Whispers Through the Empty Quarter
10 Days Starting in Muscat, Oman and ending in Salalah, Oman
Visiting: Muscat, Jebel Shams, Nizwa, Al Khaluf, Rub Al Khali, Salalah
Tour operator:
Tour code:
840
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
- Get hands on in a cooking class in a local fishing village
- Swim in natural hot springs at the old village of Rustaq
- Explore Al Hamra, Jabrin and Bahla, some of the region's oldest cities of mud houses and abandoned villages
- Discover the golden sands of the Wahiba Desert and the Empty Quarter – the least explored desert in the world
- Traverse the Sugar Dunes and the Bedouin desert town of Rub Al Khali
- Keep your eyes peeled for hardy Bedu and their camel caravans
- Examine geodes, prehistoric small solid or hollow rocks lined with crystals
- Swim in the turquoise waters of Salalah
Arabian nights under a blanket of stars. Soaring sand dunes and labyrinthine cities. It’s time to live out your Lawrence of Arabia fantasies.
Less than 100 years ago, the Empty Quarter had not been mapped let alone crossed by western man. Now it is your chance to embrace the hypnotising landscapes and cultural traditions of this Arabian jewel. Arid landscapes and rolling dunes. Encounter camel trains and the Bedu’s who escort them, mingle with the Bedouins who have lived in these harsh conditions for centuries. Few travellers will get to experience such a remote, untouched yet sparsely beautiful region of our planet.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival Muscat
Location: Muscat
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Shangri-La Al Bandar or similar
Meals Included: Lunch
Welcome to Muscat! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Bait Al Zubair Museum
Begin your day with a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum, a privately owned museum nestled in the old town of Muscat. Renowned for its exquisite collection of traditional costumes, antique jewellery, weapons, and other treasures, this museum offers a fascinating insight into Oman’s rich cultural heritage.
Ministry Area and Al Alam Palace
Pass through the Ministry area and take the opportunity to capture photos at Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of the Sultan, known for its striking architecture and historical significance.
Mirani and Jalali Forts
Next, admire the exterior of the Mirani and Jalali forts, two of Muscat’s most iconic landmarks, guarding the harbour and standing as testaments to Oman’s storied past.
Muttrah Souq
Conclude your tour with a visit to Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in Oman, dating back around two hundred years. The souq’s history, antiquities, and vibrant atmosphere add to its unique charm and allure, making it a must-see for any traveller.
Meals
Lunch
Accommodation
2 nights Shangri-La Al Bandar or similar
Services
Airport transfers
Meet & Assist at the airport after luggage collection
Muscat Half-Day Tour
Travel time and distance
Muscat Airport to Bait Al Zubair Museum: Approx. 34 km/ 30 mins drive
Bait Al Zubair Museum to Ministry Area and Al Alam Palace: Approx. 3 km/ 10 mins drive
Ministry Area and Al Alam Palace to Mirani and Jalali Forts: Approx. 1 km/ 5 mins drive
Mirani and Jalali Forts to Muttrah Souq: Approx. 4 km/ 10 mins. Drive
Day 2 - Muscat
Location: Muscat
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Shangri-La Al Bandar or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, setting the tone for a day filled with cultural exploration.
Cooking Classes at Sidab Village
At midday, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Oman with a cooking class at Sidab Village. Engage with the Sidab women, learning to prepare authentic Omani dishes while gaining insight into their unique culture and traditions. After the class, savour the flavours of your creations in the company of the women who guided you through the experience.
Free Time at Leisure
Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace or relax and unwind, taking in the serene surroundings.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch at cooking class
Accommodation
Shangri-La Al Bandar or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide-driver
Cooking class at Sidab
Travel time and distance
Shangri-La Al Bandar to Sidab Village: Approx. 13.6 Km/ 16 mins drive
Day 3 - Muscat To Jebel Shams
Location: Jebel Shams
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Jebel Shams Resort or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Visit to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Explore the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, built with sandstone and marble. The mosque features a stunning Swarovski chandelier and a massive handmade Persian carpet in the main prayer hall. Note that the mosque’s construction took six years following an architectural competition. Please adhere to the dress code: women must fully cover their hair, arms, and legs; men must wear long trousers and a shirt. Visits are not permitted on Fridays.
Photo Stop at Birkat Al Mouz
Capture the beauty of Birkat Al Mouz, a renowned village in ruins surrounded by a large banana plantation. The site also features the old falaj irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a charming glimpse into the past.
Visit to Al Hamra Village to Ghul Village
Discover the well-preserved old town of Al Hamra and visit the Bait Al Safa living museum. Wander through the old abandoned buildings and mud houses, and learn about Omani traditions as local men and women demonstrate ancient practices. Visit the old village of Ghul to view the abandoned Persian ruins.
Arrival at Jebel Shams
Arrive at Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak at 3,009 metres. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the “Grand Canyon,” a sight that is spectacular at any time of the day.
