A trip to Dubai isn’t complete without a desert safari adventure. Whether you’re exploring golden dunes, enjoying a traditional Bedouin camp, or riding through the sand on a quad bike, desert safaris are one of the most exciting experiences the city has to offer.
Two of the most loved activities during the Dubai desert safari are sandboarding and camel riding. Tourists often imagine themselves gliding down the dunes or taking a peaceful ride on a camel while enjoying the beautiful desert view. But a common question many visitors have is: Are sandboarding and camel rides free during the safari?
Let’s explore what’s included in a desert safari and how you can enjoy these memorable activities.
The Thrill of Desert Safari Dubai
Desert safaris are not just about adventure—they offer a complete package of thrills, cultural experiences, and relaxation in the heart of the Arabian desert. A typical desert safari includes:
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel
- Dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle
- Photo stops in the desert
- Visits to a Bedouin-style camp
- BBQ dinner and refreshments
- Live entertainment like Tanoura dance or belly dancing
Depending on the type of safari you choose, additional activities like quad biking, falcon photography, henna painting, and yes, sandboarding and camel rides, are also part of the experience. Read for additional information on whether sharing a desert safari package is the right choice or not.
Sandboarding and Camel Rides: What to Expect
Sandboarding
Sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, except you’re gliding down sandy slopes instead of snow-covered mountains. It’s easy to try and incredibly fun for all age groups. Most safari camps offer beginner-friendly boards and guides to help you get started.
Camel Rides
Camel riding is a peaceful and cultural way to explore the desert. It connects you to the traditional Bedouin way of life, where camels were once the only means of transport across the desert. It’s also one of the best photo opportunities during your tour!
Are Sandboarding and Camel Rides Free in Desert Safari?
While camel rides and sandboarding are available during most desert safaris, they are not usually free in the sense of being ‘extra add-ons’. Instead, they are often included in the price of your safari package, especially in standard and premium options. However, the duration and quality of the experience may vary depending on the type of package you book.
Let’s look at the different types of desert safari tours and see how these activities are offered.
Which Safari Tours Include Sandboarding and Camel Rides?
Sandboarding and camel rides are two of the most exciting parts of a desert safari experience, but whether or not they’re included in your tour depends on the type of package you choose.
Here’s a breakdown to help you understand what’s included in different desert safari packages:
Morning Desert Safari
Perfect for early risers and those looking to enjoy the desert while it’s still cool.
- Basic packages include dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and sunrise photography.
- Upgraded premium packages offer extended durations for camel rides and sandboarding, along with morning breakfast and exciting options like quad biking.
Evening Desert Safari
The most popular choice for tourists who want a blend of adventure and Arabian hospitality.
- Standard packages come with dune bashing, short camel rides, sandboarding, a BBQ dinner, and live entertainment like Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and fire shows.
- Premium versions offer longer camel rides, enhanced sandboarding sessions, VIP seating, and sometimes private transfers or falcon photography.
Private Desert Safari
Ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a more personal and comfortable experience.
- Every private tour includes activities like sandboarding, camel rides, and dune bashing, with a dedicated guide.
- The upgraded version gives you the freedom to customise your experience, extend your camel trek, enjoy a longer sandboarding run, or add extras like luxury camp setups and gourmet meals.
Overnight Desert Safari
For those who want to stay overnight and soak in the calm of the desert under a starlit sky.
- All packages include camel rides, sandboarding, evening BBQ, cultural shows, and a cosy desert campsite stay.
- With premium overnight packages, you can enjoy longer camel treks, advanced sandboarding, a private tent, a bonfire, and a morning breakfast before heading back.
Conclusion
Desert safaris in Dubai offer a beautiful mix of excitement and cultural charm. Sandboarding and camel rides are two experiences that add extra magic to the journey. While they are commonly part of many safari packages, it’s important to understand that the cost is built into the tour you book, or in some cases, available as optional upgrades.
So, before booking, always review the package details to know exactly what’s included. Whether you’re sliding down a dune or riding a camel under the sunset sky, these activities are well worth the experience and the price. For more information and details, please reach out to Desert Planet Tourism.
FAQs
Are sandboarding and camel rides always included in desert safaris?
Yes, basic safari packages always include short camel rides and sandboarding as part of the overall experience, but it’s always good to confirm before booking.
Can I enjoy a longer camel ride during the tour?
Yes, longer camel treks are available in some packages or can be added as a paid upgrade.
Is sandboarding safe for beginners?
Absolutely! Most desert safari operators provide beginner-friendly boards and guides to help you enjoy a safe ride.
