Essential Oman

Oman

Culture

Wadis, mountains, ocean, desert sands, and local hospitality on a grand scale in Oman

7 days £1,995 pp This is the per person group tour price, based on 2 sharing. The price is subject to change with exchange rate and flight cost fluctuations.
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Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

The first humans trekked the land now known as Oman on their exodus out of Africa. Discover why one of the the world's original travel destinations still attracts us to this day.

The Switzerland of Arabia will regale you with the warmth of its Ibadi Muslim population, tease you with the secrets of its hidden interior, and entice you with the gentle power of its coastline.

We'll take you into the rust-red ocean of sand that is Wahiba. See terraced orchards stacked on the steep slopes of Jebel Akhdar. Learn how ingenious irrigation made this desert landscape smell of apricots, pomegranates and Damascene roses. Explore the abandoned ruins of Birkat al-Mouz and relax in the secluded mountain village Misfat Al Abriyeen. Relive the past amid the glorious clutter of Muscat's Muttrah souq. And be wooed by the architectural masterpiece that is Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

In this corner of Arabia, mountains are made from the bed of the ancient Tethys Ocean. Sands might shift but the sky stays blue. Cooling your feet in the oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid, or turtle-spotting on the shores of Ras al-Jinz at dusk, you'll wonder why it took you so long to discover the land of Sinbad in the first place.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Muscat's low skyline and natural harbour
  • Glistening azure waters of Bimmah Sinkhole
  • Healing waters of Wadi Bani Khalid
  • Nature's light show on display at Wahiba Sands
  • Ancient tribal ruins in Birkat al-Mouz
  • Abandoned hamlet of Wadi Bani Habib
  • Eden in the sky at Jebel Akhdar
  • Mud houses in the 300-year-old village Misfat Al Abriyeen

Places Visited

Muscat - Bimmah Sinkhole - Turtle Beach - Wahiba Sands - Birkat al-Mouz - Jebel Akhdar - Misfat Al Abriyeen

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

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Itinerary & Map
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Day 1 : Arrive in Muscat

Arrive into Muscat International Airport early in the morning, where you will be met by your Travel the Unknown representative. Tired after a red-eye flight, we'll check you in early into your Muscat hotel. We'll leave to you fuel up with breakfast, freshen up and rest a little, before whisking you away on a half-day city tour of Muscat.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before kicking off your Muscat sightseeing with a visit to the glorious clutter of Muttrah Souq. Dark and alluring under its stained-glass circular atrium, the souq is overflowing with Oriental curios. Then onto the National Museum. Time-permitting, we'll stop to admire the monumental façade, which is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. If not, there's always the following morning. 

At the end of your afternoon, we'll return you to your Muttrah hotel to explore your many options for dinner.

Evening at hotel. 

Overnight in Mutrah Hotel, Muscat

Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch

The old commercial centre of Muscat, the town of Muttrah still maintains mercantile importance. Aside from its grand souq, it is home to a newly renovated fish market, complete with coffee shops, rooftop bars and restaurants, a beautiful 3-kilometre seafront corniche, as well as fountains and gardens, a fort and a port. With settlements reported in the area from as early as 300BC, the city is also home to a number of museums displaying archaeological and historic exhibits, as well as one of  the oldest markets in the world, Muttrah Souq. Located in the heart of Old Muscat, it is famous for its enchanting labyrinth of one-of-a-kind Omani artefacts, Bedu jewellery and colourful displays of traditional textiles. It is also said to be one of the few places in the world where you can purchase gold, frankincense and myrrh under the same roof.

Muscat is the capital and largest city of Oman, holding a population of over 1.28 million within its 1,400 square mile metropolian area. Located in north east Oman, Muscat's coastline is formed by the Gulf of Oman, while the rugged picturesque plains of the Al Batinah and Ash Sharqiyah Regions form its south-west inland border, making it the perfect coastal port city.

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Day 2 : Muscat - Bimmah - Sur - Ras Al Hadd

Leave Muscat, after breakfast, on a scenic drive alongside Oman’s Indian Ocean coastline. We'll stop first to peer into the turquoise waters of the Bimmah Sink Hole. Next a stop at a local favourite, Fins Beach, before continuing along the coastal route to the the well-known fishing town of Sur for an educational visit to the Dhow Building Yard. Resuming our drive toward Oman's eastern Cape, we continue onwards to the secluded coastal village of Ras Al Hadd. After an early dinner, visit its famous turtle sanctuary and watch as the endangered green sea turtles come ashore at dusk to lay their eggs.

Evening on Turtle Beach.

n.b. The hotter months, May to October, is the peak period for watching turtles come ashore.

Overnight in Turtle Beach Resort, Turtle Beach

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

Legend says that the Bimmah Sinkhole formed because of a shooting star or a piece of moon that fell to Earth and the encompassing Hawiyat Najm Park translates to "Meteor Fall Park" in Arabic! In reality, this 27-metre-deep pool of glistening turquoise water is actually the result of a natural sinkhole. Featuring a staircase down to the water’s edge it makes the perfect secluded spot to enjoy a swim or snorkel.

