Discover Oman on Foot

Fly to Muscat, the capital city of Oman, where upon arrival, you will be transferred to your beachfront hotel for a two-night stay. The rest of the day and evening are free for you to unwind and take a leisurely walk along the Corniche, where you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunset.
 

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After breakfast, make sure to pack your swimwear and sun protection as you will be spending the morning aboard a dhow. Take in the beautiful sights of Muscat from a different angle, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins. You'll have the opportunity to go snorkelling and experience the rich sea life in the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman. The necessary snorkelling gear will be provided. 

Back on land - and if you still have the energy - you can enjoy a relaxing 1.5km walk on the Muttrah Walk, which is an easy route leading to stunning viewpoints of the city and surrounding mountains. Or you could visit  Muscat Souk, a magnificent wooden marketplace with a wide range of small shops offering incense, floral waters, khanjars (daggers with a curved blade), and fabrics. Walking distance: 2.5km; Duration : 1h30 to 2 hours; Difficulty: easy. (B).

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Start the day by visiting one of the most stunning buildings in the country - the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. It is one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, and you will have the opportunity to see the second-largest hand-loomed Persian carpet in the world.

After that, get in your 4WD vehicle and drive towards the Omani mountains to reach the quaint village of Wakan. It is situated on top of a cliff and offers a lovely stroll along its irrigation network. Finally, continue your journey towards Bilad Sayt, one of the most picturesque villages in Oman, nestled in the heart of the mountains and boasting amazing panoramic views. Driving distance 215km / 3h30. (B,D).

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Today marks the first day of a hike in Sharah al Alamayn, which boasts of the most breathtaking views of the western wadis and the Hajar mountains, the highest peaks in the country. Follow the trail to reach the summit and then return the same way. Next, head towards the village of Misfah, nestled in the foothills of Jebel Akhdar.

This charming hamlet is surrounded by many fruit trees like banana and mango trees and offers a welcome break from the arid landscape. Take a leisurely stroll among the irrigation canals on the Plantation Circuit Trail and interact with the local farmers who work the land. Driving distance: 50km / 1hr30. Walking distance: 7km; Duration: 4 hours; Descent: +/-100m. (B,D) 
 

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After breakfast explore the Grand Canyon of Arabia and experience the breathtaking ‘Balcony Walk’. Although not for the faint-hearted, this hike is a must-see during a visit to the Sultanate as it offers a dizzying view of the mountain on one side and the 500m deep Wadi Ghul canyon on the other, leading to the hanging village of Sap Bani Khamis Sab.

After the exhilarating hike, you can drive to Al Hamra, a traditional 400-year-old village with mud-brick houses in the old quarter. Here, you can take a walk along the falaj (irrigation system) and through the large date plantations. Next, you can head to Nizwa, an oasis surrounded by the Hajar mountains, which was once the ancient capital of the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa, also known as the ‘Pearl of Islam’, has an impressively restored fort with a 40m-tall tower and a lively high-walled Ibra souq. Once a week, the souq turns into a women’s-only market where only female buyers and sellers are welcome. Driving distance: 30km / 1h. Walking distance: 4km; Duration: 3 hours. (B).

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If you happen to be in Nizwa on a Friday morning, then you’re in luck as you'll witness the centuries-old livestock market where cattle and local produce like honey and dates are sold. Today, you'll explore Jabal Akhdar, also known as the Green Mountain, famous for its cultivation of damask roses and rose water. Local villagers may offer a delicious rose syrup drink for you to try.

The hike along the mountain path offers breathtaking views of the valley. In the afternoon, you can opt for a shorter scenic wander by following a dry riverbed to a village that is literally clinging to the mountain walls. It's worth noting that you won't be able to do the second hike if you visit the market in the morning. Driving Distance: 116km / 2 hours. Walking distance: 4km; Duration: 4 hours; Descent: +/-100m. (B).

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Drive through Wadi Bani Khalid on your way to the famous Wahiba Sands Desert. The journey takes you through an ochre-coloured landscape of rocky hills and small oases. Despite the inhospitable and desolate nature of the terrain, the experience is strangely delightful. Take a well-deserved break at Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can cool off in the deep pools at the end of the wadi.

Afterward, continue your journey until you reach the entrance to the desert. Cross several kilometres of sand to arrive at the camp, where you'll encounter an endless ocean of ochre-coloured sand. The dunes of the Wahiba Sands Desert provide a memorable experience, especially at sunset and sunrise when they turn a warm orange colour. At night, you can sleep under a blanket of a million stars. Driving distance: 300km / 4 hours. (B,D).
 

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After taking an early morning stroll through the ochre-coloured dunes during sunrise, it's time to change the scenery. Head to the fishing village of Khaluf, which is renowned for its beautiful white sandy beaches and serves as the entrance to the Indian Ocean through the white dunes. Along the way, you'll pass through Mahoot, a village with nearby salt pans.

You can either relax or go for a short walk in the Sugar Dunes. Driving distance: 300km / 4 hours. (B,D).
 

Start the day with an invigorating hike through the breathtaking Sugar Dunes and petrified sand dunes, which boast towering cliffs. Don't forget to bring your swimming gear, as there will be opportunities for a refreshing swim.

Then, make your way along the coast to Al Ashkharah, where you can explore the charming port and perhaps even witness local fishermen catching big fish from the shore. Be sure to take some time to wander through the old town and discover its hidden treasures on your own. Driving distance: 250km / 3 hours. (B,D)

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Embark on a scenic drive along the coast to the charming town of Sur, which is famous for its traditional Arab boats called dhow, which are rigged with triangular sails. The town's white-painted buildings make it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a delightful lunch before continuing your road trip to Wadi Tiwi.

Wadi Tiwi, also known as the gorge of the "Wadi of Nine Villages", is a natural wonder that boasts an intricate network of falajs, waterfalls, emerald pools, terraced crops, and traditional villages. It's a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Oman's natural landscapes. Driving distance: 170km / 2h30. (B)

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After breakfast, drive to Wadi Shab, also known as the 'Gorge Between Cliffs', which is one of Oman's most beautiful treasures. When you arrive, park your car and start the short walk through the canyon's middle. After an hour or so, you'll discover the most amazing swimming spots. Make sure to bring a picnic and swimming gear to fully enjoy the place.

Then, hit the road and head to Wadi Al Arabeen, which is a less-visited wadi. Here, you can walk through the plantations inside the canyon until you reach a natural swimming pool. Return to Muscat via Bimmah sinkhole, where you can access the crystal-clear blue water via a staircase.
 
The rest of the evening is free for you to spend at your leisure. Driving distance: 150km / 1h30. (B)

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Today you will be transferred to Muscat airport for your return flight to the UK. (B).