Jewels Of Oman

Upon arrival you will be transferred to the hotel. In the evening, you can opt for a Twilight Dhow Cruise experience (optional). An unforgettable Muscat sunset from a traditional Arabian boat which will give you a wonderful view of the rocky shorelines and sandy bays at dusk, se0074 against the dramatic backdrop of swaying palms and volcanic mountains. Before heading back, you will stop briefly at a natural cove where you can take photographs of the spectacular beachside Al Bustan Palace Hotel. Enjoy typical Arabic coffees, refreshments and native dates before returning to Muscat’s pier.

Overnight in Muscat.

Today, proceed for a city tour of Muscat. It offers the visitor a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial centre existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbour, Muscat means “Anchorage” & lies in a natural volcanic bowl. Your tour of the Grand Mosque (except Friday) & Bait Al Zubair Museum (except Friday) is a brief introduction that traces Oman’s history and development. Drive along the waterfront Corniche visiting the Fish Market & the colourful Muttrah Souq. Then 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. (Ladies have to be fully covered and to carry a head scarf and men to wear trousers). Afternoon is at leisure.

Overnight in Muscat (B)

After breakfast, proceed for Jebel Shams. En- route you will visit Nizwa, the former capital of Oman, visit the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz with its unique Falaj system and date plantations.  Drive past the Bahla Fort which has been declared a World Heritage site. At the village of Bahla, one can view potters at work.  Proceed to visit the Jabrin Palace where you will capture the medieval atmosphere and marvel at the beautiful hand painted ceilings and carved door frames. Visit Wadi Nakher located in the depth of the deepest canyon. Head for Jebel Shams and pass by the village of Wadi Ghul with its stone dwellings. One can spot the local weavers selling their goat hair rugs woven on traditional looms. Enjoy the spectacular view from Jebel Shams with a vertical drop of 1000 meters to the Wadi below.

Overnight stay at Jebel Shams (B, D)

Today morning is at leisure. You can opt for a small trek if so inclined and admire the awe inspiring scenery. Later, proceed to Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and White Sea of sand and dunes rising upto 200 meters, which are, also host to a variety of flora and fauna.

Overnight at Jebel Shams (B, D)

Enjoy sumptuous breakfast at the camp. Engage in the sport of dune driving in the Wahiba Sands. Later depart for Ras Al Hadd. Take a turn off the main road to the scenic Wadi Bani Khalid with its deep blue pools of water fringed by the date palms which is an ideal spot to relax or enjoy a refreshing swim. Continue your journey to Ras Al Hadd and check into the hotel. At night, you will be taken to the Ras Al Jinz Scientific Centre where you will watch the turtles nesting on the sands.

Overnight at Ras Al Hadd (B, D)

After breakfast depart for Muscat. En route visit Sur. Visit the ruins of Bibi Miriam’s Tomb that can be seen at the village of Qalhat. Stop at Fins beach for a swim. The 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 see sharks in the deep blue water. On arrival in Muscat, check in to the hotel.

Overnight at Muscat (B)

After breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred from the hotel to Muscat International Airport for your flight back home. (B)

Inclusions

Exclusions