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General information
| Duration | Destination | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| 12 days and 11 nights | Oman (Muscat, Al Hamra, Nizwa, Jabal Akhḍar, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands, Sur, Salalah) | Oman (Muscat) |
Description
Private departures (minimum 2 passengers)Program
Day 1:
Muscat & Afternoon Dhow Cruise
Arrival at Muscat International Airport - Upon arrival, our chauffer or guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall with a welcome sign with your name on it. Transfer from Muscat airport to the hotel (Standard check-in time: 14:00 hours.) In the afternoon, begin a walking tour of Old Muscat to explore the city’s heritage and coastal charm. Pass traditional architecture and landmarks that highlight Muscat’s historical significance. Make a photo stop at Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial residence of the Sultan, flanked by the Al Mirani and Al Jalali Forts, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Then proceed to the marina to board a traditional Omani dhow for a scenic sunset cruise on the Sea of Oman. Relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the coastline from the deck of the dhow, as the sun casts golden hues over the mountains and sea, a perfect way to unwind. Following the cruise, take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, Muscat’s picturesque seaside promenade lined with palm trees and offering views of the harbor and traditional dhows. Overnight at hotel in Muscat.
Optional: For panoramic views of the harbor and old city, consider climbing the steps to the historic Mutrah Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop above the Corniche, a rewarding end to the evening.
Note:
- When visiting the mosque, please dress modestly, covering your head with a scarf if you're a woman. Avoid shorts, beachwear, or sleeveless outfits for both men and women. Slip-on shoes are recommended as they must be removed to enter.
- Royal Opera House and Bait al Zubair museum remains closed on Friday.
Day 2:
Muscat City Tour (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel. 08:30 Hrs: Pick up from the hotel and visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, and one of the most popular places to visit in Muscat. Accommodating up to a stupendous 20,000 worshippers at a time, the structure features a blend of various architectural styles. (FRIDAY CLOSED) Then we will proceed to visit the The Royal Opera House which is Oman's premier destination for music, arts, and culture. Following that, we'll explore the historic Muttrah area, where you can visit the traditional Muttrah Souq, a market steeped in history, dating back about two centuries. In the afternoon, our Muscat city tour starts at Bait Al Zubair, a private museum with a remarkable collection of Omani artifacts. Later in the afternoon, we'll head back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. Overnight at hotel in Muscat.
Day 3:
Muscat - Wadi Bani Awf - Al Hamra (4WD) (5-6 hrs. drive) (Breakfast, Dinner)
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out around 8:30 am. Our first stop will be at the Amouage Perfume Visitor Centre, where you’ll discover how Oman’s unique and iconic fragrances are crafted from sourcing ingredients to the final product. After the visit, we’ll head to the Seeb Spice Market, known for its vibrant colors and aromatic spices. Explore a variety of exotic flavors and traditional ingredients. We then begin our journey toward Al Hamra, with a stop at the historic Nakhal Fort, followed by a visit to the nearby Nakhal hot springs, where you can enjoy a gentle dip in the natural runoff water.
Continuing on, we pass through the vast Wadi Bani Awf, one of the largest wadis in the Al Rustaq region. This area features charming mountain villages and includes the dramatic Snake Canyon, offering a scenic and adventurous off-road crossing of the Hajar Mountains. Next, we visit Bilad Sayt, a picturesque village that looks like something out of an Arabian fairy tale. Its beauty is truly breathtaking. Finally, we continue our drive to Al Hamra, where you’ll check in at your hotel. Dinner and overnight at Al Hamra.
Day 4:
Al Hamra - Nizwa (4WD) (1.5 hrs. drive) (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel. Proceed towards the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Oman, situated in Ghul village. Often likened to the 'Omani Grand Canyon' or the 'Grand Canyon of Arabia,' this natural wonder boasts depths of up to 1 kilometer at certain points. Next, we will proceed to the picturesque Al Hamra village, where you'll have the opportunity to visit Bait Al Safah museum. After the museum exploration, we'll continue to Misfat Al Abrayeen village, allowing you to take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the village's charm. Our adventure continues with a visit to Jabrin Castle, constructed in 1675. This well-preserved fort is one of Oman's finest, and it holds historical significance as a center of learning. The castle's three stories encompass two towers, numerous halls, and rooms. Continue to Nizwa and upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Note: The Nizwa cattle market operates only on Friday mornings; guests should arrive at the market before 8:00 AM.
