Oman Desert Safaris

Written by Viator, August 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Good Views / Viewpoint, Tip - Dos & Don'ts, Tip - Transport, Tip - What to See & Do, Desert

Day trip safaris into the Omani desert combine the cool green of wadis and endless vistas of rolling dunes, impenetrably rocky mountains and ancient villages built into the desert walls.

Visit Nizwa, the capital of Oman’s interior region, to haggle for bargains in the souk and stroll the picturesque battlements of ancient forts, then head into the Wahiba desert.

This is the land of the Bedouins, date palm oases and the softly rounded shapes of dunes extending into the hazy desert distance. Drive over undulating acres of sand dunes and canyons, take a bumpy ride on a camel, and discover hidden pools and lush green wadis.

Drive through the barren hills of the Hajar Mountains to date farms and a hilltop lookout on Jebel Shams, the Mountain of the Sun, for panoramic views of Oman’s desert landscapes.

Or take an off-road safari adventure to Thowarah for warm desert mineral springs and ancient rock paintings. A beach safari to Wadi Shab encounters long stretches of empty beaches fringed with palm trees, stopping at wadi oases en route.

Creature comforts aren’t forgotten on desert safaris, with Bedouin-style picnic lunches and air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles. Although it’s warm out there, bring a jacket in winter months for visits to elevated regions, especially in the evening. Sunhats and sunglasses are essential, and remember to wear conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. It’s best not to point your camera at the locals, and don’t even think about photographing government or military buildings.

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All Oman Desert Safaris Reviews

Reply by Viator, December 2010
Doing what: Private 4x4 Desert and Wadi Safari - Wahiba and Wadi Bani Khalid

At times, the 4x4 feels like we’re teetering at a 45 degree angle, sliding down the sand banks and oversteering out of control. It is, of course, all part of the ride. The car kicks up outrageous amounts of sand as we plough through, spraying the (mercifully closed) windows as if they’re enduring a blackout.The second major stop of our day trip is Wadi Bin Khalid – one of the country’s most famous beauty spots. Once there, we walk along a traditional Omani water system; a man-made channel that snakes gradually downhill from its underground source in the mountains. It’s a wonderful spot, and when the sun gets too hot, you can dive into the surprisingly deep gorge for a swim. It’s what the great outdoors should be about. Note from Viator: This review is from David Whitley, who wrote a detailed article on his trip to Oman over on the Viator blog.

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Reply by Viator, October 2008
Doing what: Private 4x4 Desert and Wadi Safari - Wahiba and Wadi Bani Khalid

Excellent guide who was very good with our 6 year old. Country is amazing and the desert safari was very exciting.

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Reply by Viator, October 2008
Doing what: Private 4x4 Desert and Wadi Safari - Wahiba and Wadi Bani Khalid