If you want to really understand a country, you have to leave the city behind, at least for a few hours. Oman is no exception. When going to Muscat, please don’t limit yourself to beaches and shopping malls. Go beyond the city and explore its natural wonders such as vast deserts and lush oases.
In this guide, we will try to make things easier for you by breaking down the cost of desert safari tour options, looking into what each package includes, and helping you find the best value for your money.
Best desert safari location in Oman
Most of the tour operators in Oman will take you to this classic desert safari location – Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya Sands). It is close to Muscat, easy to reach, and offers everything travelers expect from a classic desert experience — without feeling too extreme.
What makes Wahiba Sands special:
- Perfect dunes: Long, soft golden dunes ideal for dune driving and sand boarding.
- Authentic atmosphere: Home to Bedouin families and traditional desert camps.
- Beautiful sunsets: Wide open views and warm colors that look incredible at sunset.
- Easy access: Just a few hours from Muscat, making it perfect for day or overnight trips.
Whether you want a quick adventure or a peaceful night under the stars, Wahiba Sands delivers the true Omani desert experience in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Types of safari tours: what to expect and what’s included
To understand the desert safari price, it helps to look at what is usually included in a standard package. A typical tour package consists of a pickup and drop-off, jeep dune bashing, stops for taking pictures, and then sand boarding or camel riding. Then they will take you to the desert camp where more activities await.
Below is brief overview of what is usually included in the package:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation in an air-conditioned 4WD vehicle
- Professional English-speaking licensed driver
- Dune bashing
- Sand boarding
- Buggy or quad biking (available for an additional charge)
- Camp visit
- Welcome drinks
- Henna painting
- Short camel ride
- Shisha (hookah) smoking (not everywhere)
- Traditional dance performance
- Unlimited water and non-alcoholic beverages
- BBQ buffet dinner
Evening tours add dinner and live entertainment, which explains why Wahiba Sands desert safari rates in the evening are higher than morning options. Afternoon and evening tours cost between $80 and $150 per person. Packages with quad bikes included are usually more expensive.
Notably, on a group tour, you will most likely share a car with other tourists. If you want to go only by your company or family, book a private package. Depending on the tour duration and services included, a private package desert safari price will be between $250 and $500. Alternatively, you can share the cost between participants.
Morning desert safari
To get there before the scorching heat makes it impossible to breathe, you need to set off at around 7:00 am. The trip itself will be shorter than an afternoon tour and will last around three hours. With getting up early and arriving in the desert first, you get some undeniable benefits:
- It's only you and the desert – no crowds, no noise, no distraction. The majority of groups arrive in the afternoon, so you will have a near-private experience before everyone gets there.
- Desert sunrise is something you won't see often. The first golden rays of sunlight paint the dunes in warm hues, creating a truly magical landscape. It’s a sight you won’t easily forget.
- The sand surface is still untouched. Pristine ripples left by the night breeze create a perfect backdrop for stunning, one-of-a-kind photos.
- The trip is short and not tiring, so you won’t feel exhausted by the end of it.
- You are free for the rest of the day and can explore the city at your own pace.
- The price for such tours usually ranges between $50 and $70 per person.
At the same time, there are some important factors that need to be considered. By 10-11 am, the temperature rises so high, especially in the summer, that it gets very uncomfortable to stay outside. Although all SUVs come with air-conditioning, stepping out onto the burning-hot sand can be quite a challenge. Also, keep in mind that this tour does not include a Bedouin camp visit or the evening entertainment show.
To sum it up, morning safaris are quite an affordable way to explore the peaceful beauty of the desert. The morning desert safari rates for morning tours usually range between $60 and $80 which makes it the most budget-friendly option.
Evening desert safari
But what if you are not a big fan of getting up at the crack of dawn? Then, evening safari tours come to the rescue. They usually start after 2:00 pm and end around 8:00 pm.
What unites them all is that most of them include the visit to the Bedouin camp and the evening show program. So, the program is more action-packed and culturally oriented. Besides, they offer some fun activities such as sand boarding, camel riding and buggy riding (in some packages) that morning tours usually lack. Let’s take a look at what else awaits:
By late afternoon, temperatures drop to a more bearable level, and closer to the night, it can even get chilly.
- A desert sunset feels like something straight out of an Arabian fairy tale. The golden hour lighting makes it a perfect set for your Vogue-like photoshoot.
- A rare chance to see a starry desert sky. Light pollution in cities makes stargazing nearly impossible, but in the desert, the stars shine brightly.
- Some extended tours offer an overnight stay in a desert camp which is a rare and unique experience.
- A comprehensive entertainment program with live music and belly dancing lets you fully immerse yourself in the rich cultural and festive ambiance of the desert.
- A delicious BBQ buffet is included, so you don’t have to worry about dinner when you get back to the city.
Because of the extended program, evening safari rates are higher, typically ranging from $80 to $150 per person, depending on the program.
Overnight desert safari
An overnight trip is designed for travelers seeking a deeper and more immersive desert experience. In addition to the standard evening activities, these tours include overnight accommodation in a desert camp, stargazing, and a simple breakfast the next morning.
