Sunset Desert Safari Salalah Tour in Rub Al Khali - Empty Quarter
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This sunset trip is one of the best trips in the world. In the southern part of Oman, on a single day, you will be seeing the largest desert of the World "Empty Quarter" that spreads across many countries of the Middle East. What else could be better than a walk on the desert and seeing the setting sun. Have sand bashing in the desert.
The guide and the driver is experienced in the desert driving. Your safety is our priority.
You will see the historical site of Ubar at the town of Shisr, known as The Lost City or Ubar or Atlantis of the Sand or the city of the pillars. This city was used for the trade of Frankincense, which was once traded as Gold and Silver.
You will also see the 5 square kilometer spread plantation of Frankincense tree on the natural reserve at Wadi Dawkah. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the frankincense trade.
The drive will be in 4x4 vehicle through Al Qara Mountains with amazing views of Salalah city.
Dinner will be served before dropping off.
Available options
Overnight Stay Group Tour
Bedouin Tent Night Stay: A night stay in a Bedouin tent in the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali) in Oman can be a unique and memorable experience.<br/>Night stay in Bedouin Tent: This tour comes with the night stay in the Bedouin camp. The tents are separate for each booking. There is a common toilet. <br/>Dinner and Breakfast: Buffet Dinner and Breakfast are served in the Bedouin tent. The options are both veg and non-veg dishes. <br/>Local Omani Tour guide: A licensed Omani guide will be in the tour speak English and Arabic. Tour will be a Group on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday.<br/>Pickup included
Desert- Group/Shared Tour
Duration: 9 hours<br/>water & Snacks <br/>4x4 Jeep Car<br/>Pickup included
Private Sunset Desert
Pickup included
What's included
Transport by private vehicle: 4x4 Car up to 6 adults
Air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance to Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Park
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Amazing drive from Dhofar Mountains will take you to Wadi Dawkah. The mountains are green and unique in the Middle East.
2
Wadi Dawkah is on the northern Side of Salalah and is a UNESCO Heritage site. Here there's a large natural garden of Frankincense Trees, which are the source of Dhofari Frankincense. There are more than 1200 Frankincense Trees in the wadi.
Sign board is placed at the main entrance of the park and explain how the tapping of sap is carried out. Each tree yields three to four kilograms of luban (frankincense) each season.
Dhofari Frankincense are the best in the world.
3
Will Pass through the town of Thumrait, which was famous as a Bedouin settlement. This town is on the northern side of Salalah City and is one of the wilayat of Dhofar.
4
The Lost City of Ubar is a UNESCO World heritage site.
The ruins of Ubar have been found in the villageknown as Shisr in Dhofar Governorate in Sultanate of Oman, around 3 hours’ drive from Salalah and approximately 55 kms from the main road of Thumrait. When it was discovered back in the early 1990’s, it has been named as one of the greatest discoveries at that time.
Archaeological excavations suggest this site was involved in the incense trade in the past, most probably for the inland trade.
Ubar disappeared into the desert sands. It’s even been dubbed the “Atlantis of the Sands.”
This legendary ancient kingdom, known as Ubar, was said to have existed in one of the most inhospitable places on earth
5
The Empty Quarter (known as Rub al Khali in Arabic) in Dhofar Region of Oman is the main destination of the tour, which is one of the best places in the world to experience desert.
You will be taken to the Empty Quarter to experience the biggest sand desert in the World. Here there will be driving and rambling / trekking on fascinating sand dunes.
Sunset will be seen on the desert sand.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Anything not mentioned in Inclusions
Entrance fees to ubar Archaeological site
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
PL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
4 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
103 reviews
5★
98
4★
5
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The travel time from Salalah to Empty Quarter / Rub Al Khali Desert is 2 hours each way.
There will be no cell phone coverage on the desert, avoid to travel if you are sick.
There can be dust storms. Please keep hat, and scarf for both man and woman.
This is a private tour daily and if you need a group tour, that is available once a week.
Bring hat and scarf, as due to sand dunes, sometimes you get a lot of sand in the wind.
Guide availability in some European languages, such as German, Italian, French, and Polish, are limited in numbers and might not be available for your tour date. In such situations, an English-speaking guide with an Omani license will be arranged for your tour.
Kids below 6 years
Any other medical condition, which can get bad with desert dunes bashing and long drive
There will be no cell phone coverage on the desert, avoid to travel if you are sick
About Salalah
Salalah is a beautiful coastal city in southern Oman, known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and unique climate. It's a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
Top Attractions
Al Baleed Archaeological Site
This UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient city that dates back to the 4th century BC. It features ruins of palaces, mosques, and residential buildings.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate
Al Husn Souq
A traditional market where you can find a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Al Mughsail Beach
A beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shuwaa
Slow-cooked marinated meat, traditionally cooked in an underground oven. It's tender, flavorful, and a must-try in Oman.
Main Course
Contains meat
Harees
A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, often served during special occasions.
Main Course
Contains meat
Halwa
A sweet, gel-like dessert made from sugar, ghee, and nuts. It's a popular treat in Oman.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wadi Darbat
Exploring ancient ruins
Beach lounging at Al Mughsail Beach
Picnicking in Wadi Darbat
Visiting Al Husn Souq
Exploring Al Baleed Archaeological Site
Swimming at Al Mughsail Beach
Not applicable
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the monsoon season, bringing heavy rains and making the landscape lush and green. The weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city's natural beauty.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Omani Rial (OMR)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Salalah is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, travelers should always be cautious and aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night.
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Salalah Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Salalah Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, but schedules can be irregular.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Al Husn
Al Baleed
Al Mughsail
Day trips
Sumhuram (Khor Rori)
30 km from Salalah • Half day
An ancient port city that was part of the frankincense trade route. It features ruins of buildings, a mosque, and a fortress.
Wadi Darbat
30 km from Salalah • Full day
A beautiful wadi with lush greenery, waterfalls, and pools. It's a popular spot for picnics and nature walks.
Festivals
Khareef Festival • June to September
Pro tips
- Visit during the Khareef Festival to experience the lush greenery and cultural events.
- Try traditional Omani dishes like Shuwaa and Harees.
- Explore the historic sites of Al Baleed and Sumhuram for a glimpse into the past.
- Enjoy the natural beauty of Wadi Darbat and Al Mughsail Beach.
- Shop for local crafts and spices at Al Husn Souq.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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