Sama al Wasil Desert Camp
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Summary of reviewsSama al Wasil Desert Camp, located deep within the Wahiba Sands desert, offers an exceptional retreat that perfectly blends traditional charm with modern comforts. Positioned at the foot of towering dunes, the camp provides breathtaking views and a profound sense of tranquility. With easy access via a 4WD, its secluded yet accessible setting ensures a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
The camp's overall reviews are highly positive, especially highlighting the stunning location, modern infrastructure and excellent service. Guests are welcomed into well-maintained rooms, charming tents and cozy cabins designed in traditional Bedouin styles. The accommodations, equipped with essentials like air conditioning, offer spaciousness, cleanliness and a tasteful regional decor, ensuring a luxurious yet authentic desert experience.
Dining at the camp is a notable highlight with both breakfast and dinner drawing commendations. The breakfast buffet, featuring freshly prepared omelets and an extensive variety of options, provides a hearty start to the day. Dinner is particularly praised for its diverse and delicious selection, including local specialties like camel meat, complemented by live Arabic music, enhancing the overall dining experience despite some minor critiques about variety and replenishment.
The staff at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp are celebrated for their friendliness, attentiveness and professionalism. Guests frequently mention the excellent service and helpful nature of the team, which significantly contributes to the camp's welcoming atmosphere.
Moreover, the camp's commitment to cleanliness receives high praise with nearly all reviews emphasizing the spotless nature of the rooms and communal areas. This attention to detail, combined with the serene desert ambiance, creates an inviting and comfortable environment.
While the absence of WiFi and limited cellular service might be seen as a drawback by some, many guests appreciate this feature as it encourages a digital detox, allowing them to fully immerse in the desert’s tranquility. The camp’s parking facilities are generally well-organized, providing further convenience for guests driving 4WD vehicles.
Overall, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp is highly recommended for travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic desert experience. With its stunning location, high-quality service and blend of traditional and modern amenities, it ensures a memorable and enchanting escape in the heart of the desert.
Categories
The camp's overall reviews are highly positive, especially highlighting the stunning location, modern infrastructure and excellent service. Guests are welcomed into well-maintained rooms, charming tents and cozy cabins designed in traditional Bedouin styles. The accommodations, equipped with essentials like air conditioning, offer spaciousness, cleanliness and a tasteful regional decor, ensuring a luxurious yet authentic desert experience.
Dining at the camp is a notable highlight with both breakfast and dinner drawing commendations. The breakfast buffet, featuring freshly prepared omelets and an extensive variety of options, provides a hearty start to the day. Dinner is particularly praised for its diverse and delicious selection, including local specialties like camel meat, complemented by live Arabic music, enhancing the overall dining experience despite some minor critiques about variety and replenishment.
The staff at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp are celebrated for their friendliness, attentiveness and professionalism. Guests frequently mention the excellent service and helpful nature of the team, which significantly contributes to the camp's welcoming atmosphere.
Moreover, the camp's commitment to cleanliness receives high praise with nearly all reviews emphasizing the spotless nature of the rooms and communal areas. This attention to detail, combined with the serene desert ambiance, creates an inviting and comfortable environment.
While the absence of WiFi and limited cellular service might be seen as a drawback by some, many guests appreciate this feature as it encourages a digital detox, allowing them to fully immerse in the desert’s tranquility. The camp’s parking facilities are generally well-organized, providing further convenience for guests driving 4WD vehicles.
Overall, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp is highly recommended for travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic desert experience. With its stunning location, high-quality service and blend of traditional and modern amenities, it ensures a memorable and enchanting escape in the heart of the desert.
Campground with Parking
Accessible Campground
Campground where Extra Health & Safety Measures Have Been Taken
Arrival
Do visitors need a health certificate (i.e. a test) prior to arrival?
No
No
Do you perform temperature checks upon guests' arrivals?
Yes, to all guests
Show more...Yes, to all guests
Guest Reviews
Nestled deep in the heart of the Wahiba Sands desert, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp boasts an exceptional location that immerses visitors in an authentic desert experience. Positioned at the foot of towering sand dunes, this camp offers breathtaking views and a sense of profound tranquility. The stunning surroundings feature majestic sunsets and sunrises, easily accessible via the dunes right next to the camp, providing picture-perfect moments.
Accessibility is also a highlight with the camp being remarkably easy to reach via a 4WD. Despite its remote and serene setting, it is not overly isolated; the camp is approximately 12-15 kilometers from the nearest village, ensuring a feeling of seclusion without complete detachment from civilization.
