A safari across shifting dunes and glorious landscapes means you’ll want every part of your outfit to support the adventure, and your footwear is perhaps the most crucial item (if you don’t believe us, try losing it or even getting it broken). In this blog, you’ll learn exactly what the best footwear for desert trips is, how terrain and weather change the game, and how to match comfort with style. Plus, get tips on what to wear on a desert safari so you’re ready for action from sunrise to the campfire. And yes, we’ll weave in how Beno’s desert adventures are the best in Dubai.
If you're picturing yourself embarking on a desert safari, the 4×4 dune buggy drive, golden sunset landscape, camel ride, BBQ dinner in the evening sky, then the best footwear for desert trips could be the difference between a fantastic journey and a wincing trudge across hot sand. The desert is not just lovely: it's unforgiving, volatile and often a very long way from a city street beneath your feet, so make sure you are prepared right for your adventure.
Let's walk right into our desert travel shoe guide!
Why Do Your Shoes Matter?
Let’s break down what’s happening under your feet.
Hot Sand - By midday, the sand can return heat and radiate it up; wear shoes that shield your feet from that heat.
Uneven Terrain - You’ll move from packed dune surfaces to loose sand often while getting in or out of vehicles, walking to vantage points or climbing camel mounts. As per gear-specialist advice, friendly but light footwear is a game-changer: "The most important thing about your shoes is that they have to be comfortable, tried and tested."
Sand Invasion - An airy slip-on sandal is nice, but sand will intrude, wear against your skin and cause blisters. As per the generosity of a website on the internet, it recommends that closed-toes are usually best for stability and safety.
So yes, the correct best footwear for desert trips is basically prioritising comfort, more activity and more fun.
Best Shoes For Desert Safari By Season And Activity
If taking on unique desert experience in Dubai is on your to-do list, here are some of the best desert trip footwear tips you must know, including what to choose and avoid, depending on what month and activity you will be choosing for your adventure.
Summer (approx. May-September)
Select light, airy sneakers or sport sandals with sturdy straps. They keep your feet cool but still provide good traction if you stroll around camp or hike up a dune. Experts suggest the trick is "closed-toe or light outdoor shoes with good grip" in Dubai's desert peak season.
Steer clear of big boots or anything made of heavy leather; they will warm you up and exhaust you in no time. Steer clear of brand-new shoes that you've never worn. We understand that this must be difficult, and they might be perfect for that 10/10 desert picture, but please just take our word for it and go for those comfortable shoes instead of the aesthetic ones.
Sandals can be okay if the activity is light (just a sunset photo stop or a camp-style dinner), but for dune bashing or buggy rides, you’ll thank yourself for more grip and support. One guide states: “Sandals or light hiking shoes are a good choice… but make sure they have a good grip.”
Winter (approx. October-April)
Nighttime desert temperatures plunge remarkably low. As one site says: "The desert can feel a little chilly in the evenings during winter months, so do take a jumper… closed-in shoes would be our preference for maximum comfort."
In this cooler climate, a lightweight hiking shoe or low hiking boot with ankle support is a smart pick, especially if your Beno safari includes walking, campfire sitting, or sandboarding.
Avoid ultra-minimal flip-flops unless you’re strictly staying at camp and not moving much; they offer little protection.
By Activity
Dune driving/buggy rides – closed-toe sneakers or light boots with good tread.
Sandboarding adventures or dune climbing – stable sole shoes, comfortable fit and grip (you steer).
Camel ride or stroll around the camp – some relaxation with light trekking shoes or even sports sandals, tied on, if the sand is not too deep.
Dinner under the stars/walking around camp – closed footwear that is comfortable or dress-down sneakers that work nicely in the sand and pebbles.
Tips for Making Smart Choices with Desert Footwear
Choose light, airy fabrics, mesh or low-profile support – rather than stiff leathers or clumsy boots that'll be hot.
Stretch the shoes beforehand - Feet swell, ankles move differently when walking on sand; blisters are amazingly frequent when new or stiff shoes are worn.
Higher side-walls or ankle support help reduce sand getting in, especially if you’ll walk in soft sand or rocks. But heavier isn’t always better. One visitor encourages a mid-height boot rather than a full heavy mountaineering style.
Consider socks - even breathable socks matter. Sand is abrasive. Damp, sweaty feet increase blister risk.
Colour-wise - lighter tones reflect heat; dark shoes absorb. Some sources suggest lighter colours for daytime desert wear.
After your adventure - bring a spare pair along with you or switch into comfortable shoes for the ride home, or you'll spend the day continuing to dig sand out of your shoes (and no one wants that).
How BENO makes it better
By booking your desert trips with Beno, you're registering for hassle-free logistics, expert guides, and top-notch adventure. Our crew arrange car transports, dune pickups, and camp settings. Your footwear decision is thus an enhancer of pleasure to be added to the experience, rather than something to stress over. Getting in with good shoes means you maximise your time, slice through every step with efficiency, and reach the dune's summit with energy to spend on the view, not fragile toes.
Last Wrap-up
Footwear may not feel glamorous, but on that desert horizon, when you’re standing on a dune crest in Dubai, wind in your hair, and the world falling away into golden sand, the difference between painful feet and pure enjoyment lies under your soles. Make the right call: choose breathable, supportive, activity-matched shoes, and appropriate for the season. The above best footwear for desert trips will ensure your experience is seamless and smooth. Afterall, there are endless reasons to try a desert experience in Dubai, and footwear shouldn't be a worry for you here.
Add that to Beno's desert safari package with silky goodness, and you'll be able to relax every second, not wriggling around in agony. And then you'll just have to remember the wide vistas, the dunes, the adventures and not the blisters.
FAQs
- Is a flip-flop adequate for a desert safari?
Technically, yes, for camping use or light walking, but experts emphatically advise against it, recommending closed-toe sport sandals or sturdy shoes with a good tread for any actual movement. Sandals let sand in, provide minimal protection against heat or ground.
- What if I only have heavy hiking boots? Will they do?
They'll function, but you'll get hotter, sweeter and tired earlier. Heavy boots transfer more energy and warm you up more. If you wear them, break them in thoroughly and choose ones that ventilate.
- Is there a best time of day for walking that influences shoe selection?
Yes, earlier or later in the day is cooler sand, so you may be able to get away with lighter shoes. Midday is hotter, so more ventilation and protection are required. Evening safaris may require an extra layer and covered shoes because it is cooler.
Yes. Breathable socks that wick sweat and fit well can make a big difference. Especially if you’ll spend extended time standing or walking. Even in sandals, a sock might prevent rubbing.
- Are there shoes specifically called “desert safari shoes”?
Not everywhere. Brands sell "desert boots" or "adventure sandals", but other factors play a major role as well in deciding your desert shoes, weather, your itinerary and much more.
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