Day 5:
Nizwa (4WD) (Breakfast)
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Note: If it’s a Friday, we recommend departing by 7:00 AM to make the most of the morning’s activities, especially the vibrant market scene. Begin with a visit to the famous Friday cattle market in Nizwa, where locals gather to trade livestock in a lively, traditional setting. (The market concludes around 8:00 AM, so early arrival is essential.)
Continue to the Nizwa Fort, one of Oman’s most iconic landmarks, known for its massive circular tower and panoramic views of the town. Then explore the adjacent Nizwa Souq, famous for traditional Omani handicrafts, pottery, silver jewelry, and spices. Next, head to the Al Hoota Caves, a natural wonder featuring stunning underground rock formations and a small underground lake. In the afternoon, visit Birkat Al Mauz, a picturesque village and UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through its ancient falaj irrigation system, one of the oldest in Oman, and explore the abandoned mud-brick houses and lush date plantations at your own pace. Return to the hotel for the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6:
Nizwa - Oman Across - Jabal Akhdar (4WD) (Breakfast)
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out around 9AM. Check out from the hotel and proceed to Harat al-Bilad in Manah, a beautifully restored ancient village. Wander through its narrow alleyways and mud-brick homes, offering an authentic glimpse into Oman’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Visit Oman Across the Ages Museum, the country’s newest and most impressive national museum. This world-class facility presents Oman’s history from prehistoric times to the modern renaissance—through interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and striking architecture. After lunch, begin the scenic drive in 4-wheel drive vehicles to the breathtaking highlands of Jabal Akhdar (the "Green Mountain"), part of the Al Hajar mountain range and known for its terraced farms, cool climate, and dramatic canyon views. Arrive and check in at the hotel In Jabal Akhdar. Overnight at hotel in Jabal Akhdar.
Note: Oman Across Ages Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Fridays when it operates from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Day 7:
Jabal Akhdar (4WD) (Breakfast)
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a walk around the villages of Jabal Akhdar. The villages overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks, Gorges and Wadis During the months of March and April the air is heavy with the scent of roses as they bloom across the entire place During season, we can even watch rose water being distilled in the homes of the villagers Afternoon free at leisure to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Visit the local rose water distillery, an experience that provides insight into the traditional method of extracting rose essence from Damask roses, which thrive in the mountainous terrain. Overnight at hotel in Jabal Akhdar.
Day 8:
Jabal Akhdar - Wadi Bani Khalid - Wahiba Sands (4WD) (2.5 hrs. drive) (Breakfast, Dinner)
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Visit Al Manzifah Village, one of the most historically significant and picturesque sites in the Ibra region, located in Al Sharqiyah Governorate. This traditional village offers a glimpse into Oman’s past with its old mud-brick houses and rich cultural heritage. Proceed to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most stunning and well-known wadis in Oman. Nestled in the Al Sharqiyah region, this wadi is famous for its crystal-clear, aqua-blue pools that flow year-round, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush date palms. Caves and small waterfalls add to its natural charm as it winds through nearby villages. Continue the journey to the Sharqiyah Sands (Wahiba Sands)—a vast sea of rolling red and white sand dunes, some rising as high as 200 meters. This striking desert landscape is home to diverse flora and fauna, and its ever-shifting dunes are a paradise for photographers. Visit a traditional Bedouin home, where you'll have the opportunity to meet local residents and learn about their customs and nomadic way of life. Arrive at your desert camp and check in. As evening falls, take in the majesty of the desert during a tranquil sunset over the dunes, an unforgettable experience. Dinner and Overnight stay at Wahiba Sands.
Day 9:
Wahiba Sands - Sur - Muscat & Fly to Salalah (4WD) (2 hrs. drive) (Breakfast)
Breakfast in the desert and check-out, Today, we will drive to Sur. As we continue our journey, we’ll arrive in Sur, a charming coastal town nestled within a natural bay. The harbor district here preserves its traditional architectural beauty, offering a glimpse into Oman’s maritime heritage. In Sur, we’ll visit the fish jetty, where local fishermen unload their catch, and explore a dhow factory, where the ancient art of boat-building is still practiced today. Next, we’ll head toward Muscat, with a stop at the stunning Bimmah Sinkhole en route. This natural wonder, a breathtaking limestone crater, is filled with azure waters and surrounded by rocky terrain, making it a perfect spot for a brief exploration. We will then proceed to Muscat Airport for our flight to Salalah. (Tentative flight details: Departure at 2:50 PM, Arrival at 4:30 PM).
