Charming Oman

Day 1: Muscat

Muscat
Arrival 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. Transfer from Muscat airport to the hotel (Standard check-in time: 14:00 hours.). Muscat, city, capital of Oman, located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. The city is the seat of the Omani government. With a 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. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Muscat.
Note:
- When visiting the mosque, please dress modestly, covering your head with a scarf if you're a woman. Avoid shorts, beachwear, or sleeveless outfits for both men and women. Slip-on shoes are recommended as they must be removed to enter.
- Royal Opera House and Bait al Zubair museum remains closed on Friday.

Day 2: Muscat

Muscat City Tour (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel. Pick up from the hotel and 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. (FRIDAY CLOSED). Then we will proceed to visit the The Royal Opera House which is Oman's premier destination for music, arts, and culture. Following that, 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. Free time for lunch. 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 in the afternoon, we'll head back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. Overnight at hotel in Muscat.

Day 3: Ras Al Hadd

Muscat - Wadi Shab - Ras Al Hadd (3.5 hrs. drive) (Breakfast, Dinner)
Breakfast in the desert and check-out, 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. Proceed to Wadi Shab, where you can relish a scenic walk leading to the pool. The round-trip hike inside Wadi Shab takes approximately 3 hours. As we continue our journey, we’ll arrive in Sur, a charming coastal town nestled within a natural bay. The harbor district here preserves its traditional architectural beauty, offering a glimpse into Oman’s maritime heritage. In Sur, we’ll visit the fish jetty, where local fishermen unload their catch, and explore a dhow factory, where the ancient art of boat-building is still practiced today. Afternoon check-in at the hotel in Ras Al Hadd and rest. 20:00 hrs.: Proceed to the Ras Al Jinz Scientific Center, accompanied by an ecologist, to witness the remarkable sight of female turtles returning to the beach to lay their eggs. Turtle viewing is one of Oman's most popular eco-tourism activities, with the country hosting crucial nesting sites for four different turtle species: the endangered Green Turtle, the Olive Ridley Turtle, the Loggerhead Turtle, and the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle. 22:30 hrs.: Return to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Ras Al Hadd.

Day 4: Wahiba Sands

Ras Al Hadd - Wadi Bani Khalid - Wahiba Sands (1.5 hrs. drive) (Breakfast, Dinner)
Breakfast in the hotel and check-out. Proceed to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most stunning and well-known wadis in Oman. Nestled in the Al Sharqiyah region, this wadi is famous for its crystal-clear, aqua-blue pools that flow year-round, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush date palms. Caves and small waterfalls add to its natural charm as it winds through nearby villages. Next, continue your journey to Wahiba Sands,
Note: Change vehicle from Large Coach to 4x4 (max 4 pax/vehicle) before entering the desert.
Continue the journey to the Sharqiyah Sands (Wahiba Sands) a vast sea of rolling red and white sand dunes, some rising as high as 200 meters. This striking desert landscape is home to diverse flora and fauna, and its ever-shifting dunes are a paradise for photographers. Visit a traditional Bedouin home, where you'll have the opportunity to meet local residents and learn about their customs and nomadic way of life. Arrive at your desert camp and check in. As evening falls, take in the majesty of the desert during a tranquil sunset over the dunes, an unforgettable experience. Dinner and Overnight stay at Wahiba Sands.
Note: Change your vehicle to 4x4 before entering into the desert.

Day 5: Nizwa

Wahiba Sands - Nizwa (3 hrs. drive) (Breakfast)
Enjoy breakfast in the desert and then set off toward Nizwa.
Note: Change vehicle from 4x4 to Large Coach to 4x4 (max 4 pax/vehicle) from the main highway.
Stop at Al Manzifah Village, one of the most historically significant and picturesque sites in the Ibra region, located in Al Sharqiyah Governorate. This traditional village offers a glimpse into Oman’s past with its old mud-brick houses and rich cultural heritage. Proceed with your journey to Nizwa, enroute Visit Oman Across the Ages Museum, the country’s newest and most impressive national museum. This world-class facility presents Oman’s history from prehistoric times to the modern renaissance through interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and striking architecture. In the late afternoon, check in to your hotel in Nizwa. Overnight at hotel in Nizwa.
Note: Oman Across Ages Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Fridays when it operates from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Day 6: Nizwa

Nizwa - Jabal Shams - Al Hamra - Nizwa (4WD) (2 hrs. drive – One way) (Breakfast)
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Note: If it’s a Friday, we recommend departing by 6:30 AM to make the most of the morning’s activities, especially the vibrant market scene. Begin with a visit to the famous Friday cattle market in Nizwa, where locals gather to trade livestock in a lively, traditional setting. (The market concludes around 8:00 AM, so early arrival is essential.).
Proceed towards 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. Next, we will proceed to the picturesque Al Hamra village, where you'll have the opportunity 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. In the late afternoon, we'll return to Nizwa. Overnight at hotel in Nizwa.
Note: The Nizwa cattle market operates only on Friday mornings; guests should arrive at the market before 8:00 AM.

Day 7: Muscat

Nizwa - Muscat (2 hrs. drive) (Breakfast)
Breakfast in the hotel & check-out. First visit continue to the Nizwa Fort, one of Oman’s most iconic landmarks, known for its massive circular tower and panoramic views of the town. Then explore the adjacent Nizwa Souq, famous for traditional Omani handicrafts, pottery, silver jewelry, and spices. Our journey continues towards Muscat, with a stop at Birkat Al Mauz, a picturesque village and UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through its ancient falaj irrigation system, one of the oldest in Oman, and explore the abandoned mud-brick houses and lush date plantations at your own pace. Arrive in Muscat and check-in. Rest of the day at leisure in Muscat. Overnight at hotel in Muscat.

Day 8: Muscat

Trip to Damaniyat Island (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel. 08:00 AM: Pick up from hotel and proceed to Al Mouj Marina to board the speedboat. Embark on a memorable half-day trip to the stunning Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Departing at 08:30 AM and returning by 01:30 PM, this boat excursion offers the perfect opportunity to snorkel, swim, or simply relax amid breathtaking island scenery. Light snacks and juices will be served on board, making your experience both refreshing and enjoyable. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! Afternoon return to Marina and transfer to Muscat.
Note: The trip to Daymaniyat Island will be on a sharing basis and is subject to weather conditions.

Day 9:

Muscat (Breakfast)
Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of your journey. Afterward, 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.