Desert Safari with Dune Bashing and Camel Ride plus Sand Boarding

Planning a desert adventure in Abu Dhabi? If you’re after an experience that combines adrenaline, cultural insights, and stunning scenery, this desert safari might just fit the bill. We’ve gathered insights from travelers and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this tour, priced at around $55.82 per person.

What we love about this tour: the balanced mix of thrilling dune bashing, authentic Bedouin camp activities, and the opportunity to capture amazing sunset photos. We also appreciate the affordability for a 4-5 hour adventure that’s packed with fun, and the flexibility with mobile tickets and hotel pickups.

A potential consideration is the timing—since the tour runs from roughly 3 pm to 7:30 pm, it’s best suited for those who want a late afternoon in the desert rather than a full-day experience.

If you’re looking for a genuinely fun and authentic desert outing that’s suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers, this safari offers solid value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Balanced adventure and culture: dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and traditional Bedouin camp activities.
• Great value for money: includes a variety of activities at an accessible price.
• Expert guides: multiple reviews praise guides for friendliness, safety, and photography skills.
• Stunning sunset views: perfect for photography and memorable moments.
• Flexible booking: mobile ticket, pickup options, and free cancellation.
• Ideal for: families, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts wanting a taste of the desert.

What to Expect from This Desert Safari

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Abu Dhabi’s desert landscape, blending adrenaline rushes with cultural experiences. It’s not a full-day expedition but offers plenty of highlights packed into about four to five hours. The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully curated, ensuring you get a well-rounded experience.

Pickup and Journey to the Desert

The adventure begins with a professional guide collecting you from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Abu Dhabi. The drive to Al Khatim desert takes roughly an hour—an easy ride where guides often share interesting tidbits about the area. This segment is primarily transportation, but it sets the tone for the upcoming excitement.

The Dune Bashing & Scenic Photo Stops

The highlight for most visitors? Dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle. As you buckle up, the guide will navigate the towering sand dunes with skill and a sense of humor. Multiple reviews mention guides like Mohammed and Navaf, who are praised for their safe driving and photography prowess. One reviewer called Mohammed a “fantastic off-roading driver,” noting how he takes great videos and photos from the best angles.

This part of the tour lasts around 30-45 minutes and delivers on the adrenaline front. Expect the vehicle to bounce, tilt, and slide—an experience similar to a roller coaster on soft sand. If you’re worried about motion sickness, inform your guide; most are experienced in making this as comfortable as possible.

Photo Opportunities and Camel Farm Visit

Following the dune bashing, the guide will stop at a scenic spot—often a vantage point with panoramic views of the desert at sunset. This is an ideal moment for photos, so bring your camera or smartphone. One reviewer raved about the “spectacular views” and the “beautiful sunset” that made for stunning photographs.

Next, you’ll visit a camel farm, where you can learn about these iconic desert animals, and even enjoy a short camel ride. Several reviews highlight how guides like Salim go the extra mile, especially when caring for families or children during rides, making the experience both fun and safe.

The Bedouin Camp Experience

The heart of this tour is the Bedouin-style camp. Here, you’re welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee, tea, water, and dates—an authentic gesture that sets the tone. The camp offers a variety of activities for around two hours including:

• Camel riding: a chance to get closer to the desert culture.
• Sandboarding: fun for all ages, this activity allows you to slide down dunes on a board, often described as exhilarating.
• Henna tattooing: a cultural tradition that most visitors enjoy, especially when done by skilled artists.
• Photographs with UAE national costumes and a falcon: many reviews mention capturing great photos, with guides often assisting.

Travelers frequently mention guides like Marly, who go beyond expectations by helping with photography and ensuring everyone is comfortable. One review states, “Marly was the best—excellent driver, talented photographer, and a genuinely nice guy!”

Cultural and Food Experiences

While no dinner is included, the camp provides free tea, coffee, and dates, giving a taste of local hospitality. Some travelers appreciate the chance to wear traditional attire and take memorable photos with the falcon, which symbolizes Arabian culture.

Sunset and Return

As the sun dips lower, the scenery transforms; the golden hues cast dramatic shadows over the dunes, providing perfect lighting for photos. Afterward, the guide will drive you back to Abu Dhabi, arriving around 7:30 pm, depending on timing and pickup locations.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic cultural activities at the camp—like Henna tattoos and photos with the falcon—bring you closer to Bedouin traditions. The dune bashing is often cited as the most exhilarating part, with guides like Mohammed and Navaf praised for their safe, skilled driving and enthusiasm. Stunning sunset views are frequently highlighted, making this an ideal trip for photography lovers.

Reviewers also commend the value for money—for just under $60, you’re getting a mix of adventure, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. The tour’s inclusion of activities like camel riding and sandboarding means you won’t be paying extra for these fun extras, and the free drinks and photos add to the overall experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 4 to 5 hours, running roughly from 3 pm to 7:30 pm.
• Price: $55.82 per person, offering excellent value considering the activities included.
• Pickup: Offered from your location, making logistics easy.
• Booking: Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, indicating high demand.
• Group size: Up to 250 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere but also the possibility of joining smaller groups.
• What’s not included: Alcoholic beverages and dinner, so if you want a full night experience, look elsewhere or add on a dinner package.
• Weather dependency: Tours are weather-dependent; poor conditions may lead to cancellations with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Authentic Experiences Reported by Travelers

Several reviews highlight guides like Mohammed, Salim, Marly, and Navaf who are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and photography skills. One reviewer shared that Marly made their desert day “one of its kind,” thanks to his talent behind the camera and his engaging personality.

Guests also appreciated the careful handling of families and children, with one review mentioning how guides ensured kids felt safe during dune rides. The convenience of free drinks and snacks at the camp was a surprise for some, adding to the hospitality feel.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This desert safari offers a well-rounded, fun-packed experience that balances adventure with cultural highlights. For those wanting a taste of Abu Dhabi’s desert without the commitment of a full-day excursion, it’s a fantastic choice. The value for money is particularly notable when considering the number of activities included, from dune bashing and sandboarding to cultural photos and camel rides.

The guides’ professionalism and ability to capture moments make this tour especially appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers who love photography and authentic experiences. The sunset backdrop and professional guiding ensure you’ll leave with memories—and plenty of photos—to cherish.

If you’re after a thrilling yet culturally immersive experience at a reasonable price, this safari delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs from roughly 3 pm to 7:30 pm, including pickup, activities, and return.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from your location, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

What activities are included?
Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and activities at the Bedouin camp like henna tattoos, photo sessions with traditional costumes, and falcon photos.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, bottled water, tea, coffee, Arabic coffee, and dates are included at the camp.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start, with a full refund if canceled in time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the desert environment, with shoes suitable for sandboarding and walking.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying dune rides and camel rides, with guides ensuring their safety.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner is not included, but the tour offers a rich cultural experience with drinks and activities.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

In summary, this desert safari is a smart choice for those seeking a combination of thrill and culture in Abu Dhabi. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a good price point, it’s a memorable trip for almost any traveler. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for the desert’s quiet beauty.