How to Plan Your Tour to the Empty Quarter and a Lost City

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure to Oman’s Empty Quarter and the lost city of Ubar? This private full-day tour from Salalah is the perfect way to explore this vast desert region with a driver-guide to handle off-road trails, show you the sights, and ensure you avoid getting lost.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your tour, including what to expect, how to prepare, and what’s included.

Overview of the Tour

This private full-day trip will take you on an adventure deep into the barren landscape of Oman’s Empty Quarter. During the journey, you will have a unique opportunity to visit the ‘lost city’ of Ubar and witness its ancient ruins. With a guided tour, you can take in the massive dunes and absorb the remote emptiness of the region without transport or navigational worries.

What to Expect

As you embark on this tour, you can expect to be picked up by your driver-guide from your hotel or the airport in Salalah. The pickup time is flexible for this private trip, although we recommend a pick-up time before 9:00 AM.

Once you’re picked up, you’ll be ready to embark on your adventure into the vast emptiness of the desert. During the tour, you will visit the ‘lost city’ of Ubar, soak in the high dunes, and have the opportunity to take part in a thrilling off-road ride.

How to Prepare

Before you embark on this adventure, it’s important to prepare yourself for the journey. Here are some things you should keep in mind:

– Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that will protect you from the sun.
– Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
– Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking or hiking.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled throughout the day.
– Be prepared for a bumpy off-road ride.

What’s Included

Your tour includes:

– Fuel surcharge
– Local taxes
– National Park fees
– Gratuities
– Entry fees
– Hotel or airport pickup and drop-off for ease

How to Book the Tour

Booking this tour is easy. Simply follow this link to book the tour here and choose your preferred date and time. You can also cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

Conclusion

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with this private full-day tour to Oman’s Empty Quarter and the lost city of Ubar. With the help of a guide, you can explore the vast desert region, soak in the high dunes, and witness the ruins of an ancient civilization. Book your tour today to start your journey into the barren and beautiful landscape of Oman.

Insider’s Guide to the Lost City of Ubar

The Empty Quarter, located in the Arabian Peninsula, is one of the world’s most mysterious and rugged landscapes. This vast expanse of desert spans across four countries, including Oman, where the Lost City of Ubar is situated. Ubar was an ancient city that was destroyed by a catastrophic disaster, and its remnants were discovered in the mid-20th century. Today, Ubar is a haven for adventurous travelers who want to experience the magic of the desert and learn about the fascinating history of the region. Here is an insider’s guide to the Lost City of Ubar.

Attractions

The main attraction in Ubar is, of course, the ancient ruins of the city. The ruins are located deep in the desert and require a long, bumpy ride in a 4×4 vehicle to reach. Once you arrive, you will be struck by the sheer scale of the city’s remains. The ruins consist of multiple buildings and structures, some of which are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. There are also several wells that were used by the city’s inhabitants, which are still in use today. Be sure to take a guided tour of the ruins to gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance.

Dining Spots

Ubar is a desert, so don’t expect to find a lot of dining options here. However, there are a few places to grab a bite to eat. Most hotels in the area offer a variety of Middle Eastern and international dishes. If you are feeling adventurous, try some traditional Omani cuisine like shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish, or kabsa, a spicy rice and meat dish. Be sure to sample some Omani sweets, like halwa and dates, which are a staple of the local cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Ubar’s history stretches back thousands of years, and there are many cultural experiences to be had in the region. Visit a Bedouin camp to learn about the traditional way of life in the desert. You can also take a camel ride or go sandboarding to experience the thrill of the dunes. Attend a local festival or ceremony to see traditional music, dance, and dress. If you are lucky, you might even see some local artisans at work, making handicrafts like pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Local History

The history of Ubar is shrouded in mystery and mythology. Legend has it that the city was destroyed by a biblical disaster, but archaeological evidence suggests that it may have been abandoned due to a lack of water. Whatever the reason, the city was lost for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 1950s. Today, the remains of the city offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to learn about the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some extra time in Ubar, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path activities to enjoy. Take a trip to the nearby Al Wahiba Sands, a beautiful desert region that is home to many types of wildlife. You can also visit one of the many historic forts in the area, such as the Nizwa Fort or Bahla Fort. For a truly unique experience, try your hand at falconry, a traditional Omani hunting technique that dates back centuries.

In conclusion, Ubar is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. As you plan your tour to the Empty Quarter and the Lost City of Ubar, make sure to include these attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in your itinerary to have an unforgettable experience.