8 days
OmanTrip Itinerary
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Exploring the Diverse Beauty of Oman: From Muscat to Jabal Shams
Oman, a gem on the Arabian Peninsula, offers a rich collection of landscapes and cultural heritage. Start your holiday in Oman in Muscat, the capital city, where modernity blends seamlessly with tradition. Explore its stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, bustling Mutrah Souq, and the impressive Royal Opera House.
From Muscat, head south to Sur, a coastal city renowned for its maritime history and dhow-building yards. Sur's picturesque harbor and the nearby Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve offer unique experiences for nature lovers. Next continue your Oman tour onto discover the Wahiba Sands, vast rolling sand dunes that offer a quintessential desert experience, just one of great things to do in Oman.
Nizwa, a city steeped in history and culture. Visit the imposing Nizwa Fort and explore the lively souq, famous for its silver jewelry. Nizwa's weekly livestock market is a vibrant spectacle that offers a glimpse into the region's agricultural traditions. Hike to witness the beautiful Jabal Shams, the "Mountain of the Sun," Oman’s highest peak. The breathtaking views from the top, particularly the Grand Canyon of Oman, offer a dramatic contrast to the desert landscapes below. Together, these destinations showcase the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Oman, promising an unforgettable journey through its majestic landscapes and historic sites for the ultimate cultural holiday.
What's Included:
- All accommodation fees
- All activities and tours included in the itinerary
- Entry fees to national parks and reserves
- Bed & Breakfast at all mentioned hotels
- All private transfers
Trip Itinerary
Days 1-2: Muscat
Day 1 - Arrive in Muscat
Welcome to Oman! You will arrive at Muscat International Airport - Upon arrival, our chauffer or guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall with a welcome sign with your name on it. Guests will be transferred from Muscat airport to the hotel, Grand Millennium Muscat
Oman, with a rich history dating back to antiquity, it mixes skyscrapers and high-end shopping malls with cliff-top monuments such as the 16th century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Al Mirani, overlooking Muscat's harbor.
In the afternoon, our Muscat city tour starts at Bait Al Zubair, a private museum with a remarkable collection of Omani artifacts. We'll also make a quick photo stop at Al Alam Palace, one of Sultan Qaboos's royal residences, Mirani and Jalali fort.Later on in the day, we'll explore the historic Muttrah area, where you can visit the traditional Muttrah Souq, a market steeped in history, dating back about two centuries. In the evening, we'll head back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation before your Oman tour begins.
Days 2 - Muscat City Tour
After a delicious breakfast in the hotel, head out early to visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, and one of the most popular places to visit in Muscat. Accommodating up to a stupendous 20,000 worshippers at a time, the structure features a blend of various architectural styles.
After visiting the mosque, we'll drive to the Seeb Spice Market. This market is known for its vibrant and aromatic spices, where you can explore various exotic flavors and ingredients. Next, visit Nakhal fort, which is perched on a rocky outcrop, with wonderful views.
After visiting the fort, continue your Oman holiday through the scenic landscape filled with palm trees. You'll make a stop at Nakhl Springs, known for its natural spring water. While the water isn't scorching hot, it is pleasantly warm. In the afternoon, you'll head back to Muscat. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit the Amouage factory. Amouage is a famous Omani fragrance house, and this visit provides insight into the art of perfume-making and Omani fragrances. After a busy day exploring with many things to do in Muscat, head back to your hotel.
Day 3 - Sur
Day 3 - Drive to Sur
This morning guests will have a unique breakfast in the desert, after checking-out of their Muscat hotel and today we will drive to Sur. We'll make our first stop at Bimmah Sinkhole, a captivating natural formation filled with water about 200 meters inland. The turquoise-colored pool contains a mix of fresh and sea water, allowing visitors to swim with friendly fish known for their non-harmful toe-nibbling habit.
Next, head onto Wadi Shab, where you can enjoy a scenic walk leading to the pool. Continuing on the drive, we'll reach Sur, a pretty coastal town within a natural bay, where the harbour district retains its traditional architectural charm. While in Sur, we'll visit the fish jetty and a dhow factory.
