Sharm El Sheikh Desert Safari Guide
Sharm El Sheikh Desert Safari Guide
Sharm El Sheikh is not only about the sea and corals. The desert surrounded by the Sinai Mountains offers a different side of the holiday with ATV riding, sunsets, stargazing and camp experiences. Safari packages are sold under similar names, but their duration, vehicles, meals and activity content can differ.
Types of safari
The shortest programs usually focus on ATV or buggy riding. Longer packages may add a Bedouin camp, tea service, dinner, a show or stargazing. Camel riding is offered as a short experience in some tours and may make up a small part of the total duration.
The word "safari" in a package name alone does not describe its content. Check the departure time, the actual riding time, whether pricing is per person or per vehicle, and whether transfers are included.
Morning or sunset?
Morning safaris suit those who want to make use of the cooler hours and reserve the rest of the day for the sea. Sunset tours are preferred by those who want to see the colors of the desert and join a longer camp program.
In summer, the midday hours can be extremely hot. In winter, temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Whatever the season, choose your tour time according to the weather and your personal tolerance for heat.
ATV riding
ATV tours are mostly done in a convoy formation with the guide in front. It is not a speed race; you need to keep to the group distance and the set route. If you have no driving experience, listen carefully to the introduction at the start and ask staff for support whenever you do not feel comfortable.
Age, license and driving conditions may vary by operator. Children may not be allowed to drive alone. For two-person use, passenger rules and maximum weight limits may apply. Ask about these conditions in writing before booking.
What to wear?
Choose closed, comfortable shoes, clothing that does not restrict movement, sunglasses and a thin scarf to protect your face from sand. Sandals and flip-flops are not suitable for driving. In summer, a light, long-sleeved top helps protect you from the sun.
Take a thin jacket or windbreaker for winter evenings. Leave valuable jewelry and accessories that could easily fall off at the hotel. Carry your phone in a zipped bag that protects it from dust.
Dust and health
Heavy dust can be produced in an ATV convoy. Activity may not be suitable for people with asthma, respiratory sensitivity, recent surgery, serious back or neck problems, or pregnancy. Inform the tour provider of your health condition in advance and get a doctor's opinion when necessary.
Contact lens wearers may experience discomfort due to dust. Protective goggles and a face covering are helpful, but they do not provide complete protection.
Bedouin camp experience
Some packages include traditional tea, a bread-making demonstration, dinner and a stage program. Evaluate whether these are an authentic daily-life visit or a tourist show according to your expectations. Respect local communities and photography rules.
If meals are included, ask about the menu, drinks and any special dietary needs. Buffet or plated service options may vary from tour to tour.
Stargazing
In desert areas far from city lights, the sky can be seen more clearly. If "telescope stargazing" is mentioned, check the amount of equipment and the duration of the guided commentary. Moon brightness, clouds and dust conditions can affect visibility.
Tips for photography
Protect your phone or camera from sand at sunset. Do not change lenses in the open. Do not try to take photos while driving; wait for the stop point. Asking permission before taking close-up photos of people is the right approach.
Questions to ask when choosing a tour
Is hotel transfer included?
Is the ATV single or double?
What is the total program and the actual riding time?
Are helmets, goggles and face coverings provided?
Are meals, drinks, photography and camp activities included in the price?
What are the age and health restrictions?
What is the cancellation and weather policy?
What to bring
Bring a small water bottle, sunscreen, tissues, closed shoes, a scarf, and a jacket for winter evenings. Use a small bag close to the body instead of carrying a large one. Even if the tour provider offers water, consider your personal needs.
When the right program is chosen, a desert safari can be one of the most unforgettable days of a Sharm holiday. Compare safety equipment, vehicle maintenance, guiding and the real package content rather than just the lowest price.
Information note: Safari routes, age requirements and activities may vary by provider and weather conditions. Verify health and safety instructions before booking. If you are planning a desert safari as part of your holiday, we recommend reviewing the packages offered by reliable providers in our Sharm El Sheikh tours section. For other activities you can do in Sharm El Sheikh besides the desert safari, you can also browse our Activities category.