Desert trips in Sahara dunes & Camel ride from Marrakech | One day activities

Our agency gives you the chance to enjoy this adventure in maximum safety in Marrakech Palm Grove.

No need for a driver’s license to drive ATV as you will drive on tracks only.
Only need to be 16 age and over (with parental authorization if 16 age or 17age). The guide invites us to sit down and informs us that he will soon do our training. We receive Morocco scarves and a regulation that must be signed by each participant. This is an international safety regulation applied to Quad (ATV) & Spider trips. The guide gets on an ATV and shows us how to start the engine, how the brakes work, and how to accelerate. We are told to use only the ATV brake when braking. At first glance, it seems quite simple and everyone is looking forward to venturing into the desert. One instructor fixes our scarves on our heads, another gives us goggles. I recommend that you do not take your sunglasses because they will confuse you more or there is a risk of losing them. It is forbidden to wear sandals, a hat, or contact lenses. I recommend that you leave your valuables at the hotel and that you do not have them with you because you may lose them while driving.

Everyone receives a helmet. Wearing a safety helmet is mandatory. The guide informs us that during the trip, the ATV is driven by only one driver. The vast majority of tourists are at their first experience of this kind. Everyone ventures to drive the ATV through the desert dunes. For the last time, the guide warns us to keep the minimum distance between ATVs, which is to have between 15 – 20 meters. On the route, do not deviate from the road and follow the group leader, and if we want to stop for various reasons, do not do it without informing the group leader. I forgot to tell you that it is forbidden to use a camera, video, or telephone while driving an ATV. Don’t panic because there is a cameraman on the whole trip who takes pictures and films you.

Before entering the desert we do short training to get used to driving the ATV. Please, ask your instructor for all your concerns about this adventure!!!

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), otherwise known as quads, are popular vehicles used on all types of land. While you don’t need a license to drive these vehicles, you do need to learn how to operate them safely. Before riding an ATV, you need to acquaint yourself with different parts, like the brakes and throttle

Step 1. Familiarizing Yourself with the ATV

locate the key, on/off sw1. Litch, and start button. Find the ignition key just below the handles. Examine the handles of your ATV to find the on/off switch and “start” button, which is located on the rightmost edge of the handle. If you look to the left of the “start” button, there may be a red button, which is your kill switch.

There are 2 different types of ATVs: kickstart and push-button start. Most ATVs use push-button technology, while older models might require a kickstart. Ask about this your instructor.

2. Locate the throttle on the right handle

Check for a thumb-controlled throttle, which looks like a cylindrical device with a moveable lever attached to it. If you don’t have a thumb throttle, look for a handlebar throttle, which looks like a moveable grip attached to the handle. Whenever you ride your ATV, you’ll either push on the lever with your thumb or twist your handle with your right hand to accelerate.
Both types can be found on the right handle.

3.  and footwear for the brake handle pedal

Metallic handles are attached to the left and right sides of your handlebars. Give them a squeeze to make sure they work properly, and that your brakes aren’t stuck in any way. Then, look for a foot brake pedal on the right side of the quad

4. Access the shift lever on the left-hand side of your vehicle

Look for a small metallic pedal, which you push with your left foot. If your ATV has a clutch, it will be the handle attached to the left handlebar.
For a  vehicle with automatic transmission, you won’t need to worry about these mechanisms.

5. Wear protective gear that guards your head and body

You will receive a helmet that covers your entire head and eye protection.

Step  1. Driving and Steering the ATV

1. Turn the key and switch on the fuel supply valve to power the vehicle. Put the key in the ignition switch and turn it “on.” If you have a fuel valve switch, reach beneath the seat and switch this on

2. Press the “start” button to power up your vehicle

Can be found on the right handle on your ATV. While gripping this switch, press the “start” button on the left handle of your vehicle. Wait 1-3 seconds for the engine to rev, which signifies that the ATV is running.

3. Shift into first gear when you’re ready to drive

The ATV should be neutral when it’s off or park. Disengage the emergency brake if your quad has one. Then, hold the brake handle and pedal down, and use your left foot to shift into first gear.

4. Pull on the throttle to move the vehicle

Find the throttle device on the right handlebar and gradually push it forward with your right hand. Use this part to control your acceleration.

5. Shift gears using the foot lever, clutch, and throttle

Maintain a consistent speed before pulling on your clutch and releasing the throttle. At this time, use your foot to lift the lever into a higher gear setting

6. Leaning left or right when trying to turn

Change your weight to the direction you plan to flip ATV. When going left, move your butt to the left of the seat while steering. When going to the right, then move your buttocks to the right side of the seat.
Always adjust your weight accordingly, so that the vehicle does not tip over.

7. Squeeze the brake controls to slow and halt your vehicle

Don’t drive at fast speeds until you’ve gotten the hang of basic braking and accelerating.

Step 3. Maintaining Proper Posture

1. Clutch the handlebars with both hands

Keep your hands on the handlebars so you can steer properly, guiding your vehicle in a safe, consistent direction.

2.  Keep your shoulders relaxed and your elbows out

Relax your shoulders as though you were riding a bike.

3. Point your feet forward on the ATV

Place both feet on opposite sides of the ATV, keeping them secure around the central body.

4. Point your knees inward toward the vehicle

You have to prove yourself to the ATV by pulling both knees toward the center of the vehicle. Imagine that there is a magnet between your knees, and they are trying to stick together. Keep your knees fixed on the vehicle, so you don’t fall over.

5. Lift your bottom off of the seat when examining your surroundings.

Start at slow speeds, such as 10 to 20 mph. Don’t drive your ATV too fast, learn the controls, and work your way up to higher speeds. Avoid traveling at high speeds because it is difficult to break, as this may cause serious injury.

Warnings:
• Always be vigilant when you’re driving an ATV, as there can be a lot of unexpected bumps and ditches in your driving area.
• Even experienced ATV drivers can be taken by surprise. Be prepared for the unexpected so you can steer yourself out of harm’s way