Venturing the Dunes: Exploring Excursions in the Sahara Desert
By: Maryem Bouatlaoui / Arab America Contributing Writer
The Sahara desert is no longer an arid, dry, dust-filled stretch of nothingness but rather a space for innovative, high-end excursions for tourists and locals alike in the Arab world. From sand boarding to ATV biking to concerts, adventurers have options to choose from when planning their next vacation.
Sand Boarding:
Sand boarding is the new rave for tourists planning their vacations in the Arab world. Sand boarding is similar to snowboarding except the snow is replaced with the wondrous sand dunes of the Sahara desert. The activity involves quad biking to high-altitude dunes and gliding down on a sand board. While it is a thrilling experience, sand boarding is not for everyone. For people who are unfamiliar with snowboarding, sand boarding may be tricky or even dangerous. Even trained snowboarders find sand to be harder to maneuver than snow. Nonetheless, there are many excursion packages that include extensive professional lessons prior to the start of the sand boarding.
Sand boarding excursion packages can be purchased in almost every North African country. In Morocco, adventurers can book sand boarding sessions in the Merzouga desert, a commercial desert right outside of the city of Marrakesh. Three hours outside of Cairo also lie the dunes of Fayoum, another city filled with stunning dunes and views of the Sahara Desert.
Concerts:
The new rave this summer is desert concerts. German DJ, Adam Port, went viral on all social media platforms for playing Amr Diab’s Nour El Ein at a rave in the Agafay Desert in Marrakech. Other famous EDM artists such as Peggy Gou have also held concerts in the Agafay Desert, garnering hundreds of EDM enthusiasts from all across the world. American rapper Travis Scott recently announced that his launch show for his new album, Utopia, will be taking place at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
The Agafay Desert in Marrakech is popular for hosting EDM summer festivals and artist concerts. Events such as the Lost Nomads Festival and the Deep House Bible Concert annually take place in the Agafay Desert. Similar to renowned festivals in the United States like Coachella, concerts in the Sahara Desert may become the next trend in the music industry.
Glamping:
So long old-fashioned camping, say hello to “glamping.” The term glamping is a combination of the words “glam” and “camping,” referring to luxury camping. Glamping packages are all-inclusive and tend to all of a client’s needs from basic utilities to relaxing spas. No more setting up tents, rationing meals, and fending off night creatures; just sit back and relax and enjoy the sights of the stunning Sahara desert.
Al Nyhaya is a top-tier glamping site in Siwa, a desert land in West Egypt. This private exclusive experience includes high-end dining options, sightseeing activities, and spacious tents. The Sunrise Sahara Camp in Merzouga is a one-of-a-kind glamping site with hexagonal dome housing structures with built-in balconies. This innovative design allows travelers to take in breathtaking sights from the comfort of their glass domes.
ATV Riding:
ATV riding is one of the most thrilling excursions one can do at the Sahara Desert. While this activity may sound intimidating, it is by far one of the simplest to master, yet most fulfilling experiences.
While no prior experience is required, ATV riding is only permitted for those over the age of 16. Before revving the engines, trained professionals run through the basic logistics, teaching a cohort how to steer, turn, and brake the ATV bikes. Once the group gets going, riders get to take in the sights of the Sahara Desert as they accelerate into the endless abyss of desert land.
Horseback Riding:
Camel riding has been congruent with the desert since the beginning of time, but now new animals are crossing the desert dunes: horses. Horseback riding sessions are now available at most desert sites, offering travelers a new way to enjoy the desert’s scenery. Professional horseback riders can enjoy high energy equestrian races in the dunes, while laid back sightseers can opt for a guided tour across the desert.
What’s Next for the Sahara?
The Sahara Desert has much to offer for travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, catering to different interests and niches. Creativity and imagination hold immense potential for transforming the way travelers experience the desert. By pushing the boundaries of conventional travel norms, innovative minds can unlock unique and captivating ways to engage with the vast desert landscapes.
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