CAMPING 101
Camping 101 There’s nothing more important than being well prepared before you head out to experience life under the stars. Here’s your guide to getting desert-ready…
Where to Set Up Camp… The Qatari desert is full of wonderful places to head out and explore, and the options available might be a bit overwhelming when deciding on where to go and what to see. You can either go for the beaches on the north or western coasts, or dodge that busy area for a bit of peace and quiet and head out to the gravel plains which are home to some of the most beautiful flowers in the country. Located north of Dukhan, the Ras Abrouq peninsula is a favourite spot for weekend campers who come to enjoy the golden sands and pretty limestone scenery. The place is full of wildlife with plenty of animal sightings including hedgehogs, kangaroo mice, and the sand gazelle. An hour’s drive from Mesaieed is 28
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Inland Sea (Khor al Adaid), Qatar’s most famous and popular camping destination. The country’s southernmost point, the area is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles. The scenery there is breathtaking with towering sand dunes soaring from the water’s edge. At the opposite side of Qatar is Umm Tais National Park which has some the most beautiful sandy beaches, and is where Doha’s kite surfers can be found on the weekend. Offshore, a few small islands surrounded by mudflats can be reached by vehicle when the tide is low, where you can find nesting turtles and stunning mangroves. While you’re in Umm Tais don’t forget to check out the pearling city of Al Zubara, which is only a few kilometers away. ✤
Where to buy your gear OLX POWERED DUBIZZLE
We just can’t get enough of this super useful website, and you’ll be happy to know that OLX also offers somewhere you can buy quality new and used camping equipment including tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, state-of-the-art torches and lanterns, and so much more! You’re guaranteed to find everything you need for a great price too. Visit www.olx.qa/en/ for more information.
CARREFOUR
A favourite hypermarket amongst many, but did you know that Carrefour has more than just food? Yes, there’s an awesome collection of safe and simple camping goods, ranging from two-person tents to a cool foldaway dining table and set – perfect for that barbecue under the stars! GO: Visit Carrefour at various locations in Qatar. Visit www.carrefourqatar.com for more information.
SOUQ WAQIF
Yes, there’s more to this labyrinth of shops than just souvenirs and trinkets; amidst the Falcon souq are a few shops selling hiking/camping gear that would be worth checking out. You’re guaranteed to find some little treasures to help with your desert camping trip.