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Adventure
Best places to go hiking and camping in Dubai
Wed, October 23, 2024
Adventure seekers will find everything they need to know with this handy guide.
Adventure seekers will find everything they need to know with this handy guide.
Lakeside camping in Al Qudra
Experience the joys of camping without venturing too far from the city at the tranquil Al Qudra Lakes. Head to the serene getaway in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve and admire the lush surroundings and wildlife, including more than 200 species of birds that call the lake home. This is one of the most developed camping spots in Dubai. With guided signboards to aid your trip planning, it's perfect for beginner campers and families. Once there, you can cycle through the desert on the Al Qudra Cycle Track, which offers an 86km and a 50km loop. For a memorable experience with a special someone, be sure to check out the heart-shaped Love Lakes too.
Hiking trails in Hatta
Escape the city limits into the mountain enclave of Hatta for hiking, camping and a host of adrenaline-fuelled activities. Located on the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is 130km east of Dubai's city centre. This popular weekend hideout offers up breathtaking views and is an ideal spot for overnight camping in Dubai. For hiking enthusiasts, there are 32.6km of marked trails ranging in severity from easy to extreme, which are free to use all year round. Starting off from Hatta Wadi Hub, the routes cover undulating terrain, winding wadis and craggy peaks.
Desert camping in a Conservation Reserve
Traverse 45km south-east of the city to reach the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, and take off on an exciting adventure through Dubai's golden dunes. Located on an old camel farm, the reserve offers camel rides, barbecue meals and starry views. Visitors will need to book a tour with verified providers such as Arabian Adventures or Platinum Heritage in advance to camp here. These organised tours offer comfortable tents and traditional meals, for those who want to camp in the desert amid the wildlife.
Stargazing at the Starlight Camp
Here's your chance to camp under the desert's starry skies. Starlight Camp is located deep in the Arabian desert, 45 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. The team takes care of all the arrangements for a private camp for your group to enjoy an exhilarating escapade. Relax under a crystal roof tent, fronted by a warm bonfire, a dining area, a fully-equipped barbecue, a dining trailer, outdoor toilets and showers, and other amenities. Activities include nature walks and stargazing – this is an experience you won't soon forget.
On the wild side at Lahbab
Stunning red sands and the option to stargaze from Fossil Rock makes the Lahbab Desert a fantastic option for campers. There are plenty of imposing rocks and dunes nearby to explore, such as the Pink Rock for dramatic views of desert vistas, or Big Red, a 300-foot sand dune that provides endless entertainment for adventure seekers. At Big Red, whether on a quad bike or sandboards (which you can rent en route to these popular spots), there's plenty to give you an adrenaline rush. From here, it's easy to cross over to Hatta for more camping opportunities.
Tasteful Terra Cabins at JA Hatta Fort Hotel
These eco-friendly cabins give you a taste of outdoor living, but with all the comforts of a modern hotel room. With technology including solar panels, improved insulation and low-impact, environmentally-friendly materials, the Terra Cabins have been designed to blend into the rugged Hajar Mountains landscape. Sit outside in perfect tranquility to experience a mountain sunset, then head inside to enjoy facilities including a high-definition projector - or head to the main JA Hatta Fort Hotel to make the most of its facilities.
What else do you need to know?
Before you begin your desert camping adventure, review this checklist of important things to bring and remember for a safe and successful experience.
- Stock up on sufficient amounts of water to keep you hydrated along the way.
- Ensure you bring cooking basics like a pan and fire-lighting equipment, in case you run out of packaged goods.
- Bring along essentials like a first-aid kit, sunscreen, portable charger, extra batteries, a GPS device, good quality tent equipment and basic medication.
- There might be limited connectivity in the desert, so before you head out on your trip, inform a friend or family member about where you intend to camp.
- Avoid camping during the hotter months. November to April is the best time to venture into the desert.
- Load your backpack with loose and warm clothing, sunglasses and a hat.
- Wear shoes that are suitable for camping and take a torch or headlight.
- Remember to carry your camera to take amazing photographs.
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