How to Plan Your Doha Desert Safari Dune Bashing, Sandboarding, & Camel Ride

If you’re looking for an adventurous and thrilling experience in Doha, Qatar, then a desert safari is a must-do activity. This tour provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with the stunning desert landscape that surrounds the city. From dune bashing to sandboarding and camel rides, there’s plenty to explore and experience on this tour. Here’s how to plan your Doha desert safari:

Booking Your Tour

Before you can embark on your desert adventure, you’ll need to book a tour. There are many tour operators offering desert safaris in Doha, but one popular option is the desert safari with GetYourGuide. You can book the tour directly on their website using the following link: book the tour here.

What’s Included

Once you’ve booked your tour, here’s what you can expect to be included in your package:

• Pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle
• Certified English-speaking desert safari driver
• Short camel ride (5-10 minutes)
• Dune bashing
• Inand sea visit
• Optional sand-boarding activity
• Water and tea
• Meals

What to Expect on the Tour

When you arrive at your designated pickup location, you’ll be greeted by your driver who will take you out of town to begin your desert safari adventure. Here’s what you can expect to experience on the tour:

Camel Ride

You’ll have the opportunity to experience an optional camel ride, which typically lasts around 5-10 minutes. This can be an exciting way to explore the desert from a different perspective and get up close and personal with these majestic animals.

Dune Bashing

One of the highlights of the tour is the exhilarating dune bashing experience. Your driver will take you on a thrilling ride through the desert, navigating the sand dunes and providing an adrenaline-packed experience.

Sandboarding

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt to try out sandboarding on the tour. This involves sliding down the dunes on a board, providing another exciting way to experience the desert.

Photo Opportunities

Throughout the tour, there will be many opportunities to stop and take photos. One popular spot is at the top of the dunes, which provides stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding desert landscape.

What to Bring

To make the most out of your desert safari experience, make sure to bring the following items:

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Comfortable clothing and shoes
• A hat or head covering
• A camera or smartphone to take photos

What to Know Before You Go

It’s important to be aware of a few important details before embarking on your desert safari:

• The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, people with heart problems, or children under 2 years old
• During the summer months, temperatures can reach upwards of 45°C, so be sure to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to avoid heat stroke
• Be prepared to experience a lot of sand – it’s recommended to wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that cover your arms and legs to avoid getting sand in your shoes or clothing
• Finally, be prepared for an adventure and enjoy the once in a lifetime experience that a desert safari in Doha can provide!

In Conclusion

A desert safari in Doha is an experience you won’t want to miss. From the thrilling dune bashing to the optional camel rides and sandboarding, this tour provides a unique and exciting way to explore Qatar’s stunning desert landscape. By following the tips and advice outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to plan your adventure and make unforgettable memories in the heart of the desert.

An Insider’s Guide to Doha: Beyond the Desert Safari

If you’re planning a trip to Doha, you’re probably looking forward to the quintessential experience of exploring the desert through a safari. However, Doha is so much more than just sand dunes and camels. As a local, I am excited to take you on a journey and show you some of the city’s hidden gems and unique experiences that are often overlooked by tourists.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While most tourists flock to the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq Waqif, Doha has many off-the-beaten-path places that are worth exploring. For example, you can take a stroll through the charming streets of Al Jasra, a historic neighborhood that has preserved its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Stop by the Barzan Towers, which were built in the 19th century as watchtowers, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. Another lesser-known spot is the Msheireb Museums, which provide a glimpse into Qatar’s history and traditional way of life.

Dining Spots: Taste the Local Cuisine

Qatar’s cuisine has been influenced by the country’s diverse population, including Bedouin, Persian, and Indian cultures. Al Majles Tea Lounge, located in the City Center Mall, offers a blend of Qatari and India tea and snacks in a beautiful setting. For a traditional Gulf experience, try the Al Sultan Brahim restaurant in Katara Cultural Village, which specializes in seafood and has been in business for over 50 years. I recommend trying the machboos, a Qatari dish made with rice, meat, and spices, which is a staple of the local cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace the Traditions

One of the most fascinating aspects of Doha is its rich culture and traditions. During Ramadan, the city comes alive with vibrant festivities, including fireworks displays and special events at the Souq Waqif. The Katara Cultural Village is another great place to experience traditional arts and music, with a variety of shows and festivals taking place throughout the year. In addition, visit the Sheikh Faisal Museum to delve into Qatar’s history and explore Qatari artifacts, including old cars and coins.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

Doha has a fascinating history that goes back thousands of years. One interesting story is that of the Zubarah Fort, which was built in the late 18th century to protect the port of Zubarah from invaders. The fort was abandoned in the mid-19th century but became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013 due to its historical significance. The Pearl-Qatar is another interesting site to explore as it was once a pearl diving village and is now a residential, commercial, and tourist destination.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Unforgettable Memories

If you want to create unforgettable memories, consider visiting the Al Thakira Mangroves, which provide a unique opportunity to kayak through a stunning ecosystem and spot exotic birds, including flamingos. Another great off-the-beaten-path idea is to take a stroll along the Corniche Promenade, which offers spectacular views of the sea and skyline. The promenade has a serene atmosphere, with plenty of quiet spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.

In conclusion, Doha is a city that offers a perfect mix of traditional culture, rich history, and modern attractions. I hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to explore beyond the desert safari and discover the hidden gems of this enchanting city.