Due to the added duration and services, the desert safari price for overnight tours starts from $180 per person and can go higher depending on accommodation type. While more expensive, the cost reflects the extended experience and exclusive desert atmosphere.
Adventure safari
Adventure safaris focus on adrenaline-driven activities such as aggressive dune bashing, quad biking, dune buggy rides, and sand boarding. These tours are ideal for thrill-seekers who prioritize action over cultural elements.
Since high-powered vehicles and extra activities are involved, the desert safari cost per person for adventure packages is usually higher than standard tours. Prices typically start at $120 and increase based on the number of activities included.
Private desert safari
A private package offers a fully customized experience with a dedicated vehicle and guide. Guests can adjust the pace, activities, and duration according to their preferences, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups.
The desert safari price for private tours usually ranges between $250 and $500 per vehicle, depending on inclusions and duration. While the upfront desert safari cost is higher, it can be cost-effective when shared among several participants.
Desert safari activities at a glance
Desert safari tours combine adrenaline-filled rides with cultural and leisure experiences. Below are the main activities most travelers can expect.
Dune bashing
Dune bashing is the core of every desert trip. Experienced drivers take 4WD vehicles across high sand dunes at speed, creating a thrilling, roller-coaster-like ride. The drive usually lasts 10–20 minutes and ends with a stop on a dune for sunset photos. This activity is not suitable for pregnant women or guests with back, neck, or motion-sickness issues. Skipping dune bashing does not affect the tour price.
Camel riding
Camel rides take place at the desert camp and last around 10 minutes. It is a calm, traditional experience that reflects Bedouin life and offers a unique photo opportunity. Even guests who choose not to ride usually enjoy seeing camels up close.
Sand boarding
Sand boarding is similar to snowboarding or surfing on dunes. No experience is required. Riders slide down gentle slopes on a board, with climbing back up being the most challenging part. It is fun, safe, and suitable for most ages.
Quad biking
Quad biking is an optional activity and usually costs extra. For an additional fee, guests can ride ATVs on flat desert terrain under supervision. It offers extra excitement for those who want more action beyond the standard safari program. Dune buggies are sometimes available as a safer alternative.
Desert safari cost in Oman
The desert safari Wahiba Sands price mainly depends on the tour duration and what is included in the package. Evening and overnight safaris are the most common options, as they combine multiple activities into a single experience.
After comparing the existing options, the Evening Desert Safari package stands out as the best value package for most travelers. It offers an ideal balance of quality and price, combining adrenaline-pumping adventure with rich cultural experiences at a very reasonable cost. For around $150 per person, you get a comprehensive desert journey.
If you have the time and don’t mind a higher price, the Overnight Desert Safari offers an extended experience with the magical bonus of camping in the desert night. It’s a fantastic value for the additional hours, including sunrise views and breakfast, and is perfect for those craving extra adventure and time under the stars. However, for the majority of visitors with a normal schedule, the evening safari hits the sweet spot between duration, activities, and affordability.
Key Takeaways:
- Average Wahiba Sands desert safari rates range between $120 and $150 per person, covering hotel transfers, dune bashing, sand boarding, camel rides, a desert camp visit, live entertainment, and a BBQ dinner.
- Overnight options are priced higher, starting from $180 per person. The higher cost reflects the extended duration and added services such as overnight accommodation, stargazing, and breakfast.
- Private desert safari prices start from approximately 95–125 OMR per vehicle.. This is the most luxury option with a car and a guide and all services devoted solely to you.
Safety tips for desert safari in Oman
1. Follow your driver’s instructions at all times
Drivers of the SUVs are trained for dune conditions and emergency situations. Always stay seated with your seatbelt fastened and avoid sudden movements during dune bashing.
2. Know when to skip dune bashing
If you are pregnant, have back or neck problems, or suffer from motion sickness, inform the operator in advance. You can skip dune bashing without missing the rest of the safari experience.
3. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
Choose light, breathable clothing and closed shoes. Sand can be extremely hot, especially in summer, and open footwear increases the risk of burns or discomfort.
4. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to reduce sun exposure, particularly during daytime and early afternoon tours.
5. Respect animals and desert conditions
Do not approach camels or wildlife without permission, and avoid wandering away from the group. The desert environment can change quickly, and staying close ensures safety.
Frequently asked questions
Is desert safari safe for beginners?
The good news is that Oman desert safaris are for everyone. Unless you have some medical limitations, you can go safely for a desert safari as a first timer. No special skills are needed.
What is the best time to experience a desert safari—morning or evening?
For a more private and silent experience - morning. For a more rounded experience and longer tout - evening.
Can children join the desert safari?
Absolutely yes, it is safe for children as long as they stay under your supervision. As for dune riding, there are age limitations.
Do you need travel insurance for desert safari?
You’d better have insurance before coming to a new country and make sure it covers extreme activities.
How long does the desert safari last?
It depends on the tour program: from 3 hours in the morning, to 6-8 hours in the evening, and 14-16 hours for an overnight tour.