activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking.
• Cultural element with a traditional Saudi meal included.
• Expert guides enhance safety and add local flair to the adventure.
• Flexible booking options with pay-later reservations and cancellations.
• Duration of around 6 hours offers a good day trip without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect From the Desert and Quad Bike Safari

This tour offers a nicely balanced mix of adventure, culture, and convenience, ideal for visitors who want to experience the desert without venturing too far from Riyadh. The pickup from your hotel sets a relaxed tone for the day, allowing you to start your adventure without stress.

Once in the red sands of Thamama, you’ll quickly notice the stunning landscape—massive dunes painted in deep shades of red and orange, perfect for photo ops. The activity lineup is quite lively, with dune bashing led by experienced Bedouin drivers. They skillfully navigate the shifting dunes, delivering exhilarating rides that keep your adrenaline pumping. As several reviewers point out, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

Sandboarding is another highlight. If you’ve ever wanted to glide down a desert dune on a board, you’ll love the opportunity here. It’s easy to pick up, though some find it more fun than technical. Expect plenty of laughs and “try-again” moments. You might also get a chance to trek across the dunes, soaking in the vastness and silence that only desert landscapes can offer.

The quad biking segment lasts around 30 minutes, giving you a decent taste of off-road riding. Many travelers appreciate that the quad bikes are included in the price, as it offers a more hands-on, active experience. The bikes are suitable for beginners but also fun for more experienced riders.

After the thrill, the tour includes traditional Saudi cuisine—a hearty meal that adds a cultural touch to the day. Snacks, water, and other refreshments are provided, ensuring you stay refreshed amid the desert heat.

Breakdown of the Itinerary

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, which means you avoid the hassle of transportation logistics. This is especially helpful if you’re staying in central Riyadh. The drive out to Thamama takes about an hour, where the real fun begins.

Once at the dunes, you’ll dive into activities in this order: dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking. The dune bashing is the star feature—trust the local Bedouin guides to keep things exciting but safe. Reviewers mention that the drivers are “skilled,” and that they appreciated the small group size—which feels more intimate and less commercial.

Sandboarding is a flexible and accessible activity—no experience needed—ideal for families or friends. The quad bike ride is a highlight, especially since it lasts for around 30 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the terrain. You don’t need prior riding experience, and the guides are attentive to safety.

The tour wraps up with a traditional meal, often described as “Sadi food”, which is hearty and flavorful. After enjoying your meal and some downtime, you’ll be transported back to Riyadh, arriving in time for a relaxed evening.

The Value of this Experience

At $260 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transportation, activities, meals, and equipment—all bundled into one. For travelers wanting a full-day adventure without organizing separate bookings, this is a good deal. The inclusion of snacks, water, and a traditional meal ensures you’re well-fed and hydrated, adding to the overall value.

While some might feel the cost is a bit high, it’s important to consider the convenience factor and the quality of guides and equipment. The experience is designed to be lively and engaging without feeling rushed, making it suitable for both thrill-seekers and casual explorers.

Practical Tips for Your Desert Safari

• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing—it can get quite hot during the day, but the dunes may be cooler.
• Closed-toe shoes are advisable, especially for sandboarding and quad biking.
• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen—the desert sun can be intense.
• Arrive early to make the most of your day and ensure smooth pickup.
• Hydrate well before and during the trip, even with provided water.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, tell your guide—dune bashing can be bumpy.
• The tour is conducted in Arabic and English, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for anyone visiting Riyadh who wants a fun, active day out of the city. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a quick escape into nature. If you’re curious about local culture but prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience, this tour hits the right notes.

Those with limited time in Riyadh will appreciate the ease of hotel pickup and the fact that it covers multiple activities in one trip. However, if you’re looking for a longer, more remote desert retreat, this might feel a bit brief.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 6 hours, including pickup, activities, meals, and return to your hotel.

What activities are included?
You’ll experience dune bashing, sandboarding, and a 30-minute quad bike ride.

Is food included?
Yes, a traditional Saudi meal called “Sadi food” is part of the package, along with snacks and water.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, the guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, with expertise in navigating the dunes safely.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, bring sunglasses and sunscreen, and consider closed-toe shoes for safety.

This Riyadh desert and quad bike safari offers a lively blend of adventure, culture, and convenience—delivered in a well-organized package. It’s especially suited for those wanting to tick off a desert experience while staying close to the city. The included activities and traditional meal provide excellent value, making it a memorable day trip for a wide range of travelers.

While it may not satisfy those seeking total seclusion or a longer desert retreat, the mix of dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking ensures plenty of fun in a relatively compact timeframe. For anyone looking to add a dash of excitement and local flavor to their Riyadh stay, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Note: Always check current availability and safety guidelines before booking, and communicate any specific needs or concerns with your tour provider.

You can check availability for your dates here: