Discover Oman
The Middle East- Oman
Oman
The epitome of Arabia and gateway to adventure
Breathtaking Oman is a country of diverse and dramatic landscapes, of rich ancient heritage and authentic Arabian culture with treasured customs held in high regard. It’ s a place for both serene relaxation beside pristine beaches and unforgettable experiences amidst mighty desert terrains, jagged mountains and deep water fjords. The low-rise capital, Muscat, is a captivating city whose picturesque streets brim with whitewashed buildings, intricate minarets, ancient forts and bustling souks where the scent of frankincense and spices fill the air. Make time to see the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait al Zubair Museum, the grandiose Al Alam Palace, the 16th century Al Jalali and Mirani forts and be sure to stroll along the attractive corniche. Muscat also tempts with a fine stretch of golden sands graced by luxurious resorts and spectacular views over the crystal-clear Gulf of Oman. Alternative seaside enclaves include Salalah in the country’ s southeastern corner, and Zighy Bay on the northern Musandam Peninsula, which is a poular haunt for dive and snorkelling enthusiasts. If seeking adventure, look no further than the endless desert sandscapes of Wahiba Sands, whose towering dunes curl and roll to the horizon in every direction. Explore by quad bike or 4x4, glimpse traditional Bedouin settlements or simply gaze at the starlit sky from a desert camp. Perhaps connect with nature on a whole new level by retreating to Jebel Akhdar. Hike through terraced orchards, discover remote villages, breathe in the cool mountain air and soak up the aweinspiring views. The historic city of Nizwa provides a fascinating insight to the country’ s heritage. Home to the formidable Nizwa Fort, it’ s also a great base for visiting nearby Jabreen Castle and the UNESCO World Heritage listed Bahla Fort.
Dubai •
UAE
Zighy Bay •
Muttrah • Muscat Jabal Akhdar •
Nizwa 2
Salalah
OMAN
Gulf of Oman
Wahiba • Sands
1 Desert Nights Camp 2 Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
MUSCAT
Muttrah Corniche
4
Muttrah Souk
Sultan Qaboos • Grand Mosque
Bait Al Zubair
3
Museum Al Jalali Fort
Al Alam Palace
Getting there: Non-stop flights from the UK to Muscat take about 7 hours. Private transfers are included.
Best time to go: With almost guaranteed year-round sunshine it’ s perfect whatever the season. It’ s particularly great value during our school summer holidays; although, temperatures are very high and humindity, while the winter months see pleasant Mediterranean like temperatures.
Muscat
1
3 Shangri-La Bar Al Jissah, Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa & Jumeirah Muscat Bay
4 The Chedi Muscat
6nt privately escorted tour from £ 2599pp
QATAR
Gulf of Oman Muscat
UAE Jabal Akhdar
Wahiba Sands Ras Al Jinz
OMAN
PRIVATE TOUR
Salalah
Wadi Bani Khalid
Discover Oman
6nt privately escorted tour
diverse and spectacular landscapes • chance to see nesting turtles • optional beach add on
DAY 1 Fly to Muscat.
DAY 2 Muscat On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.
DAY 3 Muscat
See Muscat’ s top attractions during a full day city tour including Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Mutrah Souq, the Royal Opera House and both Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts.
DAY 4 Muscat / Jabal Akhdar
Travel to the Jabal Akhdar region, the green jewel of the Al Hajar Mountains( approx 3 hours drive). Surrounding you are numerous villages along with spectacular landscapes of dramatic peaks, gorges and wadis.
DAY 5 Jabal Akhdar / Wahiba Sands Tour the city of Nizwa this morning, visiting the impressive
184 The Middle East
NEW
see page 7
fortress and famous souq. Later begin your desert adventure heading alongside the dunes towards Wahiba Sands, just in time for sunset( approx 4 hours drive).
DAY 6 Wahiba Sands / Ras Al Jinz
Explore the vast mass of undulating red and white sand as well as the dunes that soar skywards. In stark contrast is Wadi Bani Khalid, which has clear deep blue water and pretty villages sit in the mountains( approx 2 hours drive).
DAY 7 Ras Al Jinz / Muscat
Early this morning, drive to the beach to watch nesting turtles. Travel on to Sur where you visit a dhow factory, before returning to Muscat( approx 3 hours)
DAY 8 Muscat
Enjoy a dolphin watching cruise this morning before your tour concludes with an evening transfer to the airport. Alternatively, extend with a beach stay in Muscat or Salalah.
Muscat 2nts | Jabal Akhdar 1nt Wahiba Sands 1nt | Ras Al Jinz 1nt Muscat 1nt
What you need to know:
Daily departures.( Muscat city tour doesn’ t operate on Fridays)
4H Crowne Plaza Muscat; 4H Hotel Indigo, Jabal Akhdar; Thousand Night Camps, Wahiba Sands; Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
Breakfast. Lunch is included on days 3,4,5 & 6. Dinner is included on day 5.
The price shown includes international flights, private transfers, accommodation, sightseeing
Note: Peak season for turtle nesting and hatching activity is May-September. However the desert is not recommended during July and August.
prices & offers change constantly- call for today’ s best available deals!