Ultimate Guide to TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari: Everything You Need to Know
Dubai, a city of towering skyscrapers and dazzling shopping malls, also offers a different kind of adventure—the kind you can find in the vast, golden sands of the Arabian Desert. A TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari is an unforgettable experience that blends thrill with tradition, offering a perfect escape into the stunning desert landscape. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, a serene sunset ride, or an authentic taste of Emirati culture, a desert safari is a must-do activity during your visit to Dubai.
In this guide, we’ll explore the highlights of a TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari, provide pricing details, and share tips to help you make the most of your desert adventure.
Why Choose a TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari?
TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari reviews provide invaluable insights from travelers who have experienced these safaris firsthand. Choosing a safari through TripAdvisor offers several advantages:
- Real Traveler Reviews: TripAdvisor lets you read about others’ experiences, helping you pick a tour that suits your interests and preferences.
- Price Comparison: The platform compares prices across different safari operators, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.
- Convenience: Booking through TripAdvisor makes the process simple and straightforward, offering options to reserve tours in advance.
- Variety of Tours: From basic safaris to luxury experiences, TripAdvisor features a wide range of options, so you can find a safari that fits your budget and desired experience.
What to Expect on a TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari
A Dubai Desert Safari offers a variety of experiences, from thrilling dune bashing to a relaxed, cultural evening under the stars. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Dune Bashing in a 4x4
One of the highlights of any desert safari is dune bashing—an exhilarating ride across the dunes in a powerful 4x4 vehicle. This high-speed adventure through the golden sand dunes is a must for adrenaline junkies. Expect sudden drops, sharp turns, and a thrilling, heart-racing ride as your driver navigates the desert’s shifting terrain.
- Price: Standard dune bashing tours typically start at AED 150-250 per person for a shared group experience. Private tours can cost upwards of AED 400-600 per person, depending on the duration and luxury of the vehicle.
2. Camel Riding
After the excitement of dune bashing, a serene camel ride offers the perfect contrast. Camels are known as the “ships of the desert,” and riding one gives you a glimpse into the traditional Bedouin way of life. You’ll get to ride through the vast desert landscape, enjoying the calming atmosphere as you sit atop one of the desert’s most iconic animals.
- Price: Camel rides are typically included in most desert safari packages, but if booked separately, they usually cost around AED 50-100 for a short ride. Longer camel treks can go for AED 200-300.
3. Sandboarding
For those seeking more adventure, sandboarding is a fun activity to try in the desert. Similar to snowboarding, but on sand dunes, this thrilling sport involves sliding down the side of a dune on a board. It’s easy to pick up and a great way to experience the desert in a more hands-on way.
- Price: Sandboarding is often included in the safari package, but if booked separately, prices can range from AED 50-100 for a session.
4. Sunset Views and Photo Opportunities
No desert safari is complete without witnessing the stunning desert sunset. The vast expanse of the desert at sunset offers some of the most picturesque views in Dubai. During this time, you’ll also have the chance to capture some beautiful photographs with the golden dunes as your backdrop.
- Price: The cost of a safari with a sunset view is generally included in the overall package price, but private tours or extended photo sessions can cost an extra AED 100-200.
5. Traditional Emirati Culture and Entertainment
Many TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari tours offer a unique opportunity to experience traditional Emirati culture. After your dune bashing and camel ride, you’ll head to a desert camp for a cultural evening that includes:
- Henna painting: Traditional body art applied to hands and feet.
- Shisha smoking: Experience the flavors of the Middle East with a hookah pipe.
- Tanoura and Belly Dancing: Watch traditional performances while you enjoy a delicious buffet dinner under the stars.
- BBQ Dinner: Feast on a buffet that typically includes grilled meats, salads, rice, and Middle Eastern delicacies.
- Price: Full-day safaris with dinner and entertainment typically range from AED 250-500 per person. Luxury safaris with VIP service and exclusive dining options can cost AED 700-1,000+.
6. Star Gazing
As the evening winds down, many tours end with star-gazing in the clear desert sky. Away from the city’s light pollution, the desert offers a perfect view of the night sky, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the stars.
- Price: Star-gazing is often included as part of the evening entertainment package and does not typically incur additional charges.
Different Types of TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari Packages
Depending on your budget and the experience you seek, TripAdvisor offers several options for desert safari tours:
- Standard Desert Safari: This includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner with cultural entertainment. Prices typically range from AED 150-300 per person.
- VIP Desert Safari: For those seeking a more luxurious experience, this includes private 4x4 vehicles, gourmet meals, exclusive desert camps, and personalized services. Prices can range from AED 500-1,000 per person.
- Overnight Desert Safari: This extended experience includes everything from a traditional dinner to an overnight stay in the desert, complete with campfire, stargazing, and a unique desert sunrise. Pricing starts at around AED 700-1,200 per person.
- Private Desert Safari: For a more intimate experience, book a private desert safari, which allows you to customize the itinerary, choose your own adventure activities, and have exclusive use of the vehicle. Prices range from AED 800-1,500 per person.
What to Bring on a Dubai Desert Safari
While booking a TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari, make sure to bring the following to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
- Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothes, especially if you're going during the summer months.
- Sunscreen: The desert sun can be intense, so protect your skin with sunscreen.
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views and moments during your safari.
- Hat and sunglasses: These will protect you from the harsh desert sun.
Conclusion: Book Your TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari Today
A TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and thrilling adventure that Dubai’s deserts offer. From dune bashing and camel rides to cultural experiences and starlit dinners, a desert safari is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the UAE. With a range of pricing options and experiences available, there’s a safari for every budget and interest.
So, why wait? Book your TripAdvisor Dubai Desert Safari today, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arabian Desert.