Dubai: Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Sand boarding

Planning a trip to Dubai and looking for an adventure that combines thrill, culture, and breathtaking scenery? This Morning Desert Safari offers a well-rounded taste of the desert’s natural beauty and traditional charm. With a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and peaceful moments, it’s a popular choice for many visitors—evidenced by a perfect 5-star rating from recent reviews.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the early morning timing helps escape the midday heat, making the activities more comfortable. Second, the professional guides and smooth logistics ensure a hassle-free experience from pickup to drop-off. Third, the variety of activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding provide plenty of fun and photo opportunities.

One aspect to consider is that some optional activities, such as quad biking or ATV rides, are available at extra cost and are not included in the base price. If you’re seeking a full-on adrenaline rush, be prepared to pay a little extra. This tour suits those who want a lively, fun-filled morning with a good dose of cultural flavor, ideal for travelers who prefer outdoor adventures before the heat intensifies or their day gets busy.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At $85 per person, this tour offers a diverse range of desert activities that many would find worth the cost.
• Comprehensive Experience: From dune bashing to camel rides and sandboarding, it covers the essentials of a desert adventure.
• Convenient Logistics: Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off make it accessible, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport.
• Quality Guides: Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like Abbas, who make the experience informative and enjoyable.
• Photographic Opportunities: The early morning light creates stunning photo backdrops, especially on the dunes.
• Family-Friendly: The activities suit all ages, with special mention of kids loving the camel ride and sandboarding.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Arrival

This 4-hour tour kicks off with a pickup from your Dubai hotel in an air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruiser. The service is punctual, and the vehicle is comfortable—crucial for a smooth start to your desert adventure. The tour is limited to about 100 travelers, which keeps the group manageable and allows for some personal attention.

The Dune Bashing Experience

The highlight for many is the dune bashing. The guide and driver, like Abbas, are well-trained and licensed, ensuring safety while maintaining an exhilarating pace. Expect about 45 minutes of high-energy driving over the sand dunes, climbing steep slopes, and sliding down sandy hills.

One review mentions that the “dune bashing is best experienced in the early morning when the desert is cooler,” which makes sense—less heat means you can enjoy the ride without feeling overheated or exhausted. The experience is reminiscent of a rollercoaster, with sharp turns and climbs that will make your stomach flip. For those prone to motion sickness, it’s advisable to avoid eating just before the ride.

The Camel Ride: A Cultural Touch

Next, the camel ride offers a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of dune bashing. The rhythmic sway of the camel, described as a “unique vantage point,” allows you to take in the vast, golden dunes at a slow, comfortable pace. Reviewers mention that opting to pay extra for a longer ride was a decision many appreciated, especially for kids who loved the experience.

Camel riding isn’t just a photo-op—it’s an authentic piece of Arabian tradition, connecting travelers to the long history of desert life. The ride lasts about 10 minutes, but the memories linger much longer. Expect to see the expansive desert landscape in a way that’s both tranquil and awe-inspiring.

Sandboarding: A Thrilling Slide

Sandboarding is a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy gliding down dunes on a board. The tour provides a safety briefing and tips from trained instructors, making sure even beginners can enjoy the activity safely. The dunes in Lahbab Desert, known for their high, red sand, are perfect for this sport—offering slopes suitable for all skill levels.

Reviewers love the photo opportunities here, especially during the golden hour when the setting sun casts long shadows and enhances the vivid red of the sand. Expect about 30 minutes of sandboarding, enough to get a good run in or take multiple shots for the ‘gram.

Additional Activities and Highlights

While the core activities are dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding, some optional extras like quad biking, ATV rides, or buggy rides are available at extra cost. Many reviews mention that these upgrades are worth considering if you want to add more adrenaline to your morning.

The tour also includes plenty of photo opportunities—the desert’s natural beauty is stunning, especially in the soft morning light. Reviewers consistently mention how the guides help with capturing memorable moments.

Drop-off and Overall Experience

After about four hours, your guide will drop you back at your hotel. The overall experience is rated very highly, with many travelers noting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, like Abbas, who went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a good time.

The price of $85 offers good value considering the diversity of activities and the quality of the experience. For many, it’s a perfect introduction to Dubai’s desert landscape—an authentic adventure that’s both fun and culturally meaningful.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a quick, fun-packed morning with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the intense midday heat and still experience Dubai’s iconic desert scenery. Families with kids will enjoy the gentle camel rides and sandboarding, while adventure lovers will appreciate the dune bashing and optional upgrades.

It’s also a great option for first-timers who want a comprehensive taste of desert life without committing to longer, more expensive excursions. If you’re after a relaxed, enjoyable introduction to Dubai’s desert environment, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4×4, a professional guide, dune bashing, a camel ride, sandboarding, and photo opportunities in the desert.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but dune bashing is not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious back, neck, or heart problems. Kids generally love the camel ride and sandboarding.

Can I upgrade or add activities?
Yes, quad biking, ATV rides, and buggy rides are available at additional charges. These can be booked on-site or beforehand.

How long does each activity last?
Dune bashing lasts about 45 minutes, camel riding around 10 minutes, and sandboarding approximately 30 minutes.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed shoes are recommended. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

Does the tour run in all weather conditions?
Yes, but activities may be adjusted or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
Morning is ideal to avoid the heat and enjoy softer lighting for photos. The cooler temperatures also make dune bashing more comfortable.

How much does it cost?
The base price is $85 per person, with optional activities available for extra charges.

Final Thoughts

This Morning Desert Safari offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Dubai’s desert landscape combined with adventure and cultural richness. The combination of dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding makes for a memorable morning, especially with professional guides leading the way. The early start helps you beat the heat and enjoy the desert in a more comfortable, scenic setting.

It’s a tour that provides excellent value, particularly for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick but immersive desert experience. With manageable group sizes, friendly guides, and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s suited for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

If you want an activity-packed morning that balances excitement with cultural charm, this safari is hard to beat. Just be prepared for a few extra charges if you want to ramp up the adrenaline, and remember that the early hours are your best chance to catch the desert in all its stunning glory.

To sum it up, this tour is an excellent choice for those who want a fun, authentic desert adventure without spending a full day. It suits travelers who value good guides, great scenery, and a variety of activities—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture explorer, this safari delivers a memorable taste of Dubai’s desert wonderland.