Highlights of Oman including Muscat, Nizwa & Wahiba Sands Desert

Depart on your flight for Muscat, Oman. On arrival we will be met by our local representative before taking a short transfer to our hotel.

Following breakfast, we will meet our local guide for a full day exploring the highlights of Muscat. Our morning begins with a visit to the magnificent Grand Mosque, an architectural gem of sandstone and marble featuring an exquisite Swarovski chandelier. 

Continue through the government district (note that photography is not allowed here) before heading to the bustling lanes of Muttrah Souq, one of Oman’s oldest traditional markets. Take a moment for photos at the striking Al Alam Palace and the historic Mirani and Jalali Forts (both viewed from the outside) followed by a visit to the National Museum, which beautifully presents Oman’s culture, history, and heritage. 

Return to the hotel for lunch (at own expense) or take some time to relax by the pool.

In the late afternoon, we will transfer to the marina for a two-hour cruise aboard a traditional wooden dhow. Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and water as we watch the sun set over Muscat’s dramatic coastline. Afterwards, return to the hotel for our included evening meal.

Today we depart Muscat and travel into Oman’s cultural heartland. Our first stop is the UNESCO-listed city of Bahla, where we will have the chance to photograph the impressive Bahla Fort (viewed from the outside) set against a dramatic desert backdrop. 

We then continue to Jabrin Castle, a beautiful 17th-century example of Omani Islamic architecture. Here we will admire its intricately painted ceilings, detailed wooden carvings, and explore its network of hidden passages. 

After some free time for lunch (at your own expense), we make our way to Nizwa, the cultural capital of Oman. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Nizwa Fort, an imposing 17th-century stronghold known for its enormous circular tower. You will also enjoy free time at Nizwa Souq—an ideal spot to immerse yourself in local culture and browse for authentic Omani souvenirs! 

Following a full day of sightseeing, we’ll check in to our hotel and enjoy an included dinner.

 Approximate distance travelled today – 260km

Our day begins with a scenic drive to Jabal Shams, Oman’s highest peak, where we’ll have the chance to admire sweeping views of the majestic “Grand Canyon of Oman” and its dramatic mountain landscapes. 

We continue to Misfah, a traditional mountainside village renowned for its ancient falaj irrigation channels and charming stone houses. Enjoy a relaxed walk through the village, taking in its panoramic vistas and the warm hospitality of the local community. 

Our journey then brings us to Al Hamra, a historic town known for its remarkably preserved mud-brick buildings. Here, we will visit Bait Al Safah, a traditional Omani home where we can experience local customs and enjoy genuine Omani hospitality. 

We return to the hotel in the afternoon with some free time to relax before our included evening meal. 

Approximate distance travelled today – 220km

After checking out of our hotel, we travel to Manah, a historic town known for its deep-rooted traditions and cultural heritage. Here we’ll visit the Oman Across Ages Museum, an impressive institution that brings Oman’s story to life through artifacts, exhibits, and immersive interactive displays. 

Our journey then continues to Wahiba Sands, a spectacular desert region famous for its sweeping golden dunes. We’ll settle in for the night at Arabian Oryx Camp—a welcoming desert retreat—where we will also enjoy our evening meal.

 Approximate distance travelled today – 220km

Enjoy breakfast at our desert camp before we set off for Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most beautiful valleys. 

Our journey continues to Al Saleel Nature Park, a tranquil haven surrounded by acacia woodlands. Home to Arabian gazelles, foxes, and a variety of birdlife, the park offers peaceful walking trails where we’ll try to spot wildlife in its natural environment. 

This afternoon, we arrive in Sur, a coastal city renowned for its centuries-old maritime traditions. We’ll explore the old fishing village of Al Ayjah, wandering its quiet streets, visiting the historic lighthouse, and enjoying sweeping views of the coastline. We then continue to our hotel for our included evening meal. 

Approximate distance travelled today – 210km

Today begins with a visit to a local dhow workshop, where we will witness the skilled craftsmanship that goes into creating these iconic wooden boats. 

Next, we stop at Wadi Tiwi for a photo opportunity, capturing the lush greenery and dramatic cliffs that make this wadi so picturesque. We then continue to the Bimmah Sinkhole, a striking natural limestone crater filled with sparkling turquoise water. 

After some free time for lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense), we journey back to Muscat along the scenic Gulf of Oman coastline. We arrive in Muscat by late afternoon or early evening, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities and restaurants.

 Approximate distance travelled today – 295km

Our final day is at leisure for independent exploring or last-minute souvenir shopping! Our knowledgeable guide will be happy to suggest free time activities to suit your interests.

On this optional activity we depart our hotel in the morning (approx. 0915hrs) and transfer to board our cruise for a 2-hour journey along the Omani Coast, spotting playful dolphins in their natural habitat. This activity offers stunning views of the sea and Muscat’s coastline. 

Please note this is a shared excursion with other holiday makers and is subject to minimum numbers.

Transfer to Muscat airport for our return flight.