Dune Bashing Desert Safari Trip Review
Travelers looking for a thrilling day in the Saudi desert will find this Dune Bashing Desert Safari from Jeddah offers a memorable mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. While the price is around $250 per person, the value lies not just in the activity itself but in the full-day experience packed with exciting activities, stunning scenery, and comfortable transportation.
What makes this tour particularly appealing are three key highlights: the adrenaline-pumping dune bashing, the chance to partake in various adventure activities in the desert camp, and the inclusive snacks and refreshments that keep energy levels high. On the flip side, some may find that the group size or the price point might be less appealing for budget travelers or those seeking a more personalized experience.
This trip suits travelers who crave adventure and authentic desert scenery in a well-organized package. Families, solo explorers, and adventure enthusiasts will likely find it ticks all the boxes, especially those eager to explore the Saudi desert beyond its cityscape.
Key Points
- Thrilling Dune Bashing with a professional guide guarantees an adrenaline rush.
- Full-day itinerary includes multiple activities, from sandboarding to team games.
- All-inclusive snacks and drinks add comfort and convenience during the long day.
- Round-trip transportation simplifies logistics, with pickup from Jeddah included.
- Tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 50.
- The cost reflects a comprehensive experience but may be less attractive for budget travelers.
Looking for more options in Jeddah? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Why You’ll Love the Dune Bashing Desert Safari
We loved the way this tour balances adventure and comfort. The experience kicks off with a rousing dune bashing session—a true highlight—where a skilled guide expertly navigates the towering sand dunes, providing both excitement and safety. The spark of adrenaline makes it a memorable start, especially with the desert’s vast, mesmerizing landscape as a backdrop.
Beyond the bashing, the tour features a variety of activities at the desert camp, making it more than just a thrill ride. From sandboarding and rock climbing to volleyball and team races, there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged. One review highlights the knowledgeable guide, who shared insights and made the group feel well looked after, calling the guide “incredible” and “super friendly.”
The provision of unlimited snacks and drinks—including Arabic coffee, soda, and sweet treats—adds to the relaxed vibe. We particularly appreciated the refreshing water and beverages available any time, which is vital in the desert heat. The campsite setting offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the sunset, or even participate in karaoke and other social activities.
However, a key point to keep in mind is cost and group size. At $250 per person, this experience is on the higher side for some travelers, but the inclusion of transportation and a full day’s worth of activities justifies it for many. The maximum group size of 50 ensures a lively atmosphere but might limit the intimacy of the experience.
Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
Pickup and Transportation
Your journey begins with a convenient pickup from central Jeddah, at the Cenomi Al Salaam Mall on King Abdallah Rd. This round-trip transfer is included, saving you the hassle of arranging your own transport. The journey to the desert area lasts just enough to build anticipation, with comfortable seating and air conditioning on the vehicle.
Dune Bashing Adventure
The tour’s main attraction is the dune-bashing ride—a high-energy, off-road adventure in a 4×4 jeep. Guided by experienced drivers, you’ll climb and descend massive sand dunes, feeling both exhilaration and awe. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s sand-filled veins and knowledge added a genuine local touch that made the ride memorable. Expect about 1-2 hours of this activity, with plenty of opportunities for photos and video.
Desert Camp Activities
After the thrills, you’ll arrive at a desert camp, where the real fun begins. Here, you can try sandboarding, which is surprisingly fun and easier than it looks. For the more adventurous, rock climbing offers a fresh perspective on the terrain, with some reviewers praising the guide’s tips and encouragement.
Team-building activities like tug-of-war, volleyball, and running races add a social element. The camp also offers karaoke, game boards, and swings, for a more laid-back atmosphere. A standout from a review mentions the moonlit desert night, illustrating how peaceful and surreal the landscape can be, especially if overcast conditions keep the air cool.
Adventure & Relaxation Mix
The tour balances thrilling activities with moments of downtime. For instance, Arabian coffee and tea are served in the camp, along with sweet and savory snacks like croissants, chips, and chocolates. These keep your energy up as you alternate between high-energy activities and relaxing in the desert environment.
Evening and Return
As the sun begins to set, the desert’s beauty becomes even more striking. The tour concludes with a return ride back to Jeddah, where you’ll be dropped off at your starting point. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full, satisfying day of adventure.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Many reviewers, like Benjamin_v, praise the guides’ friendliness and experience, calling one “amazing” and noting that they shared many years of desert knowledge. This adds a layer of authenticity to the tour, making it feel more genuine rather than overly commercial.
Tracy_M highlights how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge really enhanced the trip, describing the moonlit hills as a surreal highlight—something you might not expect from a straightforward desert tour. This underscores that the tour isn’t just about adrenaline but also about appreciating the desert’s natural beauty.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who appreciate a mix of adrenaline and social activities. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the desert’s vastness without sacrificing comfort or organization. Families with older children and groups of friends will find plenty of fun and shared memories here, especially with the inclusive snacks and entertainment options.
However, if you’re on a very tight budget or prefer a more personalized or shorter activity, this might not be the best fit. The cost reflects a full day of varied activities, so it’s best for travelers who value comprehensive experiences in stunning scenery.
The Sum Up
The Dune Bashing Desert Safari Trip offers a robust, action-packed day in the Saudi desert. From the exhilarating dune bashing to relaxing in a desert camp with plentiful snacks, it provides a well-rounded adventure for those eager to explore Jeddah’s landscape beyond the city.
The knowledgeable guides, lively activities, and breathtaking views make this a worthwhile choice for thrill-seekers and desert enthusiasts alike. While it’s priced higher than some might expect, the full-day itinerary, inclusive transport, and diverse activities deliver notable value.
This tour is especially suited for those craving adventure combined with a taste of local culture in a lively, social setting. If you enjoy guides who share their desert expertise and don’t mind a group experience, you’ll likely find this a highlight of your Jeddah trip.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from central Jeddah, specifically from Cenomi Al Salaam Mall, is included in the price.
What activities are included at the desert camp?
Activities include sandboarding, rock climbing, volleyball, tug-of-war, running races, karaoke, and team-building games.
How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting from pickup in Jeddah and ending back at the same location.
Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, unlimited snacks and drinks such as water, soda, coffee, tea, chocolates, chips, and croissants are included and available throughout the day.
Can I participate if I have no prior experience?
Absolutely. The activities are suitable for most travelers, and guides are known for their friendliness and encouragement, making it accessible for beginners.
What is the maximum group size?
Up to 50 travelers can join this tour, creating a lively atmosphere while still allowing for a well-organized experience.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the nature of activities like dune bashing and rock climbing for younger children.
What should I wear?
Light, breathable clothing suitable for hot desert conditions, along with comfortable shoes for activities like sandboarding and climbing, are recommended.
In summary, this desert safari balances adventure, comfort, and cultural fun, making it a worthwhile pick for anyone wanting to see the desert in a lively, active way.