Guests appreciate the camp's modern infrastructure, which includes well-maintained rooms and essential amenities like electricity, air conditioning and a well-regarded restaurant. The combination of traditional Omani architecture with contemporary comforts adds to the site's charm, making it a favorite for those looking to unwind and experience the desert's serenity.
Moreover, the location is ideal for various activities such as climbing the dunes to witness mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets or participating in thrilling desert tours. The camp's peaceful surroundings, coupled with high-quality service, ensure an unforgettable stay that resonates with the beauty and vastness of the desert. Whether for relaxation or adventure, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp provides a perfect retreat.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp serves a breakfast that has garnered mixed reviews with many guests praising it for its variety and quality. The breakfast buffet is commonly described as very good, delicious and extensive, offering a wide variety of choices including freshly prepared omelets from an egg station. Many guests appreciated the hearty and plentiful breakfast options, noting that the food selection and quality for both dinner and breakfast were commendable for a desert camp.
While some found the breakfast to be excellent, others highlighted that it could be improved, mentioning that at times the buffet felt limited or lacked replenishment. Vegetarian options are readily available and the buffet usually includes sweet and savory choices. However, some guests suggested a need for more fruit and more lavish offerings to enhance the experience.
Despite some criticism about the quality and variety of food, many guests left satisfied, enjoying a delicious start to their day. Complemented by friendly service and the scenic desert setting, breakfast at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp often exceeded expectations, even if there's room for slight improvements.
At the heart of the culinary experience at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp, guests frequently highlight the impressive variety and quality of the meals, especially the dinner service. The buffet style dinner often garners praise for its diverse and delicious selection, which includes local flavors and specialties such as freshly prepared camel meat. Many visitors enjoyed the live Arabic music that enhances the dining atmosphere, making the experience not just a meal but an enjoyable event.
Reviewers also laud the buffet for its ample and well-organized spread, noting the plentiful and well-prepared dishes. The inclusion of a BBQ with particularly high marks for the camel and chicken, stands out as a crowd favorite. Traditional Omani music performances during dinner further deepen the authenticity and charm of the experience.
While there are occasional mentions of the food being average or the buffet area being congested, most guests agree that the meals are tasty, hearty and satisfying. The breakfast offerings also receive positive comments for their variety and deliciousness, rounding off an overall commendable dining experience at this desert camp.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp offers a remarkably comfortable and clean stay amidst the tranquility of the desert. With well-maintained rooms, charming tents and cozy cabins adorned in traditional Bedouin style, this camp provides an authentic yet luxurious experience. Each accommodation, be it tents or chalets, is equipped with essential amenities including air conditioning, ensuring a restful retreat. The rooms are noted for their spaciousness, tasteful decoration and local vibe with some featuring delightful terraces and beautiful regional decor.
Guests frequently praise the comfort of the beds and the cleanliness of both the rooms and bathrooms, making it a commendable choice for a desert stay. Despite some basic facilities and occasional minor issues such as dim lighting or basic amenities, the overall consensus is highly positive. The abundant breakfast, neat surroundings and helpful staff further enhance the experience. Whether opting for the Sultan’s tent, which is particularly luxurious or one of the beautifully furnished cottages, guests can expect a pleasant and unique stay. In summary, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp strikes a perfect balance between comfort and authentic desert charm, making it a highly recommended destination for travelers.
The guest reviews for the beds at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp reveal a mixed experience with significant emphasis on the firmness of the mattresses. Many guests found the beds to be comfortable with phrases like comfortable bed, super comfy bed and beds were very comfortable indicating positive experiences. Cleanliness also garnered praise with comments such as nice and clean beds and beds were clean and comfortable.
However, the theme of hard beds is recurrent across the reviews. Descriptions such as very hard mattress, beds were as hard as rocks and the bed is like a brick were noted by several guests. Some even compared the experience to sleeping on a bench. Despite the frequent mention of the beds being rigid or firm, a few guests still found the bedding to be relatively comfy or good.
In summary, while some guests appreciated the comfort and cleanliness of the beds at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp, others felt the beds were excessively hard, suggesting a mixed consensus on the sleeping experience.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp stands out with exceptional cleanliness, receiving high praise for its immaculate and well-maintained facilities. Nearly all guest reviews emphasize the spotless nature of the rooms, bungalows and the overall campsite. Many guests describe the rooms as clean and comfortable, noting the tasteful yet simple decor that aligns well with the desert setting. The camp’s staff also contribute significantly to maintaining this level of cleanliness, ensuring that the communal areas, bathrooms and accommodations are consistently tidy and well-kept.
