Dhafra Discovery: 21-24 April* also On Request

This is a 4 day/3 night self-drive & camping/hotel trip starting around 2.5 hours from the Mafraq Junction in Abu Dhabi and finishing around 4.5 hours from there – 4×4 essential (see here for suggested vehicles).

This trip is all about exploring the most remote parts of the huge Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi Emirate, and will cover approx 120kms offroad (sand and rough track) and 360kms of remote road between the start and finish points.

Itinerary *Eid trip dates depend on public holidays declared

Day One:

1300hrs meet at a petrol station in Liwa, Al Dhafra Region – co-ordinates will be sent out to registered guests a few days before
Fill up then come say hello
1315hrs move off
Explore the historic Liwa Crescent, visit a couple of forts
First desert drive is a short foray into the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter)
Discover desert roses and visit a real camel farm
1700hrs find a great campspot and set up camp
1900hrs bbq, campfire

Day Two:

0800hrs light breakfast
0900hrs strike camp
1000hrs enter the western desert for a 70-80km loop
1300hrs picnic lunch
1800hrs leave the desert and head to Ghayathi
Dinner and overnight at the Western Hotel

Day Three:

0830hrs breakfast at hotel
0900hrs a chance to buy more provisions at Lulu, Ghayathi
0930hrs drive 200kms to the beautiful Sila Peninsula
1000hrs – 1600hrs driving by offroad track, explore the many beautiful rock formations and coastal areas, stopping for a picnic lunch on the way
1630hrs set up camp for the night
1900hrs camp supper

Day Four:

camp breakfast
continue exploring Sila
1200hrs return to main road on the E11

Wild Camping

We will be setting up camp in a remote area with no facilities – we can hire you camping equipment though you may also take your own. Please note that we need you to take blankets/sleeping bag and a pillow; we do not have room to carry these and no longer hire them out.

What’s included?

Expert guiding by your very own Desert Diva, who is an accredited Abu Dhabi Tour Guide. 2 camping breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 1 bbq, 1 camp supper, 1 double/twin hotel room with dinner and breakfast.

Prices

Price is based on 2 adults in one car – 2850aed (1425aed each)

Children

Aged 5-11

500aed each

Aged 2-4

complimentary

How do I sign up?

Please read through the itinerary and check it will suit your family. Please also click on the links to see the requirements for your vehicle and the suggested packing lists

The trip list is “on request” for groups; minimum charge for 3 cars/6 adult guests.

Payments may be made by bank transfer.

Notes:

Timings, apart from initial meeting time, are approximate.

It will be foggy season in the area and our departure from camps may be delayed until the fog clears and there is a minimum 500metres visibility.

All children should be strapped into age-appropriate safety/booster seats, whenever your car is moving.

Suggested reading – Wilfred Thesiger, Arabian Sands