Journey Through Oman’s Nature and Culture

Depart from Muscat in the morning and drive towards the historic town of Nakhl, passing through beautiful date palm plantations. Visit Bait Al Ghasham, a traditional Omani house converted into a museum, offering insights into the country’s heritage. Continue to Nakhl Fort, an impressive fortress perched on a rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding oasis. From Nakhl, travel to Al Awabi, then take a detour to the picturesque village of Wakan, located in the Wadi Mistal. This peaceful village is famous for its terraced farms and spectacular hiking trails, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers. After a break, continue your journey deep into Wadi Bani Awf, a stunning mountain valley known for its dramatic landscapes and adventure trails. Upon arrival at your mountain hut, take some time to relax before heading to Snake Canyon, a natural wonder with narrow rock formations and water pools, offering an exhilarating canyoning experience for those seeking adventure. Enjoy a traditional Omani dinner and overnight stay in a guesthouse in Wadi Bani Awf.

Begin the day with a thrilling 4x4 drive up the rugged terrain of Sharaf Al Alamain Pass, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Make a brief stop at Balad Sayt, one of Oman’s most photogenic villages, with its charming mud-brick houses set against a backdrop of palm trees and towering cliffs. After some time exploring the village, continue the ascent to Sharaf Al Alamain, a high-altitude pass offering stunning vistas of the Hajar Mountains. Descend towards Al Hamra, a town known for its well-preserved ancient houses made of sun-dried mud bricks. A short drive from Al Hamra brings you to Misfat Al Abriyeen, a beautiful mountain village famous for its lush palm groves, falaj irrigation system, and traditional stone houses. Spend the afternoon strolling through the village, taking in the peaceful ambiance and learning about Omani agricultural practices. Overnight at a guesthouse in either Misfat Al Abriyeen or Al Hamra.

After breakfast, begin the ascent towards Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain, via the scenic route to Al Khitaym. On the way, stop at the abandoned village of Ghul, where ancient ruins tell the story of a once-thriving community. Arriving at Jebel Shams, you will be greeted with awe-inspiring views of the Grand Canyon of Arabia, a spectacular natural wonder featuring steep cliffs and deep gorges. For adventure seekers, embark on the famous Balcony Walk, a moderately challenging hike along the canyon’s edge, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the isolated mountain lifestyle. After the hike, descend back to Al Hamra, where you can visit the Bait Al Safah Museum, an authentic Omani house that provides a fascinating look into traditional life. Return to Misfat Al Abriyeen for another overnight stay.

Leave Misfat Al Abriyeen in the morning and head towards Nizwa, Oman’s historic capital and a major cultural hub. The first stop is Nizwa Fort, an architectural marvel known for its massive circular tower and strategic defensive features. Wander through the Nizwa Souq, a bustling market famous for its handicrafts, silver jewelry, and local delicacies such as Omani halwa and fresh dates. From Nizwa, drive to Bahla, a UNESCO-listed ancient town known for its sprawling mud-brick fortress. Continue to Jabrin Castle, one of the most beautifully decorated castles in Oman, featuring exquisite wooden ceilings, calligraphy, and secret passageways. Later in the day, explore Wadi Tanuf and Wadi Qashah, two picturesque wadis with rocky landscapes and seasonal waterfalls. Return to Nizwa for an overnight stay.

Spend the morning exploring more of Nizwa before embarking on a scenic drive toward the Wahiba Sands, a vast desert known for its golden dunes and traditional Bedouin culture. Along the way, stop at Birkat Al Mouz, a picturesque village featuring old mud houses and a well-preserved falaj irrigation system. Continue to Manah, where you can visit the Oman Across Ages Museum, an interactive museum showcasing the nation’s historical and technological evolution. Arriving in Bidiyah, switch to a 4x4 vehicle for an exhilarating drive across the dunes to reach your desert camp. In the late afternoon, enjoy a peaceful walk in the Wahiba Sands, watching the sunset over the rolling dunes. Experience a traditional Bedouin dinner before settling into your desert camp for the night.

Wake up to a stunning desert sunrise before leaving the Wahiba Sands and heading towards the coastal town of Sur. En route, stop at Wadi Bani Khalid, a spectacular oasis with emerald-green pools and date palm groves, perfect for a refreshing swim. Continue to Sur, a historic seafaring town known for its traditional dhow shipyards and scenic waterfront. After exploring Sur, follow the coastline towards Tiwi, passing through charming fishing villages. Spend the night in a guesthouse in Tiwi or a homestay in Fins, where you can enjoy Omani hospitality.

Start the day with an adventure in Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most famous wadis, featuring turquoise pools, waterfalls, and caves accessible through a scenic hike. Next, visit Wadi Tiwi, another stunning wadi known for its deep gorges and lush greenery. After the wadi explorations, take the coastal road back to Muscat, stopping at Fins Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand, and a nearby gazelle reserve, where you can observe local wildlife. Upon arrival in Muscat, enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Mutrah before transferring to Muscat International Airport for your departure.