Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride & Sand Skiing Private Tours

If you’re after a memorable way to start your day in Abu Dhabi, a private morning desert safari offers an exciting mix of adventure and cultural insights. While we haven’t personally joined the tour, countless travelers have shared glowing reviews about this experience, highlighting its personalized touch, breathtaking dawn views, and variety of activities. From dune bashing to camel rides, there’s a lot packed into just a few hours—making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking authentic desert adventures with a touch of luxury.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adrenaline-pumping activities like sand skiing and dune bashing with quieter moments like sipping Arabic coffee at a Bedouin camp. The private setup means you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a more tailored experience, perfect for families, couples, or small groups. One minor consideration? The dune bashing can be intense, so those prone to motion sickness should think twice before booking. This trip is best suited for adventure seekers and anyone eager to witness an unforgettable desert sunrise while enjoying a variety of activities.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Offers a personalized experience with exclusive attention.
• Multiple Activities: Dune bashing, sand skiing, camel riding, and photo shoots.
• Spectacular Sunrise: Capture stunning photos atop a desert dune at dawn.
• Cultural Insight: Visit a camel farm and enjoy Arabic coffee, tea, and dates.
• Convenient Pickup: Complimentary pickup from anywhere in Abu Dhabi.
• Good Value: For $120, you get a well-rounded adventure with many memorable moments.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

This tour typically lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the desert’s natural beauty and adrenaline hits without feeling rushed. Starting early in the morning, the pickup from your Abu Dhabi location is seamless—most travelers report a smooth process, with the vehicle being a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser capable of handling the desert terrain with ease.

Once in the desert, the real excitement begins. The highlight is the dune bashing, where your driver will expertly steer the vehicle over towering sand dunes—think of it as a rollercoaster ride on sand. This activity is favored by many, but reviews also mention that it’s not suited for those with sensitivities to motion sickness or who prefer gentler experiences. As one reviewer noted, “It’s not for the faint at heart,” but others found it “really fun” and exhilarating.

Following the high-energy activities, you’ll have the chance for a photo session at the top of a dune during sunrise. This moment alone makes the tour worthwhile, with stunning views and perfect lighting for photos. Many visitors mention the “breathtaking scenery” and the “beauty of dawn,” which transform the desert into a picture-perfect setting.

Exploring the Key Stops

Camel Farm Visit and Camel Riding

A visit to a camel farm is a lovely break from the adrenaline, offering insight into the traditional Bedouin life. The camel ride itself is short but sweet, allowing you to experience these gentle creatures up close. Some reviews mention that the camel ride feels a bit brief, but the opportunity to take photos in Arabic costumes adds a fun, cultural element.

Sand Skiing and Sand Boarding

Sand skiing is a highlight for thrill-seekers. The sensation of gliding down the dunes on a board is described as both fun and challenging. Reviewers mention the activity as “something different” and “a must-try,” with the added benefit of a clear, well-organized setup. Keep in mind, renting quad bikes is available if you want to extend your adventure, although it’s not included in the tour price.

Bedouin Camp Experience with Refreshments

The tour includes a stop at a Bedouin-style camp where you can relax and enjoy Arabic coffee, tea, and dates. Many travelers highlight this as a peaceful moment amid the excitement, with the opportunity to take photos in traditional Arabic costumes. The camp setting is designed to give a taste of local Bedouin hospitality.

The Value of a Private Tour

Booking this as a private experience ensures personalized attention from your guide, Salam, or others like him. As one reviewer put it, “Salam did an outstanding job and adapted the trip to our demands,” even accommodating a family with a toddler. The flexibility to customize your experience, along with the avoidance of large group crowds, enhances the sense of exclusivity and comfort.

The $120 price point offers good value considering the number of activities, the inclusion of refreshments, and the personalized service. For comparison, similar tours often charge more for just one or two activities, so bundling everything into a half-day is a smart deal.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early to catch the best sunrise views; most reviews highlight that this is a highlight of the experience.
• If prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before dune bashing.
• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable under the desert sun.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but check with the provider if you have mobility issues or specific health concerns.
• Remember that quad biking is available for rent if you want extra adventure, but it’s not included.
• Be prepared for the short but fun camel ride—it’s a lovely cultural touch, even if brief.
• Don’t forget to ask your guide for photography tips—many reviewers loved their shots during the sunrise and in traditional costumes.
• Cancellation is flexible, with free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

One reviewer, David, praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, noting that the sunrise was “breathtaking” and the activities “well organized.” He particularly appreciated the guide’s attentiveness during the drive, making sure everyone felt safe and comfortable.

Another guest, Luigi, highlighted how Salam went above and beyond by capturing family photos and recommending the best spots for photos. Such personalized touches can turn a good trip into a great one.

However, some mentioned that the camel ride felt somewhat short and wished for a longer experience. Also, the intensity of dune bashing was a point for consideration, with some saying it’s not suitable for sensitive stomachs.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private morning desert safari is ideal for travelers who value exclusivity, authentic desert experiences, and a variety of activities packed into a few hours. It suits adventure lovers eager to try dune bashing, sand skiing, and camel riding, all while enjoying the calm beauty of dawn in the desert.

Families, couples, and small groups will appreciate the flexibility and personal attention. The stunning sunrise views and the cultural touches like the Arabic costume photos make it a memorable outing. While the tour offers high value for its price, it’s important to be aware of the activity intensity and to book in advance—most travelers do so about a month ahead.

If you’re after a well-organized, fun, and scenic desert adventure with a personal touch, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from anywhere in Abu Dhabi, making logistics hassle-free.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time for activities and photos without feeling rushed.

What activities are included? You’ll experience dune bashing, sand skiing or boarding, a camel farm visit, camel riding, and a photo shoot in Arabic costumes.

Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, and guides are known for accommodating family needs, but check specific restrictions if traveling with very young children.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothes suitable for desert conditions. Consider a camera for capturing the sunrise.

Can I rent quad bikes? Yes, quad bikes are available for rent if you want to extend your adventure beyond what’s included.

What is the cancellation policy? Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is there a dress code or specific gear needed? Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, especially for warmer weather. Traditional costumes are provided if you wish to participate in the photo shoot.

This private Abu Dhabi desert safari offers a fantastic blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a superb choice for those wanting an intimate, exciting start to their desert experience, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.