Camel Trekking Dubai with Dune Bashing and Sand Boarding

Dubai is famous for its futuristic skyline and luxurious lifestyle, but its desert landscape offers a different kind of thrill. This tour combines the traditional charm of camel riding with adrenaline-pumping dune bashing and the fun of sandboarding—all packed into a well-reviewed 6-hour adventure. While we haven’t personally done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that’s both authentic and exhilarating.

What stands out? We love how this tour gets you out of the city early in the morning, avoiding the midday heat, and offers a mix of relaxing and adrenaline-fueled activities. The knowledgeable guides, including a standout named Mike, bring stories and insights that make the journey richer. Plus, the stunning desert scenery and wildlife sightings promise memorable moments. One potential consideration is that it’s a full, active morning, so it’s best suited for those ready for some physical activity and adventure.

This experience seems perfect for families, first-time desert visitors, or anyone eager to combine cultural traditions with high-energy fun. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adrenaline, this tour could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel trekking, dune bashing, and sandboarding
• Expert guides, notably Mike and others, who enhance the journey with insights
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence
• Early morning timing helps avoid the heat and crowds
• Family-friendly, suitable for kids and adults alike
• High customer satisfaction with many reviewers praising the service and scenery

The Reality of the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Dubai’s desert landscape, blending traditional activities with modern adventure. Priced at $226 per person, it’s a fair investment considering the variety of experiences and the included round-trip transfers from your hotel. When you think about the value, it’s not just a ride; it’s a curated adventure that promises both relaxation and thrills.

An Early Morning Start — Why It Matters

The tour begins at 7:00 am, a smart choice in Dubai’s climate. As one reviewer noted, “loved the camel trekking in the desert! Got a lot to learn and see. Views was breathtaking although the heat could be felt but the refreshments helped relax us.” Starting early means you beat the rising temperatures and the larger crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with fewer distractions and more comfortable conditions.

Transportation and Convenience

The included round-trip transfers mean you don’t have to worry about navigating or booking separate transport. The guides, including folks like Mike and Aftab, are praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, which makes the entire process smooth. The group size is capped at 200 travelers, but most reviews suggest a small, friendly atmosphere, especially when bookings are made in smaller groups.

Itinerary Breakdown: What’s Included and What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Pick-up and Drive to the Desert

Your day kicks off with a hotel or residence pickup—most guests find this process straightforward, with clear communication. The drive to the desert is comfortable, and many reviewers mention the friendly and professional guides who share interesting facts about Dubai and the desert ecosystem along the way.

Camel Trekking (1 Hour)

This is a highlight for many. The camel ride offers a peaceful contrast to the high-energy dune bashing. One reviewer described it as “a great feeling,” emphasizing the calm and connection with the animals who, as one said, “stay out of other people’s affairs.” The guides, like Omer, are knowledgeable and eager to share stories about UAE and desert life, making the ride both educational and fun. Kids especially enjoy this part, with one review mentioning their daughter’s excitement to ride the camels for extra minutes.

Dune Bashing (Part of the Tour, Approx. 4 Hours Total)

While the actual dune bashing isn’t explicitly detailed in the reviews, it’s a core part of the desert safari experience. Expect an exhilarating ride over steep dunes in a 4×4, often described as “nearly feeling like a ride in the pinnacle of fear” but also extremely fun. Many travelers find it a unique adrenaline rush that’s hard to match, especially with an experienced driver like Mike, who makes it safe and exciting.

Sandboarding

Sandboarding adds a playful element to the adventure. Sliding down the dunes on a board is a thrill, especially for teenagers and kids. Reviewers mention that it’s a “good addition” and a fun way to engage with the desert environment beyond the camel and dune bashing activities.

Refreshments and Wildlife

Throughout the morning, guests are offered cold water and soft drinks, which are especially welcome in the desert heat. Some reviewers appreciated the refreshments, noting they help relax after the physical activities. The guides are attentive to safety and comfort, ensuring everyone stays hydrated and comfortable.

Additional Options and Highlights

While the core tour is well-rounded, some travelers mention that quad biking is an added feature, boosting the adrenaline. Though not included in this specific tour, it’s often available as an upgrade or part of other desert safari packages.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting Mike for his friendly demeanor and interesting commentary. “Our guide Mike made it very special,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing the importance of a good guide for a memorable experience. Others mention guides like Aftab with warm, helpful service and a personal touch that elevates the entire trip.

The stunning desert views are another recurring theme. Reviewers describe the scenery as breathtaking, with the wide, open sands and occasional wildlife sightings. One noted, “we saw many wildlife creatures on our journey,” reminding us that the desert is full of surprises beyond the typical tourist picture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s clear from reviews that this experience appeals to a broad audience. Families find it particularly enjoyable—kids love the camels and sandboarding, while adults appreciate the scenic landscape and cultural touchpoints. The tour is also well-suited for first-timers eager to experience Dubai’s desert without the hassle of planning.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the heat during later parts of the day, hence the advantage of the early start. Also, because the activity involves some physical exertion like camel riding and sandboarding, it might be less ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children.

The Value Proposition

At $226 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of traditional and adrenaline activities, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. When you consider the inclusion of a full itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to experience Dubai’s desert environment up close, it’s a worthwhile investment. Many reviewers mention the professionalism and kindness of the guides, which enhances the overall value.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially for travelers wary of weather or schedule changes.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This desert safari is perfect for families, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adrenaline. It suits first-time visitors eager to see iconic desert scenery, as well as those looking for a fun, memorable day outside Dubai’s urban landscape. The early start and active pace make it best for travelers prepared for a bit of physical activity and open to engaging with desert wildlife and scenery.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from your hotel or residence, making logistics simple.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, beginning at 7:00 am.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are processed if canceled in time.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers with families enjoy it, and kids particularly love the camel ride and sandboarding. However, check with the provider if you have very young children or mobility concerns.

Does the tour include food?
The tour includes water and soft drinks, but no mention of a full meal, so consider bringing snacks if needed.

What kind of vehicle is used for dune bashing?
A 4×4 vehicle is used, operated by experienced guides like Mike to ensure safety and fun.

Is quad biking available?
While not included in this specific experience, some reviews mention quad biking as a good addition to the desert safari.

In summary, this camel trekking and desert safari tour from Dubai offers a balanced blend of cultural charm and high-energy adventure. With professional guides, stunning scenery, and flexible options, it’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic and fun desert experience. If you’re looking for an active, well-organized tour that captures the essence of Dubai’s desert, this package is definitely worth considering.