Incredible Oman
5 days
ATTRACTIONS
Step into the captivating world of Oman, a land where history whispers through ancient forts and the desert tells tales of bygone eras. This “Incredible Oman” tour unveils the Sultanate’s most mesmerizing sights, from the serene coastlines of Muscat to the undulating dunes of the desert and the timeless villages nestled within rugged mountains.
Embark on a 5-day odyssey that seamlessly intertwines nature’s wonders with cultural treasures. Discover the rich tapestry of Omani traditions, savor authentic Arabian flavors, and find yourself awed by architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. Each day is meticulously planned to ensure you experience the heart and soul of this Arabian gem.
Whether you’re wandering through historic souqs, soaking in the emerald waters of a secluded wadi, or gazing upon starry skies in the silence of the desert night, “Incredible Oman” promises memories that will linger long after the journey ends.
Join us and be part of this unforgettable exploration into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Muscat and Transfer to Hotel
Morning/Afternoon:
Arrival at Muscat International Airport. Upon landing, be greeted by our friendly tour guide holding a placard with your name for easy identification.
Private Transfer to Hotel: Sit back and relax in our comfortable vehicle as you’re whisked away from the airport to your chosen hotel. During the drive, enjoy your first glimpses of Muscat’s unique blend of modern and traditional architecture.
Hotel Check-in: After a smooth check-in process, take some time to unpack, freshen up, and settle into your room.
Late Afternoon:
Free Time: After your journey, you might appreciate some personal time to rest and rejuvenate. Whether you want to take a short nap, explore the hotel amenities, or take a refreshing swim in the pool, the choice is yours.
Day 2: Half-Day Muscat City Tour
Morning:
Pickup from Your Hotel: Your guide/driver will greet you at your hotel’s lobby. Settle in for the journey, and feel free to ask any initial questions you might have.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: Begin your exploration at this architectural wonder, one of the largest mosques in the Gulf. Marvel at the detailed Islamic designs, the 14-meter tall chandelier, and the world’s second-largest hand-woven carpet. Note: Please wear modest attire; women should cover their hair.
Royal Opera House: Experience Muscat’s premier venue for musical arts and culture. Admire its stunning exterior and, if time permits, explore its interiors or visit the boutique shops surrounding it.
Late Morning
Mutrah Souq: Immerse yourself in this traditional marketplace’s vibrant ambiance. Shop for Omani silver, incense, spices, and textiles, all while being enveloped by the fragrant scent of frankincense.
Mutrah Corniche: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this picturesque promenade, where modernity meets history. Overlooking the serene harbor, the Corniche offers views of the old merchant houses juxtaposed against the backdrop of rugged mountains, creating a blend of natural and architectural beauty.
Al Alam Palace: Although visitors are not allowed inside, this ceremonial palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos offers a striking facade with its gold and blue colors. The palace is flanked by the two forts, Al Jalali and Al Mirani, providing a glimpse into Muscat’s regal past.
Bait Al Zubair Museum: Dive into Omani culture and history at this renowned museum. It houses an impressive collection of Omani artifacts from different eras, showcasing the country’s rich heritage
End Time: 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Conclude your tour as your guide/driver safely returns you to your hotel. Recommendations:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for optimal
- Keep a bottle of water handy, especially in warmer
- Dress modestly to respect Omani traditions, especially when visiting religious and cultural
- Carry some Omani rials if you wish to make purchases at Mutrah Souq or any other
Day 3: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab & Desert Overnight
Morning:
Hotel Departure: Your guide/driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby. Make sure to equip yourself with sun protection, water, and appropriate footwear for the day’s excursions.
Bimmah Sinkhole: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Bimmah Sinkhole, a picturesque natural wonder formed by limestone erosion. Spend some time swimming and absorbing the serene ambiance of the location.
Wadi Shab: Delve into the majestic beauty of Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most sought-after attractions. This enchanting wadi offers a mix of hiking and swimming opportunities. To fully explore its hidden water pools, cascading waterfalls, and the renowned keyhole passage leading to a secluded cave, one requires a moderate level of fitness. The hike to the main attractions is approximately 40 minutes one way, so prepare for an approximately 1.5 to 2-hour round trip of breathtaking scenery and occasional challenges.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon:
Lunch at Wadi Shab Village Restaurant: Refuel and relax after your adventure with a hearty meal at the local village restaurant.
Afternoon:
Drive to the Desert: As you leave the rugged wadi terrain behind, anticipate the vast, undulating golden dunes of the Omani desert that await you.
Evening:
Desert Sunset: As daylight fades, find a vantage point atop a dune. The desert sunset is a mesmerizing spectacle, with the horizon glowing in a palette of fiery hues.
