Discover Oman
Experience Overview
Adventure from portside Muscat and Muttrah into the heart of Oman's richly coloured past. Discover the awesome Islamic forts, age-old mud-brick houses, and silver- and spice-filled souqs that make this Middle Eastern jewel such a feast for the senses. The treasures aren't all man-made: trip to the blazing remote landscapes of Wahiba Sands for a desert getaway with the Bedouins, and soak up breathtaking canyon views at Jebel Shams and Wadi Bani Awf before returning to the seaside capital.
Highlights
- Stand on top of Oman, with the vast Grand Canyon at your feet and take the scenic route down through the mountains to Muscat.
- Walk through remote villages, tucked between mountains and at the bottom of valleys, lush with date palms and full of friendly locals, enjoy a visit to a local bee keeper and a hearty home-cooked Omani lunch.
- Scramble to the top of the Wahiba Sands dunes for incredible sunset and sunrise views, and experience traditional Omani hospitality over coffee and dates with a Bedouin family.
- Discover Oman's most phenomenal castles and mosques with guided visits to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Jabreen Castle.
- Step back in time with a night in Nizwa, staying in a heritage property in the heart of the old town, and stroll the souq for souvenirs.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1769
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Mini Bus,4x4
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ELSO
Starts: Muscat, Oman
Finishes: Muscat, Oman
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (2), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (5 nights),Heritage stay (1 night),Desert hotel (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,506 ($438 /day)
Itinerary
Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Oman and the sprawling seaside city of Muscat. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm today. If you arrive with time to spare you may like to visit the Royal Opera House, a grand building that encapsulates contemporary Omani architectural style, or take a walk along the beach, dipping your toes in the Gulf of Oman. After the welcome meeting perhaps join your group at a nearby restaurant, serving up Omani favourites like shuwa, fresh salads and local breads.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin your explorations with a visit to the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The largest mosque in Oman, it has capacity for 20,000 worshippers and the second largest carpet in the world, handwoven by Iranian women, taking four years to produce. Your next stop is the old part of Muscat, where you'll see the two 16th century Portuguese forts, Jalali and Mirani, guarding the entrance to the city. Drive down to the busy fishing harbour at Muttrah, with its wooden dhows and fishing boats, stop at the bazaar (souq) where you can pick up a local perfume or postcard. Visit the Sidab Women's Group and learn how they're empowering local women through the production and sale of reusable bags. After learning about the organisation, enjoy a selection of salads, sambusas and stews, cooked for you by our welcoming hosts. Your afternoon is then free to spend as you wish. An optional sunset cruise provides a spectacular viewpoint for the rocky coastline of the city.
Included Activities:
- Muscat - Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Muscat - Sidab Women's Group visit with lunch
Optional Activities:
- Muscat - Sunset Cruise in Muscat Harbour (appx 2 hours including transfers) (55 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive through Oman's rugged landscapes to Hawiyat Najim Park, the location of the Bimmah Sinkhole. This picture-perfect sinkhole was formed through limestone erosion. The turquoise waters make an excellent stop to paddle the feet before travelling onwards. Your next stop, Wadi Tiwi, is known as the wadi of nine villages, with each community linked by date plantations and the flow of water through their falaj system. Spend time learning about dates, how they're grown and harvested, and their importance in Omani hospitality, and stretch your legs on a short, downhill walk through these communities. Continue driving to Ras al Hadd and check into your beachside resort where you'll be able to enjoy a lovely relaxed evening at the property.
Included Activities:
- Hawiyat Najim Park - Bimmah Sinkhole
- Wadi Tiwi - Visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, we make a stop in Sur, an important city of Oman's maritime past. Sur has long been known for its tradition of dhow building. These mighty vessels formed an important part of Omani culture and trade over the years. Visit a dhow factory to see how they are built and be joined by a local worker who will explain the making of the dhow, the materials used and the time taken to built the vessel. Drive through the Eastern Hajar Mountains, enjoying incredible views of villages embedded in the mountains as you take this winding road to the peaceful Wadi Bani Khalid. Cool off with a swim in the wadi, surrounded by palm trees and mountains. Drive onwards to the beautiful Wahiba Sands, where you'll spend the night. Rolling dunes, some as high as 150 metres, stretch as far as the eye can see and are constantly shifting. Sunset from atop a dune is a must. After dinner back at the camp, relax under the stars with music, tea and maybe even some dancing.
