The hospitality of the host

Stayed in May 2024

My wife and I began to consider our options as we followed a stranger in a foreign country into the empty desert to stay at a camp we weren’t sure truly existed. Sure, Oman has ridiculously low crime rate, but the possibilities of what awaited us were endless. After a 20 minute drive through bedouin camps and an empty sea of sand we were relieved to find the camp as pictured on the site. However, shortly after setting up for bed, the camp was hit by a storm which was extremely rare to the area. I stood there for 30 minutes holding the pole of the tent from inside, so it didn’t collapse on us, as the rain and wind pattered the canvas. If I could go back in time to the moment we started our journey… I would do it a million times over. Thousand Stars is a passion project started by Ali and his companion, and cared for by a truly honorable and wonderful caretaker - Sadam. It is not a 5 star resort run by a board of trustees with millions of investment dollars. It is 3 men, who put their blood sweat and tears into each and every night. We started the evening off by having tea, coffee and fruits with Ali and discussing life. Shortly after, Ali ensured we were comfortable and left us to be. We were the only couple there that night so we had the whole camp to ourselves. There are usually 2-3 tents available per night. My wife and I spent some time chatting under the moonlight, but called it early as we saw a storm approaching. Sadam was working hard to cover the dining tent with a tarp so that we could be comfortable while eating dinner. The storm came, and yes, there was a short bit of time where I had to hold the tent up but this was no fault of the camp - just nature. Despite the storm, Sadam trekked over to our tent from his to make sure we were ok. Right after the storm ended I heard the roar of a car. It was Ali again, who drove all the way back just to make sure everything was ok.

Stayed in May 2024

Small camp with only 2 tents - made it very cozy and familiar Ali was a great host - very entertaining. Too bad he could not stay longer during our stay to share more about the life of the beduins Great that you could just walk up on a nearby sand dune do view sunset and sunrise

Stayed in April 2024

Unfortunately, the morning desert tour felt like a bit of a rip off. We paid 85 OMR (approx. £160) for two people for a "tour" that lasted just under two hours. The tour was Ali and his friends driving us around the desert and over the dunes, where we stopped along the way to see a few camels and drink some tea. The only other wildlife we saw were two mating dung beetles and one lizard (that I spotted). Whilst the tour was fun and worth doing (there is nothing else to do in this time other that sleep / chillat the camp) it felt like a rip off given how expensive it was and the fact that the our driver didn't speak good English (Ali (who has great English) was in another car with the family that stayed at our camp at the same time as us) and so what he could tell us about the area and the wildlife was extremely limited, gas prices are cheap in Oman and the tour didn't feel structured at all. If the price was reflective of the actual experience, then this would be fine.

Ali and his colleagues were friendly and helpful. The camp is remote with no signal, so perfect if you are looking to disconnect from the world for a brief moment. The beds were comfy and the tents were really nice. There is even a shower on site which I did use. The sand dunes were beautiful. It gets a little chilly in the evening so remember to bring an extra layer. Dinner and breakfast was tasty and there was lots of it.

Stayed in April 2024

Nothing.

Surrounded by endless dunes, our desert camp was a sanctuary of serenity. From the warm hospitality to the mesmerizing sunsets, every moment was infused with magic. Sleeping under the stars, sharing stories around the campfire, it was an unforgettable experience that connected us deeply with nature and each other. Truly a desert dream come true, thank you Ali.

Stayed in April 2024

Nothing.

The small size (2 tents only), the remote location, the level of service, the attention to details. I advise to do the desert tour as well with them if you like having sensations in 4x4 in the dunes.

Stayed in April 2024

Perfect location in sandy dunes, not far from the town, but very quiet. Excellent service by Ali and his small team!

Stayed in March 2024

This experience was unique ! Even better than expected ! The food & service was excellent ; especially considering the context of a camp in the middle of the desert ! Landscape was fabulous and camp organisation / installation was also very good.

Stayed in February 2024

Nothing

The camp is isolated and immersed in silence. The set up was great with the beauty of the bedouin traditions. Ali and his team were great in meeting all our needs and cooked for us a fantastic vegetarian meal. We loved the sunrise from the dune during breakfast and the tour of the desert. Hihgly recommended!!!

Stayed in January 2024

The camp is hidden from the main dirt road, which allows for privacy and silence. Compared to other camps that I have seen throughout those days, this one is for relax, reflection and connection to the desert. It’s basically a private hideout in a magical place. The details (portable torches), pillows, and even a great bathroom show a love for attention to the customer.

