Over the weekend, Bidiyah has seen a rise in visitors, particularly young Omanis, who see the area as an ideal destination for dunes bashing thanks to its giant walls of sand that provide exhilarating driving adventures.
Over the last couple of weeks, the dunes have always been drenched with rainwater and paired with cooler temperatures. They were some of the many indications that winter is near and that Oman's dunes will be filled again with adventure seekers.
Fresh from our trip, here are the things we suggest you definitely have to try if you're headed towards Bidiyah.
Glamping by the Dunes
Oman deserts are known for their stunning landscapes, including vast sand dunes, rock formations, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. For those who are unable to camp in the wild, glamping has become more accessible in 2023 as a plethora of desert resorts are now providing unique accommodations like safari tents and dome houses designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, providing an authentic experience while offering modern comforts.
Glamping sites in Bidiyah come with luxurious amenities such as comfortable beds, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and sometimes even private pools. You can enjoy the tranquility of the desert without sacrificing comfort.
Top-rated amongst Bidiyah glamping resorts are Desert Nights Camp, Thousand Nights Camp, and Arabian Oryx Camp. If you're looking for private camps that are customized for corporate events or small groups, the eco-friendly luxury camp offered by Magic Camps is definitely worth checking out.
Aerial view from a hot air balloon
When the Royal Balloon introduced the hot air balloon ride to Oman last year, it definitely captured the attention of desert goers. Something that has dominated the skyline of Turkey in places like Cappadocia is now finally making its way to the Sultanate. After a few month's hiatus and in time for the winter season, they are back offering morning flights that usually start at 5:30 in the morning, with the ride lasting almost 2 hours—one of the best ways to see the desert landscape from the sky.
Hot-air balloon rides evoke a sense of adventure and wonder. Drifting silently over the vast desert expanse as the sun rises, you'll feel a sense of freedom and excitement. It's a thrilling experience that allows you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the thrill of floating high above the ground.
Desert Safari
Desert safaris are not exclusively offered in Oman. In fact, different countries in the Middle East have their own unique offerings. But despite the popularity of this concept, Oman's dunes definitely rank high when it comes to having the best landscape for a guided desert safari tour that includes dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and the opportunity to witness a mesmerizing desert sunset.
Many desert safari packages include visits to traditional Bedouin camps, where you can learn about the local culture, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and indulge in authentic cuisine. It's an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of desert communities.
Remember, while enjoying a desert safari, it's essential to respect the environment and local communities to ensure the sustainability of this unique experience for future generations.
Traditional Arabian Entertainment
Trying traditional Arabian entertainment in the desert offers a unique and enriching experience for several reasons. First, it allows guests, especially non-Arabs, to immerse themselves in the culture. Desert entertainment usually provides an opportunity to learn about the customs, rituals, and history of the Arabian people.
Traditional Arabian entertainment in the desert includes a variety of activities that are not commonly found elsewhere. These activities often have deep cultural and historical significance, making them intriguing and memorable for travelers. Some examples of traditional Oman desert entertainment include camel racing, Saluki dog racing, traditional music and dances, and Bedouin-style hospitality.
Places like Arabian Nights Resort contract local musicians to play the oud and provide nightly entertainment including a small band using traditional instruments.
Participating in these activities allows travelers to appreciate the rich traditions and natural beauty of the Arabian desert, making it a worthwhile and unforgettable experience.
Desert Camping and Stargazing
With minimal light pollution, Bidiyah offers excellent opportunities for stargazing. Camping and stargazing provide an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, reduce stress, improve physical and mental well-being, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or someone looking to escape the demands of everyday life, these activities can offer a fulfilling and enriching experience.
While camping in the desert can be challenging, this can be mitigated by making sure that you pack the essentials for a memorable camping trip. Joining group adventures has been the trend lately, and not only does it diminish the cost and expenses, but it also creates a fun vibe as people from different backgrounds come together and share memorable stories in front of a campfire. Some desert camps in Bidiyah offer stargazing packages where they not only contract local stargazing experts but also allow guests to learn more about the importance of the night sky to the Omanis.
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