Imagine a heart-pounding activity that combines the thrill of a rollercoaster with the awe-inspiring beauty of the desert. That’s precisely what dune bashing in Abu Dhabi offers – a sand-sational escapade that’s sure to leave you both exhilarated and humbled. Here’s more on what you need to know, so, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life!
What Exactly is Dune Bashing?
Dune bashing is a sort of off-roading that only takes place on sand dunes. On such desert adventures, visitors are taken up and down the dunes in 4×4 vehicles traversing at various speeds, while following the ebbs and flows of the shifting sands. The 4×4 is expertly manoeuvred by a skilled driver trained to maintain the vehicle’s stability be it when ascending or descending the slopes for you to fully experience this activity.
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When and Where to Go
For the ultimate dune bashing experience, consider the magical hours of sunrise or sunset when the desert comes alive with a soft, golden light. The Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert on the planet, is the pièce de résistance when it comes to this activity offering endless dunes to conquer; look to be based here at properties like Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara which offers dune bashing too. Other locations to consider include the Al Khatim and Al Khaznah deserts, both promising whirlwind journeys along the sands.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
While dune bashing is a wild ride, safety should always come first. Only venture out with a trusted tour operator / resort that offers a qualified professional driver in a suitable safari vehicle. Don’t eat a large meal right before you set off on this excursion to keep the ride ‘tummy friendly’. Remember, this activity isn’t for the littlest ones, so check ahead for age restrictions. Dress in simple, comfy clothing, and opt for sandals or slippers – you will likely be hopping out for some Insta-worthy dune snaps!
Other Desert Escapades
Why stop at dune bashing when you can amp up your desert experience even more? Combine it with other exhilarating activities in Abu Dhabi like fat biking (these are special bikes designed to tackle sandy landscapes), sandboarding, or zipping along the dunes in a 4×4 buggy. For a more laidback experience, enjoy a traditional camel trek at sunrise or sunset, captivating horse riding, or a tranquil desert walk. There are many thrills and secrets to uncover amidst this wondrous sea of sand.