Exploring the expansive Empty Quarter is a thrilling prospect for any adventure-seeker. This private desert safari promises an adrenaline-fueled experience, where skilled drivers navigate powerful 4×4 vehicles over the majestic sand dunes, offering a rollercoaster-like ride amidst the breathtaking landscape. But the excitement doesn’t end there – visitors will also have the chance to uncover the mysteries of the ancient Ubar Site, known as the "Atlantis of the Sands," and explore the rich history and legends that surround this lost city. With a focus on safety and comfort, this tour offers a truly unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arabian desert.
Key Points
- A 9-hour private desert safari tour in the Empty Quarter, including exhilarating dune bashing, exploration of the ancient Ubar Site, and all fees/taxes covered.
- Pickup from hotel or airport, air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and gratuities for guides and drivers included in the starting price of $216 per person.
- Moderate physical fitness required, with a maximum of 4 passengers per 4WD vehicle to ensure safety during the dune bashing adventure.
- Visitors have the opportunity to witness the dramatic desert landscape, learn about the history and legends surrounding Ubar, and enjoy the region’s rich heritage.
- Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and avoiding expensive accessories are recommended to enhance the enjoyment of the desert safari experience.
Tour Overview
The desert safari in the Empty Quarter offers an exhilarating adventure with dune bashing.
The tour lasts 9 hours, including pickup and drop-off, and is a private experience with only your group participating. Prices start from $216 per person, but can vary depending on group size.
The tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, all fees and taxes, and entrance to the Ubar Site.
Pickup is available from your hotel or the airport, and you’ll select a pickup point during booking.
This moderate-intensity tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and dune bashing is undertaken at the guest’s own risk.
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Inclusions
Bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, and private transportation are all included in the desert safari experience.
Plus, all fees and taxes are covered, and guests can enjoy free entrance to the Ubar Site, an ancient lost city in the Empty Quarter.
Gratuities and tips for the tour guides and drivers are also provided, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.
However, those looking to be picked up from Mirbat hotels will need to pay an additional $45 per person.
Pickup Information
For the desert safari experience, pickup from the hotel is provided, with the driver waiting in the lobby to greet guests.
Alternatively, airport or port pickup is offered, with a representative welcoming travelers at the arrival gate.
Guests can select their preferred pickup point during the booking process. This convenience ensures a seamless start to the adventure, as the tour operator handles the transportation logistics.
Whether choosing hotel or airport/port pickup, the desert safari experience begins with a warm greeting and a smooth transition into the day’s thrilling activities.
Health and Safety
Safety is a paramount concern for the desert safari experience.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues. Guests must have a moderate level of physical fitness to participate.
To ensure safety, the maximum number of passengers per 4WD vehicle is 4 due to regulations. Dune bashing, a thrilling component of the safari, is undertaken at the guest’s own risk.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Expensive accessories should be avoided during the desert excursion, as signal coverage may be limited at the camp and in the desert.
Recommendations
Comfortable clothing and sturdy, walking-appropriate shoes are highly recommended for the desert safari experience.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, the following tips are advised:
- Avoid wearing expensive accessories, as the desert environment can be harsh on delicate items.
- Expect limited to no signal coverage while at the camp or in the desert, so plan accordingly.
- Most tours involve walking over rough terrain, so a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Adhering to these recommendations will help make the most of the desert safari, allowing you to fully learn about the breathtaking landscape of the Empty Quarter.
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Dune Bashing Adventure
As the desert safari begins, guests embark on an exhilarating dune bashing adventure through the vast expanse of the Empty Quarter.
Skilled drivers expertly navigate their powerful 4×4 vehicles over the towering sand dunes, providing an adrenaline-filled ride. Passengers hold on tight as the cars ascend and descend the steep slopes, offering a thrilling rollercoaster-like experience.
The dune bashing allows adventurers to fully enjoy the desert’s dramatic landscape, feeling the wind in their hair and the sand beneath the tires.
This heart-pounding activity is a highlight of the tour, delivering an unforgettable taste of the region’s rugged natural beauty.
Exploring Ubar Site
After the exhilarating dune bashing experience, the tour moves on to explore the captivating Ubar site.
Also known as the "Atlantis of the Sands," Ubar is an ancient fortified city dating back to the 4th century AD.
Guests will have the opportunity to:
- Marvel at the remnants of this lost city, including crumbling towers and walls that once protected the thriving trade hub.
- Imagine the bustling camel caravans that passed through Ubar, carrying precious cargo along the Incense Route.
- Learn about the intriguing history and legends surrounding the mysterious demise of this once-prosperous oasis town.
The tour provides a glimpse into the rich past of the Empty Quarter, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s captivating heritage.
Private Transportation
The private transportation ensures a seamless and comfortable journey throughout the desert expedition. Guests are picked up from their hotel lobby or the airport/port by a driver who waits for them.
The air-conditioned vehicle provides a safe and enjoyable ride to the desert location. With a maximum of 4 passengers per 4WD vehicle, the transportation adheres to safety regulations.
This private setup allows the group to explore the vast Empty Quarter at their own pace, without the hassle of coordinating with large tour groups.
The included transportation fees and taxes ensure a worry-free experience, allowing visitors to focus on the thrilling dune bashing and stunning desert landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Depart and Return?
The tour departs and returns at varying times, with a total duration of 9 hours, including pickup and drop-off. The specific departure and return times depend on the selected pickup location.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
The tour information indicates that bottled water is provided, but it does not mention whether guests can bring their own food and snacks. Travelers should contact the tour operator for confirmation on bringing personal food items.
Is There Any Opportunity for Photography During the Tour?
The tour offers ample opportunities for photography. Guests can capture stunning landscapes, dune formations, and unique desert scenes. The tour company encourages photography, and there’ll be stops specifically for taking photos throughout the trip.
Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Tour?
Yes, travelers can request a specific type of vehicle for the tour, such as a 4×4 or a larger vehicle to accommodate their group size. This request should be made when booking the tour.
Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The tour doesn’t have a stated age limit or minimum age requirement. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, and a moderate fitness level is required. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any age restrictions.
Recap
The desert safari in the Empty Quarter offers an unforgettable adventure, blending thrilling dune bashing with the opportunity to explore the ancient lost city of Ubar. Experienced drivers navigate the majestic sand dunes, delivering a rollercoaster-like experience amidst the breathtaking desert landscape. This private tour provides a unique chance to take in the rich history and legends of this captivating destination.
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