The desert safaris of Salalah offer exceptional value for adventurous travelers. The must-do experience is dune-bashing in the massive Rub’ al Khali desert – it’s thrilling and well-organized by local operators. I’m particularly impressed with the combination tours that pair desert adventures with visits to the refreshing Samhan mountains and Darbat waterfall. History buffs will appreciate stops at the well-preserved Taqah Castle and ancient Sumhuram ruins.
The best tours hit multiple highlights in a single day, with knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share cultural insights. Small-group and private options are available, though I recommend the small groups for better value. Camel encounters add an authentic touch to the desert experience.
Let’s explore the top-rated safari tours in Salalah.
Good To Know
- The Sunset Desert Safari, Luxury Sunset Desert Safari, and Desert Safari Trip Full Day & Ubar Lost City offer highly-rated dune bashing and desert experiences in Salalah.
- The East Salalah Mountain Safari, Mountain Safari Private Tour, and Samhan Mountain & Private Desert Safari provide immersive tours of Salalah’s historical sites and natural wonders.
- The West Salalah Safari offers a 4-hour private tour covering Mughsail and Fazayah White Beach, with customizable start times and pickup options.
- Most tours have free cancellation and rescheduling policies up to 24 hours in advance, with considerations for accessibility and certain medical conditions.
- The safari tours in Salalah have exceptional customer satisfaction, with many tours averaging a 98-100% recommendation rate and 5.0 overall ratings.
East Salalah Mountain Safari: 6-8 Hours Darbat Waterfall & Samhan
The East Salalah Mountain Safari typically takes visitors on a captivating 6-8 hour journey through Salalah’s eastern region.
Highlights include discovering historical sites like Taqah Castle and the ruins of Sumhuram, which have links to the Queen of Sheba.
Travelers can also explore the natural wonders of Wadi Darbat and the Samhan mountains.
The tour provides transportation, an experienced Omani guide, and optional add-ons like boating and meals.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this private safari offers an immersive experience showcasing Salalah’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
The flexible cancellation policy and accessibility features make it an attractive option for most travelers.
Read our full review: East Salalah Mountain Safari: 6-8 Hours Darbat Waterfall & Samhan Review
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Mountain Safari Private Tour
Salalah Premium Tours offers an exhilarating Mountain Safari Private Tour, immersing visitors in Salalah’s stunning natural landscapes. Priced from €187.78 per group (up to 4), this tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a delicious lunch.
Travelers can enjoy a 92% recommendation rate and a 5.0 overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but most travelers can participate.
Clients can take advantage of free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience. With pickup points available and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour is an excellent choice for exploring Oman’s magnificent mountains.
Read our full review: Mountain Safari Private Tour Review
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Mountain Safari 4 Hours East Salalah Tour – Wadi Darbat, Sumharam
Exploring the captivating landscapes of eastern Salalah, the Mountain Safari 4 Hours East Salalah Tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s stunning natural wonders.
This 5-star rated tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, offers an immersive experience, including visits to the picturesque Wadi Darbat waterfalls and the ancient ruins of Sumharam.
Accompanied by knowledgeable Omani guides, guests will enjoy camel or horse riding on the beach and learn about the local culture through tastings of traditional fruits and tea.
The tour’s private nature ensures personalized attention and flexibility, while the wheelchair-accessible transport and lack of health requirements make it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Read our full review: Mountain Safari 4 Hours East Salalah Tour – Wadi Darbat, Sumharam Review
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Desert Safari Sunset Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali From Salalah
Venturing beyond the lush landscapes of Wadi Darbat, the Desert Safari Sunset Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali From Salalah takes visitors on a captivating journey through the world’s largest sandy desert.
This sunset trip offers a chance to explore the Lost City of Ubar, the City of The Pillars, and old frankincense trading sites. Dune bashing, walking in the dunes, and sunset photography add to the excitement.
The tour also includes a drive through the Al Qara mountains, providing breathtaking views of Salalah city. Priced from $135 per person, the tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transport, and entrance to the Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Park.
With a 100% recommendation rate, this desert safari is a must-do experience for visitors to Salalah.
Read our full review: Desert Safari Sunset Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali From Salalah Review
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West Salalah 4 Hours Mughsail, Fazayah White Beach Safari Camels
What better way to experience the natural wonders of Salalah’s west coast than the West Salalah 4 Hours Mughsail, Fazayah White Beach Safari Camels tour?
This private half-day excursion takes you to the ancient tomb of Prophet Job, the breathtaking Mughsayl Beach, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your own start time and hotel, port, or airport pickup. With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll see flamingos, camels, and more.
The tour includes bottled water, private transportation, and pickup/drop-off. Lunch is available for an additional fee.
Boasting a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in Salalah.
Read our full review: West Salalah 4 Hours Mughsail, Fazayah White Beach Safari Camels Review
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Desert Safari, Sunset & Sand Bashing ( Rub Al Khali Desert )
An exhilarating Desert Safari, Sunset & Sand Bashing experience awaits in the Rub Al Khali Desert of Salalah, Oman.