Two hours from Muscat lies Fins Beach. Nestled between pristine waters and dramatic skylines, Fins is the perfect secluded spot to enjoy Oman’s scenic coast alongside locals, and take a dip in its inviting water. 

Ras Al Hadd is a village in Ash Sharquyiah district of Oman, but is mostly known for its beach, which serves as a world-renowned nesting ground for the endangered green turtle. The easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula, it boasts unspoiled shorelines, luxuriant vegetation and breath-taking sunsets; all of which provide the perfect backdrop for a secluded and magical coastal getaway. Make sure to visit the beach at night to watch the turtles come ashore to nest.
NOTE: Turtles are wild animals and though sightings are common, they cannot be guaranteed. 

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Day 3 : Ras Al Hadd – Wadi Bani Khalid – Wahiba Sands

After breakfast, check out and begin the drive to Wahiba Sands. Stop and take a refreshing dip in healing spring waters of Wadi Bani Khalid before continuing on to the immense ocean of sand at Wahiba. Enjoy an exhilarating sand dune drive across Wahiba’s red sand to the home of a local Bedouin family for a traditional Omani lunch. After, journey on to your desert camp. Take an evening drive with your guide to the top of the dunes to watch the beautiful sunset across the sands.

Overnight under a blanket of stars at a desert camp with dinner included. 

Overnight in Safari Desert Camp, Wahiba Sands

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most well-known wadis (valleys) in the country. Its crystal-clear pools, waterfalls and constant flow of spring water make it an area of abundant luscious plant life and outstanding beauty. Its beautiful copper red and green rock formations are also to be marvelled at, particularly in Muqal Cave, which is located just next to the famous pools. Plantations and villages can be found close around the wadi floor and offer a few coffee shops and amenities, as well as picnic and BBQ spots by the pool.

The epitome of Arabia, Wahiba Sands are famed for their spectacular dunes and association with historical figures such as Lawrence of Arabia and Wilfred Thesiger. Since the Royal Geographical Society's expedition of the area in 1986, Wahiba Sands has been of specific scientific interest. Covering 12,500 square miles, with some dunes reaching heights of 300 feet, the desert hosts 150 plant varieties and 200 species of wildlife; as well as large migrant bird populations. It is also home to 3, 000 Bedouin, a sect of nomadic Arab people, who migrate to the desert for its winter rain and vegetation for their cattle.

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Day 4 : Wahiba Sands - Birkat al-Mouz - Jebel Akhdar

Leave the camp and drive to Birkat al-Mouz, located at the base of the Jebel Akhdar Mountains. Wander round its date and banana plantations, observe its ancient falaj irrigation system and visit the abandoned ruins of the village of Harat As Sibani. Continue up Jebel Akhdar to Wadi Bani Habib, one of several interesting villages located on the vast Saiq Plateau.

Overnight at Jebel Akhdar with dinner included.

Overnight in Sama Hotel Jebel Akhdar, Jebel Akhdar

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

Birkat al-Mouz is a village in the Ad Dakhiliyah Region of Oman. Located on the southern fringe of Jebel Akhdar, it is famous for two ancient tribal ruins, which are completely untouched, banana plantations and scenic surroundings. It is also home to a UNESCO protected Falaj irrigation system.

Wadi Bani Habib, originally used as defense post for the valley, was deserted in the 1980s, when Oman started to make major developments in its cities and urban areas. Due to its isolated location, its dwellers sought homes closer to schools, shops and job opportunities; thus, they made new villages in more accessible areas. The abandoned village is now a complex of remains of homes and community buildings, but provides the perfect location to understand Omani life in the mid-20th century, as well as enjoy an unspoiled view of the Wadi and mountain range. 

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Day 5 : Jebel Akhdar

A day dedicated to the 'Three Village Circuit'. From your hotel on the Saiq plateau, after breakfast your guide will meet you and trek with you on a scenic perambulation around three villages, typical of those that melt into the background of the Green Mountain.

First to the village of Al Aqr, then onto Al Ayn, and finally Al Shurajah. The tiny villages might be nestled near to one another, but the path between them is arguably more interesting, as it runs alongside ancient terraced sloped irrigated by the ingenious Falaj system seen all across the Arab world, even the Al Hambra in Granada.

Damascene roses and pomegranates grow here in glorious defiance of Oman's harsh nature.

We end with a drive to the eerie ruins of the village of Wadi Bani Habib.

Evening to rest from your day's exertions, to dine at your hotel, and to take full advantage of its facilities. 

Overnight in Sama Hotel Jebel Akhdar, Jebel Akhdar

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

At 2,000m above sea level in the Al Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar – meaning ‘the Green Mountain’ – is the area that encompasses the lush Saiq Plateau. The range is mostly desert, but due to its high altitude, is susceptible to heavy rainfall; which makes the land particularly prized for agricultural products including apricots, pomegranates and rose water. The vast plateau is also home to almost 60 villages and several hundred wadis. In 2011, Sultan Qaboos made Jebel Akhdar a nature reserve and issued the ‘Jebel Akhdar Sanctuary for Natural Sceneries’ to protect the land’s fragile and unique biodiversity in Jebel Akhdar.

