Oman desert holidays

Oman is only gradually opening up to tourism and for the most part they’re aiming upscale, with luxury hotels prevalent. You will struggle to find ‘authentic’ accommodation, but many tours do aim for smaller, locally owned properties. And while staying in a Bedouin desert camp is a popular visitor activity, it doesn’t feel especially geared towards tourists; the welcome you receive, the style of accommodation, and the food are all thoroughly in keeping with tradition.

Desert holidays in Oman can be as part of a small group of six to 12 people, where you have the benefit of a tour leader to ensure everything runs smoothly, as well as the social aspect. They can also be tailor made holidays, in which not only the dates, but the itinerary itself can be shaped to your preferences. You’ll be accompanied by local guides and drivers too, which naturally adds depth and colour to your perceptions of Oman.

Most trips focus on the northern, hottest parts of Oman and will feature at least one night in a Bedouin desert camp such as those of the Wahiba Sands. Classic and highly sought-after activities include camel safaris, swimming in wadis and dune bashing in 4x4s, but what will really move you are the utter stillness and beauty of the desert as you lie beneath a canvas of brilliant stars.