Dubai: Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride & Sandboarding

Exploring Dubai’s Desert: A Review of the Morning Safari with Camel Ride & Sandboarding

If you’re looking to escape the towering skyscrapers and vibrant city life of Dubai, a desert safari offers a unique glimpse into the tranquil beauty of the Arabian sands. Based on available reviews, this particular tour by Pacific Adventures promises a mix of thrills, scenic views, and authentic desert activities for a budget-friendly price.

Three things we especially like about this experience are the dune bashing in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, the chance to sandboard down the dunes, and the opportunity to ride camels. These activities combine adventure with culture, making it a great choice for those wanting a quick yet memorable desert escapade.

One potential drawback to consider is the variable quality of the tour experience, with some travelers reporting no-shows or communication issues. So, you’ll want to double-check your booking and confirm arrangements before the day of your desert trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value affordable adventure, scenic photo opportunities, and a taste of traditional desert life. If you’re after a straightforward, fun-packed morning without breaking the bank, this experience could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Affordable Option: Priced at just under $28 per person, it offers good value considering the activities included.
• Activities Galore: Dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding make for an action-packed morning.
• Expert Guides: Some reviews mention guides like Yassir Masood and Malik, highlighting their friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Mixed Reviews: While many enjoyed the scenery and activities, some faced no-shows or unclear itinerary details.
• Booking in Advance: Recommended, as most travelers book about 9 days early to secure their spot.

The Experience Breakdown

Pickup and Transportation

Your desert adventure begins with a pick-up around 8:00 am from your location in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. The vehicle is well-suited for navigating the sandy terrain and provides a comfortable, elevated view of the scenery. This mode of transport ensures that you quickly leave behind Dubai’s urban landscape and head into the rolling dunes.

A key point for travelers: the group size is capped at about 50 people, which helps keep the experience relatively intimate, yet lively enough to enjoy mingling with others.

The Dune Bashing

Once in the desert, the tour kicks off with a 45-minute dune bashing session. This is the highlight for many thrill-seekers; the Land Cruiser climbs, drops, and swerves over the high, undulating dunes.

According to reviews, the dune bashing is often described as a “roller coaster ride,” with some travelers noting it’s a fun and exhilarating way to experience the desert’s natural terrain. One reviewer mentioned, “Yassir Masood was a very sweet and good guide. We enjoyed the experience. The dunes were very fun and the pictures came out super pretty.”

However, keep in mind that this activity can be intense if you’re sensitive to motion or prefer a more relaxed experience.

Sandboarding

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll get the chance to try sandboarding—a unique sport that combines sliding and skiing down the dunes. For speed lovers, it’s a playful way to enjoy the desert landscape from a different perspective.

A reviewer noted, “Sand skiing is an unusual sport entertaining for speed-loving people,” emphasizing how this activity adds an element of novelty. It’s an experience suitable for all ages, though you might want to bring sunscreen and wear comfortable clothes for sliding and climbing.

Camel Ride in the Red Desert

Next, you’ll get the opportunity to ride a camel—a classic desert activity that many travelers find unforgettable. The review mentions it as “an unforgettable experience,” and it’s often praised for offering a taste of traditional Bedouin life.

The camel rides are usually brief but give you a chance to appreciate the quiet beauty of the desert from a different angle. It’s a great photo op and a chance to connect with the desert environment more intimately.

Photo Stops and Scenic Views

Throughout the tour, several stops are made for photo opportunities. Expect sweeping views of the pristine, rolling sand dunes—perfect for capturing memorable shots. Reviewers have highlighted how the landscapes look stunning, especially in the early morning light, making this tour a hit for photography enthusiasts.

Additional Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, some travelers have faced issues like no-shows and poor communication, which can be frustrating—especially if you’ve planned your day around this activity. One reviewer expressed disappointment, saying, “Booked a Desert Safari tour in Dubai and they were no show at pick up.”

To avoid unpleasant surprises, it’s wise to confirm your booking and contact the operator beforehand. Also, note that additional activities like boat tours might be part of the broader package but are not guaranteed, as some reviews mention surprises during the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity.
• Start Time: Usually at 8:00 am, allowing you to beat the heat and enjoy cooler desert mornings.
• Price: Around $27.91 per person, which is quite affordable given the range of activities included.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 9 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure a spot.
• Inclusivity: Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or sensitivity to motion might want to consider their comfort levels during dune bashing.

Transportation and Group Size

The pickup in a 4×4 Land Cruiser is generally comfortable, and the group size caps at 50—small enough for a personable experience but large enough to feel lively. This setup suits travelers who enjoy being part of a larger group without feeling crowded.

Guides and Service Quality

While some reviews highlight excellent guides like Malik, who reportedly has a good knowledge of Dubai city, others mention communication issues or no-shows. It’s advisable to confirm your reservation and perhaps request specific guides if possible.

Value for Money

At under $30, this tour offers a lot—dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and scenic photo stops—making it a cost-effective way to experience Dubai’s desert. However, the inconsistent reviews suggest that quality may vary, so managing expectations is key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This morning safari is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a quick dose of desert adventure. It suits those who want a fun, active experience with plenty of photo opportunities and traditional activities like camel riding.

It’s also suitable for first-time visitors wanting a safe, guided tour without the hassle of organizing individual activities or transportation.

However, if you prefer a more curated, luxury experience or have concerns about reliable service, you might want to explore other options or verify your booking carefully.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai morning desert safari offers a practical, fun-packed way to see the sands, especially at its price point. The activities—dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding—are well-loved by those who enjoy a bit of adventure and cultural flavor.

That said, the experience’s success can depend heavily on the guides and the booking process. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of communication hiccups or last-minute surprises, but overall, it provides a memorable morning in the desert with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re after a value-packed, active desert experience, this tour is worth considering—just be sure to confirm your reservation and set clear expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, usually around 8:00 am, from your specified location in Dubai.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues or are sensitive to motion, dune bashing may be intense.

What activities are included?
The main activities include dune bashing in a 4×4, sandboarding, and camel riding, with scenic stops for photos.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any extras not included in the tour?
Additional activities like boat tours may be part of broader packages but are not guaranteed with this specific tour.

To sum it up, this desert safari offers a straightforward, affordable way to experience Dubai’s iconic sands. Whether you’re snapping photos of the dunes, trying sandboarding for the first time, or enjoying a quick camel ride, you’ll come away with fun memories. Just remember to confirm your booking and manage your expectations based on the mixed reviews. Happy desert exploring!