Full-Day Wahiba Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Group Tour
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9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Option 1: Desert & Wadi Bani Khalid
Start with a 4x4 drive into Wahiba Sands, experiencing dune bashing across golden dunes. Enjoy time for walking, photos, and taking in the vast desert landscape.
After a traditional lunch (vegetarian options available), continue to Wadi Bani Khalid. Swim in clear turquoise pools, explore canyon paths, or relax among palm groves. Swimming is optional but recommended in hot weather.
Option 2: Wadi & Desert – Sunset
Begin at Wadi Bani Khalid with time to swim, explore, or relax. Swimming is optional but recommended in hot weather.
Head to Wahiba Sands for dune bashing and free time on the dunes. Stay to witness the desert sunset before returning to Muscat.
Option 3: Wadi, Desert & Quad
Visit Wadi Bani Khalid to swim, explore, or relax.
Continue to Wahiba Sands for dune bashing, dune walks, and a 30-minute quad bike ride (one quad per person). Depending on timing, you may also witness the desert bathed in warm sunset tones.
Available options
Opt 1: Desert & Oasis Jorney
Duration: 10 hours<br/>lunch included: Traditional Lunch, Vegetarian Options available (except during the month of Ramadan)
<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/>4WD car or Bus<br/>Pickup included
Opt 2: Desert & Sunset Jorney
Duration: 10 hours<br/>Lunch: Traditional Lunch, Vegetarian Options available (except during the month of Ramadan)<br/>Wadi Khalid and Desert Sunset: Explore the stunning oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid, and later experience the magic of the desert with a sunset over the dunes.<br/>4WD car or Bus<br/>Pickup included
Opt 3: Desert with Quads
Duration: 9 hours<br/>Lunch: Traditional Lunch, Vegetarian Options available (except during the month of Ramadan)<br/>Oasis & Desert with Quads: Visit Wadi Bani Khalid to swim, then enjoy desert activities and quad biking in Wahiba Sands before returning to Muscat.<br/>4WD or Bus & Quad Bike<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
During high-demand periods, transfer from Muscat may be provided by a bus instead of a 4x4 vehicle. Dune bashing in the desert still be conducted in 4x4 vehicles, ensuring a full desert experience.
Vegetarian Options available,(Lunch available except during the month of Ramadan)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Wadi Bani Khalid is one of Oman’s most famous wadis, known for its year-round flowing stream and stunning natural pools. Large boulders and clear turquoise waters create perfect spots for swimming, wading, or relaxing. The wadi spans a wide area, covering lowlands and parts of the Hajar Mountains, offering a dramatic contrast of cliffs, palm groves, and water.
Visitors can explore scenic canyon paths, swim in the pools, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The oasis is suitable for families and photographers, with numerous spots to capture the natural beauty. Its combination of flowing water, lush vegetation, and rugged terrain makes Wadi Bani Khalid a must-visit destination for anyone seeking both adventure and tranquility in Oman.
2
Stop 2
Wahiba Sands is one of Oman’s most iconic deserts and a highlight of any trip to the country. Its vast orange sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a truly unique desert experience. The shifting sands are particularly magical at sunrise and sunset, when the dunes glow in golden and red hues. Many travelers choose an overnight stay in a desert camp to fully experience the tranquility, beauty, and star-filled skies of Wahiba Sands.
The road from Muscat to Wadi Bani Khalid takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes one way. This full-day journey allows you to combine the serene oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid with the adventure and vastness of the desert.
What's not included
Gratuities
30-Minutes Quad bike riding (available only in the Quad Bike option)
Camel Riding
Accommodation in the desert hotel is not included if you book the "Desert Overnight" option
Child Seats
Life Jackets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
93 reviews
5★
84
4★
6
3★
3
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
47 reviews
5★
40
4★
5
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Start Time: Start times vary by option. The Desert & Oasis (without sunset) option usually begins around 8:00 AM. Options including sunset or quad bike experiences typically start between 9:00 and 11:00 AM, depending on the season
Fuel Stop & Snacks: There will be a short stop at a fuel station where guests can purchase snacks, juices, or coffee for cash.
Weather Considerations: The tour operates in all weather conditions; however, in the event of extreme weather, certain activities may be adjusted or rescheduled
Pick-up & Drop-off: Transfers are provided from Muscat. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed one day before the tour via WhatsApp, so please provide an active WhatsApp number in advance.
Please note: The total duration of desert and oasis activities is approximately 3 hours; the remaining time of the tour is allocated to travel between Muscat and the activity locations (round trip).
The tour is available for guests aged 5 years and older only
For safety reasons, this tour is not recommended for pregnant guests due to dune bashing activities. We advise booking a private tour without dune driving for a safer and more comfortable experience.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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