Can You Do a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing? Yes, Here's How
Most desert safari adverts show a 4x4 flying over a dune at a crazy angle. That's great for some people. But plenty of people don't want to bounce around in a car for half an hour. Maybe you're travelling with grandparents, a baby or a bad back. Maybe you just don't like bumpy rides.
Here's the good news: you can still have a great time in the desert. A desert safari without dune bashing gives you the sunset, the camel ride, the dinner and the shows, without the rollercoaster part. At Emirate Desert Safaris, it's one of the trips we're asked about most.
How Does a Calm Safari Work?
Your driver takes a slow, scenic route across the sand instead of racing over the dunes. You still get close to the red dunes, and you still stop to watch the sunset. After that, you go to the camp and enjoy the same evening as every other guest: a camel ride, henna, dinner and live shows.
It's the calm desert safari Dubai families ask for when they want the fun without the jolts. Nobody feels left out, and nobody feels sick.
Who Is This Trip For?
Parents With Little Ones
On a family desert safari Dubai trip, the smallest guests matter too. Toddlers often don't like steep dune drives, and they aren't suitable for babies. With a calm trip, you can enjoy a desert safari with kids and relax.
Seniors and Older Travellers
Any desert safari for seniors has to put comfort first. A smooth drive, good seating and easy access to the facilities make all the difference. Lots of older guests say it ended up being their favourite part of the trip.
Guests Who Are Pregnant
Doctors don't recommend dune bashing for pregnant women. If you're thinking about a desert safari during pregnancy, the calm option lets you join the evening safely. Please check with your doctor first, and let us know when you book.
People Who Hate Bumpy Rides
Not a fan of roller coasters? Plenty of people aren't. Skip the bumps and still enjoy a great evening.
What Your Evening Looks Like
Afternoon pickup
We collect you from your hotel or home in the afternoon. The car is comfortable and air-conditioned, and there's no hurry at all.
Into the desert, gently
After the city, the driver takes a smooth route across the sand. You'll see the dunes rise around you, and you might spot camels or desert birds along the way. Just ask, and the driver will stop for photos.
The sunset stop
When the sun starts to set, you stop somewhere quiet to watch. The sand turns from gold to a deep red. It's calm and beautiful, and many guests say it's their favourite moment.
Evening at camp
At camp, there's a short camel ride, henna and time to sit back with a drink. The buffet dinner has lots of choice, and the shows begin after dinner. Drop-off is around 9 PM.
Why We Offer a Calm Safari
For years, we heard the same comment from guests. A family would book a safari, and someone always stayed behind because the ride was too rough. Grandparents missed out, and so did new mums. We didn't think that was fair. So we created a version of the trip that everyone in the family can enjoy together.
Heritage Desert Safari Dubai
For something a little different, try a heritage desert safari Dubai trip. You ride across the desert in a classic vintage Land Rover, the kind used by desert families decades ago. There's no dune bashing at all. Instead, you get a falcon show and a traditional dinner. A vintage Land Rover safari is slow, scenic and full of character, and couples and older guests love it.
Marjan Desert Camp
Our evenings take place at Marjan Desert Camp. There are separate facilities for men and women on the evening tour, which many families appreciate. There's comfortable seating, warm lighting and lots of space. Dinner is a buffet, and the shows include a Tanoura dancer and a fire show on our VIP trips.
Sleeping in the Desert
If you'd like to see the desert at night and at sunrise, try our overnight Bedouin camp Dubai stay. You sleep in a Bedouin-style tent, look up at the stars and wake up for breakfast. It's very peaceful, and there's no rush at all. Away from the city lights, the sky is full of stars, which kids find amazing. In the morning, the desert is cool and still, and it's a lovely time for a short walk before breakfast.
If Some of Your Group Want Speed
Travelling with a mixed group? That's very common. Some of you can take the calm trip while others go for the quad bikes or a regular evening safari. Everyone ends up at the same camp for dinner. We also offer private 4x4s with flexible timing, VIP trips with a luxury transfer and VIP Hummer trips with a private camp and waiter service.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
• In winter, pack a shawl or light jacket
• Choose comfy shoes you can slip off on the sand
• Bring any medicines you need for the evening
• Tell us about mobility needs when you book
• Carry a small torch or use your phone light at night
Quick Answers
Do we still get to see the big dunes?
Yes. The route goes through the dunes, and you stop to watch the sunset.
Is the camel ride safe for older guests?
The camel ride is short and gentle, and staff help you on and off. If you'd rather not ride, you can still take photos with the camels.
How long is the evening trip?
Pickup is in the afternoon, and drop-off is here around 9 PM.
Is the trip suitable for limited mobility?
Please tell us about any mobility needs when you book, and we'll arrange the car and seating to suit.
What if some of us want the bumpy ride?
Yes. Some can join a regular trip while the rest take the calm route, and you all meet at camp.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available, and you can reach us 24/7.
Plan Your Trip With Us
The desert really is for everyone, and a desert safari without dune bashing proves it. Message Emirate Desert Safaris on WhatsApp at +971 50 991 2456, or send an email to [email protected]. Tell us who's coming, and we'll suggest the best trip for your group. You can also see all our trips at emiratedesertsafaris.com.
