In the heart of eastern Oman, the Wahiba Sands is an ocean of regular dunes that seem to stretch out endlessly. Pale gold at noon, the towering piles of sand shift between rich yellow and coppery orange when the sun is at lower angles. Just a three-hour drive from Muscat, an overnight stay here offers an easy way to experience the primal power of the desert from the comfort of luxe camps. The sands are an important piece of the puzzle that is Oman, and you can add a night to any itinerary — it’s an especially good place for a family adventure.

Bedouin style, honed by centuries living in this unforgiving landscape, has a strong influence on many of the camps in the desert. For a wholly authentic experience, you can choose to stay in a traditional black-wool tent, though if you prefer more creature comforts, you can choose a more indulgent tent that boasts air conditioning. Once the sun has set, dine on local cuisine like lamb and mint tea served on low tables around a crackling fire.

The Wahiba Sands weather is extremely hot and dry usually during the summers. So the best time to visit Wahiba Sands is during the months of October to March which is wintertime. The summer season begins mid-April and lasts until late September. The temperatures can normally reach up to 50 degrees. The deserts will be exceptionally hot and sweaty during this time period. Winter temperatures in Oman are pleasant. Precipitations are quite low during this time. Temperatures are normally at a level of 24 degrees during the day but the nights get pretty chilly. This would be the best time to go to the desert.

Here are some of the best things to do when in Wahiba Sands.

Wahiba Sands Camping : You can find many camps in the desert and it’s very easy to join it with your 4x4, you just need to follow the road in the desert or pay for a transfer with your campsite if you don’t want to drive. Important advice, don’t camp too close from the little bush but prefer open places with sand. In the bush, insects might go out at night and disturb you while you are eating or sleeping and I am sure you don’t want to be woken up by scorpions! Don’t walk barefoot for long distances especially at night. Better to stay grouped in any case, getting lost is really easy in the desert.

Dune Bashing : Regardless of where you decide to stay, there will be plenty of options to choose from — dune bashing, quad biking, sandboarding, camel riding, desert trekking, sunset drives, and more. Our expert guides and drivers take you on a thrilling ride through the majestic dunes of Dubai's desert, providing an unforgettable experience that is both safe and fun.

Wadi Bani Khalid : One of the famous wadi in Oman with stunning desert oasis swimming in the emerald pools surrounded by a rugged ravine and vibrant date palms. Wadi Bani Khalid has been developed with a few bridges, seating areas, and a restaurant, but it doesn’t detract from its beauty. The pools are full of fish that will give you a foot massage if you dangle your feet it. Swimming in the pools was wonderfully refreshing—it felt cold at first, but I soon warmed up and loved swimming around the massive pools, apparently followed by a school of fish!

Al Ayjah Lighthouse : The Lighthouse, the Old town, Bila Sur Castle Ayjah watchtowers are a few that must not be missed. It is best suited for those who have a keen interest in culture and heritage. Sur is a great place to immerse oneself in the unique atmosphere along the Corniche, and to enjoy the picturesque view of the Arabian Sea.