As the weather cools in the UK, holidaymakers everywhere will be looking to follow the sun with their choice of destination, and this extends to 4×4 enthusiasts. With desert covering over one-fifth of the world’s land area, desert trails are the natural choice for 4×4 drivers looking for fun in the sun and a thrilling off-road experience.
There are some fantastic desert-based touring trails just waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the ultimate desert routes.
El Camino Del Diablo, Arizona
The USA offers several terrains to enjoy for 4×4 drivers of varying levels of experience. Whilst most touring hotspots in the USA boast rugged rides through mountain passes and forests, their desert trails offer a driving experience that’s entirely different.
El Camino Del Diablo in Arizona may not be suitable for beginners, but its moderate difficulty provides the perfect progression for 4×4 enthusiasts looking to step up their skills. Home to ‘Devil’s Highway’, this area delivers 250 miles of sand dunes and volcanic fields as well as the mountain scenery you’d expect from a US touring trip.
You even get to explore an abandoned ghost town on your drive, with the Fortuna Mine offering a welcome respite from the rougher desert plains.
Fossil Rock, Sharjah
The United Arab Emirates is a popular choice amongst desert-dwelling 4×4 drivers. For drivers new to off-roading, Fossil Rock in Sharjah provides the perfect introduction to desert off-roading thanks to its smaller dunes and super soft sand. After a day of driving, be sure to pitch up behind the Fossil Rock at sunset for a truly awe-inspiring view.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, the opposite side of Fossil Rock is a mix of sand, stone and steeper inclines.
Messum Crater, Namibia
With desert as far as the eye can see, the Messum Crater is a breathtaking touring spot. Take the scenic drive to the crater by following the coastal road that leads to its southern point. Along with giving you beautiful views and a rugged ride, a visit to Messum Crater in Namibia offers the chance to explore a series of archaeological sites that are difficult to reach on foot.
Indulge your love of history and 4×4 driving by visiting its ancient village settlement and salt pan, and travel back in time by viewing its rock paintings, prehistoric formations and spectacular natural arches.
Plage Blanche, Morocco
For a desert trip with a difference, Plage Blanche in Morocco provides an other-worldly experience. Based in an ecological park bordering the edge of the Sahara Desert, this 40-mile stretch of white, sandy beach offers the best of coast and desert, along with challenging intervals of pebbles and dunes to really take your 4×4 driving skills up a notch.
Prepare for your desert trip
Whatever destination you’re looking to explore in your search for the best 4×4 desert trail, you’ll need to be prepared. 4×4 Australia shares just some of the essentials that you’ll need for your desert trip:
“When calculating fuel usage, remember that your vehicle will use more fuel in trying off-road conditions than it will cruising on the highway, and always throw in a good safety margin. Perishable food, of course, will need to be stored in a portable fridge/freezer, and you should always make sure this is working properly before departure, and that you have spare fuses/leads/plugs etc. and a small electrical repair kit.”
Provisions of fuel and water are only the beginning when prepping for your desert tour. Your vehicle should carry a long list of supplies and be kitted out with the right upgrades to ensure a safe and successful adventure in the desert.
Discover all the 4×4 upgrades and supplies you need right here by shopping with us today.
Image: Mehmet Levent ALBAS / Shutterstock.com
