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Oman: North & South
Example Itinerary
Overview
One of Arabia’s hidden gems, Oman is a land of rugged coastlines and vast deserts, where tradition and progress go hand in hand. Blessed with a dazzling array of natural and cultural highlights, the country that spawned the legends of Sinbad the Sailor is also home to shifting sands and towering mountains, colonial forts and the rich azure waters of the Indian Ocean. This stunning adventure takes you into the heart of this remarkable country, journeying from its picturesque capital and ...
One of Arabia’s hidden gems, Oman is a land of rugged coastlines and vast deserts, where tradition and progress go hand in hand. Blessed with a dazzling array of natural and cultural highlights, the country that spawned the legends of Sinbad the Sailor is also home to shifting sands and towering mountains, colonial forts and the rich azure waters of the Indian Ocean. This stunning adventure takes you into the heart of this remarkable country, journeying from its picturesque capital and deep into the mountains, deserts and tribal strongholds of the old Omani Imamate. Beginning in Muscat you will follow the Batinah coast, before turning off towards the rugged landscapes of the Hajar Mountains. After a chance to visit the spectacular forts at Nizwa, Jabrin and Bahla, your journey then takes you on into the Arabian deserts. Here, amongst the shifting sands of Wahiba and the towering dunes of the Rub al Khali, you’ll camp under a timeless desert sky, before crossing through the Qara Mountains to Salalah. Finishing this astonishing journey amongst the fertile palms and frankincense groves of Oman’s second city, you’ll discover something of the unique charm and character of Arabia’s ‘perfume capital’.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Muscat: Arrival & City Tour
Arrive in Muscat and pass by the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque on the way to your hotel. This vast site has a minaret of 90m and can accommodate 20,000 worshippers. This afternoon explore the Omani capital, taking in its engaging sea front and the Al Alam Palace, as well as the 16th century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Stop at the Muttrah Souq at the end of the day, a traditional market where you will find antiques, textiles and jewellery amongst everyday items.
Day 2 Daymaniyat Islands: Coral Reef Snorkelling
Head out on a small boat today to explore the Daymaniyat Islands, a small group of nine islands home to coral reef, white sand beaches and pristine water. Stop to snorkel and see some of the marine life that make the islands their home and enjoy a picnic lunch. Return to Muscat and this evening you will have dinner with a local family in their home.
Day 3 Muscat – Nakhl – Wadi Bani Auf – Bilad Sayt - Jebel Shams: Mountain Wadis
Your journey takes you inland today as you make your way to Oman’s mountainous interior. Make a stop at Nakhl where a magnificent fort sits atop a small mountain surrounded by date palms. Visit the fort before continuing through Wadi Bani Auf, a narrow gorge with a winding road and the narrow Snake Canyon where you can take a walk to appreciate the beauty of the area. Your final stop will be at the village of Bilad Sayt, an idyllic village with a wealth of verdant terraces before continuing onto Jebel Shams.
Day 4 Jebel Shams – Nizwa: Forts & Souks
The morning adventures begin with a visit to the traditional village of Misfat Al Abryeen. Then pass by the World Heritage Site of Bahla before stopping at Jabrin possibly the finest of Oman's 17th century fortresses. With exquisite painted wooden ceilings, the views from its battlements are simply mesmerising. Moving on to Nizwa next, you will have a chance to explore a little of the once powerful capital of the old Omani Imamate, taking in its imposing 17th century fort and a bustling souq renowned for its intricately carved Omani daggers and ornate silver jewellery.
Day 5 Nizwa – Wahiba: Wadi Walks and Swimming
Turning south this morning, your journey takes you next into the shifting sands of Wahiba, a vast expanse of towering dunes and barren desert that covers over 10,000 square kilometres. Taking a small detour along the way, you'll stop first at Wadi Bani Khaled, one of Oman's most beautiful oases, where you will have an opportunity to enjoy a swim before lunch. Later you will resume the journey on towards the majestic sands of Wahiba and your overnight desert camp.
Day 6 Wahiba Sands – Khaluf: Dune Driving
This morning you will drive out across the shifting sands of Wahiba towards the coast, and the pink shell beaches and white dunes of Khaluf on Oman's eastern coast. Khaluf is known for its sand so white it is known as the Sugar Dunes. The drive will take four to five hours and you will stop for lunch along the way, arriving in Khaluf in time to set up camp late this afternoon in readiness for another night camped out under a desert sky.
Day 7 Khaluf – Ras al Madrakah – Al Duqm: Fishing Villages & Beaches
A chance to enjoy the best of Oman's rugged coastline, this morning's drive south takes you from Khaluf to Ras al Madrakah. With ample viewpoints and photo stops en route, the journey passes a picturesque collection of fishing villages, beaches and wadis. On arrival, there will be plenty of time for a swim and to take in the glorious setting of the area.
Day 8 Al Duqm – Wad Shwaimiyah: Limestone Canyon
Heading further south today pass by dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches stretching along the coast and lagoons with birdlife. Turn inland to Wadi Shwaimiyah where you enter the limestone canyon. Following the canyon floor through the broad valley and then into the narrow gorge the cliffs tower above natural pools, date palms and hidden caves. Explore on foot before making camp and experience some of the wildlife in the peace and solitude of the wadi.
