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.
Itinerary Highlights
- Experience one of the greatest off-road driving through Balad Sayt & Nakhl Fort
- Traditional Omani kahwa and dates with a local Bedouin family
- Picnic lunches set at scenic spots around rural Oman
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bahla Fort and the Afalaj Irrigaton Systems
Itinerary Outline
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Day 1
Arrival in Muscat
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Day 2
Muscat / Quriyat / Sur / Wahiba Sands
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Day 3
Wahiba Sands / Wadi Bani Khalid / Wahiba Sands
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Day 4
Wahiba Sands / Bahla / Nizwa / Jabal Akhdar
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Day 5
Jabal Akhdar
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Day 6
Jabal Akhdar / Nakhl / Departure from Muscat
Itinerary
Arrival in Muscat
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.
Muscat / Quriyat / Sur / Wahiba Sands
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.
Wahiba Sands / Wadi Bani Khalid / 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.
Wahiba Sands / Bahla / Nizwa / Jabal Akhdar
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.
Jabal Akhdar
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.
Jabal Akhdar / Nakhl / Departure from Muscat
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.
Hotels & Tour Price
Includes
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis
- Meals as stated
- All transportation & transfer on an air-conditioned vehicle
- Throughout English-speaking expert guide cum driver
- All entrance fees in sights stated
Excludes
- International Airfare
- Beverages where meals are included
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses e.g. telephone bill & laundry
- Visa
- Travel insurance