Tourism Breaking News
Sand Sherpa has launched a new summer adventure. Starting from June 18, the homegrown company will offer self-drive sunrise and sunset safaris in the 225-square-kilometre protected area. Presenting a new and unique way to explore the desert in the summer months – when humidity levels among the dunes are lower than that of the city – the experience allows participants to enter the private reserve in their own vehicles with the Sand Sherpa team.
Aimed at those looking to connect with nature and explore Dubai’s natural wilderness, the experience begins with a briefing on reserve driving etiquette. Sand Sherpa’s expert guides will then instruct drivers over hand-held radios and enable them to safely manoeuvre their own 4X4 vehicles through the dunes, all with minimal impact on the natural environment.
During the 75-minute wildlife drive, adults and children alike will learn about the desert, its history and inhabitants, while enjoying close encounters with indigenous flora and fauna. The lush vegetation in the reserve attracts birds and various desert animals, including gazelles, foxes, monitor lizards and the once-endangered Arabian oryx.
Following the scenic drive, participants are ushered to the campsite, where they will be able to enjoy a birds of prey interaction. Every participant will have a turn walking with and flying a trained indigenous owl, hawk, eagle and falcon before departing from the reserve after sunset. This summer self-drive safari is offered for the first time in the region and available for general bookings on weekends. Bespoke bookings are also available for private groups during the week. Bookings are limited to up to two adults and three children per vehicle.
The experience is ideal for families with children looking to explore the natural landscape and learn more about the fascinating life that inhabits the sands. It is designed to teach participants more about the desert so that they can become familiar with considerate exploration that will equip them for lifelong discovery of the desert. Finally, with conservation at the heart of the team’s efforts, the experience shines a light on the delicate environmental balance and inspires the need to protect the desert landscape in the midst of rapid urban development.
