Dunes, Mountains & Wadis of Oman

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.

• Hotel Description

Your hire car will be delivered to the hotel in the morning. Over the years, Muscat has changed from a small maritime city to a modern metropolis, while still preserving its traditional heritage. To start your day, you can visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture, or the Royal Opera House, which is the first cultural venue in the country. If you are interested in local history, you can explore the Zubair Museum, which has an impressive collection of local artifacts. Alternatively, if you are a nature lover, you can visit the Natural History Museum. You could also head to Mutrah souk, where you can gain an insight into local life and find many shops selling wonderful items.

You end the day with a sunset tour aboard a traditional Omani wooden boat (dhow) for a chance to discover the city from another perspective. Cruise along the coast and witness a beautiful ballet of warm colours. This is a shared tour that lasts around 2 hours.

The rest of the evening is free.(B). 

• Hotel Description

Leaving Muscat behind, follow the coastline to either Wadi Shaab or Wadi Tiwi, depending on the time available. Wadi Shab is a breathtaking oasis, surrounded by dry and arid landscapes. To get there, catch a small boat to cross the river and walk for about an hour along the wadi to reach the oasis. Here you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and sunbathe on the rocks. If you're feeling adventurous, you can continue exploring until you reach a small grotto and its natural waterfall. 

Wadi Tiwi is also worth visiting, and known as the ‘Wadi of Nine Villages,’ it has an interesting falaj  (irrigation system), waterfalls, cultivated terraces and traditional villages. It is easily accessible by car and on foot, so you can explore the surrounding villages, meet the locals, and take a refreshing swim.

In the afternoon, arrive in the ancient city of Sur and get a glimpse into the daily life of Omani fishermen. The city has played a prominent role in the country's maritime commercial activity as the port is one of the oldest in Oman. A visit to the old dhow factory is worth it as you can witness the craftsmanship involved in building these traditional boats. (B) (205km).

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The road leading to Wadi Bani Khalid through the desert of Wahiba Sands is a breathtaking journey in itself. The route is marked by vibrant rock formations before you arrive at the serene oasis. The natural pools here are easily accessible and a popular spot for locals to spend their weekends. Your adventure through the stunning Wahiba desert commences at Bidiyah, known as the door to the desert. 

After deflating your car's tyres, enter a magical world of ochre sand and ever-changing landscapes until you reach your camp for the night. The sunsets here are not to be missed - it's a truly unique moment. If you wish to make the most of your visit, there are optional activities available such as Henna Painting, lunch with a Bedouin family, private dinner, or horse riding. (B,D) (150km).

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Enjoy the beauty of the desert by waking up early and watching the sun rise over the sand dunes. Then, head to the traditional village of Ibra, renowned for its horse breeding and women's souk. Take a short walk through the old part of the city and explore the character of its old houses. Birkat al Mawz, also known as 'Banana pool', is a charming village nestled between a mountain and a plain. Its active irrigation system, falaj, has been nourishing the lush surrounding plantations for centuries.

Take a walk through the palm gardens of this refreshing oasis and stroll through the village. An idyllic and easy hike along the rose path is a great way to begin your journey. Start in the village of Al Aqur and end in Sayq, doubling back using the ancient path that once linked all the villages together.

In the afternoon, arrive in the historic town of Nizwa, surrounded by a lush palm oasis and some of the highest mountains in the country. Once the capital of Oman, the city has maintained its authenticity and offers a fascinating blend of history and local culture. Make sure to visit the city's souk, which features food stalls, local handicrafts, antiques, and silver khanjar (traditional curved daggers). Stop at the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, Oman's most visited national monument. Its distinctive 40m-tall round tower offers amazing views of the surrounding area. (B) (180km).
 

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Jabal Shams, also known as the 'Mountain of the Sun', is the highest peak in the country and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Its peak and the breathtaking view of the Grand Canyon of Arabia, also known as Wadi Ghul, are particularly famous. The Balcony Walk, also known as the W6 path, is a well-known trail that offers an incredible view of the Al Nakhr rim and Oman's Grand Canyon on one side, and the mountain on the other side. 

Moving on to Misfat Al Abriyeen, which is situated at an elevation of 1000m, it is surrounded by mountains, lush agricultural terraces, and palm tree oases. This traditional village, built on solid rock foundations, is an attractive destination and offers breathtaking views from the village's viewing platform. (B,D) (110km). 
 

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Jabal Akhdar, also known as the 'Green Mountain', is named after the fertile plantations of pomegranates, apricots, and roses that are scattered around the area. It's an ideal place to unwind and breathe in the fresh air, which is often accompanied by light rainfall.

The region is home to the Saiq Plateau, a magnificent location that can only be reached by 4X4 vehicles, and offers fantastic opportunities for hikers. Not far from Jabal Akhdar, you can also explore the deserted village of Wadi Bani Habib which sits atop a hillside amid a canyon. The lush vegetation that surrounds the Wadi provides a refreshing retreat from the heat.

Return to Muscat. Driving distance: 240km / 4 hours. (B).

• Hotel Description

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