{"id":6217,"date":"2018-11-26T22:27:44","date_gmt":"2018-11-26T21:27:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/?page_id=6217"},"modified":"2025-06-10T17:55:38","modified_gmt":"2025-06-10T15:55:38","slug":"how-to-drive-on-sand","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/overland-travel-tips\/how-to-drive-on-sand\/","title":{"rendered":"How to drive on sand?"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Hero” module_class=”pac-dtocm-exclude” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(255,255,255,0.87) 0%|rgba(255,255,255,0.13) 100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_image=”https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/uae-conduite-4×4-sable.jpg” custom_padding=”110px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”2d95c5c8-d1df-447f-a86b-34caf3964538″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”45d90a7d-78b9-4f54-bfb2-fc9c5a09678e” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

How to drive on sand?<\/h1>\n

All our tips for 4×4 sand driving<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#E6E1DE” global_module=”35205″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” custom_padding=”||||true|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/olivia-victor-ountravela-avatar.png” title_text=”olivia-victor-ountravela-avatar” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_text_color=”#3F2204″ header_4_text_color=”#3F2204″ text_font_size_tablet=”” text_font_size_phone=”” text_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Hello! We’re Olivia & Victor, authors of the OunTravela guides.<\/h4>\n

Over the years, our passion for adventure has led us to create original travel guides<\/a> sold in over 70 countries worldwide. Our mission is to spread a travel philosophy based on adventure, freedom, improvisation and exploration<\/strong>. Our guides inspire travellers to explore the world’s forgotten paths, encountering wilderness and civilization.<\/p>\n

We hope you find this article, based on our own experience, useful.<\/p>\n

Enjoy your reading!<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_social_media_follow url_new_window=”off” icon_color=”#FFFFFF” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”off|hover” background_color__hover=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” background_enable_color__hover=”on”][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”facebook” url=”https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/OunTravela\/” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#3F2204″ background_enable_color=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”#BE9251″ background_enable_color__hover=”on” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”off”]facebook[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”instagram” url=”https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ountravela\/” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#3F2204″ background_enable_color=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”#BE9251″ background_enable_color__hover=”on” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”off”]instagram[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”youtube” url=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCBSYyueUEk2d7DP8HlQio8A” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#3F2204″ background_enable_color=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”#BE9251″ background_enable_color__hover=”on” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”off”]youtube[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”pinterest” url=”https:\/\/www.pinterest.fr\/ountravela\/” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#3F2204″ background_enable_color=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” background__hover_enabled=”on|hover” background_color__hover=”#BE9251″ background_enable_color__hover=”on” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”off”]pinterest[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][\/et_pb_social_media_follow][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][pac_divi_table_of_contents title=”Contents” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/pac_divi_table_of_contents][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Driving a 4×4 on sand is a discipline in itself! The key is to maintain a controlled speed while remaining in overdrive. Choose a powerful 4×4 (see article on which 4×4 to choose<\/a>) and make sure you’re in 4-wheel drive mode! Choosing the right gear ratio will come with experience, but try not to accelerate too much so as not to get stuck in the sand! The more you practice, the more you’ll be able to anticipate difficulties by changing gear before reaching difficult areas.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Transmission<\/h2>\n

On sandy surfaces, you absolutely must switch to 4-wheel drive, and on some 4x4s you can engage the “low range” or “diff-lock” modes. In “low range”, gear ratios are low (between 2nd and 4th gear) and engine torque is increased, which in turn increases power. Be careful not to exceed 40km\/h. The “Diff-lock” system distributes power between the front and rear wheels according to demand. This means better power control. Switch off the power steering, otherwise it will engage every 5 seconds, making it impossible to drive!<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The tires<\/h2>\n

It is recommended to reduce tire pressure by half<\/strong> or even \u2154 (normally between 15 and 22 psi). This widens the contact surface with the sand and increases the 4×4’s weight distribution. <\/span>In practice, let the air escape from the wheel for 40 to 60 seconds, check the pressure and adjust, removing more if necessary. Using a deflator makes tire pressure adjustment easy!<\/span> As soon as you leave the desert, go to the first gas station to re-inflate your tires! Alternatively, use a compressor to inflate them yourself.<\/span> If you didn’t deflate your tires sufficiently before driving in the sand, you’ll need to let them cool down for at least 15 minutes before setting off again on a tarmac road. Rubbing against the sand heats up the tires, increasing air pressure. The risk of explosion is real, as this photo shows. <\/span> <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Automatic or manual?<\/h2>\n

Automatic vehicles are smoother and quicker to change gears than manuals. This can make driving on sand easier. However, you may also find that the gear change occurs at an inappropriate moment. With an automatic 4×4, you won’t be able to play with engine braking. For example, if you want to go down a dune, you’ll have more control over your speed thanks to engine braking on a manual 4×4. On the automatic, you’ll need to use the brake very gently.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/roue-4×4-exploser.jpg” alt=”wheel problem with the 4×4 when driving on sand then asphalt” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”55px|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px|||” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Driving on the dunes<\/h2>\n

Be sure to observe the shape and slope of the dune before you set off. It is generally preferable to travel in the direction of the dunes, i.e. in the direction of the wind. If you find traces of existing trails, then this is the best route to follow. If there are no tracks, don’t hesitate to stop at the top of a dune and get out of the vehicle to assess which direction to take. Remember to check that there are no plants or animals on your route (not always clearly visible). The consistency of the sand may change during the day. In the morning, the sand is generally harder, as it is after rain. Driving around midday, especially in summer, is particularly tricky as there are few shadows and little contrast to see the bumps and dips. With experience, you’ll learn to read the dunes, to find the best moment to gain momentum or slow down. Watch out for the fine sand that accumulates in hidden hollows and can catch a careless driver! [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Climbing a dune<\/h2>\n

Build up some momentum before you start up<\/strong> the dune. During the climb, maintain your speed even if you have to downshift.<\/p>\n

If possible, climb in the direction of the slope<\/strong>. If you climb diagonally, make sure you have enough speed to play with gravity, as the weight of the car will pull you down the dune. Approach the top of the dune head-on, or risk getting stuck on the dune crest.<\/p>\n

If you need visibility, stop at the top of the dune. Otherwise, don’t go too fast or too slow (or you’ll get stuck on the ridge, in which case you’ll have to dig under the car).<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Descending a dune<\/h2>\n

If in doubt, stop at the top of the dune to observe before descending.<\/p>\n

Above all, descend in the direction of the slope<\/strong>. If you descend at an angle, you risk dislodging a tire. It doesn’t just happen to other people!<\/p>\n

Use your engine brake<\/strong> (never freewheel). If the slope is steep, brake gently.<\/p>\n

At the end of the slope, accelerate gently<\/strong> to get out of the dune (and avoid planting the front of the car in the sand).<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

What to do in the event of silting?<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|13px|0px|false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px|0px|13px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” pac_dcm_carousel_specific_module_num=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

As soon as you start sanding up, don’t accelerate<\/strong>, as you risk sinking even deeper! Get out and check the vehicle’s state of silting, to find the best solution for getting the car out, using its weight and gravity if possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n