Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing: A Calm Way to Enjoy the Dubai Desert
Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing: A Calm Way to Enjoy the Dubai Desert
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 not everyone wants to be thrown around in the back of a car. Maybe you're travelling with grandparents, a baby or a bad back. Or maybe get more info 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, it's one of the trips we're asked about most.
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 you still stop to watch the sunset. Then you head to the camp for the same evening as everyone else: a camel ride, henna, dinner and live shows.
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?
Families With Young Children
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. With a calm trip, you can enjoy a desert safari with kids and relax.
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.
Guests Who Are Pregnant
Dune bashing is not recommended during pregnancy. If you're thinking about a desert safari during pregnancy, the calm option lets you join the evening safely. Always check with your own doctor first, and tell us when you book.
Anyone Who Gets Car Sick
Not a fan of roller coasters? Plenty of people aren't. Skip the bumps and still enjoy a great evening.
How the Evening Goes
Afternoon pickup
Our driver picks you up from your hotel or home in the afternoon. You travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned car, and there's no hurry at all.
Into the desert, gently
Once you leave the city, the driver follows an easy route through the sand. You'll see the dunes rise around you, and you might spot camels or desert birds along the way. The driver is happy to stop for photos whenever you like.
Sunset
When the sun starts to set, you stop somewhere quiet to watch. The sand turns from gold to a deep red. It's peaceful, and for many guests it's the best part of the evening.
Dinner and shows
At the camp, you can try a short camel ride, get henna and relax with tea or a soft drink. The buffet dinner has lots of choice, and the shows start once everyone has eaten. Drop-off is 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 new mums. That didn't feel right. So we created a version of the trip that everyone in the family can enjoy together.
The Heritage Option
For something a little different, try a heritage desert safari Dubai trip. You cross the desert in a classic vintage Land Rover, much like the ones used decades ago. There's no dune bashing at all. Instead, there's a falcon show and a traditional dinner. A vintage Land Rover safari is gentle, scenic and full of charm, and couples and older guests love it.
The Camp
Your evening is spent at Marjan Desert Camp. There are separate facilities for men and women on the evening tour, which many families find helpful. You'll find low seating, soft lighting and plenty of space to relax. Dinner is a buffet, and the shows include a Tanoura dancer and a fire show on our VIP trips.
Overnight Bedouin Camp Dubai
If you'd like to see the desert at night and at sunrise, try our overnight Bedouin camp Dubai stay. You stay in a Bedouin-style tent, enjoy the stars and have breakfast in the morning. It's very peaceful, and there's no rush at all. Away from the city lights, the sky is full of stars, which kids find amazing. In the morning, the desert is cool and still, and it's a lovely time for a short walk before breakfast.
Other Ways to Enjoy the Desert
Travelling with a mixed group? That's very common. Some of you can take the calm trip while others go for the quad bikes or a regular evening safari. Everyone meets 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.
Before You Go
• 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
• Let us know about any mobility needs in advance
• Carry a small torch or use your phone light at night
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we still get to see the big dunes?
Yes. You drive through the dunes on a calm route and stop for sunset photos.
Is the camel ride safe for older guests?
It's a short, gentle ride, and our team helps you get on and off. If you'd rather not ride, you can still take photos with the camels.
How long is the evening trip?
Pickup is in the afternoon, and drop-off is around 9 PM.
Can someone in a wheelchair join?
Let us know about mobility needs when you book, and we'll arrange the car and seating to suit.
What if some of us want the bumpy ride?
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, we offer pickup and drop-off, and our team is available 24/7.
Book a Calm Desert Trip
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]. Tell us who's coming, and we'll suggest the best trip for your group. You can also see all our trips at emiratedesertsafaris.com.
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