Desert safaris are popular for adventure seekers and travelers looking to experience the mystique of the desert landscape. But beyond the thrilling rides and scenic dunes, there are hidden aspects of this unique activity that most people don’t know. Here are ten secrets about desert safaris that will enhance your experience and make it even more unforgettable.
1. Time of Day Matters
One of the most overlooked secrets of a desert safari is that the timing of your visit significantly impacts your experience. While most people opt for evening safaris, when temperatures are cooler and sunsets are breathtaking, early morning safaris offer a different but equally stunning experience. The desert at sunrise is tranquil, with softer lighting for photography and fewer tourists.
2. It’s Not Just About Dune Bashing
Many people associate desert safaris with dune bashing alone, but the experience encompasses much more. Beyond the thrill of 4×4 rides across the dunes, you can indulge in sandboarding, camel rides, and even fat biking. Each activity offers a different way to connect with the landscape and its natural beauty.
3. Cultural Immersion Opportunities
Abu dhabi desert safari deals provide an excellent opportunity for cultural experiences that go beyond adventure. Many safari packages include traditional Bedouin camps, where you can try local delicacies, smoke shisha, and watch cultural performances such as belly dancing and Tanoura shows. These elements provide a deeper insight into the region’s heritage.
4. The Best Seats for Dune Bashing Are in the Back
While front seats might give you a clear view, the back seats offer a more thrilling experience during dune bashing. The back of the vehicle experiences more motion and gives a stronger sense of the dunes’ dips and climbs. If you’re looking for excitement, ask for a back seat.
5. Animals in the Desert
The desert isn’t just barren sand. It’s home to an array of wildlife that most tourists overlook. On a quiet safari, you might spot oryx, gazelles, and desert foxes. Some tours also offer opportunities for falconry, a traditional sport of the region. Night safaris, in particular, allow you to observe nocturnal desert animals.
6. Wear the Right Footwear
It might surprise you, but wearing closed shoes isn’t always the best option. Sand tends to get inside them during dune activities. Many seasoned desert safari-goers recommend wearing sandals or breathable shoes that can be easily shaken out, ensuring comfort while walking through the dunes.
7. Desert Temperatures Drop at Night
Even though deserts are known for their scorching daytime heat, temperatures drop dramatically after sunset. If you’re planning an evening or overnight safari, pack a light jacket or shawl to keep warm once the sun sets.
8. Pre-booking Premium Experiences Pays Off
While best desert safari in Abu Dhabi offer similar activities, many premium options exist for those who plan ahead. Private dune bashing tours, exclusive dinners in remote desert areas, or even helicopter rides over the dunes can be arranged. These experiences provide a more luxurious and secluded take on the standard desert safari.
9. Take the Eco-Friendly Option
With increasing awareness of environmental conservation, some companies offer eco-friendly desert safaris. These tours focus on sustainability, utilizing electric vehicles for dune bashing or incorporating wildlife conservation elements into the itinerary. Choosing these options helps protect the fragile desert ecosystem while providing a unique experience.
10. You Can Stay Overnight
Many people aren’t aware that desert safaris don’t have to end after dinner. Some packages offer overnight stays in the desert, where you can sleep under the stars in traditional Bedouin tents or more modern luxury setups. Waking up to a desert sunrise is a magical experience that few travelers get to enjoy.
