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12 days

A longer trip to Oman allows you to discover and experience more. In 12 days, you can enjoy experiencing many of the unique options that the Sultanate offers you, starting from boat trips to hiking in the mountain highlands, as well as getting to know the Omani culture and adding an unforgettable experience to your memories.

Culture

DAY 1 MUSCAT Oman’s capital has a lot to offer for those seeking to learn more about Omani

Adventure

DAY 1 MUSCAT Exploring the capital of Oman, Muscat, is the perfect starting point for any adventure in

Family

DAY 1 SALALAH Best visited during Khareef season, the Summer months of monsoon when the mountains take on

Culture

Culture

DAY 1

MUSCAT

Oman’s capital has a lot to offer for those seeking to learn more about Omani culture and heritage. First, visit the Royal Opera House Muscat which is open for guided tours in the morning – or visit in the evening when the venue hosts shows and its stunning beauty and musical ambitions of this architectural marvel truly shine. Muscat has many interesting museums and galleries worth exploring. The National Museum in Old Muscat recently opened to the public and with magnificent exhibits and stunning location is a must when in the city. Bait Al Zubair not far away is a former residence-turned-museum, filled with artefacts from Oman’s history. Other museums include the Children’s Museum, the Natural History Museum, Omani French Museum and more.

DAY 2

OLD MUSCAT

The old part of Muscat, with its traditional architecture and rich history, is the perfect place to continue a cultural holiday. Al Alam – the ceremonial palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos – is nestled in the heart of Old Muscat, flanked by the Al Mirani and Al Jalali Forts on either side and facing a secluded bay. Re-built in the 1970s, the palace is the Sultan’s official representative palace, where he welcomes dignitaries and world leaders. Parts of the first tarmac road to ever be built in Oman still exists today and can be viewed along the old Riyam to Muscat Road. Expect some stunning views of Old Muscat, including a great view of the Sultan’s Palace. Muttrah’s corniche is a great place to visit, especially at night. Muttrah Souq is one of the oldest in Arabia and is the perfect place to barter for souvenirs.

DAY 3

SUR

Located about two hours from Muscat along a scenic coastal road, the city of Sur still upholds the age-old tradition of Dhow building and maritime culture. The last remaining Dhow factory gives tourists the unique chance to see Dhows being built without plan – according to ancient traditions. Close to the Dhow factory is the Sur Maritime Museum, where this ancient art of Dhow building and Oman’s maritime culture are further explained. Built by the Portuguese to assist boats to come into the lagoon, the neighbourhood of Al Ayjah is rich in history and home to the Al Ayjah lighthouse. In the past, residents had to take boats to reach the other side, today a bridge spans across the water. Spot the beautiful old merchant houses during a walk around.

DAY 4

ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS

About 115km west of Sur lies the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands. The desert awaits! A favourite with locals and visitors alike, Wadi Bani Khalid is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pools. Since many villages are nestled around the wadi, visitors are asked to dress modestly at all times. The Ash Sharqiyah Sands has a number of desert camps, from traditional to luxurious, that welcome visitors for an overnight stay. Often this is combined with a camel ride, dune driving or meeting a Bedouin family.

DAY 5

JABREEN CASTLE, BAHLA FORT & NIZWA

Today’s destination is the city of Nizwa, but first a stop at one of Oman’s most beautiful castles plus the Sultanate’s largest fort. Jabreen Castle was built in the 17th century and commands panoramic views of the surroundings date plantations. Over three stories tall, the castle was once a private residence, not a fortification, and its intricate ceilings and clever layout are still a sight to behold. Bahla Fort is Oman’s largest fort and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, having been restored in accordance with the ancient methods since 1987. Next is Nizwa, and like Muscat the city holds a sprawling souq. Nearby is one of Oman’s most famous forts, Nizwa Fort.

DAY 6

JEBEL AL AKHDAR

Amongst the highest peaks in the Hajar Mountain range, Jebel Al Akhdar boasts spectacular views and cooler temperatures. Jebel Al Akhdar’s green terrace fields include rose bushes that bloom in March every year. It is then that local entrepreneurs distil rose water from the blossoms, an ancient tradition that visitors are welcome to observe. There are several hiking and off-roading trails across the mountain top that that can be explored. Wadi Bani Habib, with its abandoned villages, is especially interesting for visitors.

