Quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt

It's known for its fantastic diving, array of colourful sea life and open-air bars, but no trip to Egypt's Red Sea is complete without a session quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh. You'll be swept into mystical hills, which form the landscape of the southern Sinai peninsula, for an unforgettable experience within easily reach of the resorts of Sharm el Sheikh.

Quad Biking in Sharm el Sheikh © Alexmar - Fotolia.com
Quad Biking in Sharm el Sheikh © Alexmar - Fotolia.com

Quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh: what you need to know

If you're planning a trip to the Red Sea, quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh is the only way to really explore this rugged landscape, and if you've never ridden a quad bike before, this is definitely the place to do it - you can even partner up for the experience if you don't fancy sitting in the driving seat. Just visit the tour desk or activity centre at your Sharm el Sheikh resort to request either a sunrise or sunset tour.

Ready to go © Lisa Eldridge
Ready to go © Lisa Eldridge

A typical quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh trip lasts for two hours, and includes training at the centre about 20 minutes out of town. Here you'll learn how to manoeuvre the bike along the rocky terrain, and be given loads of opportunity to practise. Using a quad bike is relatively easy, and you'll soon be riding like a pro, making for your ultimate destination - the rusty coloured hills in the distance.

The excursion takes you through the Nabq Nature Reserve where you get your first sightings of the local birdlife. Riding in a convoy gives you the confidence to get to grips with the bike while you're bumping across the dusty terrain and opening up the throttle, testing the speed of the quad bike.

Down gently sloping valleys © Alkan de Beaumont Chaglar - Flickr Creative Commons
Down gently sloping valleys © Alkan de Beaumont Chaglar - Flickr Creative Commons

After plenty of time zipping about, you'll be given a much needed break at a Bedouin camp, and a chance to experience true Bedouin hospitality while mingling with your fellow bikers over a cup of mint tea. Here you can also try the local hookah - a traditional water pipe used for smoking flavoured tobacco, or take a ride on the resident camel. If you opt for the sunset session, you'll cruise on to the perfect spot to watch the sun go down, illuminating the landscape in different hues.

Quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh: what to pack

As an adventurous activity in a desert environment, there are a few essentials you should definitely take with you:

  • quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh is dusty business, so eye protection is vital for your vision as you drive - remember your sunglasses
  • cover up as much as you can, regardless of whether you are taking the dawn or dusk tour
  • sun block is a must as it gets dry and hot here, so either wear long sleeves or protect any areas of skin left exposed
  • remember to pack extra water, you'll need it!

The training centre will also provide you with a traditional Bedouin scarf, and being wrapped in black and white (or red and white), not only makes you feel the part, but is necessary for the amount of dust flying around as you gain speed through the hillside.

Cruising through the dust © Lisa Eldridge
Cruising through the dust © Lisa Eldridge

Although quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh isn't a cheap activity, there really is no better way to get a flavour of the southern Sinai Peninsula. It's a memorable thing to do for all ages and abilities, and gives you a glimpse of this stunning part of Egypt. If you're interested in booking your own quad bike adventure, check out Viator*, Isango* and Get Yout Guide*, as they each offer deals on excursions.

If you're keen to give quad biking in Sharm el Sheikh a go for yourself, check out our dedicated Sharm el Sheikh holidays page, with loads of deals and discounts on travel to the Red Sea.

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Lisa Eldridge

Lisa Eldridge

Posted on Friday 19th September 2014 in: Adventure Africa Nature

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