Meals
Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner at the hotel
Accommodation
2 nights at Jebel Shams Resort or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-Speaking driver-guide
Sightseeing: Grand Mosque – Birkat Al Mouz village – Al Hamra & Bait Al Safa museum – Wadi Ghul – Jebel Shams Grand Canyon
Travel time and distance
Grand Mosque (Muscat) to Birkat Al Mouz village: Approx. 120 km/ 1.5 hrs drive
Birkat Al Mouz village to Al Hamra & Bait Al Safa museum: Approx. 22 km/ 25 mins drive
Al Hamra & Bait Al Safa museum to Wadi Ghul: Approx. 40 km/ 45 mins
Wadi Ghul to Jebel Shams Grand Canyon: Approx. 22 km/ 40 minutes (due to mountainous terrain)
Day 4 - Jebel Shams
Location: Jebel Shams
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Jebel Shams Resort or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arrive at Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest point at 3,009 metres. This stunning location offers an incredible view of the “Grand Canyon,” providing a majestic sight at any time of day.
Scenic Canyon Walk
Embark on a captivating easy walk along the steep canyon walls to an ancient village, transporting you back hundreds of years. Starting from Al Khatim village, the dramatic scenery includes a vast natural amphitheatre, the tiny village of Nakhar nestled in the shadowy depths of the canyon, and the impressive Egyptian vulture with its striking black-and-white-striped wings.
Meals
Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner at the hotel
Accommodation
Jebel Shams Resort or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-Speaking driver-guide
Sightseeing: Jebel Shams Grand Canyon – Jebel Shams trekking Balcony Walk
Travel time and distance
Jebel Shams Hotel to Jebel Shams Grand Canyon: Approx. 30 km/ 45 mins drive
Jebel Shams Grand Canyon to Jebel Shams Trekking Balcony Walk: Approx. 10 km/ 20 mins drive
Jebel Shams Trekking Balcony Walk to Jebel Shams Hotel: Approx. 20 km/ 30 mins drive
Day 5 – Nizwa And Wahiba Sands
Location: Nizwa
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Arabian Oryx Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Photo Stop at Wadi Nakhar
Capture the stunning beauty of Wadi Nakhar, renowned as one of Oman’s most picturesque valleys. This deep valley, with its several branches, offers excellent opportunities for mountaineering and hiking.
Visit to Nizwa
Explore the historic city of Nizwa, the former capital of Oman. Visit the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the oasis from its grand tower. Wander through the bustling souq nearby, where you’ll find a variety of local products including Omani daggers (khanjar), copper and silver jewellery, livestock, fish, vegetables, and handicrafts.
Wahiba Sands
Arrive at the entrance of Wahiba Sands, also known as Sharqiya Sands. Stretching 200 km long and 100 km wide, these longitudinal dunes have been home to the Bedouin for 7,000 years. Climb the high dunes to witness an unforgettable desert sunset before a gentle drive through the dunes to reach your camp.
Enjoy a night under the stars at the Wahiba Desert Camp, immersing yourself in the serene desert environment.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch at local restaurant, Dinner at Camp
Accommodation
Arabian Oryx Camp or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-Speaking guide-driver
Sightseeing: Wadi Nakhar – Nizwa visit – Wahiba desert
Travel time and distance
Jebel Shams Resort to Wadi Nakhar: Approx. 63 km/ About 1.5 hrs drive
Wadi Nakhar to Nizwa: Approx. 90 km/ 1.5 hrs drive
Nizwa to Wahiba Desert: Approx. 150 km/ 2.5 hrs drive
Day 6 – Sugar Dunes
Location: Al Khaluf
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Desert Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your day with breakfast at the camp, fuelling up for the adventures ahead.
Desert Crossing of Mahout
Embark on an exhilarating four-hour journey through the vast sand dunes of Mahout. The dramatic landscape offers an unforgettable experience as you navigate the undulating terrain.
Visit the Sugar Dunes
Explore the stunning Sugar Dunes, also known as Al Khaluf Dunes, located near the fishing village of Al Khaluf, 400km south of Muscat. This hidden gem, with its pristine sand dunes and secluded beaches, is a must-see. The area’s isolation, far from the bustle of Muscat, makes it a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Meals
Breakfast at camp, Picnic Lunch box, Hotel Dinner
Accommodation
Crowne Plaza Duqm or simila
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-speaking guide-driver
Travel time and distance
Wahiba Camp to Mahout (via Desert Crossing): Approx. 200 km/ 4 hrs drive
Mahout to Khaluf: Approx. 110 km/ 1.45 hrs drive
Khaluf to Duqm: Approx. 130 km/ 2 hrs drive
Day 7 - Rub Al Khali
Location: Rub Al Khali
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Desert Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Why not rise early to take in the stunning sunrise? Following breakfast, you will have some free time if you wish to explore a little on foot.
You then continue driving onwards to the desert of Rub Al Khali, known as the ‘Empty Quarter’, the home of the Bedouins in the region of Oman straddling the border with Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Here the extreme temperatures and arid conditions mean that it is mostly uninhabited, although its fringes are home to the proud, resourceful and hardy Bedu, which have survived here for centuries. This is home to the highest sand dunes in the world. The surface of the desert is covered by reddish-orange coloured sand reaching around 250m high. Your expert tour guide dunes his way manoeuvring the vehicles to reach your campsite for an unforgettable night under the stars.
