There are plenty of novel ways to explore African landscapes such as walking safaris, hot air balloon adventures or even riding on the back of a camel. But if you want an adrenaline thrill where you’re in control, there’s no better way to see the continent than by zooming around on a quad bike. From South Africa to the Sinai Desert, here are the most spectacular places to go quad biking in Africa.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

Want to make your Mad Max fantasies come true? If so, you need to head to Namibia (where the latest edition of the series was filmed) and go quad biking. You’ll able to see some of the highest sand dunes in the world without worrying about roving packs of maniacal gangs coming to get you. Instead, you’ll likely spot gemsbok and maybe a pangolin — if you’re lucky.

Drakensberg, South Africa

If you’re up for something a bit less sandy and even more scenic, the Drakensberg mountains and valleys are one of the best places to go in Africa. There are numerous trails in the area where you can take on challenging rocky areas or even cruise down the middle of a mountain stream through a valley.

Erg Chebbi Dunes, Morocco

Located near the Algerian border, the Erg Chebbi dunes are one of the top places to go quad biking in North Africa. The area has stunning landscapes all around, including a mix of sandy dunes and straightaways. You can also stop in nearby towns such as Merzouga to get your cultural fix while there. To find out how to go, see our article: How To Go Quad Biking In Merzouga.

Swakopmund, Namibia

Yet another great place in Namibia to go quad biking are in the sand dunes of Swakopmund. Here you can test your skills on some of the highest dunes in the world, then drive back down the coastline and watch the waves roll in from the Atlantic Ocean. Either route you take, it’s sure to have a blast…and get a bit of sand in your mouth.

Sinai Desert, Egypt

Egypt’s Sinai Desert makes a fantastic place to go quad biking and is easy to get to from the resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh. The mountains in the area rise up over the flat valley, making for picture perfect panoramas in every direction. For longer excursions into the desert, several companies offer options for staying overnight in a Bedouin tent. For more information, see our article: How To Go Quad Biking In The Sinai Desert.

Karoo, South Africa

The Karoo often takes a backseat to South African destinations like Cape Town and Kruger Park, but when it comes to a place to go quad biking, it tops them both. The Karoo region has plenty of trails where you can find easy and challenging routes depending on your skill level. You’ll find plenty of Capetonians escaping to the area during the rainy season to get some sun and outdoor fun.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

Located off the coast of Madagascar, Nosy Be is one of the most beautiful spots in Africa to explore, especially when you’re on top of a quad bike. Many of the tours in the area take you through the lush jungles or sandy white beaches, both perfect for enjoying the weather and taking photos from scenic locales.

Giza, Egypt

If you’re needing a little adventure with your ancient history, then quad biking around the Giza pyramids is a thrill that you’ll never forget. While touring through the Sahara, you can get some incredible views of the pyramids as if you were approaching the Kingdom of Egypt as an ancient explorer. Make sure to bring your camera!

Boa Vista, Cape Verde

You might not think that an island in the middle of an ocean would be suitable for quad biking, but you’d be wrong. The climate on Boa Vista is influenced by the winds coming off of the Sahara, making the landscape rugged and dry — perfect for cruising around on a quad bike.

Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana

The Makgadikgadi Pans is a giant region of salt pans which makes it possibly the perfect place for quad biking in Africa. There are no obstacles around, so you can reach high speeds without worrying about getting sideways. If you ever wanted a “blank canvas” to cruise around in, this is your place.

More from AFKTravel:

Walking Safaris: The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush

15 Must-Do Swakopmund Experiences

15 Family Friendly Adventures To Have In Madagascar

This article was originally published on October 21, 2015.

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