Roundtrip 4 Days 3 Nights
DAY 01 – ARRIVAL INTO THE SULTANATE OF OMAN
Arrival at Muscat International airport, Meet and assist and transfer to your hotel.
Pick-up at 16:00 for an Evening Tour of Muscat.
We begin our tour with a visit the Bait Al-Zubair Museum. It is one of the most informative museums in Oman and focuses mainly on the traditional culture and lifestyle of the people of the Sultanate.
From here we proceed on to see the Sultan’s Palace which is flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts Mirani and Jalali. The forts were built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
From here you will drive to the Cornice which fringes the old Muscat town – better known as Muttrah. The Cornice is near the Al-Sultan Qaboos port and Muttrah Souq. A short stop will allow you to visit the souq and stock up on all the typical Oman souvenirs that are sold in almost every shop! At night all the ships in the harbor are also illuminated, especially His Majesty the Sultan’s personal yacht. On the way back we shall pass through the old city of Muscat. Back to the hotel.
OVERNIGHT AT AL FALAJ HOTEL
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
DAY 02 – GRAND MOSQUE – WAHIBA
0830 hrs:- Drive to visit the Grand Mosque, the most beautiful architectural piece of work. The Mosque was built over a period a period of 6 years from 1996 to 200.1. The main chandelier is made of pure Swarovski crystal and the carpet adorning the large prayer hall was woven by experts, made out of pure Persian silk. The Mosque exterior is constructed with quality Rajasthani Sandstone and the main halls as well as the smaller prayer rooms are adorned with the finest Italian Marble. The Mosque is surrounded by 5 minarets, each of which symbolizes the holy five vows taken by every devout Muslim to reinforce his faith in the Almighty. Definitely a “must see” !
(Remarks – Dress code to Grand Mosque – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers)
From here we proceed to the Sharqiyah area, visit villages like Ibra, which is famous for the ladies market. We will head to the mountains looking for that long lost “Shangri-La”, Wadi Bani Khalid.
Here we will find an oasis of clear running waters and verdant plant life, a veritable heaven on earth. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon proceed to the Golden undulating sand of the Wahiba. Check-in at a Desert Camp. Indulge in dune bashing and witness the sunset on top of the dune. Dinner at the Camp.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT AT DESERT NIGHTS CAMP
Wahiba Sands
DAY 03 –WAHIBA –SUR- MUSCAT
Wake up to the desert sunrise with breakfast at the camp.
Camel ride at the camp available from 0800hrs – 1000hrs for all guests freely.
From here we drive to the old east African part Sur. Upon reaching Sur, pass through a typical Omani village “Ayjah Village” and explore the many charms for all onlookers. Sur also features many fine old homes with carved doors and arabesque windows.
We will visit the traditional wooden Omani Dhows factory, where you may have the opportunity to witness the craftsman at work. Check-In at the hotel.
Leave Sur and travel along the scenic coastal road.
Pass though “Qalhat” where you will find the Tomb of Bibi Miriam (currently under restoration), the only building left standing after the town was razed by the Portuguese in 1503.
Reach Wadi Shab, meaning “Gorge between the cliffs”. Begin the one hour hike through one of Oman’s scenic wadis. The path winds its way through caves, plantations, cliff and deep pools with scenery changing at every step. At the end of Wadi Shab there is a swim through the famous keyhole into the secluded world of thrilling fantasy. Picnic Lunch and relax a while.
From here visit “Bimah sinkhole”, a geological formation of the karst topography and a scenic wonder before we make our way back to Muscat.
Kindly note that the wadi is strewn with rocks and pebbles which makes walking difficult. Advisable to wear sturdy walking shoes
OVERNIGHT AT AL FALAJ HOTEL
Lighthouse in Ayjah / Sur
DAY 04 – DEPARTURE
Breakfast at the hotel. The day will be at leisure for own arrangements and activities.
(Option excursions to Oman Dive Center can be arranged to spend your time at the beautiful cove resort with it beach / water short activities)
1400 hrs:- Checked out and transfer to Muscat International Airport for you onward journey.
OVERNIGHT AT AL FALAJ HOTEL
