There’s nothing like the desert to relax and recharge while setting aside all worries. I enjoy coming here in the winter for camping because there’s something about the morning sand that has been untouched in various reddish and golden hues.
The stars stand out on a clear night; sometimes, you’ll see a shooting star or two if you’re lucky.
Whether you like more of a glamping style or camping style, both options are available at Wahiba Sands. Discover both styles below.
Getting to Wahiba Sands
Wahiba Sands is about an hour and a half from Sur and two hours from Muscat. For those glamping, the pickup point is usually in Bidiya, about twenty minutes from Wahiba Sands.
Google maps
For those camping, the location is Wahiba Sands. If the directions don’t pull up, try Sharqiya Sands.
Ensure to take air out of the tires before entering to avoid getting stuck. A four-wheel is needed.
Once inside the desert, it is possible to set up a tent anywhere for those camping. I recommend arriving around 4 pm to relax, set up, and enjoy the sunset, for both glamping and camping in Oman’s desert.
Glamping
My friends and I stayed at Starry Domes and enjoyed our time. There were four of us, so we booked two domes.
The double room domes included a private bathroom, a table, and two cushioned chairs.
We also had a small deck with a table and two reclining lounge chairs. We had our BBQ dinner of chicken and rice outside.
Starry Domes is an excellent spot for a photo shoot. They have a swing and mirror near the domes, making for fun reflection pictures.
Cost
The cost was 70 rials for Mars and Venus domes, which included breakfast. Breakfast was French toast, eggs, beans, and bread. We paid an extra five rials for dinner because we did not feel like bringing food to cook.
We parked in Bidiya and paid an additional 25 rials for someone to take us to the domes because we did not have a four-wheel. Contact @starry_domes on Instagram to book.
Other Glamping Options
There are other glamping options at Wahiba Sands, but I haven’t experienced them. Some places offer camel rides and dune bashing.
A few other places to check on Instagram
@arabiannightsresortandspaoman
@thousand_nights_oman
@samaalwasilcamp
Camping
I have camped in the desert with tents several times. The people I have gone with have a four-wheel, so we usually drive around until we find a good spot.
Some like to be near trees, while others want to drive on top of the dunes, away from everything.
Camping store
For those who don’t have tents, there are some camping shops in Bidiya. Sometimes, I bring a light mattress pad for extra cushion, but it’s usually okay without one since it’s sand.
Supplies
For glamping, bring snacks and food if you want to BBQ yourself. Bring a small grill, charcoal, lighter fluid, firewood, food, water, head torch, a tent, a sleeping bag, cards, and anything else to feel comfortable camping.
Temperatures can reach 10-15 degrees Celsius in December, so I bring a fleece jacket, scarf, and winter hat because I do not like being cold.
Best time to go
I think November, December, and early January are good months to go because the sun won’t be so intense by 7:00 in the morning.
Visiting Wahiba Sands
Both options are suitable for the desert, whether glamping or camping. Discover Oman’s beautiful desert and spend a night tuning out everything and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.