Can You Do a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing? Yes, Here's How
Can You Do a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing? Yes, Here's How
Blog Article
Most desert safari adverts show a 4x4 flying over a dune at a crazy angle. For some guests, that's the best part. But plenty of people don't want to bounce around in a car for half an hour. Maybe you're travelling with grandparents, a baby or a bad back. Or maybe you simply hate bumpy rides.
The good news is that you can still enjoy the desert. A desert safari without dune bashing gives you the sunset, the camel ride, the dinner and the shows, without the rollercoaster part. At Emirate Desert Safaris, guests ask us about it all the time.
How Does a Calm Safari Work?
Your driver takes a slow, scenic route across the sand instead of racing over the dunes. You still see the red dunes up close, and there's still a sunset stop. Then you head to the camp for the same evening as everyone else: dinner, shows, henna and a camel ride.
It's the calm desert safari Dubai visitors ask for when they want the experience without the stress. Nobody feels left out, and nobody feels sick.
Is a Calm Safari Right for You?
Parents With Little Ones
On a family desert safari Dubai trip, the smallest guests matter too. Toddlers often don't like steep dune drives, and they aren't suitable for babies. A calm trip means you can enjoy a desert safari with kids without worrying.
Seniors and Older Travellers
Any desert safari for seniors has to put comfort first. A gentle drive, a proper seat at the camp and easy access to the facilities make a big difference. Lots of older guests say it ended up being their favourite part of the trip.
Expecting Mothers
Dune bashing is not recommended during pregnancy. If you're planning a desert safari during pregnancy, the calm version lets you enjoy the evening with peace of mind. Always check with your own doctor first, and tell us when you book.
Anyone Who Gets Car Sick
If roller coasters aren't your thing, you're not alone. Skip the bumps and still enjoy a great evening.
What Your Evening Looks Like
Pickup in the afternoon
We collect you from your hotel or home in the afternoon. The car is comfortable and air-conditioned, and there's no rush to get anywhere.
A scenic drive into the desert
Once you leave the city, the driver follows an easy route through the sand. The dunes rise up around you, and you may spot camels or birds on the way. The driver is happy to stop for photos whenever you like.
Sunset
As the sun drops, you stop at a quiet spot to watch it go down. The sand turns from gold to a deep red. It's peaceful, and for many guests it's the best part of the evening.
Evening at camp
At camp, there's a short camel ride, henna and time to sit back with a drink. Dinner is a buffet with plenty of choice, and the shows start once everyone has eaten. You're dropped back at your hotel by around 9 PM.
The Idea Behind It
For years, we heard the same comment from guests. A family would book a safari, and someone always stayed behind because the ride was too rough. Grandparents missed out, and so did parents with babies. We didn't think that was fair. So we created a version of the trip that everyone in the family can enjoy together.
Heritage Desert Safari Dubai
For something a little different, try a heritage desert safari Dubai trip. You cross the desert in a classic vintage Land Rover, much Vintage Land Rover Safari like the ones used decades ago. It involves no dune bashing at all. Instead, you get a falcon show and a traditional dinner. A vintage Land Rover safari is slow, scenic and full of character, and it's a favourite with couples and older guests.
Marjan Desert Camp
Our evenings take place at Marjan Desert Camp. The evening tour has separate facilities for men and women, which many families find helpful. You'll find low seating, soft lighting and plenty of space to relax. Dinner is served buffet style, and VIP evenings include Tanoura and fire shows.
Overnight Bedouin Camp Dubai
For a slower pace, our overnight Bedouin camp Dubai stay is ideal. You stay in a Bedouin-style tent, enjoy the stars and have breakfast in the morning. It's quiet, relaxing and completely unhurried. Away from the city lights, the sky is full of stars, which kids find amazing. Mornings in the desert are cool and quiet, perfect for a slow walk before breakfast.
If Some of Your Group Want Speed
Is half your group after adventure while the other half wants calm? That happens a lot. Some of you can take the calm trip while others go for the quad bikes or a regular evening safari. Everyone ends up at the same camp for dinner. We also offer private 4x4s with flexible timing, VIP trips with a luxury transfer and VIP Hummer trips with a private camp and waiter service.
Simple Tips
• Bring a light jacket or shawl in winter
• Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip off
• Bring any medicines you need for the evening
• Tell us about mobility needs when you book
• Carry a small torch or use your phone light at night
Common Questions
Will we still see the dunes?
Yes. The route goes through the dunes, and you stop to watch the sunset.
Is the camel ride safe for older guests?
The camel ride is short and gentle, and staff help you on and off. If you'd rather not ride, you can still take photos with the camels.
What time do we get back?
Pickup is in the afternoon, and drop-off is around 9 PM.
Can someone in a wheelchair join?
Please tell us about any mobility needs when you book, and we'll arrange the car and seating to suit.
Can part of our group do dune bashing?
Yes. Some can join a regular trip while the rest take the calm route, and you all meet at camp.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available, and you can reach us 24/7.
Plan Your Trip With Us
A desert safari without dune bashing proves the desert is for everyone. Message Emirate Desert Safaris on WhatsApp at +971 50 991 2456, or send an email to [email protected]. Let us know who's in your group, and we'll recommend the right trip. All our trips are listed at emiratedesertsafaris.com.
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