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
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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'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?
Instead of racing up and down the dunes, your driver takes a gentle, scenic route into the desert. 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 families ask for when they want the fun without the jolts. Nobody feels left out, and nobody feels sick.
Who Should Choose This Trip?
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.
Grandparents and Older Guests
Any desert safari for seniors has to put comfort first. A smooth drive, good seating and easy access to the facilities make all the 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
If roller coasters aren't your thing, you're not alone. Skip the bumps and still enjoy a great evening.
How the Evening Goes
Pickup in the afternoon
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. Just ask, and the driver will stop for photos.
The sunset stop
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 calm and beautiful, and many guests say it's their favourite moment.
Evening at camp
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 begin after dinner. You're dropped back at your hotel by around 9 PM.
Why We Offer a Calm Safari
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 built a trip the whole family can enjoy, side by side.
A Step Back in Time
For something a little different, try a heritage desert safari Dubai trip. You ride across the desert in a classic vintage Land Rover, the kind used by desert families decades ago. It involves no dune bashing at all. Instead, there's 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.
The Camp
Your evening is spent at Marjan Desert Camp. There are separate facilities for men and women on the read more evening tour, which many families appreciate. 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.
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. 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. You can also book a private 4x4 with flexible timing, a VIP trip with a luxury transfer, or a VIP Hummer trip with a private camp and waiter service.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
• Bring a light jacket or shawl in winter
• Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip off
• 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
Will we still see the 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 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.
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.
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.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Yes, we offer pickup and drop-off, and our team is available 24/7.
Plan Your Trip With Us
The desert really is for everyone, and a desert safari without dune bashing proves it. WhatsApp the Emirate Desert Safaris team on +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. You can also see all our trips at emiratedesertsafaris.com.
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