If you’re planning a trip to the Red Sea coast of Egypt, you’ll likely come across the Makadi Bay Sunset Quad & ATV Adventure. This tour offers a chance to explore the stunning desert landscapes on a guided quad bike ride, with options for sunrise, sunset, or an evening under the stars. With reviews averaging a 4.2 out of 5 from over 850 travelers, it’s a popular choice for those craving a dash of adrenaline mixed with scenic beauty.
What we love about this experience is its versatility — whether you want a relaxed morning with breakfast, an energetic daytime ride, or an enchanting evening with dinner and stargazing, there’s an option for you. The inclusion of a camel ride, optional add-ons like private guides, and transfer choices make it adaptable for all kinds of travelers. The one possible consideration? The transfer times can vary, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area, so planning your timing is key.
This tour suits adventure lovers, families, or solo travelers eager to see the desert from a different perspective. It’s also ideal if you’re on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice quality or authenticity. Below, we’ll walk you through what to expect and how to get the most out of this memorable ride.
Key Points
- Flexible departure times: Choose sunrise, daytime, or sunset options based on your preference.
- Includes essential safety gear: Helmets and precautions ensure a secure adventure.
- Multiple terrains: Ride through desert plains, dunes, and coastal views—perfect for photo enthusiasts.
- Optional add-ons: Extend your experience with camel rides, private guides, or dinner under the stars.
- Affordable price point: At around $12, it offers excellent value for a memorable desert adventure.
- Family-friendly options: Suitable for teens 16+ and above, with attentive guides for safety.
An Overview of the Experience
The Makadi Bay Quad & ATV tour promises a guided journey through Egypt’s captivating desert scenery, with options that fit different times of day and personal interests. From the start, you’ll notice how well-organized and flexible it is—whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a group, or traveling with family.
Most of the booking options include hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you won’t need to worry about arranging transport. The transfer times vary depending on your hotel location, from about 25-30 minutes for Makadi Bay and Sahl Hasheesh, up to 45 minutes from Hurghada, or around an hour from El Gouna or Soma Bay. If comfort and speed are your priorities, private transfer upgrades are available.
Once at the quad station, a friendly team begins with a safety briefing and a quick test drive — all designed to boost confidence, especially for first-time riders. The minimum age for participation is 16, and reckless driving isn’t allowed, which helps keep the group safe and enjoyable.
Looking for more options in Makadi Bay? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Ride: Desert, Dunes, and Sea Views
You’ll spend about two hours on the quad bikes, traversing a variety of terrains. The route is carefully curated to showcase Egypt’s iconic desert landscapes, with stops for photos and to appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers mention riding through wide plains, dunes, and valleys with views of the Red Sea, which makes for some stunning shots.
The guides, like the highly praised Mustafa and others, are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring everyone stays together and feels safe. Several reviewers note this, with one saying, “The guide was amazing and made sure everyone was together at all times,” highlighting the importance of experienced guides in making this trip smooth and enjoyable.
For those opting for the sunrise experience with breakfast, you’ll start early at 5:00 AM, a fantastic way to witness the desert as it awakens. Reviewers like Tarsha mention the early start was worth it, despite the slightly early wake-up. The breakfast is traditional and well-received, setting a warm tone for the day.
The daytime rides are perfect if you want more adrenaline, with plenty of off-road fun. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can join a slower group, or enjoy the stops where you’ll have a chance for memorable photos. As one reviewer pointed out, “It wasn’t pushed past my comfort zone,” which speaks to the activity’s safety-conscious approach.
Sunset, Dinner, and Stargazing Tour
The evening option transforms the experience into a magical adventure. After a 2-hour ride through the dunes and coastal views, guests are treated to an oriental dinner and live entertainment. This is often described as a full, satisfying meal with local flavors, served under the vast, clear desert sky.
The tour culminates with stargazing—a highlight for many guests. Reviewers like Regis share how telescopes were set up for closer looks at the moon, making the night feel special and intimate. The combination of a sunset ride and a relaxed evening of food and stars makes this option ideal for couples or those seeking a romantic experience.
Camel Rides & Optional Extensions
A short camel ride is included in all tours, typically lasting around five minutes, perfect for photos. Guests who want to extend this can upgrade to a 30-minute camel ride or add other activities like buggy rides, making it easy to customize your adventure.
Some travelers, including Robert, appreciated the “lovely little camel ride,” while others found it a fun bonus after the quad experience. If you’re a photography fan, the guides are often happy to take pictures, though some reviews mention being overcharged for photos, so it’s wise to clarify prices beforehand.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Aspects & Tips
The tour is designed with safety and comfort in mind. Helmets and safety gear are provided, and a brief test drive helps prevent mishaps. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen—especially for the daytime rides. On windy days, long clothing can prevent sand irritation.
Participants must sign a disclaimer, and pregnant women or those with back or mobility issues are advised against riding. Children under 16 are not permitted, but teenagers 16+ seem to have a blast.
The cost, around $12 per person, is highly competitive considering what’s included—transfers, safety gear, the ride, and stops for photos. Optional extras like private guides and extended camel rides are available at checkout, allowing you to tailor the experience further.
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- Makadi: Giftun Island Speedboat Cruise to Orange Bay & Lunch
- Hurghada: Golfing at the Madinat Makadi Golf Resort
- Makadi Bay: Luxor Highlights & King Tut Tomb Full-Day Tour
What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, well-maintained bikes, and scenic routes. Many emphasize how much fun they had riding through different terrains, with some saying it’s “great value for money” and “a must-do activity.”
While most reviews are positive, a few mention logistical hiccups such as delayed pickups or photos being overcharged. For instance, some guests noted that “the transfer times can be a bit long,” especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area.
Most importantly, many comment on how safe and well-organized the activity is. Guides like Mustafa and others are often highlighted for their professionalism and friendliness. Guests also appreciate the opportunity to enjoy Egypt’s desert scenery without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The Sum Up
The Makadi Bay Sunset Quad & ATV Adventure offers an authentic taste of Egypt’s desert landscape, combining thrill, scenic beauty, and cultural touches like camel rides and traditional food. Whether you opt for sunrise, daytime, or sunset, it’s a reasonably priced experience that balances excitement and comfort.
This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, families with teens, and travelers on a budget who want a fun, memorable outing. The optional add-ons and flexible scheduling make it easy to customize, while the overall safety measures and guide expertise ensure peace of mind.
If you’re in Hurghada or Makadi Bay and want to explore beyond the beaches, this is a lively, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable way to do it. Just remember to pack light, wear sunscreen, and prepare for some dusty, unforgettable fun.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most options include hotel pickup and drop-off, with transfer times varying based on your location.
Can I do this tour if I’ve never ridden a quad bike before?
Absolutely. A safety briefing and short test drive are provided, making it suitable even for beginners.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen are recommended. On windy days, long clothing can help protect from sand.
Are private transfers available?
Yes, private transfer upgrades are offered for a more comfortable and quicker journey.
Can I extend the camel ride?
Yes, you can upgrade to a 30-minute camel ride or add other activities like buggy sessions at checkout.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 are not permitted to ride, but teens 16+ are welcome, and many reviews mention family-friendly experiences.
What is the price?
The base price is around $12 per person, making it excellent value for the experience, with optional extras available.
What should I know about photos and tips?
Guides are happy to take photos, but some reviews mention overcharging for pictures—clarify prices beforehand and decide if you want to buy.
This adventure balances thrill, scenery, and cultural touches, making it a standout excursion in Makadi Bay for those wanting a true taste of Egypt’s desert charm.
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