Rub al Khali Sunset Safari: Full-Day Private 4WD Tour

5.0
(19 reviews)

7 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Leave the city behind and venture deep into the legendary Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali) — the world’s largest sand desert. On this full-day private 4WD expedition, you’ll journey nearly 400 km round-trip from Salalah, passing through desert towns, frankincense landscapes, and archaeological sites before reaching the untouched golden dunes. As the sun sets over endless horizons, experience the desert’s silence, enjoy local refreshments, and capture unforgettable photos far from the crowds. This is not a quick dune ride, but a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into the true heart of Arabia.

Highlights:

Travel by private 4WD deep into the Rub al Khali desert (400 km round trip)

Watch the heavens change colors over sweeping dunes

Pass through Thumrait town and the frankincense landscapes of Dhofar

Climb remote dunes and watch a dramatic desert sunset far from tourist areas

Enter the vast Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter) — the world’s largest sand desert

What's Included

Fuel surcharge
Bottled water
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
All site fees and taxes
Coffee and/or Tea
Personal gear (sun hat, flashlight, warm wrap, etc.)
Gratuities (optional)
Any items not clearly listed under “Included”

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We pick up from any hotel in the region

Itinerary

Duration: 7 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Wadi Dawkha

    Drive via 'Qara' mountains. On a road progressively zigzagging up a vertical hill, herds of Camels & Cattle are a commonly spotted on the way which gives a picturesque view of one of Dhofari environments. Stop and visit Wadi Doka in the beginning of Najd (semi-desert) district 35 kilometres north of Salalah towards toward Thumrait (Bedouins settlement). Arrive at this UNESCO registered national reserve that contains 1230 perennial frankincense trees covering an area of 5 km” and have a real experience about this valuable famous tree. In addition to its scented smell, frankincense is also used as a remedial element

    35 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Proceed to Thumrait Town to have a few minutes refreshment and may be enjoying the Taste of Arabian cup of Coffee (Qahwah) and Dates (Tamer). The town of Thumrait has been a vital point in the ancient Frankincense trading routes. Gear up as you head to the next stop of lost city of Ubar archaeological.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Visit the city that has occupied, for centuries, the minds of historians and researchers for lost places, especially because its great reputation, in terms of its treasures, as well as its features that history was unable to forget despite its disappearance for a long time. Since 1930, the first failed attempt of search for the city by Bertram Sidney Thomas (his book- Arabian Felix), the English diplomat and explorer who is the first documented Westerner to cross the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) and in 1940 by Sir Wilfred Patrick Thesiger another English explorer, whom wrote a book about his journey (Arabian Sands). Until the year 1992, the American researcher Nicolas clap with support of NASA satellites found great archaeological discoveries. Experience the remains of this ancient city and learn about the details of this UNESCO registered valuable history.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Ride the dunes, chase the light, and end the day with a golden horizon. Experience the thrill of dune bashing across the majestic Empty Quarter, then pause atop the highest dunes to watch the sun melt into waves of sand. A perfect mix of adrenaline and awe in one of the world’s most remote deserts.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Amazing Salalah Tourism

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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
4WD Tours
Safaris
Archaeology Tours
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 19 19 reviews
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