Meals
Breakfast, Picnic Lunch box, Dinner at the hotel
Accommodation
Salalah Magic Camp or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-speaking guide-driver
Travel time and distance
Duqm Hotel to Rub Al Khali Desert: Approx. 360 km/ 4.5 hrs drive
Day 8 – Salalah
Location: Salalah
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Salalah Gardens Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Please note: Both male and female guests are required to wear modest, long clothing during the city tour. This dress code is strictly enforced at all city highlights.
Today you head further south towards Salalah. Be guided through a landscape of colossal golden and red sand dunes, vast salt flats and oases. Experience the sensation of being surrounded by deafening silence and sand. Enjoy supreme tranquillity in one of the most stunning environments on earth. Very few people have the opportunity to explore the vastness of the Empty Quarter. Be sure to make the most of it. Examine geodes, prehistoric small solid or hollow rocks lined with crystals, or perhaps meet up with and chat to Bedus taking camel trains across the desert.
The Museum of the Frankincense Land
Visit “The Museum of the Frankincense Land”, a UNESCO heritage site located in Salalah, the Frankincense Land Museum is the latest addition to Oman’s heritage and cultural scene. It houses two main halls, namely the History Hall and The Marine Hall.
Make a brief stop to experience the locally grown fruits and vegetables at a nearby stall, offering a taste of the region’s fresh produce.
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
Visit the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the largest mosque in Salalah. Open to non-Muslim visitors from Saturday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., this mosque is a key landmark in the city.
Al Husn Palace and Haffah Souk
View the Official Palace of His Majesty the Sultan, known as Al Husn Palace, and take a stroll through the old Haffah souk. This market is famous for its high-quality frankincense and various Dhofari traditional souvenirs.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
2 nights in Salalah Gardens Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-Speaking guide-driver
Sightseeing: UNESCO site, Sultan Qaboos Mosque, Palace, Souk
Journey Distance
Approx 470km for the day
Day 9 – Salalah East Half-Day City Tour
Location: Salalah
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Salalah Gardens Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Taqah
Today you will visit the old fishing village of Taqah. Visit the century-old Taqah Castle, the former official residence of the “Wali‟ (Governor) of the region and have a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
Khori Rohri
Continue onto the ancient ruins of the once-famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). Khor Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar, and one of the major trading cities with frankincense, believed to have been the hub and harbour for the shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage site).
Mirbat
A picturesque drive then leads you to Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of the Frankincense trail. Stroll through the streets lined with old Omani houses and visit the “twin-domed Bin Ali’s Tomb‟ as a photo stop. This is a classic example of medieval architecture. On the way back, explore the natural springs of “Ayn Razat” before you return to the hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
Salalah Gardens Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle (4 x 4) with English-speaking guide-driver
Half-Day Salalah East Tour: Taqah, Khori Rohri, Mirbat
Journey Distance
Approx 90km for the day
Day 10 - Departure
Location: Salalah
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning your tour ends after breakfast. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
Meal
Breakfast
Services
Airport transfer
What's Included
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Return airport transfers
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Meals as mentioned above
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Air conditioned 4WD transportation with English-speaking local driver-guide
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8 nights’ Accommodation as per the itinerary
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Cooking class in Muscat
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Entrance fees to all attractions as per itinerary
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Full camping gear, additional crew for set up and break down camp prior to arrival on site
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Use of standard Coleman tents (big) with comfortable beds and mattresses, toilet and shower
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Drinks unless otherwise mentioned
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Visas
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Travel Insurance
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Tips
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Inoculations
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Items of a personal nature
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Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides air-conditioned 4WD transportation with an English-speaking local driver-guide. This includes seamless transfers, such as airport pickups, and private vehicle services throughout the tour.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour offers a blend of luxury and adventure with stays at the Shangri-La Al Bandar, Jebel Shams Resort, Arabian Oryx Camp, Crowne Plaza Duqm, and Salalah Gardens Hotel. Accommodations include comfortable beds, modern amenities, and unique desert camping experiences under the stars.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, meals as mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.
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Is there a cooking class included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a cooking class in Muscat where you can engage with local women and learn to prepare authentic Omani dishes.
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What kind of camping experience is provided in the desert?
The tour includes full camping gear and additional crew for setting up and breaking down camp. You will use standard Coleman tents with comfortable beds and mattresses, toilet, and shower facilities.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include exploring the golden sands of the Wahiba Desert and the Empty Quarter, swimming in natural hot springs at Rustaq, and visiting some of the region's oldest cities of mud houses and abandoned villages like Al Hamra, Jabrin, and Bahla.
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What is the dress code for visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque?
Visitors to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque must adhere to a dress code: women must fully cover their hair, arms, and legs, and men must wear long trousers and a shirt. Visits are not permitted on Fridays.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.