Despite a few isolated incidents, such as occasional hair found on the floor or drainage issues, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The camp’s ambiance and cleanliness, coupled with the unique desert environment, create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Additionally, the well-maintained camp grounds and clean facilities extend a sense of comfort and coziness that guests appreciate.
The attention to cleanliness is consistent across the board with everything from the rooms to the common areas being described as spotless and inviting. This high standard of cleanliness, complimented by the serene desert location and quality service, makes Sama al Wasil Desert Camp a standout choice for travelers seeking a clean and comfortable desert retreat.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp boasts a reputation for its exemplary staff, who are frequently described as very friendly, helpful and welcoming. Guests appreciate the attentiveness and willingness of the staff to serve with numerous reviews highlighting their kindness and professionalism. The camp's team is noted for being accommodating and efficient, ensuring guests feel comfortable and satisfied.
Visitors consistently praise the excellent service provided at the camp with specific mention of how the staff facilitated activities and communicated effectively before arrival. The management also earns positive remarks for their fair and accommodating approach, sometimes even offering refunds.
Despite a few mentions of uncooperative or overwhelmed staff, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive. The personnel at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp are commended for their warm hospitality, attentiveness and commitment to guest satisfaction, making it a favored destination for those seeking both adventure and exceptional service in the desert.
A stay at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp offers the perfect opportunity for a genuine digital detox. Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the desert, the camp lacks WiFi and cellular service, allowing guests to truly disconnect from the digital world. Many visitors appreciate the absence of internet and phone signals as a chance to unwind and enjoy a serene escape from everyday life. For those needing to reconnect temporarily, a trek to the top of the dunes may provide limited mobile signal. This unplugged experience encourages guests to engage with their surroundings, indulge in good books and embrace the tranquility of the desert.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp offers a unique desert experience, easily accessible if equipped with a 4WD or AWD vehicle, as the camp is just a short offroad drive from the main road. For those without a suitable vehicle, a pickup service is available, though the transfer cost from the city or gas station can be on the higher side. The parking situation at the camp is generally positive, described as ample, comfortable and well-organized. However, some guests have noted instances of congestion and limited parking spaces. Overall, the convenience of driving a 4WD directly to the camp is highlighted as uncomplicated.
The accommodation is praised for its value and the dining experiences stand out with varied and plentiful dinner options, accompanied by talented musicians. Breakfast and dinner are consistently described as delicious, adding to the overall positive impression of the stay at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp.
Sama al Wasil Desert Camp offers an enchanting escape in the heart of the desert, providing a beautiful and luxurious immersion into a traditional Arabian setting. With a prime location amidst the dunes, the camp stands out for its super organized and professional staff, who are both welcoming and caring. The facilities blend comfort and modernity, featuring stylish and luxurious chalets equipped with air conditioning, making it more hotel-like despite being a desert camp.
Visitors appreciate the well-maintained and clean accommodations, which rival those of high-end hotels, as well as luxuriously equipped dinner areas and charming seating points scattered throughout the site. The camp's design and decor enhance its luxurious atmosphere, providing guests with a delightful and relaxing experience.
Noteworthy aspects include the beautifully arranged garden, the inviting dinner tent and various small Arabic lounges that add to the camp's charm. Even though some might find it slightly commercial, the overall offering balances luxury and the rugged beauty of the desert perfectly, presenting an excellent combination of comfort and adventure.
From its luxurious ambiance to the best value for money, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp ensures an unforgettable desert camping experience with a touch of opulence, as confirmed by guests who favor this camp over even the finest hotels in Muscat.
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Location
Accessibility is also a highlight with the camp being remarkably easy to reach via a 4WD. Despite its remote and serene setting, it is not overly isolated; the camp is approximately 12-15 kilometers from the nearest village, ensuring a feeling of seclusion without complete detachment from civilization.
Guests appreciate the camp's modern infrastructure, which includes well-maintained rooms and essential amenities like electricity, air conditioning and a well-regarded restaurant. The combination of traditional Omani architecture with contemporary comforts adds to the site's charm, making it a favorite for those looking to unwind and experience the desert's serenity.