DAY 7

AL HAMRA & TOMBS OF AL AYN

Moving down the mountain and further inland, this day features a visit to one of Oman’s most scenic old towns plus another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled at the foot of the Al Hajar Mountains, Al Hamra has numerous mudbrick buildings making up its old centre. Best explored on foot, the settlement includes Bait Al Safah – a museum where locals show visitors first-hand the daily household routine of a traditional Omani house. A short drive up the mountain from Ibri are the beehive tombs of Al Ayn and Bat, both of which form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are the most complete collection of settlements and necropolises from the 3rd Millennium BC in the world, so are definitely worth the two-hour drive from Al Hamra.

DAY 8

MUSCAT

Back in Muscat, this is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before catching a flight to Salalah, in Oman’s southernmost governorate of Dhofar. Built as a present from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the people of Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece. Non-Muslims are welcome from Saturday to Thursday from 8am until 11am.

DAY 9-12

SALALAH AND SURROUNDINGS

Best visited during the Khareef (Monsoon) season, Salalah’s rich cultural heritage dates back centuries – when the region was one of the most important trading points for Frankincense and other goods. Held to celebrate the monsoon season, Salalah’s Khareef Festival (also known as the Salalah Tourism Festival) is held annually from around mid-July until the end of August. The festival offers cultural, arts, sports and shopping activities for all. A day trip east of Salalah can include attractions such as the coastal village of Mirbat, the nearby Anti-Gravity Point and a photostop at the Jebel Samhan Plateau. The drive up the mountain can be combined with a visit of Wadi Darbat and Tawi Ateer Sinkhole. The traditional round huts of the Jeballi people are of special interest. Worth another day trip, the attractions west of Salalah include Mughsayl Beach and its blowholes plus Wadi Dawkah Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over five square kilometres area, densely populated with Boswellia sacra – or Frankincense trees

Adventure

ساب بني خميس جبل شمس

DAY 1

MUSCAT

Exploring the capital of Oman, Muscat, is the perfect starting point for any adventure in Oman. Begin the day hiking the Riyam Walk, which is a trek that crosses the mountains surrounding Old Muscat. While it normally takes two hours, you can take a detour and find a small abandoned village along the way. The Riyam Walk ends at Muttrah, so why not enjoy a walk along the corniche to visit Muttrah Souq. The afternoon can be spent watching dolphins frolic in the sea, followed by a beautiful Dhow cruise at sunset starting from Marina Bandar Al Rowdah or Al Mouj Muscat.

DAY 2

DAYMANIYAT ISLANDS

The Daymaniyat Islands are located about one hour offshore from Muscat and are a great place for unforgettable underwater adventures. Comprising of 19 islands, the Damaniyat Islands is a nature reserve with restricted access, with the actual islands off bounds from May until end October. The surrounding waters, however, can be explored throughout the year and offer unforgettable diving and snorkelling opportunities.

DAY 3

JEBEL SHAMS

Oman’s highest mountains awaits with its very own ‘Grand Canyon’ and views that turn any photo into a masterpiece. A 4WD vehicle is required. A good place to start is the Rim Walk, an easy hike along the mountain’s rim, high above Wadi Ghul, to the abandoned village of As Sab. Goats still wander the area, often resting near the ruins of the village and its old terrace fields. After a quick photo stop to take in the Grand Canyon panorama, Misfat Al Abryeen awaits upon your descent. With terrace fields and mudbrick buildings, this mountain village just begs to be explored. The final stop for the day is Al Hoota Cave, where an underground lake with blind fish and amazing stalactites and stalagmites formations make the complex a must-see when in the area.

DAY 4

JEBEL AL AKHDAR

Jebel Al Akhdar offers spectacular views along its many hiking paths. Roses, pomegranates and other crops thrive in the moderate temperatures here. A 4WD vehicle is required. The most popular trek is the village walk, which crosses several mountain villages and their surrounding terrace fields – all the time offering amazing views of the mountain. Many hotels in the area offer a variety of climbing or hiking options, but one of the most unique is the Via Ferrata available through the Alila Jebel Akhdar Resort and Spa.

