6+ Things To Do In The Desert For An Amazing Travel Experience | A Desert Tourism Guide
Traveling to a desert destination promises a unique adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling activities.
Whether you find yourself amidst the towering dunes of the Sahara or the vast expanses of the Arabian Desert, there are endless opportunities for exploration.
Further, according to Verified Market Research, the desert tourism market was worth USD $187.20 billion in 2022. It is now projected to reach USD $258.39 billion by 2030.
| Desert tourism or the activities to do in the desert are much beyond outdoor pursuits like camel safaris, sandboarding, etc. The adventurous activities will always be there. However, you cannot ignore the activities like exploring the ecology and being familiar with the local human lives. In fact, the sand dunes, oases, and other geological features of a desert are the telltale of human tribes that have graced the landscape over the years. For example, Tuaregs and Bedouins are the tribes of the Sahara Desert. Again, Thari and Banjaras are the most prominent local communities of the Thar Desert. |
Moreover, desert tours or the endless things to do in the desert are also popular on socials. For example, #desertsafari has 991k posts, and #desertour has 34.8k posts on Instagram.
So, do you also want to explore the best things to do in the desert? Here is a complete guide.
Unique Things To Do In The Desert: Not Your Usual Travel Pursuits
Deserts are arid, and they are the ultimate playgrounds for many day and night activities. During the daytime, you can take part in sandboarding, hot air balloon rides, etc.
Further, at night, the calmness of the desert and the winds playing through the dunes make deserts the ideal backdrop for meditative experiences like stargazing and playing local musical instruments.
So, from exploring the unique geology to connecting with nature and local people, desert activities much beyond adventure pursuits. It is a life-changing experience, to say the least.
1. Sandboarding And Dune Sledding
Imagine gliding down the silky slopes of immense dunes, feeling an adrenaline rush as you carve through the desert terrain. Sandboarding and dune sledding offer an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts of all ages.
All you need is a sturdy board or sled and a willingness to embrace the thrill of sliding down the shifting sands. Popular desert destinations like Huacachina in Peru and Dubai’s expansive desert offer prime locations for this adrenaline-pumping activity.
As stated in The Travel, the dunes in Peru measure around 1,600 feet or 500 meters. Such high dunes can be very exciting for sandboarding and dune sledding.
2. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Imagine floating gently above the vast expanse of a desert landscape, feeling the sun’s warmth and the cool breeze. As you soar higher into the sky, the world below becomes a mesmerizing tapestry of colors and textures. The silence of the desert is only broken by the occasional sound of the burner firing up, propelling the hot air balloon gracefully.
From high above, you can marvel at the sheer beauty of the desert terrain—the rolling sand dunes and rugged mountains. The sun’s ever-changing patterns of light and shadow create a captivating spectacle, painting the landscape in gold, orange, and crimson hues.
According to Napa Valley Balloons, hot air ballooning has been one of the best activities to do in desserts for several decades now. The lengths of the initial flights were over 2 miles. However, the length and height of the flights kept growing over the years.
The longest hot air balloon flight recorded to date is around 25,000 miles. It was taken by Bertrand Piccard, who went around the world by going to Egypt from Switzerland. Steve Fossett also took a long flight in July 2002, traveling from Australia to Australia.
3. Camel Trekking
Camel trekking offers a unique and immersive way to experience deserts’ vast and serene landscapes worldwide.
Sitting atop these magnificent creatures, travelers can embark on a journey that connects them with the ancient traditions of the desert.
The slow and steady pace of camels allows for a deeper appreciation of the surroundings, as every step reveals new wonders.
One of the most alluring aspects of camel trekking is the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
In the heart of the desert, surrounded by endless dunes or rocky terrain, travelers feel a sense of tranquility. The vast expanse of the desert sky, unmarred by artificial lights, offers a breathtaking canvas of stars that stretch on infinitely.
The camaraderie that forms among fellow travelers and guides during a camel trek is also remarkable. Bonds are forged as you traverse the desert together, sharing meals under the open sky and swapping stories around the campfire. These shared experiences create a sense of unity and belonging amidst the vastness of the desert landscape.
4. Desert Camping
Experience the magic of the desert under a blanket of stars by indulging in a night of camping amidst the dunes. Setting up camp in the heart of the desert offers an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
You can opt for a traditional Bedouin-style tent, a luxury desert camp, or simply roll out a sleeping bag under the open sky. The tranquility and beauty of the desert night will leave you spellbound.
As FOX 5 KSWB states, California’s parks are ideal for desert camping. For many enthusiasts, camping at one of the 15,000 sites across California’s 280 parks is one of the best ways to relax.
5. Desert Wildlife Safaris
Embarking on a desert wildlife safari promises an unforgettable adventure brimming with unique encounters and breathtaking landscapes. The vast expanses of rugged terrain provide a habitat for diverse wildlife adapted to thrive in the harsh desert environment.
Each species plays a crucial role in the delicate desert ecosystem, from the desert fox to the Arabian oryx. The thrill of spotting these elusive creatures in their natural habitat adds an element of excitement to the safari experience.
With knowledgeable guides leading the way, travelers can learn about the behaviors and adaptations of desert wildlife. This can help them better appreciate their resilience and survival strategies. Whether observing from a safari vehicle or on guided walks, every moment offers a chance to witness the wonders of the desert.
