A desert safari in Dubai offers a chance to see a different side of this bustling city. While many visitors focus on the glamor of skyscrapers and shopping malls, a desert adventure provides an authentic taste of Bedouin traditions, stunning landscapes, and adrenaline-pumping activities. This particular tour, offered by Clifton Tours, promises convenience with pickup and drop-off from Dubai or Sharjah, along with a wide array of activities packed into a 6-hour experience.
What we love about this tour? First, the seamless transportation makes it easy to enjoy without the hassle of arranging your own transfer. Second, the diversity of activities, from dune bashing to camel riding, ensures there’s never a dull moment. Third, the cultural entertainment and buffet dinner at a desert camp create a warm, immersive atmosphere. That said, a potential consideration is that this experience is quite full-on, so travelers with limited time or mobility might want to plan accordingly.
This tour suits adventure seekers, culture lovers, and those wanting a hassle-free way to experience Dubai’s desert in style. It’s especially appealing for first-timers eager to tick off a quintessential Dubai activity but can also satisfy seasoned travelers looking for a well-rounded excursion.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Comfort: Pickup and drop-off from Dubai or Sharjah are included, making logistics simple.
- Active & Cultural Mix: From dune bashing and sandboarding to henna tattoos and live performances, the tour balances adventure with culture.
- Authentic Desert Camp Experience: Enjoy a Bedouin-style camp with a buffet dinner, belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and storytelling.
- Value for Money: At $55 per person, the tour offers a broad range of activities and entertainment, making it a good deal.
- Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free desert experience.
- Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a personalized atmosphere and better interaction.
The Journey Begins: Pickup and Arrival at the Desert Camp
The adventure kicks off in the late afternoon, around 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm, with a luxury 4×4 pickup from your hotel, residence, or designated meeting point in Dubai or Sharjah. This door-to-door service is a significant perk, especially after a busy day of sightseeing—no need to worry about navigation or transportation logistics.
As you ride through the city outskirts, you’ll start to feel the shift from urban to wilderness. The drive itself is comfortable, and some guides are known for their humor and engaging storytelling, setting a relaxed tone for the evening.
Upon arrival at the Jannat Desert Safari Camp, you’ll find a beautifully arranged Bedouin-style setting, with ample space for activities and lounging. The camp serves as a hub for the next several hours of fun and cultural enrichment.
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Dune Bashing and Sandboarding: Heart-Pumping Deserts
One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the dune bashing session, lasting approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Your driver, experienced and friendly, takes you over the rolling sands at varying speeds, providing an exhilarating ride with plenty of twists and turns. It’s a perfect way to experience Dubai’s iconic desert landscape while satisfying your thrill-seeking side.
Sandboarding is included, allowing you to glide down the dunes on a board—think of it as snowboarding but on warm, golden sands. For many, this is a fun, novel experience that adds an adventurous edge to the tour.
What makes this particularly appealing? The wide, untouched dunes offer stunning views and photo opportunities, and the activity is suitable for most fitness levels. Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere with plenty of laughs and some spectacular scenery.
Camel Rides and Cultural Activities: Authentic Bedouin Experiences
After the high-energy dune bashing, you’ll have the chance to try a camel ride—a classic desert activity. The gentle sway of these animals offers a moment of calm amid the excitement, and it’s a favorite among travelers for its authenticity.
Back at the camp, you can experience other traditional activities such as smoking shisha, getting henna tattoos, and enjoying free snacks and fresh juices. These small touches help you connect with Bedouin traditions in a relaxed setting.
One seasoned traveler noted, “Feel like a real Arab with a lovely camel ride,” highlighting how this activity transports visitors into a different world, if only for a few moments.
Evening Entertainment and Dinner: A Feast of Flavors and Culture
As the sun begins to set, the camp comes alive with live cultural performances. You’ll get to watch belly dancing (though not during Ramadan or dry days), Tanoura dance, and a captivating fire show—all set against the backdrop of the desert sky.
The buffet dinner is an inclusive highlight, offering a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The food is generally described as tasty and diverse, with plenty of dishes to suit various palates.
Many reviews praise the quality of the entertainment, calling the performances “mesmerizing” and describing the scene as a perfect balance of lively action and cultural storytelling. The storytelling element, combined with the dancing and fire acts, creates a lively, festive atmosphere.
Additional Activities and Relaxation
Beyond the main activities, guests can enjoy smoking shisha with a variety of flavors, adding an extra layer of relaxation and socializing. There’s also the opportunity to get henna tattoos if you’re feeling creative or want a souvenir of your trip.
The camp provides separate toilets for men and women, ensuring comfort for all guests. The camp atmosphere is relaxed enough for you to soak in the desert vibe or take photos of the stunning sunset views.
Drop-off and Overall Experience Value
The tour wraps up with a drop-off back to your hotel or chosen location in Dubai or Sharjah. This added convenience means you can relax after the activities without worrying about transportation, which is especially valuable after a long day.
At $55 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the variety of activities, entertainment, and included transport. The reviews confirm that many travelers felt the experience was worth the cost, with one calling it “so great” they’d do it again and praising the “funny driver” as a highlight.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This desert safari is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a complete introduction to Dubai’s desert culture and scenery. It also suits adventure lovers craving dune bashing and sandboarding, as well as culture aficionados interested in traditional performances and activities. Plus, travelers looking for a convenient, all-in-one experience will find this tour offers excellent value and ease.
However, those with mobility limitations or seeking a more relaxed, less full itinerary might find the packed schedule a bit intense. Also, since alcohol isn’t included and is available for purchase, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with non-alcoholic options or planning to bring their own.
Final Thoughts
This Dubai desert safari by Clifton Tours combines adventure, culture, and comfort in a way that suits a broad range of travelers. From the high-energy dune bashing to the serene camel rides and lively evening shows, it captures the essence of a desert adventure without the fuss of planning logistics.
The inclusion of pickup and drop-off makes it especially appealing for those staying in Dubai or Sharjah, and the modest price point amplifies its value. Expect stunning views of the dunes at sunset, plenty of fun activities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that leaves you with lasting memories of your time in the desert.
If you’re after a well-rounded desert experience that balances thrill, culture, and convenience, this tour is certainly worth considering.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes luxury 4×4 pickup from Dubai or Sharjah, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, cultural performances, a buffet dinner, shisha, henna tattoos, snacks, and drop-off back to your location.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, a luxury 4×4 pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end the tour without additional arrangements.
What activities are available at the camp?
You can enjoy camel rides, smoke shisha, get henna tattoos, watch live belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and a fire show, along with a buffet dinner.
How long does the whole experience last?
Approximately 6 hours, starting around 2:30 pm and ending with your return to the city.
Are children suitable for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have young children, especially regarding dune bashing.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring flexibility in your planning.
Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase at the camp.
This desert safari offers a genuine, full-bodied taste of Dubai’s iconic desert landscape combined with cultural entertainment and adventure, all wrapped into a conveniently organized package. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a cultural escape, it’s a memorable way to experience the desert’s magic.
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