Beyond the beaches and coral reefs of the Red Sea, another side of Sharm El Sheikh is waiting to be explored. The mountains and open landscapes of the Sinai Desert offer a completely different experience, from fast-paced quad bike rides to peaceful sunsets and Bedouin-style evenings under the stars.

A Sharm El Sheikh desert safari is one of the most popular ways to experience this side of South Sinai. But safari programmes can vary considerably. Some focus mainly on quad biking, while others combine several activities such as camel riding, Bedouin-style experiences, dinner, sunset views and stargazing.

This guide explains the main types of desert safari in Sharm El Sheikh, what you can expect, what to wear, what to bring and how to choose the right experience for your holiday.

If you are ready to compare available experiences, explore our Sharm El Sheikh safari and desert adventure tours.

Why Take a Desert Safari in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh is famous for the Red Sea, but its location in South Sinai means the desert is also an important part of the destination.

Within a relatively short journey from the resort areas, the coastal scenery gives way to rocky mountains, wide desert valleys and open landscapes.

A desert safari gives visitors the opportunity to experience a completely different environment without necessarily dedicating an entire day to travelling far from Sharm El Sheikh.

Depending on the programme you choose, a safari can be focused on adventure, scenery, Bedouin-style hospitality or a combination of several experiences.

Types of Desert Safari in Sharm El Sheikh

There is no single type of desert safari. Understanding the differences between the main programmes will help you choose an experience that matches your interests.

Quad Bike Safari

Quad biking is one of the best-known desert activities in Sharm El Sheikh. After a safety briefing and basic instructions, participants follow a guided route through the desert.

You do not normally need previous quad biking experience for beginner-friendly programmes, but you should always follow the instructions provided by the guide and drive according to the conditions of the route.

Some quad bike safaris focus almost entirely on riding, while longer programmes may include additional stops or activities.

For a dedicated riding experience, see our Quad Bike Safari in Sharm El Sheikh.

Desert Safari with Camel Ride

Camel riding provides a slower contrast to quad biking and is often included as one part of a combined desert programme.

The duration of the camel ride varies between tours. If this activity is particularly important to you, check the programme carefully before booking rather than assuming that every safari includes it.

Bedouin-Style Desert Experience

Some desert programmes include time at a Bedouin-style camp or rest area. Depending on the selected tour, the experience may include traditional tea, food, entertainment or time to relax in the desert setting.

Programmes differ, so always check exactly what is included in your chosen safari.

Sunset Desert Safari

Sunset is one of the most atmospheric times to experience the Sinai Desert. As the light changes, the surrounding mountains and desert landscape take on warmer colours.

Sunset programmes are particularly suitable for travellers who want to combine adventure with scenery and photography.

Stargazing in the Sinai Desert

Once the sun disappears, the desert offers another experience. Away from the brighter resort areas, some safari programmes include an opportunity to observe the night sky.

Stargazing is commonly combined with an evening desert programme rather than offered as a standalone daytime activity.

Quad Bike Safari: What Should You Expect?

If this is your first quad bike safari in Sharm El Sheikh, knowing the basic process beforehand can make the experience more comfortable.

The exact itinerary depends on the tour, but a typical experience may involve hotel pickup or a meeting arrangement, arrival at the quad bike station, safety instructions, a guided desert ride and any additional activities included in the selected package.

Before the Ride

You will normally receive instructions explaining how to operate the quad bike and the basic safety rules.

Listen carefully even if you have ridden a quad bike before, as desert conditions and individual vehicles can differ.

During the Safari

The group normally follows a guide along a planned desert route. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you and avoid overtaking unless your guide specifically allows it.

The objective is not simply to drive as fast as possible. The terrain, dust and visibility can change throughout the journey.

Stops During the Trip

Depending on the programme, there may be stops for photographs, rest, tea or additional activities.

Always check the itinerary of the specific safari you are booking because not every quad bike tour includes the same stops.

Morning or Sunset Desert Safari: Which Is Better?

Both can be enjoyable, but they provide different experiences.

Morning Safari

A morning safari can be a good option if you want to keep the rest of your day free for the beach, swimming or another activity.

It is particularly useful for travellers with a busy itinerary who want to experience the desert without using their evening.

Sunset Safari

An afternoon or sunset programme is better suited to visitors who want to see the changing colours of the desert and potentially combine their safari with an evening programme.

If photography and atmosphere are priorities, sunset is usually the more appealing option.

What to Wear for a Desert Safari in Sharm El Sheikh

Comfort and protection from the desert environment are more important than dressing formally.

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.
Choose closed shoes rather than loose sandals for quad biking.
Bring sunglasses to help protect your eyes from sun and dust.
Use sunscreen, particularly for daytime programmes.
A scarf or face covering can be useful during dusty quad bike rides.
During cooler months, consider bringing an extra layer for evening programmes.

