Desert Safari to Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid from Muscat
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start your journey towards the Sharqiya Sands, the undulating golden sands. Enjoy the beautiful desert views and indulge in some thrilling Dune Bashing. Next, head towards the enchanting Wadi Bani Khalid. Drive past the village with its endless date plantations. Reach the magnificent Wadi. The pools are cool, deep and absolutely stunning. Enjoy a leisurely swim before returning back to Muscat.
Available options
Desert Safari to Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid from Muscat
Pickup included
What's included
Private tour
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Lunch
What you'll see
At 08:30 am you will be picked up from your hotel or residence in Muscat city. Board your 4x4 and head towards Fanjah, where you stop at the roadside to take photos of an abandoned village. You then make a turn near Bidbid which continues on the route to Ibra. Visit the ruins of an abandoned village at Al Mansfah near Ibra. Much of the charm and character of this old mercantile village has not been washed away still.
You will then head towards the enchanting Wadi Bani Khalid, known as the lost Shangri-La. Reach the magnificent Wadi, the pools are cool, deep and absolutely stunning, surrounded by palm trees and vast, orangey-red rocky outcrops with silky water. After spending some time there, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Bidiya.
After lunch, proceed to the undulating golden sands of the Wahiba Desert. The great Wahiba sands are longitudinal dunes 200km long and 100km wide running south from the Eastern Hajars to the Arabian Sea. This is the traditional home of the Bedouin, hardy spirited people who know how to survive in these harsh desert conditions. Indulge in some thrilling dune bashing before returning to Muscat in evening at approximately 16:30.
What's not included
Expenses of any personal nature
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
1
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Tripadvisor
4.5
6 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Important notes
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
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
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