Outline Itinerary
Day 1 UK - Dubai
Depart UK on a flight to Dubai. On arrival meet a representative and transfer to your hotel for a two night stay.
Day 2 Dubai
After breakfast depart on a full day tour of this thriving city. Its most famous landmark, the Burj Al Arab hotel, is the first stop. Dominating the city's skyline, its eye-catching architecture is one of the most photographed structures in the world. After taking your own photos continue to Jumeirah, the picturesque palace and residential area of Dubai and home to the Jumeirah Mosque.
In the historical area of Al Bastakiya visit the museum in Al Fahidi Fort. Board an Abra (water taxi) to cross the creek and visit the spice souk, its tiny, shop-lined walkways selling a multitude of spices.
The day ends at the magnificent centrepiece of downtown Dubia, Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building (optional visit to the Observation Deck on the 127th floor) and the spectacular Dubai Fountain, a choreographed fountain set to music and lights. (NB the fountain performance starts at 18:00 or 19:00, timings are subject to change).
Day 3 Dubai - Al Ain - Nizwa
Drive through a fascinating landscape of ever changing desert scenery en route to the Hajar Mountains. In Al Ain visit the musuem and renovated palace of H.H. Sheikh Zayed. The traditional camel market is a great opportunity for a close look at these "ships of the desert" before heading to Hili Gardens, the excavation site of a tomb dating back to 3000 B.C. At the Al Ain border, meet another coach for the onward drive to Nizwa for a two night stay.
Day 4 Nizwa – Jebelshams - Nizwa
Morning visit to Jabrin Castle, built in the late 17th century, once the capital city and a seat of Omani learning, home to amazing paintings and architecture. Visit the mystical village of Bahla, famous for Arabian potteries, and the magnificent Bahla Fort. Later drive to Al Hamra, where mud houses dating back 400 years are still occupied and the oldest ‘Falaj system’ is still used.
Visit Al Hoota, one of the largest natural cave chambers in the world. Marvel at the underground lakes, chasms and wealth of stalactite and stalagmite formations, all beautifully lit. At Jabal Shams visit the Grand Canyon of Oman, with breathtaking views down to its floor. Drive back to Nizwa for dinner and overnight.
Day 5 Nizwa Souq – Wahiba Sands
In the morning visit the Nizwa Souq, a traditional souk with numerous purveyors of local products. Visit the famous Round Tower Fort, one of Oman's architectural jewels.
Continue the drive towards Wahiba Sands, a vast sea of undulating red dunes. Visit Samd Al Sahan where approximately 260 graves have been discovered, including remains from the Samad period (late Iron Age).
At Wahiba check in at the Desert Camp for an overnight stay and enjoy a thrilling, fast-paced 4WD trip over the dunes at sunset. Visit Bedouin families for some genuine Arabic hospitality, sharing coffee and dates whilst learning about their way of life and how they’ve adapted in this harsh desert climate.
Day 6 Wadi Bani Khalid - Ras Al Hadd
Start the day at one of Oman's most beautiful wadi's - Wadi Bani Khalid, a lush, green oasis with deep blue water in the middle of barren mountains.
Drive along the coast to Ras Al Hadd and visit archaeological sites dating from 3000 BC - there are approximately 45 spread along this coast where researchers have uncovered traces of vessels, mud bricks from fishermen’s cottages and tools most likely from the Harrapen and Mohanjudaru civilizations.
Check in at Ras al Hadd hotel. After an early dinner set off to the Ras al-Jinz Nature Reserve, established in 1996 in order to better protect the sea turtles and their natural environment. The protected area stretches over 120 square kilometres with 45km of coastline, extending for 1km into the sea. Visit the turtle sanctuary, where at night Green Turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, after a journey of thousands of kilometres.
Day 7 Ras Al Hadd - Muscat
Depart in the morning for a visit to the town of Sur, a major centre for dhow building. In Qalhat, once one of the most important ports in Oman, visit the Bibi Miriam Mosque, an archaeological site and one of the most photographed monuments in the country.
Continue along the coast to Muscat, the capital and largest city in Oman, passing through scenic countryside, rugged mountains and small fishing towns. En route stop at Wadi Tiwi, an oasis well known for its lemon and date plantations, and Wadi Shab for a packed lunch. At Fins beach you can see the mushroom rock offshore – at low tide you’ll be able to see why it has been given this name.
At Bimah there is a beautiful limestone sinkhole, known locally as Bait al Afreet (House of the Demon). However, the crystal clear water is more inviting than the name would suggest and there are steps down to the water for a swim.
Dinner and overnight at your hotel in Muscat.
Day 8 Muscat half day city tour - fly home
You will be met at the hotel for a half day city tour (4 hours). Begin with a visit to the beautiful and incredibly photogenic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its distinctive gold dome and set in meticulously landscaped gardens, it is one of the largest mosques in the Middle East. Continue to the Natural History Museum, where you learn about Oman's rich history, culture and traditions through engaging exhibitions.
Drive along the picturesque Corniche to the once walled district of Muscat, stopping en route for photo opportunities at the residence of Sultan Qaboos and the Al Alam Palace, flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Stroll through Muttrah Souq, the narrow lanes bustling with traders and shoppers - time to haggle for handicrafts!
Return to the airport for your flight home.
