Here, ancient heritage melds beautifully with modern living. Overnight in the dramatic Wahiba Sands desert after visiting the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve to observe the endangered species’ nesting process. Still looking for something off the beaten path? Visit Wadi Nakhr, also known as the Grand Canyon of Oman, to get even deeper into Oman’s ethereal beauty – natural and otherwise.
Itinerary
Day 1 Muscat
Arrive at any time.
Day 2 Muscat
Explore some of the highlights of the city including the Grand Mosque, the Bait Al Zubair Museum, and the historic souk in Muttrah, before heading to Old Muscat and the 16th century Al-Mirani & Al-Jelani forts.
Day 3 Muscat/Ras al-Jinz
Leave Muscat behind and drive along the coast towards the picturesque Bimmah Sinkhole. Continue to Sur, renowned in the past for its dhow shipyards, before reaching Ras al-Jinz on the coast. After an early dinner, visit the turtle sanctuary, where green turtles come from thousands of kilometres away to lay eggs at night.
Day 4 Ras al-Jinz/Wahiba Sands
Drive towards Wādī Banī Khālid, a rocky oasis nestled in the East Hajar mountains filled with natural pools. Later, begin your desert adventure through the dunes towards your desert camp, just in time for a sunset. In the evening, enjoy some traditional music over dinner, around an open fire.
Day 5 Wahiba Sands/Nizwá
Leaving the desert behind, we head towards Ibra and visit the impressive Jabrin castle. Continue towards Nizwá, stopping at the historic fortress of Bahla along the way.
Day 6 Nizwá to Al Hamra
Wake up early to take part in the Nizwá cattle market. Watch locals buy and trade the best livestock, from goats to cattle directly from the herders. Continue to the town of Al Hamra and visit the renowned mud houses of Misfat Al Abriyeen. Learn about the Falaj network, Oman's ancient water supply system.
Day 7 Al Hamra to Muscat
Explore Jebel Shams and take in view of Wadi Nakhr, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon of Oman. Drive through Wadi Bani Awf and take in the beauty of the steep mountain cliffs before reaching the end point ("Snake Point") of the gorge. Continue to Muscat.
Day 8 Muscat
Depart at any time.
