A Morning Desert Safari in Dubai is perfect for those who prefer to experience the desert’s beauty and excitement during the cooler, quieter hours of the day. These safaris offer a great mix of adventure and relaxation in the serene morning environment of the Arabian Desert, avoiding the intense midday heat.
Here’s what you can expect from a morning desert safari:
Key Features of a Morning Desert Safari:
- Early Morning Pickup:
- The safari begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Dubai, typically around 7:00 to 8:00 AM. The ride to the desert usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
- You’ll travel in a 4x4 vehicle, which will later be used for the desert activities.
- Dune Bashing:
- One of the main highlights of the morning desert safari is dune bashing, an adrenaline-pumping off-road experience where skilled drivers take you on a thrilling ride across the desert dunes.
- Dune bashing usually lasts for around 30 minutes, and it’s a great way to experience the raw power of the desert.
- Camel Ride:
- After the dune bashing, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a short camel ride, experiencing the traditional way Bedouins traveled through the desert. Camels are often called the "ships of the desert," and riding one offers a unique perspective of the vast landscape.
- Sandboarding:
- For those who love a bit of adventure, you can try sandboarding, which is like snowboarding but on sand dunes. You can slide down the soft dunes on a board, enjoying the thrill of gliding across the desert. This is an easy and fun activity that anyone can try.
- Photography Opportunities:
- The morning hours provide great lighting for photography, and many safari packages include stops at scenic spots where you can capture stunning views of the desert’s vast sand dunes, especially as the sun rises over the horizon.
- Some tours also provide the opportunity to take pictures with traditional Arabian clothing, adding a cultural touch to your desert memories.
- Refreshments:
- Many morning safaris include light refreshments such as water, juice, and sometimes a small breakfast. These can be enjoyed after the desert activities, allowing you to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.
- Return to the City:
- A morning desert safari typically lasts about 3 to 4 hours, meaning you’ll return to your hotel in Dubai by 11:00 AM or noon, leaving you with the rest of the day to explore the city or relax.
Optional Add-ons:
- Quad Biking or Dune Buggy Rides: Some morning safaris offer the option to add a quad biking session or a dune buggy ride for extra adventure. These activities provide an exciting way to explore the desert at your own pace.
- Falconry: On some tours, you might get the opportunity to experience falconry, a traditional Emirati sport where you can interact with falcons and learn about their significance in Bedouin culture.
Benefits of a Morning Desert Safari:
- Cooler Temperatures: The desert is much cooler in the morning compared to the afternoon, making it a more comfortable time for outdoor activities.
- Smaller Crowds: Morning safaris tend to be less crowded than evening ones, providing a more serene and peaceful experience in the desert.
- More Free Time: Since the safari concludes before noon, you’ll still have plenty of time left in the day for other activities or sightseeing in Dubai.
What to Wear for a Morning Desert Safari:
- Light, breathable clothing: As it will still be warm, even in the morning, opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Comfortable shoes: Closed-toe shoes like sneakers are best for activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: The desert sun is still strong, so protect yourself with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
Cost of a Morning Desert Safari:
- Prices for a morning desert safari typically range from AED 100 to AED 300 per person, depending on the package and activities included.
- Basic packages (with dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding) tend to be more affordable.
- Adding quad biking, dune buggy rides, or private experiences will increase the cost.
Best Time for a Morning Desert Safari:
- The cooler months between October and April are the best time for a morning desert safari, as the temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, these safaris are available year-round, and tour operators are prepared to accommodate visitors even during the summer months with early pickups to avoid the midday heat.
Conclusion:
A Morning Desert Safari offers an exciting and adventurous way to start your day in Dubai, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Whether you’re dune bashing, sandboarding, or simply taking in the beauty of the desert, it’s a fantastic option for those who prefer a half-day experience while still leaving plenty of time for other activities.
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