Included Activities:
- Wadi Bani Khalid - Visit and swim stop
- Wahiba Sands – Desert dune sunset
- Sur - Dhow factory visit
Accommodation:
- Desert Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
If you're a morning person, you have the option to climb the dunes and enjoy watching them change colour as the sun rises over them. Otherwise, enjoy a relaxed start to the day before driving further into the dunes to visit a Bedouin family. Wahiba Sands is named after the Wahiba tribe and the region is home to families that have lived and worked in the area for generations. Enjoy coffee, dates and a chat with our welcoming hosts. Leaving the desert behind, make tracks for Nizwa. On the outskirts of the city, visit Jabreen Castle, considered one of the finest and most picturesque in the country. Built in 1675, this cleverly designed residence was home to Imam Bil-Arab Bin Sultan and many subsequent generations. A local guide will share the castle's secrets and expansive viewpoints with you. It's just a short drive to Nizwa, where you'll spend the night in the old town, staying in a heritage property. Enjoy a free evening to explore the old town or relax at a rooftop cafe with a cool drink.
Included Activities:
- Nizwa - Jabreen Castle
- Wahiba Sands - Bedouin family visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a walk with your leader through the labyrinthine streets of Nizwa's old town this morning, before exploring the souq and its various specialty areas for halwa, vegetables, spices, ceramics. You'll have some free time during which you might like to visit Nizwa Fort. With a massive circular cannon tower and built to withstand the vibrations of 24 cannons, it's one of the most impressive forts in Oman. Depart Nizwa for Misfat Al Abyreen, a mountain village located 1000m above sea level and recognised by UNWTO as one of the world's best tourism villages for its preservation of Omani culture. Walk through the village and see how their agricultural and irrigation systems are as productive as they were centuries ago. Visit a local beekeeper and find out about their bees and the ways they produce different types of honey - with some sampling too, of course! Then enjoy a home-cooked Omani feast with your host for lunch. Omani people are famous for their hospitality and you’ll get to try some exciting home-cooked flavors including Qabuli (Omani spiced rice with either goat/fish/chicken), hummus, Omani bread (Kubz Al Rakhal) with local honey, Omani coffee and tea with dates, etc. Carry on your journey higher into the mountains to Jebel Shams, which translates as 'Mountain of the Sun'. Check into your hotel before heading out to take in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon and, weather allowing, a brilliant sunset.
Included Activities:
- Misfat Al Abyreen - Village walk & beekeeper visit
- Nizwa - Souq visit
- Misfat Al Abyreen - Home-cooked lunch
Optional Activities:
- Nizwa - Fort visit - Entry Fee (5 OMR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
An early morning hike is on offer today. The balcony walk follows the Grand Canyon, so you can expect epic views as you walk. After breakfast at your hotel, settle in for a memorable drive to Wadi Bani Awf, the end point of the canyon and known as Snake Gorge. Break up the drive with a walk through Bilad Sait, a remote fortress village in the heart of the mountains, lush with palm trees. After leaving the mountains, you'll drive back to Muscat, arriving in the late afternoon. The evening is free to spend as you wish, perhaps gather your group together for a meal to celebrate your adventure.
