Sharqiya Sands for a first safari

Sharqiya Sands is one of the best choices for a first safari.

Suitability: ★★★★★

The Sharqiya Sands are a sand sea in eastern Oman covering about 12,500 km² and running some 180 km north to south. Around 200 animal species and 150 native plant species have been recorded there.

Why Sharqiya Sands for a first safari?

• 1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in Sharqiya Sands

• Overnight stays in camps among the dunes
• Northern dunes rising to about 100 m
• Encounters with Bedouin life and customs
• Camel and horse races at Bidiyah
• Clear skies for stargazing

Wildlife you may encounter: camels, foxes and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 2 days. The edge of the sands is about three hours by road from Muscat via Ibra to Al Mintirib or Bidiyah. Driving into the dunes needs a 4x4, and many camps offer pick-up from the desert edge.

Activities that fit

dune bashing, camel rides and cultural visits.

When to go

The best period overall is December to February.

Best period for dune camping; nights are noticeably cooler.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Dubai Desert United Arab Emirates
• Sir Bani Yas Island United Arab Emirates
• AlUla Saudi Arabia
• Ras Al Jinz Oman
• Ras Al Khaimah Desert United Arab Emirates
• Khor Al Adaid Qatar

Full Sharqiya Sands guideBest safaris for a first safari

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Sources: Experience Oman – A'Sharqiyah Sands · Wikipedia – Wahiba Sands · oman.de – Wahiba Sands · Weather Spark – Badiyah (Bidiyah) climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.