Best Desert Safari Destinations in the World
A desert safari is a mesmerizing adventure with unique experiences – from thrilling dune bashing and camel rides to peaceful sunsets and stargazing. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a serene explorer, the desert has something in store for you. This post highlights the best desert safari destinations worldwide, providing insights that will help you plan your next escapade.
Best Desert Safari Destinations
- Egypt
- Sharjah
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Oman
- Nevada, USA
- Erg Chebbi, Morocco
- Qatar
- Namibia, Africa
- Jaisalmer, India
The Allure of Desert Safari in Egypt
Immersed in historical significance, Egypt offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring pyramids and expansive desert landscapes. The best time for a desert safari in Egypt is from October to April when the climate is more amiable.
An Exciting Day: Your Itinerary for the Egypt Desert Safari Tour
- Desert Safari in Egypt begins with pickup from your selected location in Cairo between 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM.
- The drive to the desert location, Wadi El Rayan, is around two hours from Cairo or Giza.
- Wadi El Rayan is a remarkable location surrounded by historical sites and a waterfall in the centre of the Egyptian desert.
- The area is home to desert wildlife like the slender horned gazelle.
- A visit to Mudawara Mountains is highly recommended for photo opportunities.
- A shift to a 4×4 vehicle marks the start of the desert safari, featuring dune bashing on the vast yellow dunes of the Cairo desert.
- Sandboarding on the soft dunes of the Egyptian desert is an exciting part of the tour.
- The tour includes visiting a camel farm for a camel ride through the Cairo desert, simulating a Bedouin explorer experience.
- The camel ride ends at a desert camp where a delicious BBQ lunch is served.
- After some rest at the camp, the driver will drop you back at your starting location.
- The desert safari Egypt tour promises an enjoyable and memorable experience.
The Unique Experience of Desert Safari in Sharjah
Often overlooked in favour of its glitzy neighbour, Dubai, Sharjah is a hidden treasure for those who want a more grounded and cultural desert experience. Taking advantage of Sharjah desert safari deals allows travellers to witness the pure fun of dune bashing and the traditional aspects of Emirati life, from Bedouin camps to authentic Arabian cuisine.
Embarking on an Arabian Adventure: Your Sharjah Desert Safari Itinerary
- Begin your journey with convenient pickup from your hotel or specified location in Sharjah.
- Drive to the Arabian desert, which will take roughly 45 minutes to an hour from the city center of Sharjah.
- On arrival, engage in a thrilling dune bashing session in a 4×4 vehicle, expertly handled by experienced drivers.
- Experience sandboarding on the dunes of Sharjah’s desert for a unique and exciting adventure.
- Visit a camel farm and have an opportunity to ride these majestic creatures, often called the “ships of the desert.”
- Witness the beautiful desert sunset, providing an excellent opportunity for photography.
- Reach the traditional Bedouin camp, where you’ll be greeted with Arabic coffee and dates, part of the renowned Bedouin hospitality.
- At the camp, enjoy traditional Arabian activities like henna painting, falconry, and trying on traditional Bedouin attire.
- Savour a mouth-watering BBQ dinner.
- After a day filled with adventure and cultural experiences, be comfortably driven back to your starting location in Sharjah.
The Glamour of Desert Safari in Dubai
When it comes to desert safaris, Dubai is undoubtedly one of the first destinations that comes to mind. The Dubai desert safari experience blends thrill, luxury, and cultural immersion. Its extravagance extends from high-end camp setups to breathtaking sunset views and exhilarating activities like sandboarding and quad biking.
Experience the Magic of the Arabian Desert: Your Dubai Desert Safari Itinerary
- Start with a pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Dubai. The timing typically depends on whether it’s a morning, evening, or overnight safari.
- Enjoy a comfortable drive to the outskirts of Dubai towards the mesmerizing Arabian Desert.
- Embark on a thrilling dune bashing session driven by skilled drivers in a 4×4 vehicle.
- Experience sandboarding, a fun-filled adventure sliding down the desert dunes on a board.
- Get a chance to ride a camel and experience traditional desert life.