Dinner: Experience a traditional Omani barbecue beneath a canopy of stars, often enhanced with local music and occasional dance performances.
Overnight:
-Desert Camp: Retreat to your Bedouin-style tent, where age-old traditions meet contemporary comforts. Let the soothing sounds of the desert lull you to sleep.
Recommendations:
- Pack swimwear for the Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi
- Opt for light, breathable clothing and consider a light jacket or shawl for the cooler desert
- Apply sunscreen and maintain hydration levels throughout the
Day 4: Nizwa ,Al Hamra and Misfat al Abreyeen
Late morning:
Nizwa:
Nizwa Fort: Begin your day with a visit to the historic Nizwa Fort, a 17th-century castle boasting an impressive circular tower and intricate defense mechanisms. The fort offers panoramic views of the ancient city and the surrounding mountains.
Nizwa Souq: Adjacent to the fort, meander through the bustling Nizwa Souq. Renowned for its silver khanjars (traditional Omani daggers), pottery, and fresh produce, it’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in local culture and pick up souvenirs.
Afternoon:
Al Hamra:
Bait Al Safah: Head to Al Hamra, a 400-year-old town known for its mudbrick houses. Here, visit Bait Al Safah, a living museum that offers insights into traditional Omani life. Witness demonstrations of old-world practices, from oil extraction to bread-making.
Exploration: Stroll through Al Hamra’s ancient streets, marveling at the well-preserved architecture and getting a glimpse of how Omani ancestors lived.
Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery in Nizwa, savoring traditional Omani delicacies.
Misfat Al Abreyeen:
Village Walk: Proceed to the picturesque mountain village of Misfat Al Abreyeen. Set on mountain slopes, this village showcases Oman’s traditional agricultural heritage. Traverse its terraced gardens lined with banana trees, date palms, and the age-old falaj irrigation systems.
Mountain Views: Ascend the village’s narrow alleyways, pausing to relish the sweeping views of the encompassing valleys and jagged mountain ridges.
Evening:
Overnight in Misfat Al Abreyeen: As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Misfat Al Abreyeen. Spend your evening exploring the village further, perhaps interacting with locals to gain deeper insights into their way of life. Later, retreat to a traditional guesthouse , experiencing authentic Omani hospitality.
Day 5: Jabreen Fort, Bahla Fort & Transfer to Muscat
Morning:
Jabreen Fort:
Historical Exploration: Begin your day with a visit to Jabreen Fort, one of Oman’s most impressive and well-preserved castles. Delve into its numerous rooms, halls, and towers, each telling tales of the fort’s rich history.
Panoramic Views: Ascend to the top of the fort and soak in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape and the distant Hajar Mountains.
Late Morning:
Bahla Fort:
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Proceed to Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive sand-colored walls that blend seamlessly with the barren landscape around.
Explore the vast fort complex with its intricate battlements, round towers, and unique architecture
that showcases Oman’s medieval defensive style.
Bahla Souq: Time permitting, pay a visit to the nearby Bahla Souq, a traditional market known for its pottery and handicrafts.
Transfer to Muscat: Begin your journey back to Muscat. The drive offers an opportunity to reflect on your adventures and the diverse landscapes and historical landmarks of Oman.
Evening:
Arrival in Muscat: On reaching Muscat, you’ll be dropped off at your chosen location or accommodation. Settle in and perhaps enjoy a relaxing evening in the capital, reminiscing about the experiences of the past few days.
Recommendations:
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting the forts, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven surfaces found within the forts.
Service Include
-
Accommodation
4 nights
2 nights at Ramada Encore by Wyndham Muscat or similar 1 night at Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp or similar.
1 night at Misfah Hospitality Inn or similar.
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Guide
All mentioned tours and transfers with an English-speaking guide/driver
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Transport
In new comfortable vans.
Excluded Services
- Optional
Other activities and services not included
- Additional Services
Tokyo
– Ginza Shopping (Free)
– Ueno Park Visit (Free)
Kanazawa
– Kanazawa Castle Visit (Free-320JPY per person)
– Kenroku-En Garden Visit (320JPY per person)
Accommodations
Meals
Meals: As per the itinerary:
Day 1: Dinner.
Day 2: Breakfast and dinner (lunch is optional and not included).
Day 3: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 4: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 5: Breakfast.
Cancelation Policy:
- Let's make it easy, any changes or cancellations of more than 70 days are free of charge.
- Change or cancellation fee within 70 to 50 days of the departure date is 20% of the total amount.
- Change or cancellation fee within 50 to 30 days of the departure date is 50% of the total amount.
- Change or cancellation fee within 30 to 10 days of the departure date is 70% of the total amount.
- Change or cancellation of less than 10 days before departure is non-refundable.