Makadi Bay: ATV, Sea View, Camel, Stargazing, Dinner & Show

If you’re after a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery in Egypt’s Red Sea area, this tour offers exactly that. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal an experience packed with adrenaline-pumping rides, picturesque stops, and relaxing moments beneath the stars.

What excites us most about this tour? First, the two-hour quad biking adventure across diverse terrains promises a fun-filled way to see the desert landscape. Second, the combination of desert, mountain, and coast views makes for some truly memorable photos. Third, the evening experience with dinner, live show, and stargazing offers a romantic way to wind down after a day of adventure.

One thing travelers should consider is the transfer times, which vary depending on your hotel location — from around 25-30 minutes from Makadi Bay to up to an hour from places like El Gouna or Soma Bay. This might mean some early mornings or slightly longer travel, but the overall value and unique experience seem well worth it.

This experience is best suited for those craving a mix of thrill and culture, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy active outdoor adventures. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates breathtaking scenery and a touch of romance under Egyptian skies.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Starting at just $12, the tour offers great value for a two-hour adventure.
• Diverse Terrains: Ride through dunes, valleys, coastlines, and mountains for a full desert experience.
• Guided and safe: Professional guides provide safety briefings, and a short driving test ensures all riders are confident.
• Flexible options: From entry-only to full transfers, sunrise to sunset, there’s a tailored experience for everyone.
• Extra activities: Camel rides, horseback riding, or buggy sessions can be added for more fun.
• Authentic moments: Stops for photos, quiet desert moments, and optional dinner or star gazing deepen the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

How the Tour Begins: Pickups and Transfers

The adventure kicks off with flexible pickup options to suit your location. Guests can choose shared transfers from their hotel, with pickup times typically about 25-30 minutes from Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, and longer from Hurghada, El Gouna, or Soma Bay. For those seeking more comfort, private transfers are also available.

A standout from reviews is the efficiency and professionalism of the transport. Many travelers appreciated that pickup was usually on time, with some noting the helpfulness of guides during the process. However, a few reviews mention occasional hiccups, like a driver going to the wrong hotel or waiting only five minutes, which caused some initial stress. Once sorted, though, most found the logistics smooth and the journey part of the overall adventure.

Safety and Preparation

Upon arrival, everyone receives a safety briefing and a quick driving test—crucial for those new to quad biking. The minimum age for drivers is 16, with reckless riding strictly prohibited. Helmets and protective gear are provided, and guides emphasize safety throughout.

Reviews highlight the attentive nature of guides like Hadeer, who took time to explain everything clearly and keep participants informed. A few mention guides helping those less confident, making the experience accessible to all levels of riders.

The Ride: Dunes, Valleys, and Coastlines

The core of this tour is the 2-hour guided quad biking across Egypt’s dramatic desert landscapes. Riders pass through dunes, open plains, and valleys, with stops for photos and moments of peace amid the vast scenery.

Many reviews rave about the professionalism of guides like Mohamed Baraka, who tailored the pace for different skill levels and ensured everyone stayed safe. One review mentions how guides divided the group into fast and normal-paced riders, which helps keep the experience enjoyable for both thrill-seekers and more cautious riders.

Travelers can expect to see spectacular views toward the Red Sea, with some tours including a beach stop, giving you a chance to splash your face with ocean breezes or capture photos on the sand. Guides often take photos for you, which can be purchased later—some reviewers say they got creative shots without any pushy sales tactics.

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Stops and Photo Opportunities

The tour includes several designated stops—one in the desert and another at the beach or seaside. These offer prime photo moments, with some travelers commenting on how quiet and peaceful these spots are, perfect for a break from the adrenaline rush.

Some reviewers note that stops can be as short as 10-15 minutes, but they’re usually enough to stretch, take pictures, and enjoy the scenery. Others have extended their camel rides, with an optional 30-minute add-on for more time in the saddle.

