Questions, in the order people ask them

Are you a safari operator? Are you affiliated with one?

No. This is an independent planning guide written by a retired safari operations manager. I am not affiliated with any operator, camp or booking platform. I do not sell tours and I never process payments. Bookings are made directly with the operators.

Is dune bashing safe for children?

Most operators take children from about three years old, but the bashing itself is not for small children. Ask for the soft route to the camp and meet the car there. The camel ride, the henna and the food are all fine for kids; the dune driving is the part to skip.

Can pregnant women do the safari?

The dune bashing, no — the operators will refuse and they are right to. The camp itself is fine if you can travel comfortably by road. Ask for the direct transfer to the camp.

Are quad bikes included?

Almost never. They are an extra, paid at the camp, and they are the most common injury of the evening. Helmets on, no racing.

Is alcohol served at the camps?

Some camps serve it, some do not, and it is never unlimited. If it matters to you, ask before booking. During Ramadan it is usually not available at all.

What is the food like?

Fine, not great. Grilled chicken and lamb, rice, salad, bread, soft drinks. Do not book a safari for the food.

What if it is too hot or too windy?

The operators cancel or shorten the dune drive in high wind or sandstorms and move you straight to the camp. You will not get a refund for weather, but you will get the evening.

Still stuck? Write to me.