Northern Oman: Wadis, Mountains & Coasts

Northern Oman: Wadis, Mountains & Coasts

174 Views
9 Days From

$4806

Northern Oman: Wadis, Mountains & Coasts

9 Days Starting and ending in Muscat, Oman

Visiting: Muscat, Sur, Wahiba Sands, Jebel Akhdar, Nizwa, Jebel Shams

Tour operator:

Wild Frontiers

Tour code:

NOM

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

4WD, Hiking, Walking

From: $4806

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Oman, where the stunning landscapes of the Hajar Mountains, vibrant wadis, and the serene coasts await. This cultural tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich traditions. Explore the bustling markets and meet local tradesmen, and immerse yourself in the warmth of a Bedouin family. Discover the enchanting oases and take a refreshing dip in the country's most beautiful wadis. Delve into Oman's seafaring history in the port town of Sur and marvel at the architectural prowess of the 17th-century forts. Experience the magic of Wahiba Sands with an overnight stay in a desert camp. With expert guides and a small group size, this tour promises an intimate and enriching experience, complete with premium and superior accommodations, and all meals included. Join us for an adventure that celebrates the diverse communities and breathtaking landscapes of Oman.

Highlights

  • Discover the spectacular landscapes of the Hajar Mountains and hike through villages and along crater rims.

  • Visit local markets, meet tradesmen, and spend time with a Bedouin family to learn more about the region's different communities.

  • Discover picture-perfect oases and take a dip in some of the country’s most beautiful wadis.

  • Explore the port town of Sur with its old shipyard and learn about Oman’s seafaring traditions.

  • Soak up the ever-changing colours of Wahiba Sands while you spend the night in a magical fixed camp in the heart of the desert.

  • