Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands) Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Wahiba Sands. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Full-Day Private Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba Sanda Desert/Sunset

• Desert Safari Sharing Tours

• Hot Air Balloon Tour at Wahiba Sands

• Desert Safari Private

• Private Tour to Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba Sand Desert With Sunset

While it costs nothing to visit and explore the dunes of Wahiba Sands, you do need to think about the cost of getting there from Muscat. Guided tours offer the easiest solution, with group tours starting from roughly US$130 and private tours at US$190. Balloon rides are another way to see this desert and cost around US$300.

Yes, the Wahiba Sands are well worth visiting if you want to experience Oman's desert landscapes. Not only can you see and drive through sand dunes here, but you can also visit the tents of the nomadic people to see how they live in the desert. If you're already going to the nearby beautiful Wadi Bani Khalid, there's no reason not to include a visit to this desert area.

Per one customer who booked the Full-Day Private Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba Sanda Desert/Sunset, "You can't go to Oman and not see the desert! Muneer was an exceptional tour guide, putting in his best efforts to ensure I had a great experience on this private tour. The desert exploration was nothing short of magical, and I'm already looking forward to returning and spending a night in this amazing landscape."

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.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting Wahiba Sands. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Muscat:

• Qurum Beach

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

• Royal Opera House

• Muttrah Souq

• Al Alam Palace

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Muscat.