Can You Do a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing? Yes, Here's How
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'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, it's one of the trips we're asked about most.
What Is a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing?
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. After that, you go to the camp and enjoy the same evening as every other guest: 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.
Is a Calm Safari Right for You?
Families With Young Children
A family desert safari Dubai trip should be fun for everyone, including the youngest. 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 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.
Expecting Mothers
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.
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
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 rush to get anywhere.
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
When the sun starts to set, you stop somewhere quiet to watch. The sand turns from gold to a 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.
The Idea Behind It
We kept hearing the same thing 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 parents with babies. We didn't think that was fair. So we built a trip the whole family can enjoy, side by side.
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. It involves 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 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 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
For a slower pace, our overnight Bedouin camp Dubai stay is ideal. 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
Travelling with a mixed group? That's very common. Some of you can take the calm trip while others go for the read more 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.
Simple Tips
• In winter, pack a shawl or light jacket
• Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip off
• Pack any medicines you might need
• Tell us about mobility needs when you book
• Use your phone light if you walk around the camp after dark
Frequently Asked Questions
Will we still see the dunes?
Yes. The route goes through the dunes, and you stop to watch the sunset.
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 prefer not to ride, you can simply take photos.
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?
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.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, we offer pickup and drop-off, and our team is available 24/7.
Book a Calm Desert Trip
A desert safari without dune bashing proves the desert is for everyone. WhatsApp the Emirate Desert Safaris team on +971 50 991 2456, or email [email protected]. Tell us who's coming, and we'll suggest the best trip for your group. All our trips are listed at emiratedesertsafaris.com.
