Tour of Oman
Program Preview
Muscat-Nizwa-Jebel Akhdar-Ras al Hadd-Sur-Muscat
DAY 1, Arrive in Muscat – Tour of Oman
Tour in Oman, Welcome to Muscat! Upon arrival in Muscat, after Immigration clearance and baggage collection proceed to the arrival hall to meet the chauffeur and proceed to the Hotel. Overnight in Muscat.
DAY 2, Muscat – Nizwa – Jebel Akhdar
Today after breakfast, proceed to Nizwa. Nizwa boasts of the famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and its Souq renowned for its Friday cattle auction, intricately hand-carved “Khanjars” (daggers) & ornamental silver jewellery. Later, proceed to Jebel Akhdar where there is a check post. From here a 36 km stretch of winding road takes one to Jebel Akhdar (2000 mts above sea level) the green jewel of the Al Hajjar mountain ranges, a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains. Al Jabal Al Akhdar is famed for its fruit orchards typically laid out terrace style along the slopes of mountains, which are endowed with natural springs and aflaj. The villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) visit to village roose & Al Ain dot the landscape. The villages overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks , gorges and wadis. The roses of Jabal Al Akhdar fill the air with fragrance when in full bloom (March / April). Rose water is distilled in the homes of the villagers. Lunch at the Sahab hotel in Jebel Akhdar. (It is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing and walking shoes). Overnight in Jebel Akhdar
DAY 3, Jebel Akhdar – Ras Al Hadd
Today after breakfast, proceed to The Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sea of sand and dunes rising up to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer’s delight. Experience a roller coaster like feeling as our experienced drivers drive you over the dunes. The Wahiba Sands is also home to the traditional Bedouin tribe who are known for their hospitality and their knowledge of the sands. You will stop by a Bedouin family in their traditional and simple habitat.
Enjoy dune driving before leaving the desert. From Mintrib proceed to Bilad Bani Bu Ali and drive along the coastline to Ras Al Junayz the turtle breeding site. Arrive at Ras Al Jinz Scientific Centre and check in. Later head on to a short walk to the beach in the night to watch the turtles nestling on the sands. Overnight stay at Ras Al Jinz Scientific Centre.
DAY 4, Ras Al Hadd – Sur – Muscat
Today after breakfast, proceed to Muscat enroute stopping at Sur to visit The Dhow factory (photo stop) & fish jetty. Drive via scenic and rugged coastal route to Muscat. Stop at Fins beach. Your next stop is the Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom. On clear sunny days while driving along the coast one might chance to see sharks in the deep blue water or fleet footed Gazelle sprint across the landscape. Evening is free at leisure in Muscat. Overnight in Muscat.
DAY 5, Muscat
Today after breakfast, you will be pickuped from the hotel to visit the Grand Mosque (not possible on Friday & other public holidays), highlight of the Muscat city. Later visit Royal Opera House Muscat and Bait Al Zubair Museum. Drive along the waterfront Corniche visiting the bustling Muttrah Souq. Later, proceed for a photo stop to the magnificent Al Alam Palace, official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos flanked by the 16th century Portugese forts Mirani & Jalali. Rest of the day at leisure. (Kindly note, ladies to be fully covered and to carry a head scarf and men should wear trousers). Overnight in Muscat.
DAY 6, Muscat
Today after breakfast, you will be transferred from the Muscat hotel to the Marina to embark on a boat as we search the seas for Dolphins and Whales. Watching wild dolphins is a thrilling way to start the day and the lucky may even come across one of the many species of whales that can be found just a few kilometres from Muscat’s rugged coast. Not every trip guarantees a sighting, but you are sure to enjoy a trip out to sea and enhance your knowledge of nature’s most fascinating marine mammals. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Muscat.
DAY 7,Depart Muscat
Today after breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to International Airport in Muscat for your flight back home.
