Loading...
Navigate the rhythms of nomadic existence
From the Sharqiya Sands to the Gulf of Oman, with Bedouin experts
LIVE WITH BEDOUIN TRIBES: A RARE INVITATION
The magic of Oman’s desert landscapes: vast, remote and otherworldly. But the undulating dunes of the Sharqiya Sands in the east of the sultanate have supported incredible biodiversity and traditional nomadic communities for generations.
On this 5-day, multi-camp journey, travel overland from the urban buzz of Muscat, through the remote expanses of the desert heartlands, and along the sparkling coastline of the Gulf of Oman, to discover how life has survived – and thrived – in such remote isolation. Uncover the multifaceted character of modern Omani desert life, in the company of experts in Bedouin culture.
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
CONNECT WITH NOMADIC TRADITIONS
In an unforgettable experience, board a fisherman’s boat to learn the ropes of life at sea in the Gulf of Oman. Surrounded by the rugged dune coastline, try your luck catching some of the marine region’s rich aquatic bounty. On your return to camp, the Bedouin guides will incorporate the seasonal, fresh fish into a memorable lunch.
ADVENTURE THROUGH A REMOTE WADI
Journey to Wadi Hawir, a remote and beautiful wadi that few travellers have visited. A local guide will lead you into the river valley. Hike, swim and abseil across red rocks, into pristine water basins and under majestic waterfalls to reach a natural pool located at the head of the wadi. Float in crystal-clear waters before the return journey to Muscat.
ENTER THE DESERT DUNES
Drive towards Bidiyah, entering the Sharqiya Sands. Situated in the east of Oman, this mesmerising, 10,000 square kilometre dune landscape has been the home of nomadic Bedouin tribes for generations. Explore the vast dunes on an exhilarating 4x4 off-road driving and dune bashing experience, before arriving at a private desert camp on Oman’s eastern coast, perched between the mountainous sands and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Oman.
STAY AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MUSCAT
This contemporary 5-star hotel offers captivating views over the Omani shores and Hajar mountains. Indulge in a bespoke five-course Silk Road-inspired Omani tasting menu, thoughtfully crafted to take you on a culinary journey through the historic trade routes, and rejuvenate after desert adventures with a 90-minute 'Essence of Muscat' spa treatment.
THE JOURNEY
DAY 1
A private transfer arrives at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat. Visit Club Lounge for sunset drinks served from 5-7pm.
Before journeying into the desert the following morning, spend an afternoon at leisure. The Royal Opera House, the Mutrah Souq and the National Museum of Oman are a short drive away.
In the evening, dine at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat and indulge in a bespoke five-course Silk Road-inspired Omani tasting menu.
DAY 2
Wake up early to drive from Muscat towards Bidiyah, entering the Sharqiya Sands.
Arrive in the desert and meet local Bedouin hosts, your guides to navigating the sands.
Driving deep into the desert, explore the vast dunes on an exhilarating 4x4 off-road driving and dune bashing experience, before arriving at a private desert camp on Oman’s eastern coast.
Discover insights into the nomadic culture of your Bedouin hosts and learn the skills required to cook a traditional camp meal.
DAY 3
Start the morning on board a fisherman’s boat, learning the ropes of life at sea in the Gulf of Oman. Try your luck catching some of the marine region’s rich aquatic bounty.
Depart the coast and venture back into the heart of the desert, to a second private camp in the Sharqiya Sands.
Try locally-sourced camel meat and traditional Omani spices, in a dinner prepared over campfire.
DAY 4
Begin the return drive towards Muscat. As the sun rises, board a private hot air balloon and take in the spectacular beauty of the desert landscape.
Continue to Wadi Hawir, a remote and beautiful wadi that few travellers have visited ,where guests can hike, swim and abseil.
At Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, rejuvenate with a 90-minute 'Essence of Muscat' spa treatment. Alternatively, a personal yoga class or sound healing meditation session can be arranged.
DAY 5
Meet your private driver and depart from Mandarin Oriental, Muscat to the airport.
The Luminaire can organise an additional experience, journeying to the ancient city of Nizwa, Oman’s cultural capital, and home to silversmith industry and crafters of the traditional, ceremonial daggers carried by Omani men: Khanjars. Take a private transfer to Nizwa to learn the skills of silver shaping and decorating from a local Khanjar-maker and pick out a personalised Khanjar before departing.
THE STAYS
PRIVATE BEDOUIN DESERT CAMP
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking backdrop of rolling sand dunes and enjoy a unique blend of adventure, tradition, and natural beauty in a luxury Bedouin camp.
FROM £4,435 PER PERSON
For five days, based on two people sharing.
INCLUSIONS
2 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, including breakfast.
2 nights in private Bedouin desert camps, including breakfast.
Luxury SUV for the duration of your overland adventure.
Local expert guides.
Exclusive traditional fishing boat experience for two.
Private guided wadi exploration.
4x4 off-road and dune bashing experiences.
Desert campsite dining experiences with expert Bedouin guides, including two dinners and one lunch.
Hot air balloon flight over the sands.
90 minute 'Essence of Muscat' spa treatment at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, for each guest.
Five-course Silk Road inspired Omani tasting dinner at Rawya restaurant at Mandarin Oriental
A gift in your room at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
The best time to travel is between October and April.
EXCLUSIONS
Flights.
Airport transfers.
Excursions, meals and drinks other than those mentioned.
Tips and gratuities.
START PERSONALISING YOUR EXPERIENCE
EXCLUSIVE COLLABORATION
A PIONEERING PARTNERSHIP
The Luminaire designs and operates luxury travel experiences for Mandarin Oriental guests and Fans that are rooted in culture and curiosity, with additional products launching each month in close collaboration with Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world.
From a private masterclass with one of the world’s finest watchmaking ateliers in Switzerland, to an immersive trip to the private site where Van Gogh painted his last canvas just outside Paris, each experience has been designed by experts in their field – art historians, conservationists, sommeliers. Discover exciting new ways to explore each Mandarin Oriental destination and enjoy the signature service for which each hotel is renowned.
x
OTHER JOURNEYS IN THE NATURAL WORLD
NORWAY
WONDERS OF NATURE ON THE FRINGES OF THE ARCTIC
CAMBODIA
UNCOVER THE LOST WORLD OF THE KHMER EMPIRE
ARGENTINA