Important Safety Briefing for Dune-Bashing
At Sandgazelle, we strive to ensure that every desert excursion we host is rooted in convenience, comfort, and, above all, safety of our customers. That is why, we sat down with our expert desert drivers and guides, who have many years of experience under their belts, to meticulously compile these dune-bashing guidelines, so that our customers will know what to anticipate and how to prepare for this adventure.
About Dunes & the Need for Momentum
Every miniscule of sand is in constant motion, influenced by temperature, humidity, and wind. A driver should consistently power through and maintain good speed because stalling is never an option in the desert lands. Our vehicle, carrying up to 7 passengers, will be weighing in metric tons. Here, imagine a towering dune, with an incline akin to the trajectory of a flight taking off, and soft sands underneath that can try to bog the vehicle down. It is to successfully navigate such challenging terrains that maintaining momentum becomes paramount for our drivers during this exhilarating ride.
Motion-Sickness, Mindset, Trust!
Because this stunt can only go one way, and that’s the way of adventure, prepare your mindset for audacious, sudden movements of the vehicle, with a visual spectacle unfurling outside your window. You will be living a dream.
Our marshals have honed their skills with years of rigorous practice, and the vehicle you are riding in is battle-proof! So, have trust, lower your resistance, and fully immerse yourself in the experience to become one with the desert storm that the vehicle is waging.
While dune-bashing, kindly refrain from consuming food and beverages inside the 4x4. Also, if you are prone to motion sickness, please inform our driver. But don’t worry, we’ll have you covered anyway.
Buckle Up, Hydrate, Secure
Buckling your seatbelts while you are on the ride will keep you protected and centred through all the rapid movements in our vehicle’s sturdy interior. Rest assured, our 4 x 4s are equipped with heavy roll bars inside for added safety.
Due to the air-conditioning inside and the scorching desert climate outside, the temperature difference requires you to remain hydrated at all times. When you are whooshing past the dunes like on a magical carpet, items inside the vehicle can become projectiles. Therefore, keep your personal items, possessions, or knick-knacks (especially in the case of children) well-secured and boxed to prevent injuries. Also, refrain from attempting stunts for photography inside the vehicle during dune-bashing. Our marshals are experts at this - just inform them about the content you are looking for, and they will guide you. The vehicle will also be stopped at scenic spots for photography purposes.
Communication, Respect for Environment
Our drivers’ knowledge of the terrain has been honed by numerous desert excursions of varied designs. Therefore, it is very crucial to follow their guidance and feel free to communicate with them.
Please refrain from littering or engaging in any activity that could harm the environment. When we’re treated to such a show, we, at Sandgazelle, believe that our expression of appreciation and gratitude to nature should be by being mindful and respectful of the delicate desert ecosystem we are in.
Why is the Tire Pressure Lowered?
Before every trip, the 4x4s undergo rigorous inspections. And before venturing onto the desert dunes for bashing, the tires are slightly deflated to maximise the surface area of traction between the sand and the tires. This allows the tires to float using their speed, rather than sink under their weight in the loose sand. The lower air pressure prevents tire damage from sharp rocks or thorns, while also enhancing speed, weight balance, and performance.
Driving Style
The 4 x 4’s powerful engine will be pounded by the drivers to tactically accelerate and decelerate on steep dunes and sandy inclines. If you are a motor enthusiast, these roaring sounds can be appetising to the mind. Our marshals also employ drifting manoeuvres to conquer the descending dunes. Their mindsets are deeply rooted in preparedness for unexpected situations. Yes, it’s the real Arabian desert, and it’s a serious business! But don’t worry - you are in the safest hands!