Stayed in December 2023

It was great! The tents look amazing and are very comfortable. The shower and the bathroom are also great. It only has three tents so it’s a great place to take a break from the busy life. There is not internet and electricity. The food is excellent. 👌🏼 The host, Ali, is very kind! We deflated the car 🛞and drove to the meeting point. We were a bit late but that was not a problem, we communicated via WhatsApp beforehand. We drove back on our own the next day. I chose the camp because of the food and the fact that it is not so crowded. It does not have camels 🐪 or activities, you can enjoy the quiet and the stars. We enjoyed stargazing by a little fire that was made for us. Very relaxing and calm stay. 👌🏼

Stayed in January 2024

The camp was small, secluded and had the most anazing views of the surrounding desert. We met Ali the owner with our 4x4 in bidiyya and already the drive to the camp was an absolute highlight. Simply 10/10, thank you Ali!

Stayed in January 2024

Small luxury camp with 3 tents, very intimate atmosphere. Ali did all his best to make the stay delightful: very warm the welcome, good dinner, amazing breakfast in front of the sunrise. Ali even lighted a fire. All magic and unforgettable

Stayed in January 2024

Nothing

We are used to travel, generally in good conditions. In Oman, we were looking for an authentic experience in the desert; after searching et reading the comments, we set on Thousand stars camp. It was absolutely incredible: 2 tents ( + 1 for the diner when it’s too cold and another for the kitchen), lost in the middle of nowhere : only sand and dunes. Ali is unbelievable : real Bedouin, speaks English, he knows how to welcome and to treat his guests. Besides, the bed was very large and confortable, and the food incredibly tasted and diversified. After diner, rest by the fire pit. At night, nothing but a smooth wind, head in the stars, and in the morning , breakfast alone among the dunes, served like « out of Africa ». Definitely, if you want “the” experience in the desert, go nowhere but at Thousand Stars camp with Ali !!!

Stayed in January 2024

I love the camp because its small and quiet and in a beautiful setting. My tent was large and cozy with a wonderful bed and carpet covering the sand. The food was delicious, all prepered freshly there. Its an amazing experience. Best not to say to much here. You must go and see for yourself! Our hosts where perfect.

Stayed in December 2023

Nothings

It was an incredible experience being with Ali . The dinner was lovely and they setup a fire and had the kids play. It was majestic honestly. Hospitality was incredible. Thank you so much.

Stayed in November 2023

Nothing

I spent a month in Oman but definitely this was the highlight of the trip. We were picked up by the owner from muscat(as we didn't have a 4x4) and he drop us to the camp. We was only in the camp and the rest of the camp was empty, which was nice as we chose this specific camp to relax and disconnect. Nice activities were offered (other guys did the dune bashing). The owner spent a really long time talking to us - he was the nicest person in the already very friendly country. The staff working there was very polite and helpful. Food options (including vegetarian!) were amazing, for the desert I think it was almost luxurious. I will always recommend this camp to everyone, it was really nice and peaceful. This camp is Thousand Stars Desert Camp . And the tallest dune is located , which is a must to climb (although exhausting). The sunset was beautiful. The owner really cares about his business, as well as his staff.

Stayed in November 2023

The location is amazing, the host is friendly, the dinner and the breakfast were excellent. If you want to experience the desert and to know more about omani culture mix with luxury , this is the place!

Stayed in November 2023

Excellent choice for those who want to spend a night in a luxury tent without electricity, Internet, air conditioning or fridge, but in a stunning place with spectacular views, silence and friendly staff. It's a very small camp compared to others and that's additional advantage as you can enjoy the silence and take beautiful photos. We really enjoyed our 4x4 ride .

Stayed in November 2023

It was amazing night the transportation was excellent

Stayed in September 2023

It was great location in the desert. The tents was beautiful and the food is very tasty! The worker and the boss are very friendly

Stayed in October 2023

The location of this camp is truly something out of a dream. Nestled atop the Wahiba sand dunes, it offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The uninterrupted views of the endless sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see are simply awe-inspiring. One of the standout features of this camp is the food. The meals provided were not only delicious, but they also showcased the rich flavors and traditional cuisine of the region. Every dish was prepared with great care and attention to detail, ensuring that each bite was a delightful experience. Whether you are a fan of local delicacies or prefer more familiar international dishes, the camp's culinary offerings are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Privacy is of utmost importance to me when I travel, and this camp certainly delivers in that aspect. The tents are strategically positioned to provide maximum seclusion, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. The attentive and friendly staff ensures that all your needs are met while respecting your privacy, creating a truly personalized and comfortable experience. I highly recommend the THOUSAND Star Private Camp to anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable Experience

Stayed in September 2023

It was an amazing trip. I had never seen anything like this. The camp director was very friendly and the staff were also very friendly. Dinner and breakfast were very delicious.

Stayed in September 2023

There are no comments available for this review

Stayed in February 2024