Your Guide to Camping in Qatar

*picture  from Pixabay

Although Qatar is a small country, encompassing just over 4,400 square miles, there are plenty of things to see and do.  Camping may not be the first thing you think of. However, it’s indeed a unique experience and one that both locals and tourists enjoy.  In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the different camping experiences you can have in this desert country. Let’s get started, shall we?

Overnight Safari

There are currently over 80 companies in Qatar that provide overnight safari trips.  The majority of these give travelers the opportunity to decide between desert camping and resort accommodations, so if not everyone in your party wants to camp, they don’t have to miss out on the safari experience. 

One example of an overnight safari tour is that provided by Qatar International Tours.  The safari experience starts with a four-hour drive to the south of the border, crossing over the sand dunes close to Saudi Arabia.  Those who want to camp will do so on the beach near the Arabian Gulf.  During the evening, a bonfire will be lit, and you will have the opportunity to partake in swimming, volleyball, and sand-skiing.

Bedouin Style Tours

Other tour group operators offer Bedouin-style camping tours to tourists.  These are very similar to those described above except the campsites also come with facilities like showers and restrooms, which makes the camping experience a bit more comfortable.

Qatar Inbound Tours offers this kind of excursion.  Again, tourists are taken on a four-hour drive to the south of the country, near the border with Saudi Arabia.  There they can watch the sunset, and enjoy a camel ride, before enjoying a barbecue dinner.  Those who want to can also partake in some traditional hookah.  Sleeping bags and blankets are provided for all those who stay in the tent.

Private Tours

Alternatively, if you’d rather go on a private tour, this is also an option.  Many people choose to bring their own tent along (check out My Family Tent for some great reviews), and then off-road camp somewhere that looks suitable.  Others choose to work with a tour company to create a tailor-made excursion that is more leisurely than those described above.

Private tours are especially popular with those on their honeymoon, as well as those who are traveling for business.  Some tour companies can also cater for groups as large as 300 people.  Those who choose to tailor-make their tours can include activities such as camel riding, horseback riding, quad biking, henna tattoos, and even magic shows – the choice is theirs.

Qatar may not be a very large country, and it may not be the first place you think of when planning a camping excursion.  However, the country does offer a lot of options for those who want to enjoy a desert camping experience.  Consider what you want to get out of your trip, and then book one of the above.