A back-to-nature experience that also teaches basic life lessons
The world’s first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp opened in Ras Al Khaimah in October, equipping would-be adventurers with the survival tips and skills they need to make it in the wilderness. The experience has now expanded to allow intrepid travellers the chance to turn their adventure into an overnight one, with the opening of nine mountain cabins.
The welcome
After 20 minutes of winding upward along the narrow roads leading towards the peak of Jebel Jais, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp appears almost from nowhere, nestled as it is in a flat wadi surrounded by the UAE’s tallest mountain range. A firepit sits in the centre, around which camp manager Leon explains the rules: do not litter, do not leave food outside, and, oh, don’t feed the goats.
The neighbourhood
The premise of the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp hinges on switching off and reconnecting with nature, so there is very little nearby. As the daylight fades, the last of the visitors on Jebel Jais wind their way back down the mountain path, leaving us to soak in the stillness of the camp and its surrounding area, save for the occasional bleat from one of the aforementioned goats. From the camp, it’s about a 20-minute drive to the summit of Jebel Jais, where you’ll find the world’s longest zip line, the UAE’s highest restaurant and various viewing platforms.
The safety measures
Staff sport Bear Grylls-branded face masks, and our cabin has a sticker on the door, assuring us the space has been sanitised. The back-to-basics nature of this place means guests bring much of their equipment with them, which adds an extra layer of reassurance.
The camp is nicely spaced out, so social distancing should not be an issue, even when cabins are full. Each has its own outdoor area, picnic table and portable chairs, so the number of communal touchpoints is minimum.
Bring sanitiser, tea or coffee, breakfast, towels, hand soap, toothpaste and shower gel, as these are not provided.
The room
We’re not expecting a five-star stay from a Bear Grylls-branded camp, given the experience is all about survival, so we brace ourselves as we enter our upcycled shipping container cabin. However, we are pleasantly surprised.
Of course, it is basic. The exposed wood walls give it a rustic feel, and there is little in the way of decor. However, it has what it needs: a double bed with a ladder leading to a single bunk above, as well as a fridge, kettle, air-conditioning and ample storage. There are three small windows, each offering a sliver of the mountain view. The bathroom is a welcome surprise; white tiles, a powerful shower and flushing toilet – definitely not the full nature survival experience I had been envisaging.
The beds definitely offer up more of a camping vibe. The thin mattress is hard, although not uncomfortable enough to keep me awake, and the fluffy pillows offer some five-star comfort.
The service
The staff are more than accommodating, offering to help us with the fire or to light the barbecue, and, when we ask for torches, provide us with some handy head torches, which make our evening card games much easier. Almost all staff on site are trained by the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, so if there’s anything you need to know about the outdoors or the surrounding Jebel Jais area, they’ve got you covered.
The scene
The nine cabins are well spread out, so the set-up does not feel intrusive. It’s also family and dog-friendly. The communal firepit is currently restricted to nine guests at any one time.
There is a small shop selling snacks, hot drinks and charcoal, and mountain bikes are available to rent.
Guests don’t need to take part in one of the Bear Grylls Survival Courses to stay at the camp, but it is set up in the hope that those checking in will take in the full experience. The expert-led courses have half-day options, lasting three to four hours, as well as eight, 24 and 48-hour options. They offer survival skills, such as how to build fires, tie knots and use knives. Guests can also take part in a guided hike, which can be tailored to any ability level.
The food
The camp is self-catered, so guests need to bring their own food to barbecue. Utensils are provided and there’s a fridge in the room. Oh, and it wouldn’t be a camp trip without marshmallows to toast, so be sure to pack those. We washed ours down with a hot chocolate from the shop.
Highs and lows
The setting, the firepit and the outdoor area make you feel a million miles away from the city, so it feels like a real escape. The bed is a little uncomfortable, so be prepared. If you are particularly sensitive, pack a foam mat.
Insider tip
Check the website for what is and isn’t provided. This is a survival experience, so you only get the bare bones in the room. Also, definitely think about adding an activity to your stay for the true Bear Grylls experience.
The verdict
If you are looking for an outof-the city escape without the usual UAE staycation frills, coupled with the chance to take in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery and learn a few new skills along the way, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp needs to be on your agenda.
Rates are from Dh450 a night for a cabin on weekdays (the camp is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), and Dh650 at weekends. Check-in is from 3pm and check-out at 11am. Two dogs are also permitted for every cabin, at an extra cost of Dh50 a dog. Pets must be kept on leads at all times in the camp.