Upon arrival at Salalah Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after a day full of discovery. Overnight at hotel in Salalah.
Note: Please be aware that flight timings from Muscat to Salalah may change, and the program will be adjusted accordingly.
Day 10:
Salalah (Breakfast)
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then head to the Grand Mosque in Salalah, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate design details. After visiting the mosque, continue to Al Hosn Royal Palace (photo stop only), an iconic landmark of Salalah, offering a glimpse into the region’s royal history. From there, make your way to Haffa Souq, where you can explore a variety of traditional Omani handicrafts, spices, and local products, with a special focus on the renowned frankincense. Next, venture to Wadi Dawkah, located along the route to the desert. This lush wadi is home to ancient frankincense trees, some of which have thrived in the region for thousands of years, a living testament to the area’s cultural heritage. After lunch, visit the Museum of the Frankincense Land, which delves into the rich history and significance of the frankincense trade in the region. Explore the archaeological site of Al Baleed, once an important port in the ancient frankincense trade. In the afternoon, return to the hotel for some leisure time to relax. Overnight at hotel in Salalah.
Note: The Museum of the Frankincense Land is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday, and from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Day 11:
Werst and East Salalah (Breakfast)
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Start the day with a drive from Salalah to Mughsayl Beach, a scenic stretch where you can marvel at the famous blowholes, which erupt with water during high tide, creating a dramatic natural spectacle. Next, continue to Masoud Beach Viewpoint, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline, perfect for a moment of tranquility. Then, head to the serene Fazayah Beach, a hidden gem nestled between rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters, providing a peaceful retreat. Afterward, drive to Wadi Darbat, a lush and verdant valley surrounded by towering mountains. Known for its freshwater lakes and picturesque waterfalls, it’s a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature. Continue to the Samharam Archaeological Site, an ancient port town that played a key role in the frankincense trade. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Oman’s rich history. Finally, visit Taqa Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the coastline. From here, enjoy a perfect sunset before heading back to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Salalah.
Note: Samharam Archaeological Site is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday, and from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Day 12:
Depart Salalah (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel & check-out (12:00 hrs.) Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of your journey. Afterward, we'll transfer you to Salalah airport for your onward flight. We bid you farewell and hope you carry cherished memories of your time in Oman with you.
Note: No Services included in Muscat on this day.
Price includes
- Twin sharing accommodation in specified or equivalent hotels
- AC vehicle for arrivals and departures based on guest count
- Inclusive of all sightseeing tours, excursions, and monument/fort entrances
- Dinner at Wahiba Sands
- Services of an accompanying English-speaking guide (From 5 Pax onwards)
- Services of English-speaking driver/guide from 2-4 Pax
- All applicable taxes and 5% VAT included
Price does not include
- Airfare
- Unmentioned items
- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, telephone, tips)
- Oman tourist visa
- Meals not specified, and all beverages unless specified otherwise
Itinerary
| Day | Overnight | Itinerary highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Al Falaj Muscat or similarMuscat |
Muscat International Airport (MCT), Muscat Arrival Terminal |
| 2 | Al Falaj Muscat or similarMuscat | |
| 3 | Sama Heights or similarAl Hamra | |
| 4 | Bustan Inn Nizwa Hotel or similarNizwa | |
| 5 | Bustan Inn Nizwa Hotel or similarNizwa | |
| 6 | Sama Hotel or similarJabal Akhḍar | |
| 7 | Sama Hotel or similarJabal Akhḍar | |
| 8 | Al Salam camp or similarWahiba Sands | Wadi Bani Khalid |
| 9 | Crowne Plaza Salalah or similarSalalah |
Sur Muscat |
| 10 | Crowne Plaza Salalah or similarSalalah | |
| 11 | Crowne Plaza Salalah or similarSalalah | |
| 12 |
Salalah Airport (SLL) Departure Terminal |
Accommodations provided in each place
| Place | Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Muscat | Al Falaj Muscat or similar | Grand Millennium Muscat Hotel or similar |
| Al Hamra | Sama Heights or similar | The View Hotel or similar |
| Nizwa | Bustan Inn Nizwa Hotel or similar | Intercity Hotel Nizwa or similar |
| Jabal Akhḍar | Sama Hotel or similar | Dusit Naseem Resort or similar |
| Wahiba Sands | Al Salam camp or similar | Arabian Nights Resort or similar |
| Salalah | Crowne Plaza Salalah or similar | |