Read This Before You Hit the Dunes
Desert safaris are one of Dubai’s most iconic experiences. We expected sand, camels, and a barbecue buffet. But what we got? A wild, sometimes weird, and totally unforgettable adventure—and a few surprises no one warned us about.
Get To Know The Traveling Taylors!
If you’re planning a Dubai desert safari, here are 7 things you probably haven’t heard—but definitely should know before booking.
1. 🚙 Dune Bashing Is Basically a Roller Coaster (Without Tracks)
The truth:
It’s not a gentle desert drive. Your 4×4 will slide, dip, and skid across soft sand at high speeds. It’s fun—but not for the faint of stomach.
What to do:
Avoid heavy meals beforehand and sit in the middle or front seat for less bouncing. If you have not lined one up yet, you can book a Dubai desert safari with dune bashing.
2. 🌡️ It Gets Cold—Yes, Cold—at Night
The truth:
Even in the desert, temps can drop dramatically after sunset, especially from November to March.
What to do:
Bring a light jacket or scarf. You’ll thank us during dinner and the fire show. Bringing a quilted women’s jacket like this one helps you to stay warmth during the chilly nights.
3. 🐫 The Camel Ride Is… More Symbolic Than Scenic
The truth:
Most “camel rides” are a short loop around camp—about 3 minutes.
What to do:
Take the ride for the photo, not the experience. If you want a real camel trek, book a camel safari separately. Capturing photos of your camel ride with an instant camera like this one that can print photos on the spot is a great choice.
4. 🧞♂️ Not All Camps Are Created Equal
The truth:
Some desert camps are charming with great food and cozy rugs. Others feel like crowded parking lots with a buffet line.
What to do:
Read recent reviews. Look for camps that limit group sizes and offer real seating, not plastic chairs.
5. 🩴 Flip-Flops Are a Terrible Idea
The truth:
They’ll fly off during dune bashing, fill with sand at camp, and leave your feet freezing after dark.
What to do:
Wear secure sandals or sneakers. Easy to kick off for sandboarding, but practical for the ride. For dune bashing and sandboarding, many travelers recommend comfortable and supportive walking sneakers like these.
6. 📸 Your Driver Is Also Your Photographer (and They’re Good at It)
The truth:
Safari drivers know all the best angles and tricks—like how to make you look like you’re floating over the dunes.
What to do:
Hand them your phone, and ask for a “sand jump” shot. Trust us.
7. 🕺 The Shows Are Surprisingly Entertaining (Even the Cheesy Ones)
The truth:
We rolled our eyes at “belly dancing” and fire shows—until we actually saw them. The vibe at camp can be super fun and immersive.
What to do:
Sit near the front, grab some spiced tea, and let the drama unfold. If you enjoy filming your travel experiences, a tiny wearable camera like this one is a great way to capture hands-free POV footage of the show.
It’s Wild, Weird, and Worth It
No one fully prepares you for the quirky combo that is a Dubai desert safari—the adrenaline rush, the awkward camel pose, the magic of the desert at golden hour. But that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Share your thoughts with us! Leave a Comment!