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. That's great for some people. But plenty of people don't want to bounce around in a car for half an hour. Maybe you've got grandparents with you, a small baby or a sore 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 keeps the sunset, the camels, the dinner and the shows, and skips the rollercoaster. 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 get close to the red dunes, and you still stop to watch the sunset. 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. No one feels left out, and no one ends up feeling unwell.
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
A desert safari for seniors needs to be comfortable. A smooth drive, good seating and easy access to the facilities make all the difference. Many of our older guests tell us it was the highlight of their holiday.
Guests Who Are Pregnant
Doctors don't recommend dune bashing for pregnant women. 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.
People Who Hate Bumpy Rides
Not a fan of roller coasters? Plenty of people aren't. You can skip the bumps and still have a great night out.
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 rush to get anywhere.
A scenic drive into the desert
After the city, the driver takes a smooth route across the sand. You'll see the dunes rise around you, and you might spot camels or desert birds along the way. Just ask, and the driver will stop for photos.
Sunset
As the sun drops, you stop at a quiet spot to watch it go down. The sand changes colour from gold to deep red. It's peaceful, and for many guests it's the best part of the evening.
Evening at camp
At the camp, you can try a short camel ride, get henna and here 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. Families would book a safari, and then one person would stay at the hotel because they couldn't handle the bumps. 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. 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
Your evening is spent at Marjan Desert Camp. There are separate facilities for men and women on the evening tour, which many families appreciate. 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.
Sleeping in the Desert
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. With no city lights around, you can see so many stars, and children are usually amazed. Mornings in the desert are cool and quiet, perfect for a slow walk before breakfast.
Mixing Calm and Adventure
Is half your group after adventure while the other half wants calm? That happens a lot. Some can book the calm trip while others take a quad bike desert safari or a regular evening trip. 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
• In winter, pack a shawl or light jacket
• Choose comfy shoes you can slip off on the sand
• Pack any medicines you might need
• Tell us about mobility needs when you book
• 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?
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.
How long is the evening trip?
Pickup is in the afternoon, and drop-off is around 9 PM.
Is the trip suitable for limited mobility?
Let us know about mobility needs when you book, and we'll arrange the car and seating to suit.
Can part of our group do dune bashing?
Yes. Part of the group can take a regular trip, the rest go the calm way, and everyone meets at camp.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available, and you can reach us 24/7.
Plan Your Trip With Us
The desert really is for everyone, and a desert safari without dune bashing proves it. 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.
Report this page