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Desert safaris are one of the most popular attractions in the UAE, providing a thrilling opportunity to experience dune bashing, camel rides, traditional shows, and delicious barbecue dinners against breathtaking desert scenery.
With hundreds of tour operators offering Desert Safari packages, choosing the right time to book is important to get the best experience at a reasonable price.
This article explores tips on when to book for maximum savings and fun.
Peak Season Bookings
The peak tourist season from October to April sees very high demand for desert safari packages, especially on weekends and public holidays when thousands flock to Dubai.
Booking 2-3 months in advance ensures availability with reputed operators during peak periods when safaris get sold out weeks before. Early bookings also allow blocking convenient timings and custom add-ons like private pick-ups or upgraded meal plans.
However, expect relatively higher rates compared to off-season deals.
Leveraging Early Bird Offers
Many leading desert safari providers offer early bird discounts valid several months in advance of travel dates.
Opting for these attractive deals as soon as flight bookings are confirmed locks in lower prices before the pre-paid rates increase closer to the trip. Large groups traveling together can make substantial savings this way, even during peak months.
Just ensure to read cancellation and refund policies before purchasing.
Last Minute Bookings
For travellers who decide to take desert safaris spontaneously after arriving in Dubai or have flexible plans, last minute bookings 1-2 days in advance typically offer the lowest rates.
Operators slash prices to fill unsold seats as the departure dates approach. The trade-off is limited seat availability on peak days and timings along with fewer choices of convenient pick-up locations or extras.
Solo travellers and couples though can score great deals through last minute online bookings.
Off-Season Discounts
The months from May to September see far fewer tourists in Dubai due to the extreme heat. Desert safari rates can drop 30-50% or more during off-season with heavy discounts, offers and combos from most suppliers.
The savings offset the scorching temperatures. Flexible travelers who can plan summer trips get to enjoy a more private safari experience along with incredibly affordable prices.
The key is confirming an operator with well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles.
Knowing High and Low Demand Periods
When planning a desert safari booking, it helps understanding weekly and seasonal demand fluctuations.
Peak Days and Slack Days
Weekends, especially Saturdays, attract the highest number of desert safari bookings throughout the year along with weekday evenings. Midweek daytime slots typically see lower demand in comparison, hence better deals. Fridays have moderate demand due to being a holiday in the UAE.
Seasonal Variations
The cooler months from November to February attract peak tourists and see the highest pricing for desert safari packages. September-October and March-May have intermediary demand. June-August summer season has the lowest occupancy on tours allowing great low rates.
Capitalizing on Offbeat Timings
The most popular desert safari timings are 3 pm to 9 pm or 4 pm to 10 pm slots, catching golden hour at sunset. Opting for earlier or later timings typically has lower occupancy and rates. 12 pm to 4 pm morning safaris beat daytime heat and offer value prices. 10 pm to 2 am night safaris under starry skies are lower-demand giving savings benefits too.
Bundling Transport and Accommodation
Many desert safari deals offer bundled prices including return transfers from hotels and accommodation. This can offer significant savings over standalone safari bookings.
Hotels with private safari tour partners often recommend these combos for guests with agreed rates.
Booking bundled packages in advance secures transport convenience and better fares.
Utilizing Coupons and Cashbacks
Online travel portals and booking sites regularly promote desert safari deals offering coupons, promo codes and cashbacks as added incentives. Following desert safari suppliers on social media also gives access to special offers.
Using these additional discounts on early bookings results in the lowest net pricing. Cashback portals also enable claiming back a percentage of total spend.
Group Size Discounts
Desert safari providers routinely offer discounted rates for bigger groups above 4-5 passengers booking together. The markdowns may range from 10-30% compared to regular prices.
Families and groups of friends can optimize savings by coordinating bookings and availing group discounts well in advance during peak season.
Booking with Hotel Concierge
Many hotels have dedicated desert safari desk staff who can advise guests and offer bundled transport deals at agreed rates. Booking the safari package via hotel concierge allows seamless transfers and often discounts versus direct booking.
Multi-activity Combos
Some desert safari operators offer combo deals bundling dune bashing with activities like hot air ballooning, jet skiing, yacht cruises etc. Multi-activity packages booked together are more value-for-money compared to individual bookings.
Advance Reservations for Customization
Planning your desert safari well ahead allows for the customization of experiences with unique add-ons, such as private Falconry shows, henna artists for intricate designs, or the luxury upgrade to exclusive SUVs.
These bespoke offerings require careful pre-arrangement, ensuring a personalized and exceptional desert adventure.
This proactive approach not only secures preferred activities but also allows for tailored experiences, ensuring a memorable and personalized journey through the mesmerizing landscape of the desert.
Booking on Weekdays
Booking a desert safari on weekdays often ensures a more exclusive and less crowded experience.
Opting for weekday departures grants quicker access to activities such as camel riding and dune bashing with minimal waiting times.
Weekends typically witness a surge in visitors, resulting in larger crowds and potential delays for various activities, making weekdays a more favorable option for a more intimate and serene experience.
In essence, securing a desert safari package 1-3 months in advance, especially leveraging early bird offers, bundled transport deals, and group discounts, guarantees the best value pricing during peak seasons. During off-peak times, last-minute bookings offer the lowest fares.
Understanding the fluctuations in demand allows tourists to seize opportunities during underutilized timings and weekdays, providing an opportunity to enjoy significant savings on desert safaris.
By choosing the right timing, visitors can relish substantial cost savings while reveling in an unforgettable desert adventure.