El Gouna desert riding is one of the few places near the Red Sea where you can go off-road on MX-style tracks and still get those desert views that make the whole trip feel special. I like that you get real track time with options for different skill levels, not just a slow parade. I also like the setup: hotel pickup, a briefing, and gear that gets you ready fast. The one drawback to keep in mind is that the experience can run pricey, and if your plans change on the day, you’ll want to be extra clear about what’s included.

You’ll be in the desert pretty quickly, moving over dunes and through canyon-like areas where the ground tells a story. This is the kind of activity that works best when you show up in comfortable shoes, listen to the safety talk, and commit to learning the controls.

Key highlights at a glance

• First and only MX and ATV track in Egypt (so you’re not just riding anywhere)
• Huge riding zone: 968,751 square feet for free-roam time
• Gear included: gloves, helmet, and warm overalls
• Ocean-view option plus a climb up toward mountain terrain at 350 feet
• Track choice on site for amateurs vs professional drivers

Why El Gouna Desert MX and ATV Riding Feels Different

The big selling point here isn’t just riding a quad. It’s riding in a place built for it. This is the first and only MX and ATV track in Egypt, which means the whole day is organized around controls, safety, and real riding lines.

I like the fact that the session can be beginner-friendly. The bikes are described as easy to operate and made accessible for everyone. That matters if you don’t want your first off-road attempt to feel like a video game with no instructions.

Then there’s the other side: some parts feel like proper motocross. If you’ve got even basic bike confidence, you’ll probably enjoy that mix of dunes, jumps or bumps, and tighter track sections.

One extra detail that I find quietly cool: the desert area has a connection to when the region was under the sea a million years ago. You may spot memory of that past in shells and corals as you ride through the canyon-like zones. It’s not a museum stop. It’s just a reminder that you’re moving through something ancient.

From Hurghada Hotel to Go Shalabi Track: Timing and Pickup Reality

Hotel pickup is included, and for most people that’s a win. You don’t have to figure out desert transport on your own. But timing is where you should stay flexible.

For Hurghada hotels, pickup can vary by about 1 to 1.5 hours from the scheduled time. You’ll get pickup confirmation at 10:00 PM the night before via email/WhatsApp. When the bus comes, look for a white or black bus with the GoShalabi logo.

Meeting point matters. You’ll be picked up at the main entrance of your hotel’s main gate by the road, not at the reception gate. And the provider can only wait up to 5 minutes, since they have other clients too.

This is why I suggest treating the start time as a range, not a clock. If you’re the type who shows up exactly on the dot, you may end up stressed. If you show up early at the correct entrance, your morning or afternoon will feel calmer.

If you’re not staying in Hurghada, there’s also long-range pickup available as an add-on in the checkout process (like Makadi, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, or Soma Bay). But again, only your confirmation message will give you the exact window.

Gear, Briefing, and How the Session Actually Starts

Once you arrive at the bike club, you’ll go through an operational briefing and safety instructions. This isn’t the place to wing it. The whole point of having an MX/ATV track is that they want you riding within rules—so the staff can keep things fun and safe.

You’ll also get core safety gear: gloves, a helmet, and warm overalls. That’s a big deal because desert dust and wind can be rough, and the clothing helps you stay comfortable through the session.

The riding style is either quad or MX bike, and the provider has different tracks based on ability. You can select after seeing the tracks on the day, which is smart. Seeing what you’re choosing usually beats guessing based on a photo.

Language is English for the instructor, so you can ask questions if you feel unsure about controls or track markings. The better you understand what the staff expects, the better your ride will feel.

Riding the Dunes, Canyon Sections, and the 350-Foot Mountain Option

Your time in the desert can feel like two different trips, depending on the route you choose.

One option focuses on dunes and moving across the desert floor—fast enough to feel thrilling, but still framed as a guided safari. Another option is an ocean-view tour. That includes passing the canyon area and then riding up toward higher terrain, described as a climb up the mountains at 350 feet.

Here’s what that means for your experience. The ocean-view route is mostly about perspective. You’ll get the kind of wide desert-and-sea feeling that makes the photos look better than your average beach shot. The canyon riding adds texture and interest—more than just sand and straight lines.

Also, keep your eyes open for the shells and corals detail in the canyon-like sections. It’s easy to focus only on the handlebars, but taking a few seconds to notice the ground makes the ride feel more connected to the place. You’re not just chasing speed; you’re traveling through layers of time.

Expect the session to include free-roam time in a huge area—968,751 square feet. That size matters because it usually means you’re not constantly waiting in line. If you like momentum and hate stop-and-go tours, this helps.

Choosing the Right Track: Beginner-Friendly vs MX-Ready

This tour is built around the idea that you can match your comfort level to the terrain. The club has different tracks for amateurs and professional drivers, and you can decide after checking them out.

