Andréa Peterhansel’s tips for desert driving

Magnificent, mysterious and bewitching, the desert hides many dangers for the driver. To guide you, Andréa Peterhansel, experienced off-road rally driver and great connoisseur of desert races, shares her invaluable advice.

General advice

• On unfamiliar trails, moderate your speed to limit the risks associated with excessive speed.

• Remain constantly vigilant for holes, wadis and invisible obstacles.

• Small broken dunes can cause unexpected falls: keep your eyes open.

• If visibility is reduced by dust, slow down to better anticipate obstacles and limit risks.

• Respect the distances between motorcyclists to avoid collisions in the event of a sudden stop.

Dehydration and heat

• Drink regularly, even if you’re not thirsty, to avoid dehydration.

• A Camelbak is ideal for hydrating without stopping.

• Avoid breaks in direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day to reduce the risk of heatstroke.

Fauna and flora

• Keep an eye on your tires when camel grass is present, as its rigidity can be dangerous.

• Avoid thorns to prevent punctures.

• During breaks, keep your helmet and gloves off the ground to avoid being bitten by scorpions or snakes.

Navigation and orientation

• For safe navigation, stay with the guide and respect the prescribed distances.

• If you lose sight of the group, stay put and wait for instructions to facilitate the reunion.

Maintenance and repairs

• Be prepared for punctures and falls, and adapt your speed to the terrain.

• In an emergency, stay calm, wait for the next guide and provide first aid if necessary.

💡 Additional tip:
Remember to pack full equipment (goggles, gloves, protection, GPS) and manage your energy: regular breaks, diet and sleep are essential to enjoy the desert safely.