Oman: Classic Tour
Discover The East Of Oman
Stunning sand dunes and coastlines, palm fringed wadis and rugged mountains are a few of the reasons why Oman is widely considered to be the most beautiful of the Gulf States. In addition to the countries scenic beauty, Omanis are remarkably friendly and hospitable towards Western tourists.Read more
The tour starts with sightseeing in Muscat, Oman’s capital. Some highlights Muscat has to offer are the Grand Mosque and the Bait al Zubair Museum as well as Mutrah Souk. The tour continues to Nizwa’s bustling souk which offers a variety of products from live cattle to spices to souvenirs. Afterwards, the group heads into the mountains to a deserted village thereby offering excellent photographic opportunities. After visiting the ‘Arabic Grand Canyon’, the tour visits Ibra, one of the oldest cities in the country. Heading into the desert, the group will enjoy a 4×4 desert safari.
A highlight of the tour is the nautral phenomenon of Wadi Bani Khalid. It is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the barren and dry mountains boasting turquoise pools of water. The tour continues to Ras Al Hadd where the group will have the opportunity to see the green turtles. Last but not least the tour heads to Sur, once a trading point with India and East Africa and now a town famous for building tradition dhows (sailing vessels).
Dates
Dates on request
Suggested Itinerary by Air
Day 1
Fly to Muscat
The group will fly from the UK to Muscat where they will be met by an English speaking guide and will be coach transferred to their hotel in the city.
Day 2
Muscat sightseeing
After breakfast, the group will begin the day with a tour of The Grand Mosque which was opened by the Sultan of Oman in 2001 and took almost 7 years to construct. The group will continue on a guided tour of the old walled city of Muscat including the Bait al Zubair Museum which has a fine display of Omani culture and history. The group will also have free time to explore or possibly visit the famous Mutrah Souk, which is reputed to be the best in the Gulf.
Day 3
Nizwa Souk and Nakhl Fort
Today will begin early with a visit to Nizwa’s bustling souk which offers a variety of products from live cattle to spices to souvenirs. Afterwards, the group will head into the mountains to the deserted village of Blaid Sait which offers some excellent photographic opportunities before continuing to Nakhl Fort. The fort is the tallest in the country and is 350 years old.
Day 4
Oman’s Grand Canyon
Today the group will enjoy the breathtaking views of Oman’s Grand Canyon with Nakhr village more than a kilometre below us. Afterwards, we will travel down the mountain to Wadi Ghul and Nakhr village where you will view the canyon in reverse. The group will have some free time here to admire the views and have lunch. Travel back to Nizwa for overnight stay.
Day 5
Nizwa to Wahida Sands
After breakfast, the group will check out of the hotel and travel to the city of Ibra, the second largest city in the Ash Sharqiyah region and is one of the oldest cities in the country. The city contains many castles and ancient mosques. The main attractions include many beautiful watchtowers and a traditional souk, which is renowned for its silver jewellery. Afterwards, the group will continue to the desert. The group will enjoy a 4×4 desert safari which will take them to the comfortable camp for the evening where dinner will be served.
Day 6
Wadi Bani Khalid & Ras Al Hadd
After breakfast, the group will leave the desert behind to visit Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful oasis in the middle of the barren and dry mountains boasting turquoise pools of water. After relaxing at the wadi, the group will continue to Ras Al Hadd where they will check into the Turtle Beach Resort or the Ras Al Hadd Hotel. During the evening, the group will have the opportunity to see the green turtles, as this area’s warm waters are an ideal nesting point for them. There is a turtle reserve close by for this protected species and sightings are possible all year round.
Day 7
Ras Al Hadd to Muscat
After breakfast, the group will travel to the town of Sur, once a trading point with India and East Africa and now a town famous for building tradition dhows (sailing vessels). A walk in the old city reveals a labyrinth of narrow streets and fine old houses with intricately carved wooden doors and windows. The group will arrive into Muscat in the afternoon and check into their hotel.
Day 8
Muscat and Return to the UK
After breakfast and free time (dependant on flight departure time), the group will be transferred to the airport for their flights back to the UK.
Featured hotels
Crown Plaza Hotel, Muscat
The best time to visit Oman is between October and March, temperatures are warm and you avoid the monsoon in the South.