OMAN TOUR

Day 1: Muscat Airport – Jabal Akhdar

Pick-up from Muscat Airport. We drive through the agricultural coastal plain of the Batinah region pass the town of Barka. Late morning we reach Nakhal an old oasis once guarded and protected by newly renovated and impressive fortress. The off-road track of Wadi Bani Awf leads us up to a cap crossing the western Hajar at 2000 meters with a spectacular view. Before continuing to Nizwa we visit the old mountain village of Misfat. We continue our way to Birkat Al Mauwz and enjoy a walk through the lush green plantation. From here we are heading to the Jebel Al Akdhar, the green jewel of the Al Hajar mountain ranges, a unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains and see Al Jebel al Akhdar which is famed for fruit orchards typically laid out in terraces along the mountain slopes and irrigated by falaj, traditional water systems. (includes lunch at local restaurant)

Dinner and overnight at Alila Resort, Jebel Akhdar – Mountain View Suite

Day 2: Jabal Akhdar - Nizwa – Wahiba Sands

Drive through the spectacular Western Hajar Mountains to Nizwa, capital of the interior and birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa is famous for its Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and the souq with its Friday cattle auction, ornamental silver jewellery and intricately hand-carved ‘khanjars’ (daggers). The historic town of Bahla is encircled by a winding wall and is famous for pottery as well as a large fort which is now included on UNESCO’s world heritage list. Enjoy a brief photostop in the town before proceeding to Jabrin. Jabrin, built in the late 17th century and the finest of Oman’s castles, became a seat of Omani learning. The castle displays the highest achievement in Omani ceiling painting and has beautifully executed woodcarvings.

In the afternoon we enter the Wahiba Sands Desert and reach our permanent campsite. Discover the desert by 4WD and get a glimpse of the famous Bedouin hospitality at a local family offering Omani coffee and dates (tips are preferred). The day finishes peacefully with dinner. (Includes lunch at a local restaurant)

Dinner and overnight at Desert Nights Camp – Deluxe Room

Day 3: Wahiba sands- Muscat

Breakfast at the campsite – and sand dune driving through the desert. Along the dunes of Wahiba Sands the sand tracks will lead us ultimately to the road, which heads to Wadi Bani Khalid – one of the most beautiful wadis in the mountains of Oman. Immediately next to the dry vastness of the desert we step into another world. The landscape is filled with lush greenery, fish in the clear blue waters of the pools. We continue our way to Sur, the ancient Port city, after an orientation drive through Sur and a visit of the dhow factory we continue our tour towards Wadi Tiwi with its lush green plantations followed by Wadi Shaab (photo stop). With its breath-taking entrance and views of aquamarine pools, waterfalls and terraced plantations it is one of the most beautiful spots in Oman. Our next stop is at Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue-green water at the bottom. On clear sunny days while driving along the coast, you may be able to see bigger fish in the deep blue water. Return to Muscat. (Includes lunch at local restaurant)

Overnight at Chedi hotel Muscat – Club room

Day 4: Dolphin watching tour with lunch

A Morning pick up from your hotel pick-up brings you to The Marina Bandar Rhowda where the tour begins. Cruise to the open waters off Muscat and see schools of dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Various species can be seen enjoying their natural habitat. Soft drinks and water on board. In addition to dolphin watching, we are happy to offer you a look under the water with snorkelling gear on the boat and a visit nearer to the coastline where you can see many species of fish and even turtles or small sharks.

Lunch at a private beach.

After lunch return to the hotel.

Overnight at Chedi hotel Muscat – Club room

Day 5: Muscat City tour

Muscat offers the visitor a rare opportunity to witness a modern centre existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbour, Muscat, meaning ‘anchorage’, lies in a natural bowl. Our tour of the Grand Mosque (excluding Fridays) is a brief introduction that traces Oman’s history and development. After driving along the Cornice to visit the fish market and colourful Muttrah Souq, we make a photo stop at the official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, the magnificent Al Alam Palace which is flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Return to the hotel.

(All visitors must be fully covered to wrists and ankles; ladies must wear a scarf covering hair and neck for a visit to the Grand Mosque.)

Departure transfer to Muscat Airport.

-End of the services-

Price

Price per person sharing a Double/Twin room: USD 1670.00

Single supplement: USD 1050.00

Price includes:

Accommodation at above mentioned hotels

Transfers and tours by air conditioned /coach 4x4 vehicles

Entrance fees as per the itinerary

English speaking chauffeur guide for tours

Meals as per the itinerary

Water on board

All taxes and services charges currently applicable by the government

Price DOES NOT include:

Cost of meals other than specified above

Air tickets

Oman Visa

Any expenses of personal nature