Clothing requirements can also depend on the specific activities included in your safari.

What Should You Bring?

You usually do not need to carry a large bag into the desert. A few practical items are enough for most excursions:

Sunglasses
Sunscreen
A small amount of drinking water if required
Phone or camera
Secure bag or zipped pocket for personal belongings
Scarf or face covering for dust
An extra layer for cooler evenings when appropriate

Check your individual tour description before departure because some items may already be provided.

Do You Need Experience to Ride a Quad Bike?

Many recreational quad bike safaris are designed to accommodate beginners and usually start with basic instructions.

However, this does not mean that every tour is appropriate for every traveller. Age restrictions, passenger rules and other requirements can differ between programmes.

Always check the conditions of the specific tour before booking, particularly when travelling with children or anyone who may have difficulty operating the vehicle safely.

Is Desert Safari Suitable for Families?

Some desert experiences can be suitable for families, but this depends heavily on the programme and the ages of the children.

A relaxed desert programme and an activity involving driving a quad bike are not necessarily subject to the same requirements.

Parents should check age restrictions, whether children ride independently or as passengers, and which activities are included before confirming a booking.

Is a Sharm El Sheikh Desert Safari Worth It?

For travellers who spend most of their holiday around the beach and resort, a desert safari offers a strong contrast to the Red Sea experience.

In a relatively short period, you can leave the coastal resort environment and experience the landscapes of South Sinai from a completely different perspective.

It is particularly worthwhile for visitors interested in outdoor activities, photography, desert scenery or simply adding something different to a beach holiday.

How Long Does a Desert Safari Take?

There is no universal duration because Sharm El Sheikh desert safaris range from relatively short quad bike experiences to longer combined programmes.

When comparing tours, look at the total duration as well as the actual activities included. A longer programme may include transfers, stops, meals or additional experiences rather than simply providing more riding time.

How to Choose the Right Sharm El Sheikh Safari

Do not choose a safari based only on the lowest advertised price. Compare what each programme actually includes.

Before booking, consider:

Whether you want quad biking or a broader desert experience
Morning, afternoon or sunset departure
Whether camel riding is included
Whether there is a Bedouin-style stop or programme
Whether food or drinks are included
Hotel pickup and drop-off arrangements
Total duration
Age and participation restrictions
Any optional or additional charges

You can compare current safari and desert adventures in Sharm El Sheikh before choosing the experience that best matches your plans.

Best Time of Year for a Desert Safari

Desert activities are available during much of the year, but the experience changes with the season and time of day.

During hotter periods, morning and later afternoon programmes can feel different from activities scheduled around midday. In cooler months, evenings in the desert may feel noticeably colder than the daytime resort areas.

Whatever the season, prepare for sun exposure during daytime activities and check the expected conditions before departure.

Desert Safari Safety Tips

A desert safari is an adventure activity, so following basic safety instructions is important.

Listen to the guide before operating a quad bike.
Wear any safety equipment provided or required.
Maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
Do not race or overtake unless instructed.
Keep phones, cameras and personal belongings secure while riding.
Inform the tour provider of relevant participation concerns before booking.
Follow the guide's instructions throughout the desert route.

Desert Safari or Red Sea Trip?

You do not necessarily need to choose between them. The two experiences show completely different sides of Sharm El Sheikh.

A Red Sea excursion focuses on coral reefs, snorkeling, diving and marine scenery, while a desert safari introduces you to the mountains and landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula.

If your stay allows, combining one sea experience with one desert adventure is an excellent way to see more of the destination.

For more ideas beyond the desert, read our guide to the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sharm El Sheikh Desert Safaris

Can beginners ride quad bikes in Sharm El Sheikh?

Many recreational safari programmes accept beginners and provide instructions before the ride. Always check the requirements of your selected tour.

What should I wear for quad biking?

Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed shoes are recommended. Sunglasses and a scarf or face covering can also help with sun and dust.

Is camel riding included in every desert safari?

No. Some programmes include a camel ride while others focus only on quad biking or different activities. Check the inclusions before booking.

Can children join a desert safari?

It depends on the specific programme and the child's age. Driving and passenger restrictions may apply to quad bikes and other vehicles.

Are desert safaris available at sunset?

Yes, some programmes are scheduled to include the late afternoon or sunset, while others operate in the morning or at different times of day.

Should I book my safari in advance?

Booking in advance can help you compare the programme, understand the inclusions and secure an option that fits your holiday schedule.

Book a Desert Safari in Sharm El Sheikh

From quad biking across the Sinai landscape to camel rides, sunset views and Bedouin-style experiences, the right desert safari can become one of the most memorable parts of a Sharm El Sheikh holiday.

Alfa Montazah Mobility is based in Sharm El Sheikh and provides tours and travel services directly as well as selected experiences through local partners. Our English- and Russian-speaking customer support is available 24/7.

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Safari & Desert Adventures