Our 7 day itinerary has something for everyone from a stay and exploration of the capital Muscat through to what we feel to be the key highlights of Oman if you only have a short time to visit. You will travel to the old Capital Nizwa, explore the Hajar Mountains, take in the stunning Wahiba Sands and for those interested in wildlife will also go to see the turtles at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

DAY 1 – Free Day

DAY 2 – You start the day with a City tour of Muscat. The tour begins at the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque where you are able to view the world’s largest chandelier and hand-woven carpet. Proceed to Muttrah Port where you can view the fish market and stroll along its corniche where you will visit the historic Muttrah Souk and have an opportunity to purchase souvenirs and antiques. Visit the venerable walled city of Muscat, wander in its narrow streets and visit a museum or two before viewing the majestic Al Alam Palace, home of Oman’s ruler Sultan Qaboos. Proceeding down the coastline you come to the famous Al Bustan Hotel and take a journey through the mountains to see the new Shangri-La six-star development and Oman Dive Centre in the cove of Bander Jissah, before returning to the comfort of your hotel for a leisurely evening.

DAY 3 – This morning you drive into the Omani interior in one of our 4×4 landcruisers to Nizwa, the capital of Oman in the 6 th and 7th centuries.. Its 17th century castle is the focal point of this captivating and ancient town. With its lush green surroundings, Nizwa is admired by all who have visited. Take a stroll along the castle walls and wander through the local souk where you can barter for traditional goods such as antique silver and frankincense. You then tour the forts of Bahla and Jabrin before heading home via Tanuf with its old ruins and water springs. Tonight you stay in a hotel in Nizwa.

DAY 4 – Spend the morning exploring the mountain of Jebal Shams. Depart around midday in our 4×4 landcruiser arriving at our Bedouin camp in the Wahiba Sands mid-afternoon after taking in the sights of the towns of Samail and Fanja on the way. On arrival at the camp you are greeted with Oman qahwa (coffee). You can then enjoy either camel riding into the sand dunes, dune-bashing in a 4×4, quad biking, or just sit back and relax in the sand and wait for the jewel of Arabia (the sunset over the dunes).

DAY 5 – After a night under canvas Bedouin-style and a last ride on the camel drive back through the sand dunes to the road where you make your way to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis, where you can cool yourself with a swim in one of its crystal-clear fresh water pools. You then head to Ras Al Hadd, the most eastern point of Oman where the Gulf of Oman meets the Arabian Sea. This is the nesting ground of the the Green Back Turtle. There will be a chance to stop for a time to observe these ancient reptiles laying their eggs – a spectacle that only National Geographic has been able to capture. Camp overnight in a designated site and awake before dawn to capture a glimpse of the hatchlings (hotel accommodation is available at extra cost). The following day you head further up the coast to the boat-building town of Sur. Observe, like Marco Polo in the 13th century, the intricate building of the famous dhows by local craftsman. Meander up the coastal road back to Muscat stopping at Fins beach (White Beach) for a swim before heading back to the comfort of your hotel.

DAY 6 – You return to Muscat early this morning enjoying stops at the old town of Sur and at the spectacular Wadi Shad. We then take you out for an afternoon exploring Oman’s coastline in our 16-berth launch and experience the dramatic contrast of jagged rock against piercing blue waters. It is not uncommon to see dolphins at play during these trips You will find a secluded cove in which to drop anchor and give you time to explore the abundant waters below. We can supply snorkeling equipment or you can bring your own. Return to the marina in the early afternoon.

DAY 7 – Free Day