How to best enjoy nature you ask? Wild camping. And in Oman, we have quite the spots for your memorable trip. From the isolated deserts of Sharqiya, to year-round ponds of water, secluded beaches, and outstanding mountain views. Here are our top five spots to encamp the night away.
Sharqiya Sands (Wahiba Sands)
Pitching your camp atop the dunes is as good as camping gets. These oases of sands are perfectly isolated from the hustle and bustle of the capital, making it the number one camping destination in Oman. At the heart of the desert, you will relive an unparalleled nomadic experience and get to meet Bedouin families stationed to offer you a glimpse into the traditional life of the desert dwellers. Did we mention that the weather is quite breezy in the evening? Yes. Bring a jacket.
Location: On Google Maps
Coordinates: 21.4378° N, 58.5544° E
*Coming here requires a 4×4 and an expert driver.
2. Jabal Shams
Spending a few nights on the top of the world has a freeing vibe of its own. The grand canyon of Oman, Jabal Shams, has become a camping destination for travellers seeking an isolated experience amid mountainous views and rugged beauty. Campers will also get to hike up the mountain and visit small communities. Similar to the desert, temperatures are in the lower end in the evening.
Location: On Google Maps
Coordinates: 23.2376° N, 57.2649° E
*Coming here requires a 4×4 and an expert driver.
3. Mughsayl Beach
When it comes to picturesque beaches, Mughsayl wins first place. The Salalah beach is famous for its azure waters and sugary sands that stretch for kilometres, serving a somewhat secluded escape full of oceanic views. Camping here is a lot of fun; you will not only get to spend a few nights by the beach, but you will also get to savour traditional staples from the Dhofari kitchen such as Muthbi (perfectly seasoned chicken grilled on rocks and a bunch of charcoal).
Location: On Google Maps
Coordinates: 16.8827° N, 53.7973° E
4. Masirah Island
A long stretch of deserted beaches is what you will find at Oman’s largest island, Masirah. Camping aficionados flock to the island for its private-like atmosphere that makes for a great wild camping spot. You can barbecue, splash some water, and unwind in tranquillity.
Location: On Google Maps
Coordinates: 20.3173° N, 58.6916° E
5. Wadi Shab
You cannot visit Oman without camping at one of the many wadis across the country. With endless options that range from dried up valleys, to water-filled springs and sinkholes, there is something for even the pickiest of campers, but our favourite spot is in Wadi Shab, a haven that hosts a year-round flow of clear waters and a trail for hiking enthusiasts. If you are an adventurer at heart, then a swim into the cave through the wadi is a must.
Location: On Google Maps
Coordinates: 22.8519° N, 59.2366° E
*Coming here does not require a 4×4, but the best spots are best reached with one.
