4 Nights in MUSCAT

Day1:
Upon your arrival at Muscat International Airport, a representative will meet you and drive you to your hotel in Muscat, where you will stay the night. Oman's capital, Muscat, is a thriving and modern city with stunning, whitewashed homes dotting the picture-perfect shoreline. This city has it all, from cultural landmarks to majestic nature and, with a history of trading and seafaring and a large expatriate community, offers a vibrant melting pot of international cuisines.

Day2: Muscat Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar
On your way to Al Jabal Al Akhdar, or ‘the green mountain’, you will be taken through the charming village of Birkat al Mouz, where you can stroll through the area’s historic ruins and sample delicious dates from one of the many plantations; an authentic Omani experience. Cooler temperatures greet you in the mountains of Al Jabal Al Akhdar. This is where you can admire the famous fruit orchards that are laid out in terraces along the mountain slopes and watered by the falaj (traditional water system). From July to September, a range of fruits, including peaches, pomegranates, apricots, figs, grapes, apples, plums, and pears are grown here, along with almonds and walnuts. From March to April, the fragrance of roses in full bloom fills the air as rose water is distilled in the homes of the villagers. In the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib, and Al Ain, you can take in the traditional stone dwellings that have only recently been abandoned, and expansive plateaus that offer spectacular panoramas of the peaks, and gorges and valleys below. You will then be driven to your overnight hotel.

Day 3:
Al Jabal Al Akhdar – Sharqiya Sands
The journey will continue to the historic town of Nizwa. Formerly Oman’s capital, Nizwa is home to a wealth of cultural and architectural sites including the 400 year-old Nizwa Fort and one of the country’s oldest souks, the perfect opportunity to pick up a souvenir. Your next stop will explore a different side of Oman — the magical desert dunes. Nestled in the heart of eastern Oman, Sharqiya Sands is a vast, undulating sea of red and white dunes. You will be driven in a Land Cruiser (4WD) on a tour over the playful waves, all while taking in the magnificent and timeless wind-blown desert landscape inhabited by the hospitable Bedouin and their wandering herds of camels. After an exciting day of dune-bashing, you will watch the mesmerising glow of the sun setting behind the sand dunes and spend the night beneath the stars in an overnight camp.

Day 4:
Sharqiya Sands - Wadi Bani Khalid – Muscat
Heading further south, you will reach the tranquil oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid. A favourite leisure spot among locals, its azure blue fresh-water pools are perfect for a relaxing dip. Next is a trip to Sur, a seaside town that was once famed for its dhows - the magnificent Arabian sailing ships. You will be taken to a dhow-building shipyard to see artisans at work using centuries-old techniques, before breaking for lunch (at own cost) and then driving to your next destination along a scenic coastal route. The road winds along the rugged coast, through beautiful valleys, past white sandy beaches and lemon and mango plantations, until you arrive at Wadi Shab. This canyon is home to deep, crystal-clear pools and you may even discover a hidden waterfall inside a cave! If time permits, you will get the chance to stop at the limestone sinkhole in Bimah (Hawiyyat Najm), and the postcard-perfect Fins Beach.

Day 5:
Departure
After breakfast, you will be met by the representative and driven to Muscat International Airport to catch a local flight for your 2-night trip to Khasab.

2 Nights in KHASAB

Day 5:
Arrival
On your arrival at Khasab Airport, a representative will meet you and drive you to your hotel, where you will stay the night. Khasab is a port city in Oman’s northern peninsula, Musandam. The city is wedged between steep cliffs and the sea, a feature you can't help but appreciate when when you fly in or sail into the harbour.

Day 6:
Khasab City Tour
The tour begins with a stop at the old Khasab Fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. Within its low, crenellated walls, the fort contains a large central tower which is thought to pre-date the fort itself. Having had extensive restoration work carried out in the late 20th century, the fort’s location offers excellent views and photo opportunities. Leaving the keep, the journey continues along the coastal road for about an hour to Bukha, which borders the Emirate of Ras al Khaima. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel along the ruggedly beautiful coastal route and hone your camera skills at various photo stops. Overlooking the sea and with a backdrop of mountains, Bukha Fort is the final stop of the day and affords more breath-taking views from its gorgeous setting. Please note: Guides for languages other than English are limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in English. Due to the marked differences between outside temperatures and those found in the places visited as well as the air-conditioned tour vehicle, it is recommended that you take a light jumper or cardigan for your comfort. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or who use a wheelchair as it involves long periods of walking on uneven ground.

Day 7:
Departure
You will be driven back to Khasab Airport to depart on your next journey to Salalah.

2 Nights in SALALAH

Day 7:
Arrival
Salalah, the capital of the Dhofar province, is the colourful and subtropical home to the world’s finest frankincense. The women of Dhofar are famous for their exquisite incense of frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood and flower essences, the aromatic scents filling the air throughout the towns and villages. Through the monsoon season (known as Khareef), the region is endowed with water wealth, which is responsible for the lush greenery that lends it a cooler climate and unique beauty. Once you touch down, your guide will transfer you to your overnight resort, where you can unwind for the evening.

Day 8:
Half Day City Tour
The first stop of this tour is the Museum of the Frankincense Land, located in the archaeological park for the ancient port of Al Baleed, a UNESCO heritage site. With two interwoven exhibits that detail Oman's lengthy history and maritime legacy, the museum provides a comprehensive look at Oman through the ages. Make a stop at the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the official Palace of His Majesty the Sultan, before browsing the shops for high-quality frankincense, traditional Dhofari ornaments, clay incense burners painted with traditional patterns, and vibrant textiles. Your final stop is New Salalah’s gold and silver souq. Hosting a variety of stores, there are several options to shop for beautiful gold and silver ornaments, antique jewellery, beautiful stones, traditional Omani daggers (khanjars) and walking sticks. Once the half-day city tour ends, you will be driven to your resort where you can relax or explore Salalah at your leisure for the rest of the evening.

Day 9:
Departure (Check - Out Time 1200 Hrs )
After breakfast, you will be transported to Salalah International Airport to fly onward to your next destination—wherever that may be!.