- Visit a desert camp that resembles a Bedouin habitat, enhancing the cultural experience.
- Indulge in activities at the camp, like henna painting, and get a chance to dress up in traditional Arabic attire.
- Savour a delectable BBQ dinner while enjoying live cultural performances such as belly dancing and Tanoura dance.
- If it’s an overnight safari, you’ll get to sleep under the stars in a desert camp, experiencing the serenity of the desert during the night.
The Hidden Gems of Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its pristine beaches and skyscrapers. But the Abu Dhabi desert safari should not be overlooked. If you’re seeking out an adventure off the beaten path, then the Abu Dhabi desert safari is the right place for you. Pay attention to some useful Abu Dhabi desert safari tips to make your journey unforgettable, such as choosing the right tour guide and staying hydrated in the desert heat.
Venture into the Heart of the Arabian Desert: Your Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Itinerary
- Begin with a pick-up from your hotel or specified location in Abu Dhabi, with the timing usually being in the morning or late afternoon, depending on the type of safari.
- Journey to the captivating landscape of the Arabian Desert surrounding Abu Dhabi.
- Experience an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing session in a 4×4 vehicle, handled by skilled drivers.
- Try out sandboarding, an exciting adventure sport that lets you surf on the sand dunes.
- Visit a camel farm to learn about these unique animals and enjoy a camel ride through the desert.
- Arrive at a traditional Bedouin camp, where you can engage in cultural activities such as henna painting, dressing up in Arabian attire, and falconry.
- Enjoy a mouth-watering BBQ dinner accompanied by live entertainment including belly dancing and Tanoura dance shows.
- If it’s an overnight safari, you’ll have the opportunity to sleep under the stars in the desert camp and experience the tranquil desert night.
- At the end of the safari, you’ll be driven back to your initial pick-up point in Abu Dhabi.
The Unexplored Terrain: Desert Safari in Oman
Oman, a country brimming with rich culture and extraordinary landscapes, offers a captivating desert safari. If you’re in the planning stages, the Oman desert safari travel guide is a valuable resource to use. Not only does it provide insights into the best spots for your desert safari, but it also provides tips for a safe and enjoyable journey.
An Authentic Arabian Experience: Your Guide to the Oman Desert Safari Itinerary
- Desert safari in Oman offers both shared and private tours with the use of a 4×4 vehicle.
- The overnight desert tour is one of the most popular choices in Oman.
- Pick-up service is provided from your hotel or home.
- Enjoy the Omani sunset while driving through the Wahiba sands.
- Spend the night at a relaxing desert camp in Wahiba.
- Wake up early in the morning to climb the dunes and witness the sunrise in the desert.
- Enjoy a traditional breakfast before setting out to Sur and take in views of the city from Al Ayjah.
- Proceed with a fast-paced drive along the coast to Wadi Al Shab.
- Experience a boat ride, a 40-minute hike, and a swim to a cave and waterfall at Wadi Shab (remember to bring appropriate attire and gear).
- Savor a fulfilling lunch after your desert adventures.
- Get dropped back at your starting location post-lunch.
- During the safari, witness green wadis, rolling dunes, rocky mountains, and ancient villages built into the desert walls.
- Meet the local Bedouin populations and gain insight into their traditional lifestyle.
The Exciting Camel Safari in Nevada
While deserts and camels might sound synonymous with the Middle East, you can get a slice of this adventure right in Nevada, USA. The Camel Safari in Nevada brings a unique desert experience to the Western hemisphere. Traverse the scenic Virgin Valley atop a camel, experiencing the tranquillity of the desert, much like the nomads of yesteryears.
Riding Through the Great Basin: Your Camel Safari Adventure in Nevada
- Start your adventure with a pickup from your hotel, heading northeast towards a camel farm.
- The farm is situated an hour outside the city, located between the pleasant Virgin River and the vast mesas of the Great Basin.
- Upon arrival, head towards the camel ranch, where a herd of friendly camels awaits you.
- Spend time bonding with the camels, including the chance to ride and play with baby camels.
