Desert Experience: Wahiba Sands & Wadi Bani Khalid Group Tour
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a full-day adventure from Muscat, exploring two of Oman’s highlights: Wadi Bani Khalid and the stunning Wahiba Sands. This tour blends relaxation, culture, and adventure for an unforgettable experience.
Start at Wadi Bani Khalid, a scenic oasis with turquoise pools and palm trees. Swim, walk the trails, or relax by the water (modest swimwear required—men in shorts and t-shirt, women with swimsuit covered by shorts and t-shirt). Capture beautiful photos before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and tasting authentic Omani flavors.
Then head to Wahiba Sands, a vast desert of golden dunes. Try optional sandboarding, visit a Bedouin home, learn about nomadic traditions, and enjoy Omani coffee or tea. Conclude with a photo stop among the dramatic dunes.
Optional sunset add-on available to witness the magical colors before returning to Muscat.
Available options
Tour with Sunset and Sanboards
Sandboarding<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Lunch<br/>Tour with Sunset and Sanboards: Visit the oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid, then enjoy the desert sunset with a chance to try sandboarding on the dunes.<br/>Air Conditioned 4WD<br/>Pickup included
Desert & Wadi Bani Khalid tour
Duration: 10 hours<br/>Lunch<br/>Desert & Wadi Bani Khalid tour: Start your day with an unforgettable visit to the golden desert dunes, then continue to the beautiful oasis Wadi Bani Khalid.<br/>Air Conditioned 4WD<br/>Pickup included
Full-Day Private Tour
Private Tour - Wahiba Sands: Embark on a personalized full-day adventure to Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid. Enjoy the desert’s vast beauty and the wadi<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Lunch for Group/Shared option (except during the month of Ramadan)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Sandboard (on request, once per booking and only included in the sunset option)
Detailed itinerary
1
We offer convenient pick-up services from all hotels in Muscat, including popular resorts such as Shangri-La, Jumeirah, and Al Bustan Palace. Simply let us know your location, and we will ensure a smooth start to your tou
2
Stop 2
Wahiba Sands is a desert region that is the part of the Al Sharqiya Sands of Oman. This place will definitely stay memorable for everyone. You'll see the dunes that may reach up to 200 meters and which are created by wind, white and red sands. The unique sunsets, camels and untouchable nature - these are just a small list of things you're going to see and experience.
3
Stop 3
Wadi Bani Khalid (or Wadi Hayer as it’s also called). It’s literally a paradise that will allow you to refresh after the stuffy desert. Wadi Hayer is an oasis with a sparkling waterfall surrounded by huge rocks and date palms from all sides. The water is crystally clean and transparent here. We should mention that it’s not just a single point — it covers a wide range of near set villages. Tourists also have a chance to get into the caves, but they should be accompanied by the experienced guide.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
21 reviews
5★
16
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.8
27 reviews
5★
24
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Muscat
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and strategic location along the Gulf of Oman. With a unique blend of traditional Omani culture and modern development, Muscat offers visitors a mix of historic forts, luxurious resorts, and vibrant souks.
Top Attractions
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
One of the most stunning landmarks in Muscat, this mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Omani heritage.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free (guided tours may have a fee)
Mutrah Souq
A traditional market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The souq is a great place to experience Omani culture and haggle for bargains.
Market/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for goods
Royal Opera House Muscat
A world-class venue for opera, ballet, and other performing arts, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness of Oman.
Cultural/Entertainment
2-3 hours (depending on the performance)
Varies by event (moderate to expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shuwa
Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves.
Dinner
Not vegetarian
Harees
A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, often served during Ramadan.
Dinner
Not vegetarian
Halwa
A sweet dessert made from sugar, ghee, and spices, often served with tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wadi Shab
Dune bashing in the desert
Beach relaxation at Qurum Beach
Spa treatments at luxury resorts
Exploring Mutrah Souq
Visiting the Royal Opera House Muscat
Swimming in Bimmah Sinkhole
Boat tours in the Gulf of Oman
Best Time to Visit
November to March
The best time to visit Muscat is during the cooler months from November to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This period also sees the highest number of tourists.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, Urdu, Balochi
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Omani Rial (OMR)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Muscat is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and follow local customs and laws.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
- • Keep valuables secure
Getting there
By air
- Muscat International Airport • 30 km from city center
By bus
Muscat Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and connects key points in Muscat. However, it may not be as extensive as in other major cities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Mutrah
Al Khuwair
Shati Al Qurum
Day trips
Nizwa
160 km from Muscat • Full day
Nizwa is a historic city known for its fort, souq, and traditional Omani architecture.
Wadi Shab
90 km from Muscat • Full day
Wadi Shab is a stunning natural area with waterfalls, pools, and hiking trails.
Bimmah Sinkhole
120 km from Muscat • Half day
A natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and photography.
Festivals
Muscat Festival • January to February
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depends on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Explore Mutrah Souq in the evening when it's cooler and more lively
- Try traditional Omani coffee and dates at a local café
- Book a guided tour for day trips to learn more about the history and culture
- Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in the summer
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
