Travel to Oman is a bucket list destination for many people.
The traditional gateway to the enigmatic Arabian Peninsula.
Why we love Oman
It is one of the oldest and most traditional civilisations in the Arabian Peninsula. You’ll be in awe of the dramatic sunsets over the desert and the beautiful coastline which hasn’t been deprived by high-rise hotels. The souks are bustling with energy and there are plenty of historic old forts and towns to explore.
Signature Experiences
- Spend a night under the stars in a desert camp.
- Watch traditional dhow building in Sur.
- Retreat to Alila Jabal Akhdar, perched in the Hajar mountains, a haven for nature lovers.
- Visit the Grand Mosque and National Museum in Muscat.
- Marvel at the changing colours of Sharqiya Sands.
Recommended Itinerary
Arrive in Muscat, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.
Muscat is a unique city where modern commerce co-exists with traditional culture. Today explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the National Museum in a brief introduction to Oman’s fascinating history. After visiting the Fish Market and colourful Muttrah Souk, take your photo at the magnificent Al Alam Palace, official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts Mirani and Jalali. Spend the afternoon at leisure discussing Muscat’s marvels.
Today, Design your Day – giving you the freedom to choose the experience that is best suited to you. Select from the following options:
- Option 1: Backstage at the opera
- Option 2: Omani cooking masterclass
Leave Muscat by 4×4 to see Barka’s fish market and souk, before passing the Batinah Plain and Bait Naaman Castle. Turn off to Wadi Bani Auf to see the sedimentary mountains and canyon. Stop at Bilad Sayt – one of Oman’s quaintest villages – and explore its streets on foot. The patchwork of terrace farming and traditional houses laid out against the rocky slopes is breathtaking. Follow the mountain roads from here to Al Hamra and its mud houses and date plantations, before arriving at the resort of Alila Jabal Akhdar.
This day is all about experiencing the best of the region with a visit to the necropolis of Al-Ayn, and the picturesque abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib. From here, you can gaze across spectacular scenery of terraced farms and valleys, and follow trails around the wadi or farmlands, through the ancient walnut trees and fragrant pomegranate bushes. If you need some R’n’R, you might prefer to spend time at the wonderful hotel soaking up the views, meals, and relaxing spa. The choice is yours.
Today you’ll visit Nizwa, capital of the interior and the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Discover Nizwa’s famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and its souk. Renowned for its cattle auction, hand-carved khanjars (daggers), and ornamental silver jewellery, be prepared to be wowed. Relax at Wadi Bani Khalid with its deep blue pools fringed by palms. Head to Sharqiya Sands, and see a variety of flora and fauna. Practice your photography skills on the patterns of the dunes, then check in at Desert Nights Camp for sunset.
Take time this morning to enjoy camp activities such as camel riding or quad biking (additional cost to be paid at the resort). Then see how traditional dhows (sailboats) were made in the fishing town of Sur when you visit the dhow factory. Relax on Fins Beach or discover the pearl-white villages of Wadi Tiwi, before visiting the mysterious Bimmah Sinkhole where you can enjoy a picnic lunch. Return to Muscat, where tonight you’ll join together for a farewell dinner.
Say goodbye to magical Muscat as you transfer to the city’s stylish new airport.
What’s included…
- Design your Day® on Day 3
- Five-star accommodation
- Resident tour director & English-speaking expert local guides
- Airport meet & greet, & return private transfers
- Entrance fees, taxes & tips, & excursions as stated
- Welcome & farewell dinners
- 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 5 dinners
