Navigate the Rhythms of Nomadic Existence

Immersive, expert-led journeys tailored to individual passions, designed exclusively for private parties and featuring a signature Mandarin Oriental welcome and touches.

Mandarin Oriental has partnered with The Luminaire, who create luxury travel experiences that offer a deeper understanding of the world, to design a collection of transformational journeys for a growing number of our hotels. 

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.

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hotel lobby of mandarin oriental, muscat

Day 1 – Arrive at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat

A private transfer from Muscat International Airport arrives at this contemporary 5-star hotel with captivating views over the Omani shores and Hajar mountains.

Guests staying in Club Rooms and Suites have access to the newly-opened Club Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, providing snacks throughout the day and drinks served at sunset from 5-7pm daily.

Before journeying into the desert the following morning, enjoy an afternoon at leisure, strolling through the hotel's elegantly landscaped beach promenade or visiting the on-site spa – the largest in Muscat. The Royal Opera House, the Mutrah Souq and the National Museum of Oman are a short drive away. The Luminaire can make reservations for dinner at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat.

Day 2 – Enter the Desert Dunes

Wake up early to drive from Muscat 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.

Arrive in the desert and meet local Bedouin hosts, your guides to navigating the sands. These nomadic tribal communities have inhabited the desert regions of the Arabian Peninsula since 6,000BC. Their name originates from the Arabic for ‘desert-dweller’.

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, perched between the mountainous sands and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Oman. Discover insights into the nomadic culture of your Bedouin hosts and learn the skills required to cook a traditional camp meal, a dining experience shaped by the desert landscape.

Day 3 – Connect with Nomadic Traditions

In an unforgettable experience, start the morning on board a fisherman’s boat, learning 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.

In the afternoon, depart the coast and venture back into the heart of the desert. The compass will be set for a second private camp, located deep in the rolling dunes of the Sharqiya Sands. Here, try locally-sourced camel meat and traditional Omani spices, in a dinner prepared over campfire. Sleep beneath the stars, surrounded by the vastness of the remote desert.

Day 4 – Adventure Through a Remote Wadi

On the return drive towards Muscat, fuel up on cardamom-infused Arabic coffee and breakfast, and watch a hot air balloon being prepared for a private flight over the sands. As the sun rises, board the balloon and take in the spectacular beauty of the desert landscape.

Back on terra firma, continue 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.

At Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, rejuvenate after these desert adventures with a 90-minute 'Essence of Muscat' spa treatment in a single or couples treatment room, overlooking the waters of the Gulf of Oman. Alternatively, a personal yoga class or sound healing meditation session can be arranged. A wellness experience is included for each guest.

Day 5 – Departure

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.

Inclusions

2 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, including breakfast.
2 nights in private Bedouin desert camps, including breakfast.
90 minute 'Essence of Muscat' spa treatment at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, for each guest.
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.
Complimentary wellness experience in the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, for each guest.
A gift in your room at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat.

When to Travel

The best time to travel is between October and April.

Exclusions

Flights.
Private transfers.
Excursions, meals and drinks other than those mentioned.
Tips and gratuities.