A desert evening from Marsa Alam: quads, camels and stars

Marsa Alam is known for the sea, but the land behind it is just as striking in its own way. Rocky hills, sandy wadis and wide plains stretch out from the road. A desert trip is the easiest way to see them, and it fills a gap between water days.

The morning quad ride

The pick-up is around 08:00. At the base you meet the guides, get a safety briefing and try a short practice ride. Then you set off for about an hour and a half across dunes and wadi tracks, following your guide in a line. A tea stop with a Bedouin family comes near the end, and you are back at your hotel before lunch.

The sunset quad safari

This version leaves in the afternoon, around 15:00. The ride is timed to reach a viewpoint as the sun goes down, and you stop for photographs. Dinner and tea at a Bedouin camp follow, and you return after dark. It is slightly longer than the morning ride and the light is gentler.

The camel ride and stargazing

If you would rather not drive anything, choose the camel evening. A camel ride of about 45 minutes at sunset leads to a camp, where dinner and tea are served. Later a guide points out constellations in the dark sky. A clear night makes all the difference, since cloud or haze spoils the view.

What to wear and bring

• Closed shoes, long trousers and a scarf for dust.
• Sunglasses, even for the sunset ride.
• A fleece or jacket for the evening.
• A little cash for tips and drinks, as soft drinks are not always included.

Safety and good habits

Listen to the briefing, ride at the speed of the group and keep your distance from the quad in front. If you feel unsure, tell the guide. Damage to a quad caused by misuse is not covered, so ride sensibly. Wild animals are not the focus here, though birds and the odd gazelle track sometimes appear.

Pick the evening ride if you want colour in the sky, the morning one if you want to be back for the afternoon, and the camel option for a calmer pace.