Private Holiday
3 Days ex Muscat
This three day itinerary is designed for those stopping off in the Middle East who would like to make the most of their time and experience the wonders of Oman – a destination fast becoming a favourite of travellers. A thrilling three day exploration of diverse landscapes ranging from deserts, mountains, and sparkling coastline, Oman is a surprising and richly rewarding addition to any Middle Eastern travel.
Information
Meals and sightseeing as per itinerary
Private English-speaking chauffeur-guide
Itinerary
Day 1: Muscat – Sur – Ras Al Jinz (B D)
This morning (around 08.00 a.m.), depart by 4WD vehicles to Wahiba Sands via the scenic and rugged coastal route. This tour offers breath-taking glimpses of the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman offset by pristine white beaches.
Drive past the fishing village of Quriyat. There is a good chance of spotting flamingos and eagles at an inland stream.
Visit the picturesque Wadi Arabayeen with its deep pools of water set among the date palms. Then proceed to the Bimah sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom. On clear sunny days while driving along the coast one might chance to see sharks in the deep blue waters or fleet footed Gazelles sprint across the landscape.
Next, visit the Mausoleum of Bibi Miriam at Qalhat which stands as testimony of a bygone era. As you continue from here the road winds through mountain terrain offering breath-taking glimpses of the ocean.
This afternoon continue your drive on to Ras Al Jinz and check in to your hotel. At night you will be guided down to the beach of Ras Al Jinz for an unforgettable evening. See giant sea turtles make their way slowly up the beach to within meters of where they were hatched, up to 50 years before, to continue the legacy they have inherited. The beach is one of the largest turtle reserves in the world.
Day 2: Ras Al Jinz – Wahiba Sands – Nizwa (B)
After breakfast drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, a series of small pretty villages embedded in the mountains. The Wadi has clear deep blue water. It is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
Later, continue to the Wahiba Sands - a vast, undulating red and white sea of sand dunes rising up to 200 meters which are also host to a surprising variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer’s delight. Experience a roller coaster like feeling as our experienced drivers take you over the dunes.
Later, follow the Al Hajjar mountain range and drive to Hamra near Nizwa before arriving at your hotel.
Day 3: Oman’s Grand Canyon – Jabrin – Nizwa – Muscat (B)
Depart for Misfah, a picturesque mountain village with ancient looking stone dwellings still inhabited today. The next stop takes you to Wadi Nakher located in the depth of Oman’s deepest canyon. While heading for Jebel Shams stop at the terrace farming village of Wadi Ghul. Jebel Shams, the highest peak in the Jebel Akhdar range, offers a spectacular view. Stop at Oman’s highest mountain peak and view Oman’s Grand Canyon which has vertical drop of 1000 metres. Continue to the famous palace of Jabrin, built in the late 17th century, which became a seat of Omani learning. The castle displays the highest achievement in Omani ceiling painting and beautifully executed wood carvings.
Later, visit the Nizwa Round tower Fort, famous for its large collection of traditional silver jewellery and the Nizwa Souk – a bustling marketplace perfect for souvenirs and gifts. Then drive to the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz. Enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations. Before heading back to Muscat late this afternoon to continue with your own arrangements.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- Transportation by private A/C luxury 4WD car with driver
- Accommodation in listed hotels (or similar) with private facilities
- Meals as indicated
- Sightseeing and entrance fee
- Local private English speaking driver/guide
- Oman Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- Oman Visa
- International Airfares
- Personal Expenses
- Porterage
- Tipping/gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Extra hotel charges (minibar or any other services)
- Meals not specified
- Departure taxes (if applicable)
- Port taxes and fuel surcharges (if applicable)
- Local tourism tax (if applicable)
- Early check in/late checkout
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
NOTES:
Turtles are in their natural habitat therefore sightings are not always possible.
Type of vehicle used on your tour
Air conditioned 4WD Toyota Land cruisers or similar