Dubai Dune Buggy, Camel Ride, and Sand Board Adventure: Is it Worth the Hype?
Thinking about kicking up some sand in the Dubai desert? Very likely, you’ve looked into the whole dune buggy, camel thing, and sand board scene. Maybe you even factored in a private ride so you don’t need to worry so much about catching a ride. A lot goes into it, right? We spent a chunk of change doing just that. This is what you can probably expect.
Booking Your Desert Experience
Okay, first thing’s first, let’s speak about hooking it up. A bunch of tour companies give you the option, and their websites all look kinda similar, yet some are way better than others, actually. We chose one, looking very seriously at reviews and package options. The thing that definitely sold us on it was that they took care of transport to and from the desert. No sweat!
What’s Included and What to Expect
So, like, what do you get? It differs a bit from place to place, yet most packages give you a dune buggy rental (usually for an hour or so), a short camel ride, and sandboarding. Some trips will include extras like photos with a falcon or a traditional desert camp meal. The duration? Could be anything from four hours to a full day depending on the options. When we made our decision, we went for a half-day trip which felt adequate enough without totally sucking up all of our precious vacay time.
Anyway, here’s a heads-up, often what’s promoted and what actually happens is fairly different. For example, the camel ride is mostly a five-minute walk around a tiny enclosure, too it’s certainly no trek through the Sahara. Plus, those “free” photos? Could be a hassle getting your hands on those later without spending a bit more cash. So, go in anticipating these possible catches.
Hitting the Dunes in a Buggy
Driving a dune buggy in Dubai is genuinely fun. Almost all the buggies are automated, therefore, that’s pretty straightforward if you’ve only ever driven an automatic car. Very many trips start with a basic safety briefing. You should totally pay attention to the guidelines that help so much to protect yourself, plus your buggy. Seriously, you don’t want to flip one of those babies.
The Thrill and the Spills (Hopefully Not!)
Alright, getting around the dunes, at least in the open spots, is cool. A small heads-up, going up steeper dunes calls for lots of power. Be sure to follow your guide’s advice, especially regarding where to drive, and never forget to drive at your own relaxed speed. Also, the sand? It’s very coarse, and sometimes gets kinda everywhere! A pair of goggles and a scarf really does make your ride better.
Yet, hold on! There are times where it feels kind of not as exciting. On very many trips, you have to follow a guide, it’s almost more like a dune buggy parade, therefore, there is so little free moving. It is safe, certainly, however it kind of takes the thrill away, really. You’re driving in the back? You will very likely be choking on dust. This really sucks if you think you have asthma.
Camel Ride: A Taste of Tradition
So, there is this camel ride thing. A chance, ostensibly, to get that classic desert pic and kind of pretend you are Lawrence of Arabia. Now, bear in mind, expectations must be very carefully set. It’s more of a short perambulation than an authentic desert expedition. Regardless, is that camel ride enjoyable?
What the Camel Ride Really Offers
The camel rides normally last about 10 to 15 minutes and mostly they take place around the camp, right? The guides normally lead the camels in circles. If that helps with photos? Sure. When it comes to authenticity? Not so much. Nevertheless, camels can be so interesting to look at, actually. Plus, you do get a chance to view the desert a bit in a different light—on a “ship of the desert”. That sounds way more exotic, right?
Sandboarding: Sliding Down the Slopes
Now, sandboarding! Mostly an opportunity to channel your inner snowboarder without all the ice. You might just have a go whether you’ve ever strapped yourself to a board before, or not. The execution, however, can vary. It all goes something like this:
Tips for Sandboarding Success
Very well, the thing to know is that sandboarding on some basic boards is pretty trickier than snow surfing. The sand acts really like a brake, slowing things. So, it could be necessary to hike up, down and back up quite a few times before getting a good run in. Waxing the board really does helps too, which many companies tend to ignore. In summary, a pro tip that really maximizes the fun? Sit to go downhill. Sure, you’ll get sand in undesirable cracks and gaps, but you’ll probably move way faster, too!
Private Transport: Is It Worth Splurging?
Transport may appear like a tiny piece of the puzzle, very likely the most important one, really. No sweat! The private option lets you steer clear of waiting in line for others. Private transport gives you a snug journey to and from your accommodation.
Benefits of Private Transport
Private transport’s definitely a fine thing, it allows flexibility. It offers comfort and is particularly fantastic when traveling as a unit, possibly with offspring. Yes, a private vehicle’s costly. I mean, it’s kinda the equivalent of paying extra for comfort and avoiding some stress, I think? Suppose your cash allows for this kind of comfort, and you like traveling at your own pace, and then go big!
Making the Most of Your Desert Adventure
Very well, planning! Let’s just speak a bit more on tips. These can definitely help maximize pleasure and diminish future desert frustrations. What would you say?
Essential Tips and Tricks
- Clothing: Dress loosely. Light clothes are very suitable. Definitely be considerate! Desert heat mixed with sweat may make things unpleasant rapidly!
- Footwear: Over sand, sneakers are so great. Just wear older ones, really, that won’t worry so much if they just get soiled a bit. Sandals seem to not be so great, considering all the hot sand in all the possible crevices!
- Sun Protection: Oh, and do take the hat, shades, as well as sun block. And yes, use sun block— liberally! The desert sun? Yes, it may seem hot, right? Yeah, but that does not say so much about sunburn!
- Hydration: Please drink much. Take that liquid to keep your energy up. And remember, stay away from drinking all this beer. Being very dehydrated, plus driving that dune buggy? This can seem disastrous, certainly!
- Respect the Environment: When is that very important thing to follow, when it can so easily get disregarded by tour companies? Avoid throwing, respect the desert. Follow guidelines! If, actually, everyone performed those steps, these spots might be fine permanently, clearly!
Desert adventures could just be remarkable! With these steps here, one might find enjoyment! Have some fun!