Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands)

A desert safari is a must to experience Oman’s natural wonders, whether its dune bashing in a 4x4, taking a sunset camel ride, or zipping through the dunes on a sandboard or quad bike. Small-group or private tours leave from Muscat or Bidiyah, and typically include a picnic lunch at a traditional desert camp, swimming at Wadi Bani Khalid, and a variety of optional activities.

• Heading off-road in the desert is only recommended as part of a guided tour with an experienced local guide.

• It can get hot in the desert and there’s little shade, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. A scarf to protect your face from the sand is also recommended.

• There is no cellphone coverage or Wi-Fi in the area.

The Wahiba Sands desert is about a 3-hour drive from Muscat, off the Muscat-Sur Highway at Al-Mintirib. The most popular way to visit is as part of a guided tour.

The best time to visit Wahiba Sands is during the winter months from October to April. During the summer (May to September), temperatures can reach 104°F (40°C) or more.

Wahiba Sands is renowned for its unique desert ecosystem and surprisingly rich biodiversity. Some 180 native species of plants, as well as more than 200 species of animals, can be found in the desert, including vipers, desert hares, sand foxes, and birds. The best times for wildlife watching are at sunrise or sunset, but guides will often point out animal tracks as you trek through the desert.

The best time to visit the Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands) is during Oman’s winter season from November-April, when daytime temperatures hover around a cooler 82°F (28°C), making outdoor activities more comfortable. Arriving either in the early morning or at dusk ensures you can avoid the midday heat, plus the sunrises and sunsets are beautiful.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Wahiba Sands. Popular pursuits include 4WD dune bashing, sand boarding, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), camel riding, and hot air balloon flights. Other activities include visiting Bedouin villages, spotting desert wildlife, taking sunset photos, and staying at tented camps that offer campfires, entertainment, and stargazing.

Yes, 4WDs are vital for exploring the Wahiba Sands as they’re the only vehicles with the traction to traverse the sands. However, if you’re unfamiliar with desert driving, the recommended option is to join one of the many guided tours available that include 4WDs and experienced desert drivers.

Yes, there are numerous Wahiba Sands accommodation options, including rustic, Bedouin-inspired sites, deluxe camps with air-conditioned tents, camps with comfortable tent-style chalets, or basic tents. The rooms and tents at most sites include private facilities, and most camps offer full-board accommodation with dining areas.

However long you’re staying in the Wahiba Sands, sunscreen, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shades, a hat, sturdy shoes, water, and a phone are essentials. A lightweight scarf will also help protect against the sun and sand. If you’re camping, pack a sweater for the cooler desert evenings, plus insect repellent.

Yes, in terms of crime risk, the Wahiba Sands is considered safe: Oman’s crime rate is low. However, this remote desert region poses other risks, including challenging terrain and potentially extreme heat. For safety, it’s best to visit by guided tour rather than independently, to wear sunscreen, and to keep well hydrated.