My verdict after owning both: Y61 is the heart, 79 is the head. Want to feel connected to the desert and not overthink maintenance? Y61. Doing serious technical terrain and long distances? 79 every time.

Is Wadi Shawka doable in a stock Prado 150 on standard tyres? Asking for someone who just bought one and wants their first proper trail.

I have built both professionally. The 79 platform is fundamentally superior for modification ; stronger axles, better global parts availability. Y61 is heritage and character. If money is no object, go 79.

The descent into the wadi proper after the plateau is where beginners struggle most. Low range, first gear, feather the throttle and do not touch the brakes. It is slower and more controlled than people expect.

Y61 4.2 diesel is a beast in sand. The low range gearing is perfectly matched to dunes. Parts are everywhere in UAE and Oman. The only weakness is age ; finding clean ones is getting harder.

Is Wadi Bih the one that goes from RAK to Dibba? Keep confusing it with Wadi Shawka. Can someone share a track file or waypoints?

Went through Sunday. RAK side is fine. Dibba descent had one bad crossing about 3km from the bottom ; mud flow roughly 40cm deep but navigable with momentum. A few rocks exposed on the trail too.

Planning four rigs minimum. Two LC200s, my 76 series, and a friend with an FJ. Will need satellite comms and proper desert camping gear for the remote sections.

Did UAE-Oman two years ago but did not go into Saudi. The Wahiba is spectacular ; do it from the Adam side if you can. Border crossings into Saudi for non-GCC nationals have specific requirements, check the latest.

The Liwa heat in summer is no joke. Even during the event it can hit 45 degrees by 9am. Personal hydration, serious sun protection, and making sure your truck cooling system is perfect before you go.

Minimum is full diff locks front and rear, 6-ply AT tyres minimum, and you need to pass scrutineering on the day. Teams are strongly recommended for first timers ; you want an experienced navigator in the car.

Best advice: do not underestimate your fuel range. The distances in Liwa are deceptive when you are running soft tyres all day. Budget at least 30 percent extra range.

[Author]

Posts