- After getting acquainted, mount a camel and begin your trek into the desert, following your expert handler to ensure a safe and memorable journey.
- As you traverse the dusty trails and dunes of the basin, marvel at the panoramic views of the Virgin Mountains.
- Soak in the beautiful landscape with amber, copper, and gold rock formations.
- Conclude your ride by returning to the ranch and saying goodbye to your camel.
- Children under three years of age are not allowed.
- Children having an age of 3 to 5 years must ride with a paying adult.
- Maximum allowed weight per camel is 113 Kgs. or 250 Pounds.
- If pregnant or have knee, hip or back problem, the ride is not for you.
The Cultural Journey: Desert Safari in Erg Chebbi, Morocco
Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Erg Chebbi dunes offer an immersive desert experience that’s hard to rival. The vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the local Berber people will enrich your journey to experience Erg Chebbi Morocco desert safari. From enjoying traditional music around a fire pit to viewing the expansive Sahara desert atop a camel, this is an adventure you won’t forget.
Exploring the Majestic Sand Seas: Erg Chebbi Dunes in South Eastern Morocco
- The Sahara Desert spans across a large portion of North Africa, stretching from the Red Sea to the Atlantic and possibly covering up to 11 African countries.
- Various landforms such as salt flats, plateaux, and sand seas or ergs characterise the desert.
- The wind shapes these ergs or dunes and can reach heights of up to 180m, emerging like an ocean from the desert floor.
- Due to political factors, some of these sand seas are not accessible to tourists.
- Some are more open, though organizing independent tours to these areas can be challenging, if not impossible.
- The Erg Chebaga and Erg Chebbi dunes in South Eastern Morocco are the easiest to visit.
- The Erg Chebbi dunes, about 22 km long and 5 km wide, provide a breathtaking experience.
The Untouched Beauty of Desert Safari in Qatar
Moving further into the Arabian Peninsula, the desert safari in Qatar offers a different flavour of beauty and excitement. A Qatar desert safari review would be complete with mentioning the astonishing inland sea at Khor Al Adaid, a natural wonder where the sea encroaches deep into the heart of the desert. The contrasts of the landscape, from the rolling dunes to the clear blue waters, will leave you mesmerized.
Discover the Dunes and Beyond: An Insight into the Qatar Desert Safari Experience
- If you’re a visitor or a resident of Doha, experiencing a Qatar desert safari tour is highly recommended.
- The Qatar desert safari tour is a unique way to explore the beauty of the Qatari desert.
- You can select the pickup time for your convenience, with pickup service provided from your hotel.
- Once you reach the desert, engage in thrilling dune bashing on a 4×4 vehicle, where you can feel the shifting sand beneath your feet.
- The desert safari tour in Qatar also gives you the option of quad biking, allowing you to drive on the vast dunes.
- After your desert tour, the driver will take you to a unique location where three countries meet: UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
- During this visit, you will see the inland sea “Khor Al Adaid”, one of the few places in the world where the sea encroaches deep into the desert, known for its unique ecosystem.
Desert Tour of Namibia
Namibia’s Sossusvlei Dunes is another fantastic desert safari location. Its towering red dunes, which are some of the tallest in the world, provide unforgettable views and photo opportunities. The desert is also home to a range of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and ostriches, which you can spot on safari drives.
Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Jaisalmer in India offers a unique desert safari experience in the Thar Desert. You can embark on a camel trek, spend the night in desert camps, and enjoy cultural performances of local music and dance. The golden city of Jaisalmer, with its impressive fort and beautiful havelis, adds another dimension to the experience.