Moreover, the location is ideal for various activities such as climbing the dunes to witness mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets or participating in thrilling desert tours. The camp's peaceful surroundings, coupled with high-quality service, ensure an unforgettable stay that resonates with the beauty and vastness of the desert. Whether for relaxation or adventure, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp provides a perfect retreat.
Breakfast
While some found the breakfast to be excellent, others highlighted that it could be improved, mentioning that at times the buffet felt limited or lacked replenishment. Vegetarian options are readily available and the buffet usually includes sweet and savory choices. However, some guests suggested a need for more fruit and more lavish offerings to enhance the experience.
Despite some criticism about the quality and variety of food, many guests left satisfied, enjoying a delicious start to their day. Complemented by friendly service and the scenic desert setting, breakfast at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp often exceeded expectations, even if there's room for slight improvements.
Dinner
Reviewers also laud the buffet for its ample and well-organized spread, noting the plentiful and well-prepared dishes. The inclusion of a BBQ with particularly high marks for the camel and chicken, stands out as a crowd favorite. Traditional Omani music performances during dinner further deepen the authenticity and charm of the experience.
While there are occasional mentions of the food being average or the buffet area being congested, most guests agree that the meals are tasty, hearty and satisfying. The breakfast offerings also receive positive comments for their variety and deliciousness, rounding off an overall commendable dining experience at this desert camp.
Rooms
Guests frequently praise the comfort of the beds and the cleanliness of both the rooms and bathrooms, making it a commendable choice for a desert stay. Despite some basic facilities and occasional minor issues such as dim lighting or basic amenities, the overall consensus is highly positive. The abundant breakfast, neat surroundings and helpful staff further enhance the experience. Whether opting for the Sultan’s tent, which is particularly luxurious or one of the beautifully furnished cottages, guests can expect a pleasant and unique stay. In summary, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp strikes a perfect balance between comfort and authentic desert charm, making it a highly recommended destination for travelers.
Beds
However, the theme of hard beds is recurrent across the reviews. Descriptions such as very hard mattress, beds were as hard as rocks and the bed is like a brick were noted by several guests. Some even compared the experience to sleeping on a bench. Despite the frequent mention of the beds being rigid or firm, a few guests still found the bedding to be relatively comfy or good.
In summary, while some guests appreciated the comfort and cleanliness of the beds at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp, others felt the beds were excessively hard, suggesting a mixed consensus on the sleeping experience.
Cleanliness
Despite a few isolated incidents, such as occasional hair found on the floor or drainage issues, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The camp’s ambiance and cleanliness, coupled with the unique desert environment, create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Additionally, the well-maintained camp grounds and clean facilities extend a sense of comfort and coziness that guests appreciate.
The attention to cleanliness is consistent across the board with everything from the rooms to the common areas being described as spotless and inviting. This high standard of cleanliness, complimented by the serene desert location and quality service, makes Sama al Wasil Desert Camp a standout choice for travelers seeking a clean and comfortable desert retreat.
Staff
Visitors consistently praise the excellent service provided at the camp with specific mention of how the staff facilitated activities and communicated effectively before arrival. The management also earns positive remarks for their fair and accommodating approach, sometimes even offering refunds.
Despite a few mentions of uncooperative or overwhelmed staff, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive. The personnel at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp are commended for their warm hospitality, attentiveness and commitment to guest satisfaction, making it a favored destination for those seeking both adventure and exceptional service in the desert.
Wi-Fi
Parking
The accommodation is praised for its value and the dining experiences stand out with varied and plentiful dinner options, accompanied by talented musicians. Breakfast and dinner are consistently described as delicious, adding to the overall positive impression of the stay at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp.
Luxury
Visitors appreciate the well-maintained and clean accommodations, which rival those of high-end hotels, as well as luxuriously equipped dinner areas and charming seating points scattered throughout the site. The camp's design and decor enhance its luxurious atmosphere, providing guests with a delightful and relaxing experience.
Noteworthy aspects include the beautifully arranged garden, the inviting dinner tent and various small Arabic lounges that add to the camp's charm. Even though some might find it slightly commercial, the overall offering balances luxury and the rugged beauty of the desert perfectly, presenting an excellent combination of comfort and adventure.
From its luxurious ambiance to the best value for money, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp ensures an unforgettable desert camping experience with a touch of opulence, as confirmed by guests who favor this camp over even the finest hotels in Muscat.
No, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp.
No, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Sama al Wasil Desert Camp.
No, Sama al Wasil Desert Camp doesn't have a gym.
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