Nestled in the rocky landscape of Oman, Wadi Bani Khalid is a desert oasis with wide emerald pools, palm-fringed banks, and dramatic white boulders. For about an hour, you can swim in clear, cool water, stroll along scenic paths, and enjoy sweeping views of the canyon walls and mountain backdrop. Whether relaxing in the large main pool, dipping your toes under a bridge, or exploring the quieter upper pools, this place makes a perfect escape into nature.

Once you’ve had your swim and soaked up the views, you’ll settle down for a relaxed lunch—optional, if you select the add-on. Expect a spread of comforting, local fare—things like rice, curry or stews, fresh salad, maybe some grilled meats or simple vegetarian options. Drinks like soft beverages or coffee will be available. You’ll dine in a casual setting, often with shaded seating and views across the water or the surrounding palm-lined pools. It’s a time to rest, enjoy good food, chat, and take in the scenery before continuing with the day.

After the lunch break, you’ll head into the Wahiba Sands — also known as Sharqiya Sands — for an exciting desert adventure. A 4×4 vehicle will take you off the paved roads and over sweeping sand dunes, where you'll feel the thrill of dune-bashing, riding up and down the dunes, sharp slopes and sweeping curves. Along the way there will be several photo stops so you can soak in the golden sand, dramatic ridges, and expansive desert landscape. As the ride winds down, you’ll stop atop a high dune just in time to watch the sunset — the sky transforms with rich oranges and purples, the light casting long shadows over the dunes. It’s a perfect moment to pause, breathe, and take in the silence of the desert. Then you’ll return via the 4×4 under fading light, memories of the desert’s vast beauty following you back.

Leaving the golden dunes behind, you’ll set off on the drive toward Muscat. The road will gradually transition from shifting sands and remote desert tracks to paved highways lined with rugged terrain and occasional Bedouin settlements. As the vehicle moves out of the Wahiba area, you’ll notice scrub-vegetation give way to more greenery and cultivated land. About halfway through, there may be photo-stops to stretch legs, enjoy views of the horizon where dunes meet mountains, or to capture local life in desert towns. As you approach Muscat, the pace changes: traffic increases, modern buildings rise, and the sea becomes visible in the distance. By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Muscat, bringing with you memories of desert silence, sweeping sands, and an unforgettable sky.