Muscat, Wahiba Sands & Jabal Akhdar
History & Culture
Despite neighbouring the glitzy Dubai, Oman has preserved much of its heritage. Explore the stunning coastline dotted with traditional dhows, the eerie desert where the Bedouins call home, as well as the dramatic mountains of Jabal Akhdar which towers above the Arabian Peninsula.
This program is designed to cover not only the highlights, but we will also venture into one of the greatest off-road driving in Oman. Stop at charming mountain villages, rugged wadis and majestic forts.
Upon arrival, we will drive 11km or approximately 15 minutes to Muscat.
Today’s half-day orientation tour of Muscat will cover Natural History Museum for insights on Oman’s geology, Bait Al Zubair Museum to learn about the country’s history and development, the Royal Opera House and the old town and a stroll along the corniche waterfront from Al Alam Palace to the Portuguese forts Jalali and Minari.
After a morning exploration of the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (opens 8-11am, closed on Fri), we will drive along the beautiful Omani coast, stopping at multiple picturesque spots including the Quriyat Fishing Village, Bimmah Sinkhole and White Beach. Enjoy picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots.
We make a stop at Sur to visit the insightful Dhow Museum and hike up near a lighthouse for Sur’s skyline viewpoint. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Wahiba Sands.
Make an excursion to Wadi Bani Khalid with picnic lunch. Famed for its palm-fringed emerald pools, it is among the most beautiful desert oasis in Oman.
After traditional Omani kahwa and dates with a local Bedouin family, soak in the adrenaline with 4WD dune bashing followed by sunset over Sharqiya sands.
Head further inland into the mighty Bahla Fort (UNESCO) and the intricate Jabrin Castle before heading into the vibrant Nizwa fort and souq.
We stop for a picnic lunch at Birkat Al Mauz. Afterwards, we stroll along this atmospheric Omani village, known for its incredible afalaj irrigation system which is inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Drive further upwards into the mountain of Jabal Akhdar, highly acclaimed as the roof of the Arabian Peninsula.
Get active with Al Aqr and Al Ayn villages walk. The Bani Riyam tribe has shaped the mountain terraces which are seasonally planted with roses, pomegranates and olive trees.
Our next stop is the abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib. Follow the old farm trails through the farmlands of pomegranates and walnut trees.
Today, we head into the 400-year-old town of Al Hamra, containing some of the best-preserved traditional houses in Oman.
Our route continues through one of the greatest off-road driving in Oman, stopping in the scenic mountain village of Balad Sayt, through the entrance of Wadi Bani Auf and onwards to Nakhl Fort fringed by date palms.
Finally, we will head to Muscat Airport for your night flight home.
Crowne Plaza Muscat • Desert Nights Camp Wahiba Sands • Sahab Resort & Spa Nizwa
Located along the promenade of Qurum beach with access to lifestyle establishments in the Omani capital, Crowne Plaza Muscat offers modern amenities and private beach at excellent value.
(Opened: 1997; Rooms: 205)
This lovely deluxe tent is fitted with comfortable bedding and Omani furnishings within the vast expanse of the Arabian dunes.
(Rooms: 30)
This beautiful 4-star resort comes with beautiful view of the mountains and village terraces.
(Rooms: 27)
Al Bustan Palace Muscat • Hud Hud Shared Camp Wahiba Sands • Alila Jabal Akhdar Nizwa
Accessibly secluded, this former palace is beautifully fringed by the Omani coast and the Al Hajar Mountains just 30 minutes south of Muscat.
(Opened: 2011; Rooms: 210)
This highly exclusive camp is set amongst the remote wilderness of the Wahiba Sands and can be fully privatized at special request.
(Rooms: 6)
Boasting a remote location overlooking the Hajar mountain ridges, Alila Jabal Akhdar handsomely integrates contemporary furnishings with local design inspired by ancient forts.
(Opened: 2013; Rooms: 86)
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Call us at +65 6219 1359 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to start planning for a holiday that is completely tailored to your preferences.
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