Desert Safari and Wadi Bashing |
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DESERT SAFARI
Desert driving can be a difficult task for beginners; however, after several times it is an amusing and exciting experience. In principle, everyone can do it; all you need is a 4WD car, and to follow certain rules. Rule number one is to never go to the desert alone; you need a second car to assist you in case of trouble. Plan your trip thoroughly and notify someone of your plans and your expected time of return. Check your car before leaving. Always carry a tow rope, shovel, mobile phone and plenty of water. To allow for easy driving in the sand, let air out of the tyres, down to 15psi if necessary. In case you are stuck, (and yes, this will happen to you at some point), try to place some firm objects like a mat or dead branches under the tyres. Another car can also try to pull you out if necessary. Once you leave the desert remember to inflate the tyres to the required level.
WADI BASHING
The Hajar Mountains are without a doubt one of the main attractions of Ras Al Khaimah. Spectacular canyons, steep winding tracks, and terraced mountain slopes will impress anyone. Driving through that type of rocky terrain is called wadi bashing. It is an experience not to be missed, which can be ended with a relaxing picnic or camping. However, after heavy rainfall wadis should be avoided as strong flash floods can occur, in which you might get hurt or your car could get damaged by falling rocks
If you get into minor trouble, both in the desert and in the mountains, do not hesitate to ask local people for help, if you see them around of course. They are always very helpful and they know what to do in most cases. In case of emergency or major breakdown, immediately call the police by dialling 999. Stay calm, do not walk around and try to save your energy and supplies.
If you feel less adventurous and do not want to explore nature on your own, you can book one of the desert safaris or wadi bashing trips at a travel agency. You can expect a professional driver, a lot of fun, and even a BBQ at a desert camp or sleepover, depending on the option you choose. Check the Organized Tours paragraph of this section for various travel agencies. |
WHERE TO GO? Ras Al Khaimah has exceptional location as the desert and mountains are within a 10-minute drive. You may try to find a favourite spot yourself, choose an off road trip from RAKpedia Sightseeing section or use the excellent UAE off road guides available in the book shops, which describe the most popular routes and give safety tips and other valuable advice.
WARNING! Visiting the mountain and desert area is always a unique and wonderful experience; however, while appreciating nature you have to be aware of the possible risks and dangers. Accidents where people went missing or even died after experiencing heatstroke and exhaustion are heard of and you should not take any trip lightly.
ENVIRONMENTAL NOTE: By preserving the environment and treating it with respect, you will not only increase the chance of discovering wildlife, but also sustain the environment for you and others in the future. It is crucial to stay on designated routes while driving. Although it may be thrilling to find your own way through the rocks and sands this might not necessarily be good for nature. When camping, make sure that you take everything with you and leave no sign of your presence behind. Do not use any branches or wood from nature to make a campfire as they are also part of the ecosystem of the area, and often form hiding places for reptiles and other animals.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT: jack, tow rope, basic tool kit, mobile phone, shovel, fire extinguisher, tyre pressure gauge, first aid kit, spare tyre fully inflated, tyre pump, extra fuel for longer trips, flashlight. |