This private tour offers a chance to explore the vast desert landscape, with the option to partake in thrilling sand bashing. Snacks, bottled water, coffee, and tea are provided, ensuring you stay refreshed.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, making it a suitable choice. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
With a Badge of Excellence and a 97% traveler recommendation, this safari tour is an excellent way to learn about Oman’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Desert Safari, Sunset & Sand Bashing ( Rub Al Khali Desert ) Review
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East Salalah Mountain Safari
For the East Salalah Mountain Safari, travelers embark on a journey through the rugged terrain of the region’s eastern mountains.
This private tour, rated 5.0 out of 39 reviews, offers an immersive cultural experience. Pickup from the hotel starts at 9 AM, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Along the way, travelers enjoy complimentary karak tea and bottled water. While lunch isn’t included, guests can inquire about lunch boxes from their hotel.
The knowledgeable guides, like the friendly driver Amin, provide insights into the local culture and landscapes, leaving travelers highly satisfied and recommending the tour for its engaging experience.
Read our full review: East Salalah Mountain Safari Review
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Empty Quarter Group Desert Safari Every Tuesday, Thursday Salalah
Every Tuesday and Thursday, travelers embark on the Empty Quarter Group Desert Safari from Salalah, Oman.
This full-day tour offers an exciting adventure into the vast Empty Quarter Desert. Guests can look forward to dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and visits to the Frankincense trees and the Lost City of Ubar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour also includes exploring Wadi Dawkha and experiencing the traditional Bedouin desert lifestyle.
Priced from $135 per person, the tour includes round-trip transfers, bottled water, snacks, and an English-speaking Omani guide.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this desert safari is a must-do activity for visitors to Salalah.
Read our full review: Empty Quarter Group Desert Safari Every Tuesday, Thursday Salalah Review
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Samhan Mountain Safari With Lunch (Experience Dhofar Highest Peak)
The Samhan Mountain Safari with Lunch offers travelers a chance to explore Dhofar’s highest peak and enjoy the region’s captivating landscapes.
This 5-star rated tour takes guests on a private journey through the stunning Samhan mountain, where they can witness Taqah cliff, interact with camels, and discover Wadi Darbat’s natural wonders.
Priced from $175 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, soda, lunch, and all fees and taxes.
Highlights range from beaches and resorts to unique gravity locations.
Travelers rave about the exceptional service and local insights provided by the knowledgeable guide, Momen, making this an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Samhan Mountain Safari With Lunch (Experience Dhofar Highest Peak) Review
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Private Desert Safari Sunset in Oman
Embarking on a private desert safari in Oman, travelers can enjoy the captivating beauty of the region’s vast sand dunes and witness the breathtaking sunset.
This 5-star rated tour, recommended by 100% of past participants, offers a unique opportunity to explore Salalah’s diverse landscapes, from lush areas and farms to mountains and sand dunes.
Led by the knowledgeable and courteous guide, Mohammed, the tour includes stops at the Incense Route, Bedouin villages, and the ancient city of Ubar, providing visitors with a glimpse into the local history and culture.
With complimentary snacks, coffee/tea, and bottled water, this private safari offers a competitive and valuable experience.
Read our full review: Private Desert Safari Sunset in Oman Review
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Luxury Sunset Desert Safari
Travelers seeking a luxurious and immersive desert experience can embark on the Luxury Sunset Desert Safari in Salalah, Oman. This highly-rated tour, boasting a Badge of Excellence, offers a maximum of 4 travelers the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Omani desert at sunset.
The 3-hour tour includes complimentary bottled water, tea, and coffee, and features a convenient hotel pickup service. With a start time of 1:00 PM, this safari isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, though most can participate.
The tour is priced at $175.00 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Luxury Sunset Desert Safari Review
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Desert Safari Trip Full Day & Ubar Lost City
Adventurous explorers can embark on the Desert Safari Trip Full Day & Ubar Lost City, a highly recommended and well-reviewed tour in Salalah, Oman.
This full-day excursion promises an opportunity to explore vast desert landscapes, including off-roading experiences in a 4×4 vehicle. Participants can also savor local delicacies, such as camel meat.
The tour includes coffee, tea, snacks, bottled water, and WiFi on board, as well as fees for the Ubar site. Pickup is available from any location in Salalah, and the tour is private, with only your group participating.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with a price starting from $195 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Desert Safari Trip Full Day & Ubar Lost City Review
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Desert Safari in Empty Quarter With Dune Bashing
Visitors seeking a thrilling desert adventure can embark on the Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing, an exhilarating tour that promises an unforgettable experience in Salalah, Oman.
The 9-hour private tour includes dune bashing, a visit to the Ubar Site, and transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Priced from $216 per person, the tour offers various pickup options and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or limited physical fitness.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing, avoid expensive accessories, and be prepared for limited phone signal in the desert.
With free cancellation available, this desert adventure is a must-try for thrill-seekers visiting Salalah.
