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
If you look at most safari ads, you'll see a 4x4 tipping over a giant dune. 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've got grandparents with you, a small baby or a sore back. Maybe you just don't like bumpy rides.
Here's the good news: you can still have a great time in 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.
What Happens on a Calm Safari?
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 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 families ask for when they want the fun without the jolts. No one feels left out, and no one ends up feeling unwell.
Who Is This Trip For?
Parents With Little Ones
A family desert safari Dubai trip should be fun for everyone, including the youngest. Small children often don't enjoy steep dune drives, and babies shouldn't do them. 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.
Guests Who Are Pregnant
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. Please check with your doctor first, and let us know when you book.
People Who Hate Bumpy Rides
If roller coasters aren't your thing, you're not alone. You can skip the bumps and still have a great night out.
What Your Evening Looks Like
Afternoon pickup
Our driver picks you up from your hotel or home in the afternoon. The car is comfortable and air-conditioned, and there's no hurry at all.
A scenic drive into the desert
After the city, the driver takes a smooth route across 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
When the sun starts to set, you stop somewhere quiet to watch. The sand changes colour from gold to deep red. It's calm and beautiful, and many guests say it's their favourite moment.
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.
Why We Offer a Calm Safari
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 built a trip the whole family can enjoy, side by side.
The Heritage Option
If you want something with a story, book 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 it's a favourite with couples and older guests.
The Camp
Our evenings take place at Marjan Desert Camp. There are separate facilities for men and women on the evening tour, which many families appreciate. There's comfortable seating, warm lighting and lots of space. Dinner is a buffet, and the shows include a Tanoura dancer and a fire show on our VIP trips.
Overnight Bedouin Camp Dubai
For a slower pace, our overnight Bedouin camp Dubai stay is ideal. You sleep in a Bedouin-style tent, look up at the stars and wake up for breakfast. 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. In the morning, the desert is cool and still, and it's a lovely time for a short 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 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.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
• In winter, pack a shawl or light jacket
• Choose comfy shoes you can slip off on the sand
• Pack any medicines you might need
• 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.
Can older guests ride a camel?
It's a short, gentle ride, and our team helps you get on and off. If you'd prefer not to ride, you can simply take photos.
What time do we get back?
We collect you in the afternoon and drop you back at about 9 PM.
Is the trip suitable for limited mobility?
Please tell us about any 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. Part of the group can take a regular trip, the rest go the calm way, and everyone meets at camp.
Do you pick up more info from hotels?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available, and you can reach us 24/7.
Ready to Book?
A desert safari without dune bashing proves the desert is for everyone. Message Emirate Desert Safaris on WhatsApp at +971 50 991 2456, or email [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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