A desert safari in Abu Dhabi is an unforgettable adventure, where the vast golden sand dunes stretch endlessly under the bright Arabian sun. Whether you're preparing for a thrilling dune-bashing ride, camel trek, or a cultural evening at a traditional Bedouin-style camp, packing the right items can enhance your experience and ensure comfort and safety. To help you make the most of your Desert safari abudhabi, here’s a comprehensive packing list to consider before heading out on this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
1. Appropriate Clothing
The desert can be a place of extreme temperatures, so dressing correctly is key. While you’ll want to stay cool during the day, the temperature can drop significantly in the evening, especially in the winter months. Here’s what to pack:
Light, breathable clothing: Loose, lightweight clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton are ideal. They will help you stay cool while protecting you from the harsh sun. Long sleeves and pants will also protect your skin from sunburn and sand. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and make you feel uncomfortable.
A light jacket or sweater: Even if the day is warm, the desert’s temperature can dip after sunset. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable during the evening activities and stargazing sessions.
Head covering: A scarf, shawl, or wide-brimmed hat is essential for protecting your head and neck from direct sunlight and dust. A scarf can also double as protection for your face from blowing sand, which is common on desert safaris.
Comfortable shoes: Choose shoes that are comfortable and suitable for walking on sandy terrain. Closed-toe shoes, such as sturdy sandals or lightweight sneakers, are ideal for both walking in the sand and enjoying activities like camel riding. Avoid flip-flops or high heels, as they can make it difficult to move through the dunes.
Socks: Even though sandals are appropriate for warm weather, wearing socks inside shoes can provide extra comfort and protect your feet when participating in activities like camel riding, where the sand can get hot.
2. Sun Protection
The sun in the desert can be intense, and proper sun protection is a must. Be sure to pack the following:
Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply it generously and often, especially if you're going for outdoor activities like dune bashing or camel rides. Don’t forget areas like the back of your neck, ears, and the tops of your feet.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the glaring sun by wearing high-quality sunglasses with UV protection. Polarized sunglasses are a great choice as they reduce glare, especially when you're out in the open desert.
Lip balm with SPF: Your lips are also susceptible to sunburn in the desert, so bring a lip balm that contains SPF to keep them moisturized and protected.
3. Water and Hydration
The desert climate can be dry and hot, and staying hydrated is crucial during your safari. While most desert safari tours will provide you with bottled water, it's always a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle to ensure you have enough hydration throughout the day. Look for a bottle that can keep your drinks cool, especially if you're heading out during peak heat hours.
4. Camera and Accessories
The desert landscape offers incredible photo opportunities, from the rolling sand dunes to the sunset over the horizon. If you plan on taking photos, pack these essentials:
Camera: Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, make sure you have it charged and ready for all the breathtaking moments. Consider packing a portable charger or extra batteries, as you may be out in the desert for several hours.
Camera accessories: If you plan to capture the best of the desert safari, pack additional memory cards, lenses (for a professional camera), and a tripod. A lens cloth is also useful for wiping off any dust or sand that may get on your equipment.
Dustproof bag: The desert is notorious for its winds and fine sand, which can easily damage electronics. Consider packing a dustproof bag or case to protect your camera, phone, and other electronic devices.
5. Personal Items
In addition to your clothing and camera gear, there are a few personal items to bring along to make your experience more comfortable:
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: The desert can be dusty, so it’s always a good idea to have hand sanitizer or wet wipes handy. This will allow you to freshen up after handling equipment or riding a camel.
Tissues or a small towel: Pack a small towel or tissues to wipe away any sweat or dust. This can be particularly useful during the outdoor activities like dune bashing or camel rides, where you may get sandy.
Medication and a small first-aid kit: While desert safari companies are generally well-equipped with safety measures, it’s a good idea to carry any personal medications, especially if you suffer from allergies or require regular medications. A basic first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes can come in handy if any minor injuries occur.
Snacks: Depending on the length of the safari, it’s always a good idea to carry some snacks to keep your energy levels up. Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit are easy to pack and won’t spoil in the heat.
6. Money and Identification
It’s always a good idea to carry a little cash, especially if you plan to shop for souvenirs or buy food during your desert safari. However, most tours accept credit or debit cards. Be sure to carry your ID or passport, as many tours require identification for safety and booking purposes. Some safaris may even ask for a waiver or release form to be signed.
7. Entertainment and Comfort
While desert safaris are filled with exciting activities, it’s a good idea to bring along some small comforts or entertainment for the journey:
Books, e-reader, or tablet: If you’re planning to relax and enjoy the evening at the camp, bring along a book or e-reader to enjoy a quiet moment in the desert.
Travel pillow: If you’re going on a longer safari or a multi-day desert tour, a travel pillow can make your journey more comfortable, especially if you're traveling by car between locations.
8. Environmental Responsibility
When exploring the desert, it’s important to be mindful of the environment. To minimize your impact on the natural landscape, consider the following:
Reusable bags: Pack reusable bags to carry your trash or any items you purchase during the safari. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can contribute to pollution in the desert.
Eco-friendly sunscreen: Some sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and the environment. Opt for eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen to reduce your environmental footprint.
Leave no trace: Be conscious of the environment and follow the principles of “Leave No Trace” by avoiding leaving trash or damaging the landscape.
Conclusion
A desert safari in Abu Dhabi is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that requires some thoughtful planning and preparation. By packing the essentials—from sun protection and appropriate clothing to water and entertainment—you can ensure that your experience in the desert is as enjoyable, comfortable, and safe as possible. The stunning dunes, camel rides, and unforgettable sunsets will be the highlight of your trip, and with the right packing list, you can focus on making memories without worrying about the details.