Afternoon check-in at the hotel, Sur Plaza and relax. Have a deleicious dinner and guests are encouraged to visit the Ras Al Jinz Scientific Center with an ecologist to witness a captivating event - female turtles returning to the beach to lay their eggs. Oman is home to important nesting sites for four turtle species: the Green Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, and Hawksbill Turtle. This is a popular eco-tourism activity in the country.
Day 4 - Wahiba Sands
Day 4 - Transfer to Wahiba Sands
This morning guests will check-out of their Sur hotel and, head to Wadi Bani Khalid, a breathtaking wadi located in eastern Oman's Al Sharqiya region. This wadi is known for its captivating caves and perennial pools, set amidst stunning mountains and charming villages.
Carry on your journey to Wahiba Sands, a vast expanse of rolling red and white sand dunes that can reach heights of up to 200 meters. These sands also host a variety of plant and animal life, making it a fascinating ecosystem. The ever-changing dune patterns make for fantastic photo opportunities. Upon arrival, check in to your desert camp, Arabian Nights Resort and then take on the wonderful desert sunset experience with dune driving.
Days 5 - 6: Explore Nizwa
Days 5 - 6: Nizwa
Enjoy delicious breakfast in the middle of desert and then continue your Oman tour towards Nizwa. If it happens to be a Wednesday or Thursday, your journey may include a visit to the local markets in Ibra or Sinaw.
Later continue towards Manzifah village. This village is known for its traditional Omani architecture, historical charm, and picturesque surroundings. Carrying on your journey to Nizwa, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the Oman Across Ages Museum, offering insights into the country's rich history and heritage. In the late afternoon, check in to your hotel in Intercity Hotel Nizwa
Day 6 -Jabal Shams
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, and then embark on a journey to Jabal Shams, passing through the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Oman, situated in Ghul village. Often likened to the 'Omani Grand Canyon' or the 'Grand Canyon of Arabia,' this natural wonder boasts depths of up to 1 kilometer at certain points. We will continue the drive to the picturesque Al Hamra village, where you'll have the chance to visit Bait Al Safah museum. After the museum exploration, we'll continue to Misfat Al Abrayeen village, allowing you to take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the village's charm.
Our adventure continues with a visit to Jabrin Castle, constructed in 1675. This well-preserved fort is one of Oman's finest, and it holds historical significance as a center of learning. The castle's three stories encompass two towers, numerous halls, and rooms. We'll make a quick photo stop at Bahla Fort from the exterior to admire its grandeur. After a busy day exploring, in the late afternoon, we'll return to your Nizwa Hotel
Days 7 - Muscat
Day 7 - Head back to Muscat
Visit Nizwa Fort, an ancient fortress with some parts dating back to the 9th century, showcasing remarkable Omani historical architecture. Nizwa Fort not only boasts the tallest tower in Oman but also stands out as the only fort in the region with a cylindrical main tower.
Afterward, we will explore Nizwa Souk, one of Oman's oldest markets, bustling with activity. Enclosed by walls, souk offers a wonderful opportunity to engage with locals, experience Omani life, and purchase delightful souvenirs. Your journey continues towards Muscat, with a stop at Birkat al Mauz, where you can take a leisurely walk through its oasis and date plantations. Later in the afternoon to Muscat and check-in to Grand Millennium Muscat for your last night as sadly your Oman holiday is coming to an end.
Day 8 - Depart Oman
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of your Oman tour. Afterwards, we'll transfer you to Muscat airport for your onward flight. We bid you farewell and hope you carry cherished memories of your time in Oman with you.
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Enquire OnlineWhy Wayfairer
This wonderful Oman itinerary gathers all that people love about this beautiful country, creating the ultimate trip to this middle eastern country. At Wayfairer, we seek to provide authentic travel for our clients, bringing you to locations which encompass the pure beauty of the country. Along the way, you will stay at sustainable accommodations which uphold an esteemed level of social and environmental responsibility. You will embark on insightful tours run by local workers with fair wages whilst discovering the unique landscapes of Oman.
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