Additional Activities and Extras

For those wanting more, options include horseback riding and buggy sessions, adding variety and an extra layer of fun. Many guests appreciate that the tour allows customization—whether you want to focus on riding, sightseeing, or relaxing with a meal.

The sunrise tour at 5:00 AM offers a traditional Oriental breakfast and a unique chance to see the desert awakening, while the evening sunset ride with dinner combines adventure with cultural entertainment, including a live show and stargazing.

Dining, Show, and Stargazing

The sunset experience is one of the most romantic and atmospheric parts of the tour. After riding through the desert as the sun dips, guests are treated to a delicious Oriental dinner and entertainment beneath the star-studded sky. The reviews emphasize how the guides keep the atmosphere fun and relaxed, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Camel Rides and Other Highlights

A quick 5-minute camel ride is included in every tour, offering a snapshot of traditional Egyptian life and great photo ops. For those who want more, extending the ride is easy, and many reviewers mention how fun and adorable the camels are for kids and adults alike.

Practical Tips and Recommendations

Travelers recommend bringing essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and scarves—especially on windy or hot days. Helmets are mandatory and provided on-site, but goggles or scarves to block dust add extra comfort. Some guests mention that drinks at the base or during stops can be overpriced, so bringing your own water is advised.

While the tour is generally suitable for most, pregnant women, people with back problems, or mobility issues are advised to reconsider, as riding involves some bumps and uneven terrain.

Value for Money

At just $12 per person, reviews consistently praise the tour’s value, especially considering the variety of activities, scenic stops, and the quality of guides. Many compare it favorably to pricier hotel excursions, noting that the experience offers more authenticity and personal attention without the hefty price tag.

Reviewers also highlight the professionalism of the guides and the care taken during the ride, which makes the experience also feel safe and well-organized. The inclusion of photos, optional extras, and the picturesque scenery make this outing a true bargain for such a comprehensive adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers craving a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Families with children, couples looking for a romantic sunset, or groups of friends wanting a fun day out will all find something to enjoy. Its affordability makes it attractive for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice quality.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, relaxing beach holiday with minimal activity, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers should consider other options, as the ride involves some bumps and quick stops.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you opt for the transfer options, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in air-conditioned vehicles. Private transfers are also available for more comfort.

How long does the entire trip last?
The actual quad biking ride lasts about 2 hours, but total tour time can range from around 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on pick-up location and additional activities.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, a scarf, and weather-appropriate clothing. Helmets and safety gear are provided.

Can I extend the camel ride?
Yes, for an additional fee, you can extend the camel ride from 5 minutes to 30 minutes or more.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age for driving is 16. Younger children can participate in the camel ride or enjoy the scenic stops, but they cannot ride quad bikes alone.

Are meals included?
Only if you choose the sunset ride with dinner, which includes an Oriental meal and live entertainment. Sunrise tours also include a traditional breakfast.

What about photos?
Guides often take photos during stops, and these can be purchased afterward. Many reviews praise the quality and creativity of the photos.

Is alcohol or smoking allowed?
No, alcohol and smoking are prohibited during the activity for safety reasons.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options, including pay later, through platforms like GetYourGuide.

Final Thoughts

This Makadi Bay adventure offers incredible value—combining the excitement of quad biking with moments of tranquility and cultural richness. It’s an excellent choice for active travelers, families, or couples seeking a memorable day out.

You’ll love the stunning desert and sea views, the friendly guides who make safety a priority, and the diverse activities that keep the experience lively. The optional dinner and stargazing add a romantic touch, perfect for ending a day of exploration.

While transfer times might be a consideration, most guests find the journey and the adventure well worth the effort. It’s a well-organized, authentic, and affordable way to discover Egypt’s stunning landscapes beyond the usual beach scene.

In essence, if you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural moments without breaking the bank, this tour in Makadi Bay will deliver. Just remember to pack your essentials, stay hydrated, and prepare for some sand-filled fun!

You can check availability for your dates here: