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Pitch up in outback OmanKhaluf Beach, Oman

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Discovering Oman is home to more than 3000 kilometres of magical, unfettered coastline ripe for road tripping is pretty sweet. Finding out you can do it in your own 4WD with a rooftop tent? Priceless. Now pull out the map and make for the pristine shores of Khalouf Beach. The five-hour drive from Muscat puts this untouched stretch of sand out of reach for all bar the intrepid, but its backdrop of soaring ivory-white dunes and the inky blues of the Indian Ocean (plus the chance to plough through waves like you’re in a souped-up car commercial) are worth the slog.

Once you’ve found the perfect park, set up your tent and revel in your newfound paradise. Snorkel the crystal waters; watch flamingos stalking the shallows and eagles plucking dinner from the sea; or simply throw out the picnic blanket and plonk yourself down with a cold one. But the best part is yet to come. Once the sun has disappeared beneath the horizon strike up a crackling fire and admire the night sky glittering with stars. When drowsiness finally creeps into your veins, clamber into your rooftop tent and be lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of the ocean lapping onto Khalouf’s deserted shores.

love
not sure?

Having the beach – and the ocean – all to yourself
Watching the local wildlife in its natural habitat
Experiencing light pollution-free views of the night sky
Being liberated from the trappings of society and life’s routine

While you can camp anywhere you like, there’s no actual campgrounds to be found, so be prepared to go full rustic

get there

Fly to Muscat, where you’ll be picked up from the airport and delivered to your hotel.

amenities

4WD Toyota Prado

Rooftop tent

price guide

This is just one part of the eight-day Oman Discovery Self-Drive tour by Swagman and costs US$2950 for two people.

difficulty

Ideally, you’ll have dabbled in off-road driving before, as these routes can be a little hard to navigate. Having an affinity for the great outdoors is also a must. Khaluf Beach is just a short drive from Al Khaluf, a small fishing village, where you’ll find comfortable respite from the outdoors should the weather take a turn.

contact

Swagman Tours
swagmantours.com.au

need to know

This tip was provided by Swagman Tours, but we’re sharing it with you because we think it’s great.