When planning your Dubai itinerary, one of the biggest decisions is whether to embark on the desert safari or city tour first. Both experiences are exhilarating in their own right, offering unique perspectives of this vibrant city. However, the order in which you explore these attractions can significantly affect your overall experience. At Dubai Safaris, we understand that making the right choice can elevate your trip, and in this blog, we’ll explore the best tour order to maximize your enjoyment and ensure a smooth, memorable adventure.
City Tour Dubai or Desert Safari First: What’s the Right Choice?
Dubai is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand side-by-side with the tranquil desert sands. The decision to start your adventure with a city tour or a desert safari often comes down to your personal preferences, the time of year, and how you want to pace your Dubai experience. Let’s break down both options to help you make an informed decision:
1. City Tour First: A Perfect Introduction to Dubai’s Culture
Starting your journey with a city tour of Dubai is a fantastic way to ease into the fast paced and awe-inspiring vibe of the city. A city tour typically covers Dubai’s most famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and the historic Al Fahidi district, offering a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
Pros of Starting with a City Tour:
- Learn About Dubai’s Rich History: A guided city tour often provides historical context about Dubai’s rise from a small fishing village to a global metropolis. It’s the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the city’s story.
- Perfect for the First-Time Visitor: If it’s your first time in Dubai, you’ll want to get a feel for the city’s energy. The city tour introduces you to Dubai’s modern marvels and cultural gems, laying the foundation for your next adventure.
- Comfortable Pacing: The city tour is relatively relaxed, with scheduled stops, which helps you adjust to the weather and time zone, especially if you’ve just arrived.
2. Desert Safari First: Adrenaline and Adventure Await
On the other hand, starting your trip with a desert safari can give you a thrilling jumpstart to your Dubai adventure. A desert safari is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Dubai’s surrounding desert landscape with activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional Bedouin-style dinner.
Pros of Starting with a Desert Safari:
- Adrenaline Rush: If you’re looking for a heart-pumping experience, dune bashing and the thrill of speeding across the golden sands are hard to beat. It’s a perfect way to kick off your trip with excitement.
- Magical Desert Sunset: Experiencing a desert sunset is one of the most iconic moments in Dubai. Starting your day with a desert safari means you’ll end the adventure with breathtaking views of the setting sun.
- Cooling Off in the Evening: Desert safaris often begin in the late afternoon and continue into the evening, avoiding the midday heat. This timing works well, especially during Dubai’s hotter months.
Best for:
- Those seeking excitement and adventure right away.
- People looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience nature.
- Visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and want a thrilling experience at the start of their trip.
The Best Order for City Sightseeing and Desert Safari
Both the city tour and desert safari offer incredible experiences, but the order in which you choose can enhance your overall trip. At Dubai Safaris, we recommend starting with the city tour for a more relaxed and informative introduction to Dubai, especially if you’re new to the city. This way, you can soak in the iconic sights without feeling rushed or overheated, especially during the hot summer months.
After exploring Dubai’s landmarks, you can dive into the excitement of a desert safari. The cool desert evening, combined with a thrilling ride across the dunes, will leave you with lasting memories. Adesert safari after a city tour allows you to unwind after a day of sightseeing, creating a balanced itinerary that mixes culture, adventure, and relaxation.
However, if you are a thrill-seeker and want to jump straight into the action, starting with a desert safari might suit you better. After a day of exhilarating adventure, you can unwind with a soothing city tour the following day, exploring Dubai at a more leisurely pace.
How the Tour Order Affects Your Dubai Trip
The way you order your tours can significantly impact how you experience Dubai. A city tour first provides an immersive introduction to the city’s history and modernity, while a desert safari first offers an immediate adrenaline rush and a chance to connect with nature. The right order depends on how you want to pace your trip.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect Dubai Itinerary:
- Consider the Weather: In the summer, the desert can be extremely hot, so a morning city tour followed by a late afternoon or evening desert safari might be ideal.
- Balance Your Energy: If you’re traveling with kids or older adults, a city tour might be a more comfortable starting point. The desert safari can be a great way to finish your day on an exciting note.
- Be Flexible: If you’re staying for more than a couple of days, why not experience both? You can alternate between the city and the desert for a balanced Dubai experience.
Conclusion
The order in which you experience Dubai’s city tour and desert safari plays a significant role in your overall travel experience. Whether you choose to start with the excitement of the desert or the cultural richness of the city, Dubai has something to offer everyone. At Dubai Safaris, we’re here to make sure that your trip is seamless and unforgettable.
Book your tour with Dubai Safaris today and let us help you create the perfect Dubai itinerary! Whether you’re looking for a thrilling desert adventure or a cultural exploration, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs
Q: What should I wear for a desert safari?
A: Comfortable, light clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended for a desert safari. You may also want to bring a light jacket for the evening when the temperature can drop.
Q: How long does a city tour last?
A: A typical city tour lasts about 4-6 hours, depending on the stops and the package you choose. It’s a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to explore each location.
Q: Can I do both the city tour and desert safari in one day?
A: Yes, it’s possible! Many tourists opt for a city tour in the morning and a desert safari in the late afternoon or evening. Just be sure to check the timing of your tours.
Q: Is the desert safari safe?
A: Absolutely! At Dubai Safaris, we ensure your safety with experienced drivers and secure equipment for activities like dune bashing and camel rides.
Q: When is the best time to visit Dubai for these tours?
A: The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to March. This ensures you’ll enjoy both your city tour and desert safari without the extreme heat.