Read our full review: Desert Safari in Empty Quarter With Dune Bashing Review
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Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali Day Tour – 4X4 Safari Adventure
Thrill-seekers can embark on the Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali Day Tour – 4X4 Safari Adventure, an exhilarating 9-hour private tour that immerses participants in the vast and captivating Rub’ al Khali desert in Salalah, Oman.
Priced from $240 per person, this tour offers a private experience with a professional local guide, hotel/port/airport pickup and drop-off, and all taxes and fees included.
Guests will enjoy bottled water and the thrill of dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle.
While meals and flights aren’t included, the tour earns a 5.0 rating based on 5 reviews, promising an unforgettable desert adventure in Oman.
Read our full review: Empty Quarter Rub Al Khali Day Tour – 4X4 Safari Adventure Review
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Desert Safari in the Rub Al Khali
Embarking on a Desert Safari in the Rub Al Khali is a captivating experience that immerses travelers in the vast expanse of Oman’s legendary desert.
Transported by an air-conditioned vehicle, visitors are treated to bottled water and a provided lunch as they explore the stunning Rub al Khali.
This private tour ensures that only your group participates, offering a personalized adventure.
With pickup points available and free cancellation or rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, the experience is both convenient and flexible.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, it’s a suitable option for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women.
Reviews consistently rate this tour at 5 stars, making it a top choice for a desert safari in Salalah.
Read our full review: Desert Safari in the Rub Al Khali Review
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Jebel Safari – Mountain Tour
Departing from the sun-baked desert, the Jebel Safari – Mountain Tour invites travelers to discover Oman’s rugged highlands. Priced at $502.57 for up to 4 people, this private tour offers a personalized experience, with private transportation and a delicious lunch included.
The tour departs from Taqa and Mirbat, making it accessible to both ends of Salalah. Wheelchair users, those with strollers, and those with service animals are welcome, and infant seats are available.
Offering a 5.0 overall rating based on 3 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to explore Oman’s stunning mountain landscapes. Visitors can book with confidence, as cancellations and reschedules are free up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Jebel Safari – Mountain Tour Review
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Luxury Overnight Desert Safari in Salalah
The Luxury Overnight Desert Safari in Salalah offers travelers a captivating immersion into Oman’s vast, untamed wilderness. Priced from $250 per person, this 5-star experience includes a delectable local Arabic dinner and light breakfast, complete with camel meat, fried chicken, and freshly brewed tea and coffee.
Pickup is provided from hotel lobbies, with a maximum of 4 travelers per tour. While not wheelchair accessible, the safari is stroller-friendly and suitable for infants. Guided by knowledgeable experts, the tour highlights iconic sights like Wadi Dawkah and Ubar, culminating in a serene desert sunset.
Overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the exceptional organization, hospitality, and memorable experiences, although some guests expressed disappointment over the unavailability of shisha.
Read our full review: Luxury Overnight Desert Safari in Salalah Review
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Salalah Mountain Jungle Safari Tour (Full Day Tour)
Travelers exploring Salalah’s natural wonders can embark on the captivating Salalah Mountain Jungle Safari Tour, a full-day adventure that immerses them in the region’s stunning landscapes.
Priced at €211.86 per person, this private tour offers a 4WD transfer, an experienced Omani guide, and round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests will enjoy air-conditioned transportation, mineral water, and meals throughout the day.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats and wheelchair-accessible vehicles available. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Salalah Mountain Jungle Safari Tour (Full Day Tour) Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Salalah?
The best time to visit Salalah is during the Khareef season, typically between July and September. During this period, the city experiences a lush, green transformation due to the monsoon rains, creating an ideal time for visitors to explore the region.
How Do I Dress for a Safari Tour in Salalah?
When dressing for a safari tour in Salalah, it’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the arms and legs. Avoid bright colors and opt for neutral tones to blend in with the natural surroundings. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes and a hat to protect against the sun.
Can I Combine Multiple Safari Tours in One Trip?
Yes, you can combine multiple safari tours in one trip. Many tour operators in Salalah offer package deals that allow visitors to experience different safari experiences, such as wildlife viewing, sand dune bashing, and cultural exploration, during their stay.
What Kind of Wildlife Can I Expect to See on a Safari?
Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife on a safari, including majestic lions, graceful gazelles, and vibrant birds. The specific animals encountered will depend on the location and time of the safari.
Do I Need Any Special Permits or Vaccinations for a Salalah Safari?
You’ll need a valid passport and may require certain vaccinations for a Salalah safari. Check with your tour operator or local authorities to ensure you have the necessary permits and health documentation before your trip.
The Sum Up
Salalah offers a range of safari tours that cater to different interests and preferences. From the Darbat Waterfall and Samhan Mountain Safari to the Desert Safari in the Rub Al Khali, visitors can explore the diverse landscapes of the region. Whether you’re looking for a mountain, jungle, or desert adventure, Salalah’s safari tours provide an opportunity to learn about the natural beauty of Oman.