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 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 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 there's still a sunset stop. 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 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?
Families With Young Children
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.
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. Many of our older guests tell us it was the highlight of their holiday.
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.
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.
A Calm Evening, Step by Step
Pickup in the afternoon
We collect you from your hotel or home in the afternoon. The car is comfortable and air-conditioned, 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. 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.
The sunset stop
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 the camp, you can try a short camel ride, get henna and relax with tea or a soft drink. Dinner is a buffet with plenty of choice, and the shows start once everyone has eaten. You're dropped back at your hotel by around 9 PM.
Why This Trip Exists
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. We didn't think that was fair. So we created a version of the trip that everyone in the family can enjoy together.
Heritage Desert Safari Dubai
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, there's 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
Our evenings take place 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.
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. Mornings in the desert are cool and quiet, perfect for a slow walk before breakfast.
Mixing Calm and Adventure
Travelling with a mixed group? That's very common. 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. 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.
Before You Go
• 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
• Use your phone light if you walk around the camp after dark
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we still get to see the big dunes?
Yes. You drive website 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.
Is the trip suitable for limited mobility?
Let us know about mobility needs when you book, and we'll plan the car and seating around them.
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.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, we offer pickup and drop-off, and our team is available 24/7.
Book a Calm Desert Trip
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]. 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.
Report this page