DAY 5

ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS

Just under a three-hour drive from Al Jebel Al Akhdar, the Sharqiyah Sands are a unique eco system with it a wide range of exciting activities for all. The desert awaits! A 4WD vehicle is required. Bedouins in the area continue to breed camels for races, beauty competitions and the favourite of all desert activities – camel riding. Excursions from short walks to longer treks can be arranged through your travel agent or directly at one of the desert camps in the area. Prior to your visit, you should choose from a wide range of desert activities such as dune driving or quad biking. Visitors are asked to take extra precaution for their own safety and that of their surroundings and it is advised that visitors sit back and relax as a professional driver takes the lead while scaling and descending the dunes. Full safety equipment must be worn while using the quad bikes. After such a busy day, there is nothing like relaxing by seeing the night sky in the desert. Visitors can either book one of the existing desert camps or camp independently.

DAY 6-7

ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS

Desert crossing by 4WD vehicle can easily be arranged with a travel agent or local tour operator and should be undertaken by a convoy of properly equipped vehicles. Having an experienced guide is always recommended. A two day, one-night desert crossing is a breath-taking experience. Not only does it provide a unique insight into the Bedouin lifestyle, it also presents the opportunity to enjoy the stunning desert landscape and camp under the stars. The trip usually ends near the ocean, close to Al Ashkhara.

DAY 8, 9 & 10

MASIRAH ISLAND

Located just a two-hour drive away from Al Ashkhara is the port of Shannah – the gateway to Masirah Island. The island itself is a great place to visit for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. There are plenty of beaches between Al Ashkhara and Shannah to enjoy shore line fishing and during the summer months, Masirah Island enjoys moderate temperatures and consistent winds. That, together with its shallow waters, makes it perfect for kite surfing. A well-known secret in the community, kite surfers from the around the world flock here every summer. Masirah Island’s beaches are also the nesting ground for many sea turtles, including the gigantic loggerhead turtles. While visitors are welcome to witness this miracle, extra caution is advised not to disturb the animals and use special flash lights only. Jebel Humr is Masirah Island’s highest mountain and although the ascent is not too demanding, caution must be taken as the fossilised coral found along the way break easily. That’s right, all these peaks were once on the bottom of the ocean!

DAY 11

TIWI

Reachable via the coastal highway, the blue waters and white pebble beach outside of the village of Tiwi are the perfect camping spot. The roads close to Wadi Tiwi are twisty and narrow – the perfect excuse to park the car and explore the area by bike. Villages along the route are surrounded by date palms and still use the falaj, a traditional method of irrigation. Close to Wadi Tiwi is Wadi Shab, which can only be reached by boat or by wading across during low tide. Natural water pools, a waterfall and hidden cave await those that hike into the wadi.

DAY 12

AS SIFAH

About 150km north of Tiwi and closer to Muscat, you will find the beautiful sandy beaches of As Sifah. A perfect place to end a great journey. En-route to As Sifah, you’ll find Wadi Mayh which can easily be crossed by 4WD vehicle, but it is the many unique geological formations that visitors should try and spot. Signs along the road point out special sights. Oman has several world-class golf courses, and Jebel Sifah runs one of them. If you have never tried golfing with a view and feel like stopping off for a while, now is the perfect chance. Once back in Muscat, why not visit the Muttrah Souq. This too can be an adventure, especially when hunting for the perfect souvenir. Muttrah Souq is one of the oldest on the Arabian Peninsula and its narrow alleyways and Frankincense-laden smell invites exploration.

Family

Nature Adventure

DAY 1

SALALAH

Best visited during Khareef season, the Summer months of monsoon when the mountains take on a beautiful hue of green, Salalah and its surrounding is a haven for nature lovers. The starting point of this trip is a trip to explore its amazing marine life. The Hallaniyat Islands are home to many dolphins, whales, coral, and other marine life. There are also several wrecks in the area, including the famous Vasco Da Gama wreck, the Esmerelda.

DAY 2-3

EAST OF SALALAH

East of Salalah are some of Oman’s most interesting attractions, including Wadi Darbat and Mirbat. With its lake and, during the Khareef season, mist-covered hills it is a sight to behold and believed to be one of the most scenic spots in Dhofar. Here, children can go for a small boat ride. Considered to be one the largest solvent sinkholes in the world, Tawi Ateer is a haven for bird watching enthusiasts and those that want to learn more about nature. You’ll soon see how appropriate it is that the name literally translates to The well of birds’. Dhofar’s highest mountain is also home to the Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve, one of the places in the world to find wild Arabian leopards and other larger mammals. Although not open to the public, the plateau before the reserve allows for breath-taking views of the wadis, villages and coast below. Ideal for camping.

