Journey from North to the South of Oman to explore many species of birds on this epic 12 day Avian Expedition. From Muscat to Salalah with a stop in Bar Al Hickman, a major resting, feeding and nesting area for hundreds of thousands of shorebirds nesting across Central Asia and artic Russia
Duration: 12 Days
Distance: 1300 KM
Adventure Level: Easy
Accommodation: 3* Hotels
THE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Muscat, where you'll check into a local hotel for a restful night after your international flight.
Day 2: Muscat Birdwatching Excursion
After a delicious breakfast, the group heads to Al Ansab for a visit to the renowned sewage treatment plant, a prime birdwatching spot in Oman. Following this, explore Qurm National Park and Estuary, aiming to spot Grey Francolin, Indian Roller, Western Reef Heron, Marsh Sandpiper, Red-wattled Lapwing, Clamorous Reed Warbler, and more. Overnight stay in Hotel Muscat.
Day 3: Nizwa Adventure
Start the day with breakfast and a briefing, then embark on a 160km journey to Jabreen Castle & Nizwa Fort. Visit a local wadi in search of Lesser Whitethroat, Leaf & Menetries’s Warbler. Evening exploration includes a visit to the souk, dinner in a local restaurant, and an owl search. Overnight stay in Hotel Nizwa.
Day 4: Coastal Drive to Duqm
A scenic 460 km drive to Duqm with stops around Bar Al Hikman and coastal areas. Explore mudflats, salt flats, and reefs, home to various shorebirds like Common Redshanks, Greater Flamingos, Bar-Tailed Godwits, Broad-billed Sandpipers, and more. Overnight stay in Hotel Duqm.
Day 5: Duqm Coastal Exploration
Dedicate the day to exploring the coasts and mudflats around Duqm, focusing on waders, gulls, and terns. Stay overnight in Hotel Duqm.
Day 6: Thumrait Desert Expedition
Embark on a 4-hour westward journey to Thumrait, passing through the desert interior. Look out for Chestnut-bellied, Spotted, and Crowned Sandgrouse. Stop at desert oases and sun farms, potential spots for Nile Valley Sunbird and Grey Hypocolius. Stay at Hotel Thumrait.
Day 7: Mudayy and Salalah
An early start to search for Grey Hypocolius in Mudayy, followed by a drive south to Salalah. Overnight stay in Salalah.
Day 8: Western Salalah Birding
Explore the western side of Salalah, including Mughsayl, Raysut, and west Kawr. Witness Step Eagles, Eastern Imperial and Greater Spotted Eagles. Visit lagoons and ayn’s for a variety of species. Overnight stay at Jebel Samhan.
Day 9: Jebel Samhan & East of Salalah
Explore Tawi Attair, Wadi Hanna, Ayne Hamran, and Ayne Raznat for Arabian Golden-winged Grosbeak, Desert Owl, Arabian Scops Owl, Arabian Eagle Owl, and other Dhofar specialties. Stay overnight at Jebel Samhan.
Day 10: Boat Trip and Estuary Visit
Morning boat trip from Mirbat targeting Persian Shearwater and Jouanin’s Petrel. Afternoon visit to Kawr Rori, a large estuary housing ospreys, spoonbills, flamingos, and waders. Last hit for Salalah targets at Wadi Darbut. Overnight stay at Jebel Samhan.
Day 11: Airport Transfer to Muscat Transfer to the airport for a flight from Salalah to Muscat. Relax in your hotel.
Day 12: Departure Airport drop-off for your departure.
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