Adventure Across Oman

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.

End Time: 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

Conclude your tour as your guide/driver safely returns you to your hotel.

Recommendations:

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes for optimal exploration.

2. Keep a bottle of water handy, especially in warmer months.

3. Dress modestly to respect Omani traditions, especially when visiting religious and cultural sites.

4. Carry some Omani rials if you wish to make purchases at Mutrah Souq or any other stops.

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 2.5 to 3-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 restaurant buffet.  

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Afternoon: 

Drive to Ras Al Hadd: Embark on a journey to Ras Al Hadd, a coastal village known for its serene beaches and proximity to turtle nesting grounds. 

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Evening:

Dinner: Enjoy a buffet-style dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant in Ras Al Hadd.  

• Turtle Viewing at Ras Al Jinz (Optional): After dinner, you may choose to join trained rangers for an evening of turtle watching. Witness the magical process of sea turtles nesting and, depending on the season, baby turtles making their first journey to the sea.  

Recommendations:

• Pack swimwear for the Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab.  
• Opt for light, breathable clothing. For the evening turtle viewing, it's recommended to wear dark-colored clothing to minimize disturbance to the turtles.  
• Apply sunscreen and maintain hydration levels throughout the day.  
• Respect the guidelines provided by the rangers during the turtle viewing to ensure the safety and well-being of the turtles.  

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Morning:

• Sur City: Start your day with a visit to the coastal city of Sur, known for its rich maritime history. Explore the traditional dhow-building yards, where craftsmen still produce these iconic wooden ships using age-old methods. After that, make your way to the Sur Maritime Museum to delve deeper into the seafaring history of the region. If time allows, enjoy a stroll around the lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Late Morning:

•  Drive to Wadi Bani Khalid: Depart from Sur and embark on a scenic drive towards one of Oman's most beloved wadis. The journey provides ample opportunities to admire Oman's diverse landscapes.

Midday:

•  Wadi Bani Khalid: As you arrive, be greeted by azure pools set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. The wadi is known for its clear waters, deep canyons, and beautiful palm groves. Dive in for a refreshing swim or simply relax by the water's edge. The more adventurous might want to explore deeper into the wadi to discover hidden pools and cascades.

Lunch: 

Consider having lunch at a local restaurant near Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can sample Omani delicacies.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Wahiba Sands: Transition from the lushness of the wadi to the arid beauty of the desert. Wahiba Sands, or Sharqiya Sands, is a vast sea of dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. 

Late Afternoon:

• Wahiba Sands: Experience the thrill of dune bashing, as skilled drivers navigate the ever-shifting sands. Alternatively, opt for a camel ride to get a feel of the age-old Bedouin mode of transport. As the sun starts its descent, climb a dune to catch a spectacular desert sunset, where the sky and sand seem to merge in a dance of colors.

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 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:

• Carry ample water and sun protection.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for varied terrains.
• For Wahiba Sands, consider light, breathable clothing. A scarf or hat is useful against the occasional desert wind.
• Always respect the natural environment, ensuring not to leave any litter behind.

Late Morning:

• ­Nizwa: Begin your day with a visit to Nizwa, the former capital of Oman and a center of trade, art, religion, and education.
• Nizwa Fort: Explore this iconic fort, known for its massive cylindrical tower built in the 17th century. The fort provides excellent views of the city and surrounding date palms.
• Nizwa Souq: Stroll through the bustling market, renowned for its silver khanjars (traditional Omani daggers), handicrafts, and fresh produce. This is an excellent place to pick up souvenirs or simply immerse yourself in local daily life.

Midday:­ 

• Oman Across Ages Museum: After exploring Nizwa, visit the Oman Across Ages Museum, a modern and interactive space showcasing Oman’s rich history, culture, and future aspirations. The museum provides an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Afternoon:­ 

• Drive to Jebel Akhdar: Depart from Nizwa and head towards Jebel Akhdar, a stunning mountainous region known for its cool climate, terraced farms, and breathtaking vistas.

Evening:

•  Overnight in Jebel Akhdar: Settle into your accommodation in Jebel Akhdar for a relaxing evening surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.

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Recommendations:­ 

Dress Modestly: Both Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar are traditional areas; consider wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.

Stay Comfortable: The weather in Jebel Akhdar is cooler, especially in the evenings, so pack a light jacket.

Respect Traditions: Always ask before taking photos, especially of people, and respect the privacy of the local community.

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Jebel Akhdar, taking in the cool mountain air and stunning views one last time.
• Check-Out and Transfer: After breakfast, check out and begin your transfer from Jebel Akhdar to Muscat. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views as you descend from the mountains to the city.

Transfer Options:

Guests will be dropped off at Muscat International Airport for their onward journey or at a hotel in Muscat for an extended stay.

Note: The transfer from Jebel Akhdar to Muscat is included in the package.

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Recommendations:

• Ensure all your belongings are packed before departure.
• If heading to the airport, allow at least 3 hours before your flight departure for the drive and check-in process.