Included Activities:
- Jebel Shams - Grand Canyon scenic drive
- Bilad Sait - Fortress villlage visit
- Jebel Shams - Balcony walk (1 hour)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, you are free to leave at any time, as there are no activities planned today. If you would like to spend some more time in Muscat, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
- Muscat- Snorkeling Trip (2 Hours) (10am-1pm) (75 USD)
- Muscat-Dolphin Watching Cruise (2 Hours) (8am-10am,10am-12pm) (55 USD)
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Jessie - Traveled, March 2024
I'm obsessed with Oman. The country is singular in its cultutral tradition and hospitality. Literally everything one could dream of is here... and if you get to see it with Said! You are truly fortunate... an amazing experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Hostar - Traveled, February 2024
This trip was excellent, included a bit of everything from different areas to understand country, culture and people. Said was excellent leader with incredible knowledge and patience for everyone in the group.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/29/2024
Natasha - Traveled, February 2024
Well-paced itinerary showcasing different aspects of traditional and contemporary Omani life. Diverse locations from sand dunes to volcanic and limestone natural wonders - Bimmah Sinkhole was a highlight! For lovers of cities and architecture, there's free time to explore museums, souqs and visit historical monuments in Muscat, Muttrah and Nizwa too.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/29/2024
Richard - Traveled, February 2024
Oman is an excellent destination for a genuine Arabian experience: it is a fascinating country with a very varied landscape, the people are wonderful, food is excellent and accommodation very comfortable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/12/2024
Marion - Traveled, January 2024
Oman is a spectacularly beautiful country, still as yet undiscovered by Western tourists. It is definitely worth a visit. This tour is a great introduction. All your senses will be rewarded.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/01/2024
Helene - Traveled, January 2024
I HIGHLY recommend this trip! The vibe, the country, the architecture, the people, our amazing guide, the overall design. I absolutely loved it. This has been my first organized group trip, and I was very excited. It did not disappoint!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
William - Traveled, January 2024
Oman is an amazing travel destination and Intrepid's tour was a wonderful way to see the country. We had an excellent guide in Said and an inspiring group of like-minded travelers. This was my first time touring with Intrepid and I will definitely sign up for another trip in the future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2024
Morgan - Traveled, November 2023
Said is an excellent and knowledgeable guide. He and his team of drivers were incredibly well organized and communicated well with the group. He listened and showed concerns for every member on the journey and was more than willing to accommodate as best he could their requests. I would recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/08/2023
Steven - Traveled, November 2023
Go on this exceptional tour of Oman and be dazzled by otherworldly landscapes: from lush valleys and pink-sand beaches on the Indian Ocean, to the desert and mountains and canyons. Said, the tour leader, will illuminate this fascinating place. Had a magical time in Oman!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/03/2023
Julian - Traveled, November 2023
A fantastic introductory trip to Oman with an excellent tour leader in Said. At times trip felt a little rushed due to the time of year (reduced daylight hours in December). Topped of by seeing Turtles both coming ashore to lay and hatchlings making a dash to the ocean.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/06/2023
Sheena - Traveled, November 2023
My Oman trip was wonderful - what a beautiful country with such varied scenery and places. The Omanis are such friendly and welcoming people. Our trip was extremely well organised by our guide Said whose timing was impeccable as he always got us to any of the "touristy" sites well before the crowds ! Said was a fund of knowledge on both Oman itself and its history and was always willing to answer our many varied questions !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/05/2023
Jennifer - Traveled, November 2023
Oman is a gorgeous, diverse and fascinating country, and this one week trip with Intrepid gave a great diversity of activities in the city, ocean, desert, and mountains. The Wahiba Sands desert and Jebel Shams balcony walk were some of the highlights. Said was a knowledgeable and supportive guide and made sure we all had a great time. Highly recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Oscar - Traveled, November 2023
Good all around trip.Very relaxed culture without the “rah rah buying haggling”.stunning landscapes makes it all the more interesting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Stephanie - Traveled, November 2023
My first tour with Intrepid. Everything great. Tour leader Said first rate assisted by Amin and Yusef. A great tour. Looking forward to next one
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Elisabeth - Traveled, October 2023
The tour of Oman beyond Muscat was fascinating and we experienced a good mix of desert, mountains (Jebel Shams brilliant) and small towns with a great flavour of how the locals live and their history. A fun and interesting group of multinational travellers in the group was perfect, with our excellent leader, Said, and two reliable safe drivers Amin and Juma. Thank you all.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/08/2023
Adriaan - Traveled, October 2023
I was surprised by the beauty of Oman. The guide Said and the accomodations were great. My highlights were the turtle reserve Ras Al Jinz, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the desert camp. I also enjoyed the wadi and sinkhole swim, the trip in the Canyon, visits to the shipyard and Jabrin and Nizwa Fort. Everything was well organised and the Omani hospitality with Omani coffee and dates is fantastic! Thank you Said!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/09/2023
Nicola - Traveled, October 2023
Loved the variety of destinations and activities. Really enjoyed the 4WD vehicles as transport throughout. Excellent leader who could not have known the destination and people better. Go before everyone finds out about Oman!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/09/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why Choose Us?
We Work for You
Our goal to make you happy! That means ensuring our travel consultants have the best product knowledge and excellent customer service. A positive customer experience is our #1 goal!
Our Products
We offer an broad selection of travel products, including all-inclusive vacation packages, pre-packaged tours, custom travel itineraries, destination weddings, and luxury vacations.
Escapes Cares
We believe in giving back. When you book with us, you are contributing to tree planting through our partners at Veritree, as well ocean conservation though Oceana Canada.
