How to Plan Your Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour in Dhofar, Oman

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure in Oman, the Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour is just the thing for you. With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, soft drinks, water, coffee, tea and juice, dinner at the desert camp, and entrance fees already included, all that’s left for you to do is book your spot and prepare for an incredible day out.

Below, we’ve put together a guide to help you plan your Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour in Dhofar, Oman, including the highlights you can expect, what’s included in the tour, and some important things to keep in mind.

Highlights

This full-day tour is packed with exciting activities and stunning sights, including:

– Visiting the ancient city of Thumrait, a small town in southern Oman on the main road between Dhofar and Muscat.
– Exploring the Duka Valley and seeing many old Frankincense trees.
– Learning about the so-called lost city of Ubar, which was allegedly destroyed by the southern Arabian sands.
– Spending time in the world’s largest sand desert, the Rub’ al Khali (the Empty Quarter Desert), and interacting with Bedouins.
– Having dinner in the desert while you learn all about the Bedouin lifestyle.

Full Description

The tour begins with a scenic drive towards the north, where you’ll visit the ancient city of Thumrait. This small town is located on the main road between Dhofar and Muscat and boasts some impressive architecture, including the Thumrait Castle and the Bin Ali Mosque.

Next, you’ll head to the Duka Valley, an area known for its many old Frankincense trees. Here, you can learn all about the history and uses of this fragrant resin, which has been traded in the region for thousands of years.

After visiting the Duka Valley, you’ll continue on to the UNESCO-listed city of Ubar. Also known as the the lost city, Ubar is said to have been destroyed by the southern Arabian sands. Nonetheless, it is still possible to see the remains of the city today, including the famous “well of souls.”

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the Rub’ al Khali Desert. This is the largest continuous sand desert in the world and is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, including Arabian oryx and desert foxes. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to interact with Bedouins and learn all about their lifestyle, customs, and traditions. Finally, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner in the desert camp while watching the sunset over the sand dunes.

What’s Included

The Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour is an all-inclusive experience, with the following amenities provided:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– English-speaking guide
– Soft drinks, water, coffee, tea, and juice
– Dinner at the desert camp
– Entrance fees
– Gratuities

What to Know Before You Go

The Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour is an incredible experience, but it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

– This tour is not suitable for children under four years old or pregnant women.
– People with mobility impairments may not be able to participate in all activities on the tour.
– The tour lasts for a full day, so be sure to bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and any medications you may need.
– Photography is allowed, but it’s important to be respectful of the Bedouins and their way of life.

Ready to Book Your Tour?

If you’re ready to book your Sunset Desert Empty Quarter Desert Tour in Dhofar, Oman, simply head to the following link:book the tour here. With this comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable and hassle-free adventure in the Rub’ al Khali Desert.

An Insider’s Guide to Dhofar, Oman

If you’re planning a trip to Oman, you’re in for an incredible journey. From its breathtaking landscapes to its fascinating history, Oman is a country that is rich in both culture and natural beauty. In particular, the region of Dhofar stands out for its stunning desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at some of the hidden gems of the region, and provide you with tips for dining, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten path adventures.

Local Attractions

While there are plenty of popular tourist spots in Dhofar, why not discover some hidden gems only known by the locals? For instance, the modern Omani architecture at Sultan Qaboos Mosque is a stunning spectacle all day, but even more enchanting at night when the area is illuminated. In addition, the Salalah Museum contains a vast collection of artefacts relating to the region’s history, including the legendary frankincense and incense burners. Another hidden gem that visitors could try is camel racing, a popular sport in Oman. Head to Al-Mazyoona Camel Racetrack and try your luck while watching the most energetic of camels compete with each other.

Dining Spots

Omani cuisine is as rich and diverse as the country’s culture, offering visitors an explosion of flavors. Make sure to try some local delicacies like shuwa, a dish consisting of lamb or beef slow-cooked in underground ovens. Another must-try is the Indian influenced snack, the murtabak, which is a savory pancake filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. While Al Hafilat Cafe and Frandeen Cafe provide admirable international and local cuisine, the real culinary treasures are at local markets and street food stalls.

Cultural Experiences

To understand the culture of Dhofar, there’s nothing better than the annual Salalah Festival, a two-week-long celebration of art, music, and dance. From traditional arts and crafts to folk dance performances, the festival allows visitors to experience the richness of Omani culture in one place. Similarly, the Salalah Tourism Festival is a celebration of local heritage, with stunning cultural shows, folk music festivals, and beautiful dance performances featuring professional Omani artistes.

Local History

To get a glimpse into the city’s past, why not visit the ancient tomb complexes of Al Baleed Archaeological Site? Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, the site encompasses a maritime industrial city that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Visitors can explore several historical landmarks including Kings Palace, Jawala Mosque, and the Museum of the Frankincense Land, which provides a history of the growth and spread of Frankincense.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a road trip to the Empty Quarter Desert? With its undulating sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see, the empty quarter desert is a photographer’s dream. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit the area, as the sun bathes the sand dunes in a warm glow. You can also take a hot air balloon tour over the desert, which offers a bird’s eye view of the vast open space and a feeling of tranquility.

In conclusion, Dhofar may be like any other popular travel destination, but with an insider’s guide, you’ll find that there are numerous hidden treasures that go beyond expectations. With a blend of culture, history, cuisine, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do and see in this beautiful city.