DAY 4

WEST OF SALALAH

The natural beauty of the region becomes apparent when travelling in the direction of the border with Yemen. From blowholes and caves to secluded beaches, this day is dedicated to the special highlights located west of Dhofar’s capital, Salalah. A favourite family picnic spot, the end of Mughsayl beach holds a special surprise during Khareef. Only then do the blowholes erupt, pushing sea water metres into the air and drenching anyone adventurous enough to stand too close. Wadi Dawkah makes for a great diversion on your way back to Salalah. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the location is open to the public with special viewing areas providing panoramic views of the five square kilometres area densely populated with Boswellia sacra, more commonly known as Frankincense trees.

DAY 5-6

MUSANDAM

Easily reached by flight via Muscat, the Musandam Peninsula, an exclave of Oman surrounded by the UAE, enjoys a breath-taking location facing the Strait of Hormuz and Sea of Oman. Musandam has many scenic bays and fjords that can be discovered by boat or Dhow cruise. Dolphins often frequent the waters and so does plenty of other colourful marine life. Jebel Hareem is Musandam’s highest point and what better way to explore it than by mountain bike. Local tour operators can arrange pick up or drop off whenever and wherever required.

DAY 7

SALMAH PLATEAU

The easiest route to the plateau is to fly into Muscat, following which you can rent a 4WD vehicle to reach the plateau, which is about 120km from Muscat. The plateau itself offers some stunning attractions worth visiting, including Majlis Al Jinn, one of the largest underground caves in the world. A trip to one of the largest underground caves in the world, the Majlis Al Jinn, is a special undertaking. Prior permission is required from the Ministry of Tourism and the help of a guide is mandatory. If travelling with smaller children, you might wish to opt for a visit to the beehive tombs of Al Jaylan instead, before setting up camp on the plateau.

DAY 8-9

WADI BANI KHALID & ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS

A short drive away, Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most photographed attractions in Oman. While an entire day can easily be spent here, simply enjoying the sheer beauty of the wadi and its water pools, a trek from here to Wadi Tiwi across the mountain range is a unique experience and one that must only be undertaken with a guide. With smaller children it is recommended to spend the day at Wadi Bani Khalid before heading to one of the many desert camps in the Sharqiyah Sands for one or more unforgettable overnights for the family.

DAY 10

TURTLE WATCHING

The turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz offers a unique glimpse into the life of turtles, and how for decades they return to the same beach to lay their eggs. A coastal city with colourful past, Sur once was an important trading hub, thanks to its natural harbour and strategic location. At the last remaining Dhow yard, one can witness how Dhows are built by hand – without plans. A true engineering marvel and interesting for the entire family. Green turtles are endangered, so the rangers at the Ras Al Jinz nature reserve take special care not to disturb the animals when showing visitors around – this includes mothers laying eggs at night and hatchlings making their way to the ocean at sunrise.

DAY 11

TIWI

Located between Sur and Muscat, the white pebble and sand beaches of Bimmah, Fins, and Tiwi are an incredible sight. The roads approaching Wadi Tiwi are twisty and narrow, and the perfect excuse to park the car and explore the area on foot. Villages along the route are surrounded by date palms and still use falaj, the traditional methods of irrigation. Close to Wadi Tiwi is Wadi Shab, which can only be reached by boat or by wading across during low tide. Natural water pools, a waterfall and hidden cave await those entering the wadi. Bring your swimming gear and enjoy.

DAY 12

MUSCAT

Oman’s capital is always worth a visit. After days on the road, it is the perfect place to end the perfect holiday. Located at the Ministry of Heritage & Culture, the Natural History Museum offers interesting insights into Oman’s natural history, from its geology to its flora and fauna. The skeleton of a washed ashore sperm whale is displayed, providing a unique glimpse at one of the largest mammals in the world. One of the many city beaches, Al Qurum Beach is great for long walks or simply watching local footballers play against each other – or joining in. A perfect way to end the trip.

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