I like that you’re not forced into one skill level from the start. If you’re a total beginner, you can start on the amateur track and build confidence. If you’ve ridden before and you want the sharper, more MX-like experience, you can choose the harder track after you see it.

One review example that really shows what this can mean in practice: a rider did the two-hour safari on a motocross bike and specifically mentioned getting to ride a KTM 450 exc. That kind of detail is a strong sign that you’re not stuck with a basic, low-power setup if you’re ready for more.

That said, you’ll get the most fun if you choose honestly. If you overreach early, your nerves can steal the joy. If you choose right for your day, the whole session feels like learning with adrenaline, not panic.

The Price: What $134 Gets You (and When It Might Feel Too Much)

At $134 per person for 1 to 2 hours, the value comes from three things: guided riding, included safety gear, and the track setup that turns a casual ride into an activity.

If you’ve tried quad riding in other places, you know what often happens. It becomes a short loop with lots of waiting, and you leave feeling like you barely rode. Here, the huge riding zone and the MX/ATV track structure are built to reduce that problem.

That’s why one common reaction makes sense: it can feel expensive, but also worth it if you’re actually there for the riding experience. One person even called it pricey but said the fun made it worth it.

Still, I’ll be straight with you: if you want a very specific type of ride or you expect the day to go a certain way, confirm that upfront. One experience shared an issue where a reservation wasn’t found and extra charges happened after changing the plan toward desert riding instead of the circuit—ending in much higher cost than expected. You don’t need to fear it, but you should protect yourself by being clear with the staff before you start rolling.

In other words, the price is fair when you keep your expectations aligned with what’s offered. The value drops fast if your plan changes and you assume everything is automatically covered.

What Can Go Wrong, and How You Can Avoid It

Even good desert activities have friction points. Here are the ones you should plan around, based on real-world issues people described.

First, double-check that your reservation details match what the provider needs. You’re asked to provide passport copy, nationality, hotel name, address, and room number. If any of that is off, you may lose time before you even start riding.

Second, be precise about what you’re signing up for on the day. If you want to switch from one riding style or route to another, ask how it affects price and what exactly changes. One story included extra charges after a change, so don’t treat upgrades as automatic.

Third, bikes can have problems. One person described a breakdown in the desert and wished for a better check beforehand. You can’t control mechanical failure, but you can reduce risk by reporting anything unusual right away and following staff instructions about safe use.

Finally, protect your belongings. You’re told you’re responsible for personal belongings, and the company isn’t liable for lost or damaged items. If you’re wearing a pocket, consider leaving anything valuable at the hotel.

If you go in prepared—clear details, clear expectations, quick communication—the odds of having a smooth, fun ride go up a lot.

Who This El Gouna Quad and MX Safari Suits Best

This is a great fit if you want an outdoor, high-energy activity and you’re okay with dust, noise, and learning something new. The tour is described as perfect for beginners and people looking for something different while in Egypt, mainly because the bikes are accessible and there are instruction and track options.

I also think it suits people who like a challenge. If you’ve ridden before, the ability to choose an amateur or more professional track makes it feel worth it, not like you’re stuck in beginner limits.

It’s less ideal for people who want a calm, laid-back sightseeing day. This is action first, scenery second—though the scenery is absolutely part of it.

Important limitations: it’s not suitable for pregnant women and wheelchair users. If you fall into either group, you should skip this one and look for an alternative activity with appropriate support.

Should You Book This Quad and MX Bike Safari From Hurghada?

Book it if you want a hands-on off-road experience in a real MX/ATV setup, and you’ll enjoy the desert views that come with the dune-and-canyon route options (including the ocean-view climb).

Don’t book it if you’re sensitive to cost surprises or you strongly prefer ultra-transparent, no-change plans. If you do book, protect your money by confirming your ride type and any route preferences before you start, and make sure your pickup meeting point and details are correct so you’re not losing time when the bus arrives.

If you’re the kind of person who reads a safety briefing and then has a blast afterward, you’ll probably have a very good time here. The track design and included gear do most of the heavy lifting. All you have to do is show up ready to ride.

FAQ

How long is the El Gouna quad and MX safari from Hurghada?

The duration is listed as 1 to 2 hours. Starting times depend on availability.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included from Hurghada?

Yes, pick-up and drop-off from Hurghada is included.

What gear is provided for the ride?

The tour includes gloves, a helmet, and warm overalls.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring comfortable shoes.

What language are the instructions available in?

The instructor provides instruction in English.

Where should I wait for pickup?

Wait at the main entrance of your hotel’s main gate by the road, not at the reception gate. Look for a white or black bus with the GoShalabi logo.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

No. It is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.