What to Know About Camping in Oman

Camping in Oman is a wonder experience as we have really stunning locations across the Sultanate, from the dunes of Wahiba Sands to the untouched beaches along the coastal road to Salalah.

I hope this short guide will help to answer some questions and provide some helpful trips for camping in Oman.

Is Camping Allowed in Oman?
One of the best things about Oman is its openness to camping. You can pretty much pitch your tent anywhere, as long as you’re respectful of the environment and the people around you. I’ve set up camp in deserts, wadis, mountains, and along the coast without any issues. Keep in mind to have a 4x4 if you are planning to go off road in certain areas to avoid getting stuck. Some places like Bar Al Hikman and Sugar Dunes are tricky to get to and entry points are not marked. Such places also have specific routes that you will need to follow closely require guidance as you will lose cell phone reception in some places.

Top Places to Camp in Oman
1. Wahiba Sands
Camping in the Wahiba Sands is truly a lifetime experience. The dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, and the silence at night is surreal.

2. Jebel Shams
Jebel Shams, Oman’s tallest mountain, offers a completely different vibe. The air is cool and crisp, and the views of the canyon are magnificant.

3. Daymaniyat Islands
Camping on the Daymaniyat Islands is an unforgettable experience, waking up to turquoise waters and coral reefs just steps from your tent. You’ll need a permit to camp, so arrange this in advance.

4. Coastal Road from Muscat to Salalah
This is hands down my favorite camping adventure in Oman. Driving along the coastal road from Muscat to Salalah feels like you’re discovering hidden gems every few kilometers. I camped on untouched beaches and stopped at small fishing villages along the way.

• Highlights Along the Way:
◦ Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz: Perfect for turtle watching and quiet beach vibes.
◦ Sugar Dunes (Khaluf): White sand dunes that spill into the sea—it’s a surreal camping spot.
◦ Hasik and Mirbat: These areas near Salalah are remote and incredibly beautiful with cliffs that drop dramatically into the ocean.
• Tips for Coastal Camping:
◦ Be mindful of tides
◦ Stock up on supplies when you can. There are stretches of the road where you won’t find any shops or water.

Best Time to Camp in Oman
From my experience, the cooler months between October and April are the best for camping. During this time, the weather is mild, and the nights are comfortable.


Camping Etiquette
I’ve always found people to be incredibly welcoming, but it’s important to respect their land and traditions.
• Leave No Trace: Take all your trash with you—Oman’s beauty depends on it.
• Respect Wildlife: Don’t disturb the animals or their habitats.
• Keep Noise Down: Especially if you’re near villages or protected areas.

Happy camping!