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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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, it's one of the trips click here we're asked about most.
What Happens on a Calm Safari?
Instead of racing up and down the dunes, your driver takes a gentle, scenic route into the desert. You still see the red dunes up close, and you still stop to watch the sunset. After that, you go to the camp and enjoy the same evening as every other guest: a camel ride, henna, dinner and live shows.
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. 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.
Grandparents and Older Guests
A desert safari for seniors needs to be comfortable. 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.
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. Please check with your doctor first, and let us know when you book.
Anyone Who Gets Car Sick
Not a fan of roller coasters? Plenty of people aren't. You can skip the bumps and still have a great night out.
A Calm Evening, Step by Step
Pickup in the afternoon
Our driver picks you up 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. 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
When the sun starts to set, you stop somewhere quiet to watch. The sand changes colour from gold to deep red. It's peaceful, and for many guests it's the best part of the evening.
Dinner and shows
At camp, there's a short camel ride, henna and time to sit back with a 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
We kept hearing the same thing 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 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.
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. There's 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 couples and older guests love it.
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 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.
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. 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
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 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.
Before You Go
• In winter, pack a shawl or light jacket
• Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip off
• Pack any medicines you might need
• Let us know about any mobility needs in advance
• Use your phone light if you walk around the camp after dark
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?
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?
We collect you in the afternoon and drop you back at about 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
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 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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