Beyond the iconic fauna, desert safaris also provide opportunities to appreciate the smaller inhabitants of the ecosystem. The desert landscape is a sight, with ever-shifting dunes sculpted by the wind and vast expanses of barren terrain.
6. Desert Rock Climbing: One Of The Most Adventurous Things To Do In The Desert
One of the key attractions of desert rock climbing is the sheer diversity of geological features to explore. From towering sandstone cliffs to sculpted granite boulders and towering monoliths, each desert region offers climbers distinctive challenges and rewards.
Climbing in the desert requires unique skills and techniques due to the often harsh and unforgiving environment. Climbers must contend with extreme temperatures, limited water sources, and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions. This makes planning and preparation essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
You should also consider safety a vital part of your planning. Rock climbing in deserts can have different difficulty levels. For instance, according to Climbing Magazine, the five towers in Moab have a difficulty level of 5.10. You must consider the difficulty level to plan accordingly for the rock climbing experience.
Despite the challenges, desert rock climbing can be immensely rewarding. It offers climbers the chance to test their physical and mental limits. The sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering a challenging route or reaching a breathtaking summit is unparalleled.
7. Stargazing: One Of The Most Immersive Activities In The Desert
Stargazing is one of the most fulfilling things to do in the desert at night. Popular desert destinations like Kalahari and Jaisalmer are great for stargazing.
‣ Stargazing In Kalahari Desert
Stargazing at the red sand area of Kalahari is a great way to explore the vast landscape. Further, the remote location and less pollution offer a clear view of the night sky and the stars.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is the best place for stargazing in the Kalahari Desert. The remains of the ancient lake and the salty stretches look surreal, and it feels like the celestial bodies have descended from heaven.
Two other stargazing hotspots in the Kalahari Desert are Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari. These locations have special stargazing decks and amenities.
However, in recent years, the Hai Kalahari Heritage Park has become synonymous with stargazing in the red sand desert. It is a designated “International Dark Sky Sanctuary” with the least pollution.
| Did You Know? The Kalahari Desert is also a great place for birdwatching. Nata Lodge and its surrounding areas will offer you the most amazing birdwatching experience. You will meet the glossy starlings and helmeted guineafowl. Further, during the wet season in the Kalahari Desert (November to April, with the heaviest rainfalls in January and February), you will meet pelicans and flamingos in the Nata Sanctuary. These birds come here for breeding. |
‣ Stargazing In The Thar Desert (Near Jaisalmer)
Think of a scenario. The sand dunes in the desert are bathed in the moonlight, and the stars dazzle in the night sky. It is a surreal visual to behold.
Jaisalmer, with its less pollution, dry air, and relatively low population, creates the ideal ambiance for stargazing. The best time for stargazing in Jaisalmer is between September to March.
During these months, the weather conditions in the desert remain temperate. Further, you can expect clearer views of the night sky during these months.
Furthermore, Jaisalmer is one of the chosen places in India for watching the Milky Way. Other constellations and stars visible in the sky are:
- Lyra
- Aries
- Pegasus
- Cancer
- Ursa Major and Minor
- Cygnus
- Orion, etc.
Besides Sam Sand Dunes, the Queen of Thar Desert Camp is the best place for stargazing in Jaisalmer. The camp is 40 km west of Jaisalmer, and it is located along the edge of the Thar Desert.
Along with stargazing, the camp also offers traditional Rajasthani delicacies and traditional dance and music performances.
8. Horseback Riding: One Of The Best Things To Do In The Desert (In Focus: Namib Desert)
The Namib Desert in Namibia is one of the best deserts to visit in the world. Horseback riding is the most thrilling activity here. It’s popular among people who want to explore the best of man-beast bonding in the desert.
Also, it is for people with strong legs and strong hearts.
The ancient landscape and remote location of the Namib Desert make it ideal for horseback riding. As you ride, you will find oases, sand dunes, canyons, and coastlines passing by.
However, the biggest highlights of this horseback riding will be the Hakos Mountains and Swakopmund.
Further, at Swakopmund, you will find the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
The land of savannah bush is also home to varied wildlife. So, you will meet the fascinating desert warthogs, mountain zebra, and ostrich here.
Frequently Asked Questions
People enjoy a myriad of activities in the vast expanse of the desert. One popular pastime is dune bashing, where adventurers ride over the sandy terrain in specially designed vehicles, experiencing the thrill of navigating the dunes. Others prefer camel rides, immersing themselves in the traditional mode of desert travel while relishing the serene beauty of the landscape.
The allure of the desert is multifaceted, appealing to different sensibilities and interests. For some, it’s the sense of solitude and tranquility in the vast and seemingly endless stretches of sand. The desert’s stark beauty, with its minimalist landscape and clear skies, offers a retreat from the noise and distractions of urban life.
Life in the Sahara Desert is characterized by adaptation to the harsh environment and a close connection to nature. Nomadic tribes, such as the Tuareg and Bedouin, have traditionally roamed the desert, herding camels and goats in search of scarce resources. These communities engage in camel breeding, leatherworking, weaving, and crafting functional and decorative items from natural materials.
Things To In The Desert: Offering You A Meaningful Experience
To conclude, a journey to a desert destination is not just a trip. It’s an immersive experience that engages the senses, ignites the spirit of adventure, and leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
From activities like sandboarding to desert camping, there’s something for everyone to enjoy amidst the breathtaking beauty of the desert landscape.
So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of exploration, and embark on an unforgettable desert travel experience.
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