Comparison of Top Desert Safari Destinations Around the World
| Location | Major Attraction | Best Time to Visit | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt | The Great Pyramids of Giza | October-April | Historical Significance, Pyramids |
| Sharjah | Bedouin Camps | November-April | Cultural Immersion, Authentic Arabian Cuisine |
| Dubai | Luxury Desert Safari Camps | November-March | Blend of Luxury and Adventure |
| Abu Dhabi | Liwa Oasis | October-April | Offbeat Exploration, Sandboarding |
| Oman | Wahiba Sands | October-April | Cultural Heritage, Sand Dunes |
| Nevada, USA | Camel Safari | Spring and Fall | Camel Riding, Virgin Valley |
| Erg Chebbi, Morocco | Berber Culture | September-May | Local Berber Culture, Music |
| Qatar | Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) | November-March | Inland Sea, Dune Bashing |
| Namibia, Africa | Sossusvlei Dunes | May-October | Red Dunes, Wildlife |
| Jaisalmer, India | Thar Desert | October-March | Camel Trek, Cultural Performance |
Cuisine and Wildlife of Desert Safari Destinations
| Location | Traditional Cuisine | Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| Egypt | Egyptian Cuisine | Desert Foxes |
| Sharjah | Emirati Cuisine | Arabian Oryx |
| Dubai | Middle Eastern Cuisine | Desert Gazelles |
| Abu Dhabi | Arabian Cuisine | Camels, Gazelles |
| Oman | Omani Cuisine | Desert Foxes, Oryx |
| Nevada, USA | American Cuisine | Desert Tortoises |
| Erg Chebbi, Morocco | Moroccan Cuisine | Desert Foxes, Birds |
| Qatar | Middle Eastern Cuisine | Desert Gazelles |
| Namibia, Africa | African Cuisine | Oryx, Springbok, Ostriches |
| Jaisalmer, India | Indian (Rajasthani) Cuisine | Desert Foxes, Birds |
Accommodation and Cultural Experiences of Desert Safari Locations
| Location | Accommodation | Cultural Experiences |
|---|---|---|
| Egypt | Desert Camps | Pyramids, Ancient History |
| Sharjah | Luxury Tents | Bedouin Camps |
| Dubai | Luxury Resorts | Arabian Music and Dance |
| Abu Dhabi | Desert Resorts | Falconry Displays |
| Oman | Basic Camping to Luxury Tents | Bedouin Culture |
| Nevada, USA | Camping | Local Folklore |
| Erg Chebbi, Morocco | Luxury Tents | Berber Music and Dance |
| Qatar | Luxury Camps | Arabian Music and Dance |
| Namibia, Africa | Camping to Luxury Lodges | Local Tribes, Wildlife Viewing |
| Jaisalmer, India | Basic to Luxury Tents | Folk Music and Dance, Craft Markets |
Adventure Activities, Scenery, Accessibility, and Average Cost
| Location | Adventure Activities | Scenery | Accessibility | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt | Camel Riding, Sandboarding, Desert Hiking | Pyramids, Vast Sand Dunes | Easy | $ |
| Sharjah | Dune Bashing, Quad Biking, Bedouin Cultural Experiences | Endless Desert Landscape, Majestic Sand Dunes | Easy | $$ |
| Dubai | Dune Bashing, Sandboarding, Camel Riding, Falconry | Luxurious Desert Camps, Spectacular Sunsets | Easy | $$$ |
| Abu Dhabi | Sandboarding, Dune Bashing, Desert Camping | Liwa Oasis, Vast Sandy Landscapes | Moderate | $$ |
| Oman | Dune Bashing, Camel Riding, Sandboarding, Desert Camping | Rolling Sand Dunes, Cultural Landmarks | Moderate | $$ |
| Nevada, USA | Camel Riding, Jeep Tours, Hiking | Virgin Valley, Expansive Desert Scenery | Easy | $$ |
| Erg Chebbi, Morocco | Camel Trekking, Sandboarding, Berber Cultural Experiences | Towering Sand Dunes, Authentic Desert Atmosphere | Easy | $$ |
| Qatar | Dune Bashing, Camel Riding, Inland Sea Exploration | Khor Al Adaid, Desert Vistas | Easy | $$ |
Conclusion
Desert safaris offer a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. Whether it’s the pyramids of Egypt, the luxe camps of Dubai, or the untouched landscapes of Oman and Qatar, each of these destinations provides its own flavor of the desert safari experience. I hope you get the idea about the best desert safari destinations and now you can easily select which safari tour suites you. Start planning your desert escapade now, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime.