Day 9 Wadi Shwaimiyah - Salalah: Coastal Drive
After a peaceful morning waking up to the silence of Wadi Shwaimiyah — perhaps with a dip in one of its clear natural pools you begin our journey southwest toward the lush coastal city of Salalah. The route takes you along the remote eastern edge of the Arabian Sea, where jagged cliffs plunge into turquoise waters. Pass through isolated fishing villages and windswept plateaus dotted with camels. The road occasionally winds inland through barren wadis and arid plains before revealing glimpses of endless beach and sea once more. Approaching Salalah, you will begin to see coconut groves, banana plantations and enjoy the cool breezes of Oman’s famed Dhofar region. Arrive in Salalah by late afternoon, and check in to your hotel.
Day 10 Salalah: Western Dhofur
During the monsoon season of July and August Salalah transforms into a green paradise where waterfalls tumble down rocks and vegetation thrives in the wadis. Head into the mountains to admire the views of this rocky wilderness on scenic roads where camels can often be spotted before visiting the wild coast to see waves bursting through blow holes. Visit the medieval ruins at Al Baleed Archaeological Park as well as exploring the Museum of the Land of Frankincense. At the end of the day walk through valleys of incense trees, for centuries frankincense was one of the region’s most important goods with its trading routes stretching from southern Arabia through the Levant.
Day 11 Salalah: Eastern Dhofur
Explore some of Salalah’s cultural sights today taking in the traditional Dhofari houses and castle of Taqah, an historic fishing village. Explore Wadi Darbat and walk amongst the pools to the waterfall. Visit the ancient ruins of Khor Rori where for centuries cargo ships of frankincense left Oman. Continue on to the Mirbat Fort to learn about the history the fort played in the Dhofar Rebellion as well as life in general in Dhofar.
Day 12 Salalah: Departure
Today you will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Crowne Plaza Muscat Hotel, Muscat
The four star Crowne Plaza Muscat is nestled at the tip of Qurum Beach and has panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman. The elegantly appointed and recently refurbished rooms have all modern amenities you'd expect and the hotel offers excellent leisure facilities including floodlit tennis courts, a swimming pool, a state of the art gymnasium, squash courts, sauna and steam rooms and massage and spa treatments. Restaurants serve a variety of Persian, Italian and international food.
The View, Jebel Shams
Follow the windy mountain road from Al Hamra for about 8km and you'll reach the stunning location of The View, sitting at around 1400 metres above sea level. There are 30 comfortable and well-appointed rooms spectacularly set on the mountainside, all en suite with terrace or veranda and with unbeatable views down into Al Hamra Valley. There is a restaurant to enjoy evening meals after a day exploring the many sights located around the hotel and a small but beautiful infinity pool.
Ihyaa Inn, Nizwa
You'll feel transported back in time at the Ihyaa Inn, set in the historic Alaqr suburb of Nizwa. The traditional design is maintained throughout the property, with mud walls and large wooden doors helping to celebrate the ancient architecture of the region. Rooms and communal areas are spread across a selection of old houses, originally the residence of politicians and scholars. The rooms are fit with your basic amenities and private (very small) bathrooms, with just a handful coming with shared bathroom facilities. The property is in a great location just minutes away from Nizwa Fort and the main market area, and serves local dishes accompanied by lovely views of the old town.
Khaluf Wild Beach Camp, Khaluf
Your camp will be in the desert dunes close to the coast. Watch the most stunning sunset, sit around a campfire and catch shooting stars, seemingly without another soul alive in the universe. This experience will not be for everyone. The camping, although comfortable with mattresses, tables and chairs, is reasonably rudimentary. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. But for those with a sense of adventure who like to get off the beaten track to witness nature at its most serene and beautiful and are prepared to rough it a little, this is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Crowne Plaza Duqm, Duqm
Located near Port of Duqm and overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Crowne Plaza is inspired by Omani architecture. It offers a fully equipped fitness centre, an outdoor pool and 2 tennis courts. Furnished with a contemporary style the rooms at Crowne Plaza Duqm come with a balcony. Each room includes a flat-screen cable TV, tea/coffee making facilities, mini bar and private bathroom. You can enjoy a drinl at the Frontier Bar, or sample stunning seafood served at Al Safi. You can also enjoy the adjacent beach and views over the Arabian Sea. The hotel has an adults only & children's swimming pool.
Souly Eco Lodge, Salalah
Located just half an hour from Salalah city centre, the Souly Eco Lodge offers a wonderful stay, located on the peaceful shores of the Indian Ocean (Oman Gulf) in a spectacular setting between Taqa and Salalah, and just metres away from a fresh water creek called “Khour Souly”, a favourite hangout for some of the local wildlife. Originally set up with just a handful of Bedouin tents, the property now offers a lovely selection of 21 spacious wooden bungalows, all beautifully furnished and en suite. The eco-property has been built using local materials from the nearby area, and utilises solar-power systems as much as possible in addition to providing organic products for its clients. Each bungalow has a veranda from where you can enjoy the stunning sunsets, and there is a welcoming campfire area with Bedouin tents where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks and local live music as you soak up Oman's perfect starry nights.
Hotel Rating
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Dan
Dan is our Middle East expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Daniel by calling
+44 (0) 20 8741 7390
OTHER ITINERARIES IN OMAN
Check out our group tours in Oman
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Oman. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Oman