Oman Adventure

You will be met at the airport from where you will be driven your hotel. The remainder of the day offers free time for you to explore and relax in walking distance to the beach and dining possibilities.

Today you visit the 5th largest mosque in the world, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Passing by the diplomatic quarter, you will be taken to the oldest and largest market in the country, Muttrah souq. This is a time for you to shop for your Omani souvenirs. Walk through its narrow alleys where the air is filled with the smell of frankincense and sandalwood. Next stop is the Al Alam Palace where the Sultan receives his state guests. The palace is flanked by two Portuguese fortresses, Al Jalali (1578) to the right and Al Mirani (1581) to the left. At a museum, you will witness traditional artefacts and traces of history and pre-history of Muscat. Finally, see Muscat on a boat cruise while sipping your first ever Omani kahwa – a nice way to wrap up the day!

What separates Oman from other Gulf States is its diverse geography and nature. We start the day with a leisure hike through the twin wadis of Shab and Tiwi. You and your guide will determine the best suited itinerary for the day. There is a possibility for swimming along the way so prepare some change of clothes! You will pass by Bimmah Sinkhole with its azure saltwater pool. Arriving to the fishing town of Sur, the home of Omani traditional Dhows (boat), you will visit the dhow factory in the open air museum. At night, an extraordinary experience awaits you at the Turtle beach where you will get the opportunity to witness sea turtles coming to the shore and laying eggs!

We embark on a stunning coastal drive this morning before reaching Wadi Bani Khalid where water flows all year round. This most loved wadi of the country features large pools of turquoise and emerald colored water, lined with lush green palm trees inviting you to jump into refresh. And for the main destination of the day, you traverse through the elevations of the vast Wahiba desert. The stay at the authentic desert camp, with local cuisine and entertainment is an experience everyone will enjoy.

Get in your 4WD and drive to Ibra Old town, with its retro appearance. The drive now takes you to Jebel Al Akhdar, the home of Omani rosewater. It is considered one of the most fertile places inland with different fruits and flowers blooming. From Saiq plateau, you will have the perfect view of the terraces. If time permits, there is a chance to walk around the mountain villages. Just at the foot of the mountain is Birkat Al Mauz, a magical place particularly during sunset. Stroll through the deserted ruined village surrounded by date plantations and aflaj, the ancient irrigation system that is a UNESCO heritage site. Continue to Nizwa for the night. Get in your 4WD and drive towards the nearby town of Ibra. Ibra Old town, with its retro appearance, is worth visiting. The drive now takes you to Jebel Al Akhdar, the home of Omani rosewater. It is considered as one of the most fertile places inland with different fruits and flowers blooming. From Saiq plateau, you will have the perfect view of the terraces. If time permits, there is a chance to walk around the mountain villages. Just at the foot of the mountain is Birkat Al Mauz, a magical place particularly during sunset. Stroll through the deserted ruined village, surrounded by date plantations and aflaj, the ancient irrigation system that is UNESCO heritage site. Continue to Nizwa for the night.

Explore the cultural capital of the country Nizwa. As it is a Friday, you have the opportunity to watch the bargaining at the animal market where the herders bring their cattle to be auctioned once a week. This is followed by a visit to the most visited national monument, Nizwa Fort. Another beautiful castle, Jabreen, and another UNESCO site, Bahla Fort (photo stop only) are on your way before driving to Al Hamra. Here, the village women demonstrate old practices such as milling, coloring, cooking and more. A truly enriching experience. To the west of Al Hamra lies the road winding up Jebel Shams, mountain of the sun. It is the highest mountain of the Arabic world and reaches 3075 m above sea level. The drive to the peak is adventurous, you pass the old village Ghul with its green terrace fields. Some kilometers further you reach the abyss of the Omani Grand Canyon. Enjoy the breathtaking views before checking in at your mountain resort.

Another reason to get up early: a picturesque "balcony walk" to the old village of As Sab on top of the mountain. Your rugged route to Muscat consists of a stop at the village of Bilad Sayt, followed by one of the most exhilarating off-road ride through Wadi Bani Awf. Visit the hot springs of Nakhal and stroll around its fort before heading towards Muscat, where our unforgettable journey ends.