Safari with BBQ Dinner

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your Dubai trip, a desert safari combined with a BBQ dinner is a popular choice. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect, making it easier to decide if this experience is right for you.

What stands out most are the thrilling dune bashing, the live entertainment, and the delicious international BBQ buffet at the camp. Plus, the tour’s value for money and convenient pickup make it a practical option. However, some might find the food quality at the camp could be improved—something to consider if you’re a foodie.

This safari truly caters to those craving adventure, culture, and memorable photos, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. If you’re after an authentic, fun-filled evening in the desert, this tour appears to tick all the boxes.

Key Points

• Thrilling dune bashing over Dubai’s iconic red sands
• Live entertainment including Tanura, belly dance, and fire show
• Versatile activities like sandboarding, camel riding, and sunset photography
• All-inclusive experience with pickup, dinner, and entertainment
• Affordable price for a 6-hour adventure in the desert
• Guides and staff praised for their friendliness and professionalism

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This desert safari with BBQ dinner offers a holistic experience combining adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural entertainment and a hearty meal. For those who enjoy a mix of thrill and relaxation, this tour covers all bases efficiently, ensuring you get the most out of your Dubai desert adventure.

Easy and Convenient Pickup

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is the door-to-door pickup in a 4WD vehicle—an aspect highly appreciated by travelers who dislike the hassle of organizing transportation. This means you can relax knowing your guide will come to your hotel or residence, saving time and effort. The pickup window is around 2:00-2:30 pm, giving ample time to enjoy the drive and acclimate before the activities start.

The Dune Bashing Experience

The highlight for many is the dune bashing in the red sands—a rollercoaster-like ride over towering dunes that promises adrenaline and stunning views. The 35 to 40-minute safari is usually described as exciting, with some reviewers noting the skill of guides like Ishtiaq, who is praised for his humble demeanor and expert driving.

Sandboarding and Camel Rides

Sandboarding is another favorite activity, offering a quick but fun way to get sliding down the dunes. The camel ride is short but enough to give a taste of traditional desert travel, often enjoyed for its novelty and the great photo opportunities it provides. Reviewers like “Enjoyed with family” and “Made our trip memorable” highlight how these activities add a layer of authenticity and fun.

Sunset and Photography Opportunities

Timing is everything—sunset photography is often cited as a breathtaking moment. The desert’s changing colors as the sun dips below the horizon create perfect photo backdrops. Travelers frequently mention how they appreciated having these moments captured during the tour.

The Camp and Evening Entertainment

Once the adventure on the dunes is complete, you’ll head to a desert camp for the evening’s main event. The camp is described as beautiful and well-organized, with plenty of traditional and modern entertainment options.

Live Performances

Reviews consistently mention Tanura dance, belly dance, and fire shows as the evening’s highlights. These performances add a cultural flavor to the experience and are generally considered entertaining, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with Middle Eastern dance traditions.

The BBQ Dinner

The international buffet at the camp offers both veg and non-veg options, and many reviewers rave about the delicious food. While some notes mention that the quality of the dinner could be improved, the majority find it satisfying and ample for the price. The cold drinks, tea, and water available at the well are appreciated, especially after a hot day in the desert.

Additional Comforts

Facilities like smoking sheesha are available for those interested, and the staff is often praised for their friendly and helpful attitude. The camp atmosphere is described as warm and inviting, making it suitable for families and groups who want a comfortable setting to relax after the adventure.

How Well Does It Deliver on Value?

At $43 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines adventure, culture, and dining. When you consider the pickup, dune bashing, activities like sandboarding and camel riding, plus live entertainment and dinner, it’s a fair price for a memorable half-day and evening in the desert.

Many reviews highlight the well-organized nature of the tour and the professional nature of guides like Mohammed Ameer, known for his outstanding driving skills. The group size is typically limited to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Timing and Duration

The entire experience lasts roughly 6 hours, starting in the early afternoon and returning around 9:00-9:30 pm. The pacing is generally well-balanced, with enough time allocated for each activity without feeling rushed.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews note that the food quality at the camp could be better, which might matter if you’re a foodie or expecting a gourmet dinner. Also, the dune bashing might be too intense for very young children or travelers with certain health concerns. It’s recommended to have good physical fitness for the activities.

Authentic Experiences and Guides Worth Mentioning

Several reviewers sing the praises of guides like Ishtiaq and Mohammed Ameer, highlighting their knowledge, friendly nature, and driving expertise. Such personal touches elevate the experience from a standard tour to a memorable adventure.

Reviewers also appreciate the stunning sunset views and the ability to capture beautiful photographs, making this tour a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The live entertainment is generally praised for being lively and well-performed, adding a cultural dimension that enhances the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This desert safari works well for adventure lovers, families with children (especially due to the safe and fun activities), and those seeking a culturally immersive yet relaxed evening. It’s suitable for travelers on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice the experience or for visitors looking for a well-rounded, value-for-money adventure in Dubai.

If you’re keen on thrilling dune bashing, enjoy live performances, and love hearty meals under the stars, this tour is a solid choice. Keep in mind that if you’re a picky eater or prefer gourmet dining, the camp’s food might not fully satisfy.

This desert safari with BBQ dinner offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, culture, and comfort, making it ideal for a wide range of travelers. From the exhilarating dune rides and spectacular sunsets to the entertaining shows and international buffet, it provides a comprehensive desert experience for a reasonable price.

For families, adventure seekers, or culture enthusiasts, this tour delivers both fun and memorable moments. The guides’ professionalism and the thoughtfully organized activities help justify the cost, especially considering the door-to-door pickup and variety of activities included.

However, if you’re a foodie with very high expectations or sensitive to intense rides, you might want to manage expectations or look for options that emphasize gourmet dining. This safari appears to be a well-loved, trustworthy choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Dubai’s desert charm.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes desert safari, BBQ dinner with international buffet, pickup in a 4×4, desert activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, sunset photography, live entertainment, and drop-off back to your hotel.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, beginning around 2:00-2:30 pm with pickup and returning by 9:00-9:30 pm.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can opt for quad biking or dune buggy rides for an additional cost, though these are not included in the base price.

Is the pickup available from anywhere in Dubai?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from any location within Dubai, making it very convenient.

What activities are done at the camp?
Activities at the camp include live performances like Tanura, belly dance, and fire shows, as well as enjoying the BBQ buffet and sheesha.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the activities like dune bashing suggest a more adventurous experience, so discretion is advised for very young kids or those with health concerns.

How is the food?
The BBQ dinner receives mixed reviews; many find it delicious and plentiful, while some suggest room for improvement in quality.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides like Mohammed Ameer and Ishtiaq are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and driving skills, greatly enhancing the overall experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This desert safari in Dubai offers a balanced mix of adventure, entertainment, and delicious food, making it perfect for those eager to experience the desert’s magic while enjoying a well-organized, value-packed tour.