Nights and days: 9 days, 8 nights
Minimum Ages: 8+
Level: Easy
Season: October-April
Inclusions: 4x4 transport, experienced Husaak guides, safety equipment, entry fees, meals mentioned, accommodation mentioned
Highlights:
· Sunset cocktails
· Daymaniat Islands snorkeling/diving
· Muscat, Bandar Khairan water activities
· Wahiba sands desert camping
· Wadi Bani Khalid canyoning
· Historical city of Nizwa
· Jabreen castle
· Misfat al Abriyeen
· Balcony walk of Jebel Shams
· 3 village hike Jebel Akhdar mountains
· Birkat al Mouz visit
Day 2:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Pick-up at the hotel and head to the marina to embark on a shared speedboat adventure.
Touring and snorkeling the Damaniyat Islands is one of the most surprising and must-do parts of a trip to Muscat. Nine small islands make up this snorkeling hotspot, with its brightly colored fish, sea turtles, and clear, beautiful water. The islands are a natural preserve—uninhabited, completely natural, and protected by a marine reserve. They were designated as a nature reserve in 1993 to help conserve the turtles, fish, and coral reefs in the area. To preserve and protect the islands, trips are limited by the government. During the months of May to October, tours are not allowed to land.
A picnic lunch will be served on board.
Diving excursions are also available.
Disembark at the marina. Return to the hotel. Free time to enjoy the hotel’s facilities, including the beautiful beach, pools, and spa.
As evening approaches, you will head to the scenic Muttrah Corniche, soaking in the coastal charm and historic ambiance. Capture unforgettable photos at the historic Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali, steeped in Oman’s rich history.
Continue to the bustling Muttrah Souq, where over two centuries of heritage come alive through vibrant textiles, antiques, and unique artifacts.
You may return to your hotel for dinner or eat at one of the many restaurants around the city. Meal not included.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4:
Wake up to a peaceful desert morning and a hearty breakfast. Then drive through the dunes to exit the desert.
Visit the enchanting Wadi Bani Khalid. Drive past the village with its endless date plantations until you reach the magnificent wadi. The pools are cool, deep, and absolutely stunning. Feel free to plunge in and experience the crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the area.
Then head towards Nizwa, Oman’s historic former capital.
Upon arrival in this beautiful historical city, take a leisurely walk at sunset along the ancient Al Aqur Wall surrounding Al Shahba Fort, a proud symbol of Nizwa’s heritage and a source of inspiration for generations.
Check-in at the hotel. You may venture outside to try a local restaurant or enjoy the hotel’s restaurant. Meal not included.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 6:
Wake up to a delightful breakfast at the camp.
Begin your day with adventure as you embark on the famous Balcony Walk, a breathtaking trail along the edge of Wadi Ghul, often called the Grand Canyon of Oman.
The hike offers stunning panoramic views and leads to the abandoned village of Sab Bani Khamis, a hidden gem rich in history. For those seeking more adventure, continue hiking to a hidden lake, a serene oasis amidst the rugged mountains.
Head off to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to your hotel for the night.
The next leg of your journey takes you to the awe-inspiring Jebel Akhdar, known as “The Green Mountain.” Rising majestically from the rugged landscape, Jebel Akhdar is a lush oasis of terraced gardens, orchards, and ancient villages perched high above the surrounding valleys. Its cooler climate and fertile soil create an oasis of greenery, where pomegranates, roses, and walnuts flourish.
Check-in at the hotel. You may venture outside to try a local restaurant or enjoy the hotel’s restaurants. Meal not included.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 8:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Get picked up from your hotel and drive approximately 50 minutes towards Bandar Khairan. Known for its stunning natural harbor, the archipelago offers tranquil waters, rugged coastlines, and numerous uninhabited islands—making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Upon arrival, wear your life jackets and set off on your kayaks, exploring the stunning coves nearby. Spend a few hours swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoy a short walk to a panoramic viewpoint of the archipelago.
Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach, soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
Come evening, embark on a stunning 2-hour sunset cruise on a traditional Omani dhow, marveling at Muscat from a magical perspective. , with breathtaking views of the capital’s landmarks.
