Beyond - Oman, Jewel Of Arabia

Arrival at Muscat International Airport.
(Please check the visa procedure in the notes).

Transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Muscat.

Visit of Muscat with the magnificent Great Mosque of sandstone and marble (with the largest handmade one-piece carpet and the largest candlestick in the world, set with 24k gold). You will then visit the traditional Omani fish market located in Barka where you can discover many varieties of fish.

Visit History of Science Centre. The centre aims to introduce younger generations to science in an engaging and interactive way. Visitors can experience the wonder of science in the Islamic world through inspiring exhibitions, films and events.  

The day continues to Al Wakan, a small mountain village adorned with beautiful terraced gardens overlooking the surrounding mountains and the Wadi Mistal.
A path made up of steps will lead you in 30 minutes to the watchtower of the village: over the stops and viewpoints of the hike, you will discover the houses of local farmers, their traditional irrigation system (falaj) as well as the vast plantations of pomegranates, apricots, grapes and berries.
 
 Overnight at the hotel.

Depart for the Wadi Bani Awf Trail, a spectacular mountain road that will allow you to admire many mountain villages and incredible viewpoints, including the panoramic view of Snake Canyon.
 
The tour continues to the village of Bilad Sayt, with its typical architecture of the former Arab colonies.
You will then visit the very ancient village of Al Hamra which is one of the best preserved in the country. You will stroll between the old abandoned buildings and the mud houses.
A stop at the village of Misfat will allow you to discover impressive agricultural terraces, sumptuous valleys as well as the traditional houses of Misfat, built in stone with a palm leaf roof.

You will be admired by the traditional Omani irrigation system: the falaj, listed in UNESCO.
 
Overnight at the hotel in Al Hamra.

Visit Nizwa, the former capital of Oman. Explore the 17th-century Nizwa fort with its vast tower and superb views of the oasis. In the bustling souq nearby you will find local products such as Omani daggers (khanjar), copper, silver jewellery, livestock, fish, vegetables and handicrafts for sale.
 
Oman Across Ages is a new national museum opened in March 2023 , that celebrates the creation of a nation, praises human endeavour and inspires young Omanis to connect to their rich history. The museum takes you on a vast, sweeping journey through time. Starting with the first settlers of prehistory and ending in modern-day Oman, you fly through different ages, dynasties and civilisations. The museum It includes galleries, a library, an auditorium, cafés and social and research spaces and a masterpiece in its use of media. Archival and contemporary film footage, photography and the considered use of augmented reality combine with stunning object displays to spectacular effect.

Overnight at the hotel in Nizwa.

Photo opportunity at Birkat Al Mouz, one of the most famous villages lying in ruins in Oman. With a large banana plantation and the scenic surroundings, the site is also home to the old falaj irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an enchanting stop that will transport you back in time.

Visit Al Manzifat, a village in ruins. The narrow alleys enhance the traditional architecture of the village where it was necessary to protect itself against the raids and the tribal wars during the Middle Ages.
Before reaching the Wahiba Desert, you will stop in the historic village of Al Manzifat, and can admire its traditional architecture.

Then you will arrive in the incredible Wahiba Desert, this vast expanse of orange-hued dunes that have been home to Bedouin communities for millennia. Along the way, you will discover typical small villages that will give you the impression that time has stood still. You will have the chance to discover Bedouin traditions by interacting with local families.
You can then venture into the high dunes and admire an unforgettable sunset, while reaching the camp where you will spend the night, in the heart of the desert. If you are traveling by bus you will be transferred to the camp by jeep.

Today you will discover Wadi Bani Khalid. Passing through the village, you can admire its vast date plantations before reaching the magnificent wadi of Bani Khalid where you can swim in its natural, deep and spectacular pools..
 
Arrival at the coastal city of Sur. Visit the dhow factory to see the construction of traditional wooden boats that vary in design and size. Thereafter take a photo opportunity at Al Ayjah lighthouse.
  
In the evening you will visit the Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, world famous for taking care of nesting of the endangered species of the green turtle, Chelonia Mydas.
 
Overnight at the hotel in Ras Al Jinz.

Today, You will then embark on a traditional boat with a local fisherman for an unforgettable hour-long ride on the Gulf of Oman, followed by a delicious lunch on board.
 
You will stop at Bimah Sinkhole, a natural pond that has carved into the heart of the arid Omani landscape. Local legend has it that it was the descent of a meteorite here that formed this unique body of water.

On your arrival in Muscat in the afternoon, you will visit the city: Al Alam Palace - official residence of the Sultan - the port and its two Portuguese forts, Al-Jalali and Al-Mirani but also the souk of Matrah, the one of the oldest markets in Oman. Transfer to Muscat airport.