Active & Nature Tour of Oman

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Muscat, Ras Al Jinz, Wahiba Sands & Nizwa, Jebel Akhdar region

This private Oman tour features the highlights of the country, with an emphasis on the incredible landscapes, activities such as hiking and camel riding and cultural sites.

Begin in Muscat, the seaside capital of Oman. During touring with your private guide and driver, visit the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the landmark Royal Opera House and museums dedicated to Oman's rich cultural heritage. In Old Muscat, see Al Alam Palace (one of several used by the Sultan of Oman) and hilltop fortresses overlooking the Gulf of Oman. Walk along the waterfront corniche in the Muttrah district, and browse the Muttrah Souk (market) for Omani frankincense, jewelry, ceramics, antiques and more.

Next, transfer along the coast of Oman. Take a dip in the unusual Bimmah Sinkhole or opt for a hike in Wadi Shab, a deep ravine that extends inland from the coast and is considered one of the most beautiful wadis in Oman. Perhaps also stop in Sur, a whitewashed port town with a long and interesting history.

Continue to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve to see nesting green sea turtles (May–September) or enjoy other activities, such as yoga, dolphin watching, biking, hiking, archery or taking a cooking class.

Next, spend two nights at an exclusive desert camp in Wahiba Sands (A'Sharqiyah Sands). Enjoy options such as visiting Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful river valley dotted with villages, meeting local Bedouins, riding a camel and watching the sunset from the top of the sand dunes.

Continue into the mountains to the Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) region and a luxurious mountain resort with spectacular views of the dramatic desert landscapes. During private touring, visit Nizwa, a historic oasis town in the foothills of the Al Hajar Mountains. Walk along the ramparts of atmospheric Nizwa Fort, take in views of the expansive palm groves, and visit the souk to browse for pottery, textiles and other local handicrafts. Also visit local villages in the surrounding Saiq Plateau, and see gravity-defying cliffside agricultural terraces—the roses, pomegranates and other crops grown here are considered the finest in Oman. During leisure time, enjoy the resort facilities and its incredible views.

One day, take a private excursion to Jebel Shams (Sun Mountain), the highest peak in Oman. En route, visit mudbrick villages set among palm oases, venture into deep desert wadis (valleys), learn about the UNESCO World Heritage-designated aflaj (irrigation canals) that carry water from the mountains to local farms, and perhaps opt for guided hikes such as the legendary Balcony Walk along the steep slopes of Wadi Nakhr.

Return to Muscat for a final night.