You can either get dropped back to your hotel or to a restaurant around the city for dinner.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 1:
Arrive in Muscat. Pick-up from the airport and transfer to the hotel. Depending on landing time, enjoy some free time to explore the hotel’s facilities. As the day draws to a close, indulge in sunset cocktails. Savor expertly crafted drinks while the sun paints the horizon, creating the perfect setting for a luxurious end to your day.
You can either enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants around the city or head back to your hotel to dine in.
Taxis can be booked at the reception.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3:
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for an exciting adventure.
Your first stop will be the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Begin your day at this magnificent landmark, where you'll be captivated by its iconic architectural beauty, shimmering marble floors, and the intricate Persian carpet that adorns its interior. This spiritual sanctuary sets a serene and inspiring tone for your day ahead.
Next, dive into the fragrant world of Amouage, Oman's world-renowned luxury fragrance brand. At the Amouage Perfume Factory, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience as you witness the creation of some of the world’s most exquisite scents, surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of these luxurious fragrances.
Continue your journey to Qurum to explore the Royal Opera House, a masterpiece of Omani cultural elegance. Wander through this grand venue, where every detail reflects a blend of sophistication and artistry.
Enjoy lunch in the area.
From here, begin driving towards the majestic Wahiba Sands. Upon arrival at the entrance of the desert (also known as Sharqiya Sands), enjoy the stunning views of this natural wonder. The longitudinal dunes stretch 200 km long and 100 km wide until the Arabian Sea, and have been home to the Bedouin for 7,000 years.
Experience a unique off-road drive through the iconic reddish and golden dunes until you reach the ideal camping spot. It will be unique, exclusive, and private for you.
Optional activities such as dune bashing, UTV buggies, and camel rides are available on-site at an additional cost.
As the sun sets, enjoy a magical evening under the stars with a BBQ dinner by a bonfire. Spend the night in a cozy tent surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the dunes and the starriest of skies.
Please note that bathrooms are not available.
Day 5:
Breakfast at the hotel.
Your adventure begins at the iconic Nizwa Fort, where you’ll step back in time to the 17th century. This majestic fortress, with its towering cylindrical battlements, was built to safeguard the city along an important trade route.
From the fort, lose yourself in the vibrant Nizwa Souq, a bustling marketplace brimming with local color. Wander through lanes lined with stalls selling exquisite handicrafts, and watch as skilled silversmiths create intricate designs in small, timeworn shops.
Pause for a photo stop at the impressive Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a monumental tribute to Omani ingenuity and resilience.
Next, explore the magnificent Jabreen Castle, a palace unlike any other. Built during a time of peace by a ruler who valued art and science, Jabreen is often regarded as the most beautiful historic castle in Oman.
Enjoy lunch in the gardens of the fort.
Continue to the charming village of Misfat Al Abriyeen and take a stroll through the lush plantations and narrow historical streets.
As the day unfolds, journey up to Jebel Shams, the highest peak in Oman, where you’ll set up base camp. After a full briefing on the adventures to come, gather around for a BBQ dinner, sharing stories by the campfire under the starlit sky.
Please note that bathrooms are not available.
Day 7:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Embark on the Three-Village Walk, a picturesque light trek through the stunning landscapes of Jebel Akhdar, guided by an expert. This gentle, approximately 2-hour hike takes you through charming villages nestled amidst lush terraced gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy lunch in the area.
Next, you will head to the village of Birkat Al Mouz, one of the most renowned ruined villages in the Sultanate of Oman. Begin with a short health walk (20 minutes) in the village, featuring a vast banana plantation and picturesque surroundings. Admire the falaj, a traditional irrigation canal that is still in use and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Head back to Muscat, carrying magical memories of the journey, arriving in the city by evening.
Check-in at the hotel. You may venture outside to try a local restaurant or enjoy the hotel’s restaurants. Meal not included.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 9:
Breakfast at the hotel.
Pick-up from the hotel on time and transfer to the airport.
Flight details to be determined.