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Day 6 : Jebel Akhdar – Nizwa – Jabrin – Bahla – Al Hamra – Misfat

After a very early breakfast, journey to the historic town of Nizwa. Visit the city's famed livestock market and bustling souq, as well as the impressive Nizwa Fort. After lunch, our journey leads on to the 17th century Jabrin Castle. We'll stop there to admire its painted ceilings and carved burial chambers before continuing to Bahla Fort, one of Oman’s most impressive 'qala'. On your way to Misfat, stop at the mud-brick village of Al Hamra.

Overnight at the 300 year-old village of Misfat Al Abriyeen with dinner included.

Overnight in Misfah Old House, Misfat Al Abriyeen

Meal plan: Breakfast & dinner

Completed in 1668 AD by Sultan Bin Saif Al Yaruba, after 12 years of construction, Nizwa Fort is Oman's most visited national monument. Its structure makes it unique among forts. Featuring a 40-metre-high circular tower complete with honey traps, pitfalls, false doors and wells, it serves as a present-day reminder of Nizwa’s resilience throughout the nation’s turbulent history. It is an excellent example of Omani defensive structure with foundations extending 30 metres underground to a subterranean stream, ensuring a permanent water supply in the event of a siege. The highest point of the fort can be reached by a narrow staircase but your efforts will be rewarded with beautiful views across the palm oasis and Al Hajar Mountains.

The 400-year-old village Al Hamra is regarded as one of Oman’s best-preserved old towns. Featuring rows of well-maintained mudbrick houses set against idyllic views of Jebel Shams, and a labyrinth of time-warped alleys and streets, it provides an authentic impression of traditional Omani life.

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Day 7 : Misfat - Muscat - Departure

Spend the morning as you wish before checking out of the hotel by midday. In the afternoon, explore the mountainous village of Misfat Al Abriyeen. Wander down its terraces and secret alleyways, lined with traditional mud houses with palm frond roofs. Later in the day, transfer back to Muscat airport for your flight home.

Meal plan: Breakfast

High in Jebel Shams, sits Misfat Al Abriyeen, a 300-year-old mud village made up of secret passageways, shaded gardens, houses and open terraces. Using giant rock slabs as their foundations and smaller rocks and stones mixed with mud plaster to build up their multi-storey dwellings, Misfat’s mud houses are particular to the area and form a striking landscape in Jebel Shams. Many of the homes are abandoned and decaying, while others remain very much lived in, with air conditioning and satellite dishes. The area is also rich in colourful and verdant vegetation, which many of its residents pick and sell.

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Accommodation

Accommodation

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Mutrah Hotel

Muscat (1 night)

Located just 4km from Muscat’s city centre, the Mutrah Hotel provides guests with a comfortable stay and good access to many of the city’s popular sites. Each of the hotel’s rooms features tasteful décor along with an en-suite and most modern amenities. Guests will also have access to on-site dining and fitness & spa facilities during their stay.

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Turtle Beach Resort

Turtle Beach (1 night)

Located a short drive from Sur in the village of Ras al Hadd, Turtle Beach Resort provides guests with a comfortable stay directly on the unique Arabian coastline. The resort’s rooms and suites feature simple designs with touches of traditionally-inspired flair, en-suite facilities, all modern amenities, and balconies with sea views. Guests may enjoy a meal in the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant, some downtime on the hotel’s private beach, or one of a number of cruises.

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Safari Desert Camp

Wahiba Sands (1 night)

Found over 13-miles into the Sharqiya Sands desert, the Safari Desert Camp offers guests a comfortable yet authentic experience of Omani desert living. The property’s accommodation consists of thatched chalets and Bedouin-style tents, each featuring traditional Middle Eastern designs and comfortable beds. Given the location of the property there are few amenities, though guests may enjoy freshly-prepared meals and, of course, a range of exciting desert activities.

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Sama Hotel Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar (2 nights)

Sat atop Jabal Akhdhar Mountain, the Sama Hotel provides guests with a comfortable, resort-style experience with great access to the rugged surrounding landscape. The hotel’s 60 rooms and suites feature homely décor, most modern amenities, and boast views of the valley below. Guests may also enjoy multi-cuisine dining, a pool & lounge area, and excursions to a number of surrounding sites including the 17th-Century Nizwa Fort and the traditional Arabic Nizwa market.

Visit hotel's site
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Misfah Old House

Misfat Al Abriyeen (1 night)

Situated in the centre of Misfat’s old village, Misfah Old House provides an authentic traditional Middle Eastern living experience. The property’s rooms are stripped-back with a few traditional furnishings and almost no furniture, allowing for an immersive stay and a taste of century-old living. There are also shared facilities. A buffet of home-cooked Omani cuisine is served for guests’ enjoyment, and guests may partake in tours of the village, hikes, and a number of other activities in the local area.

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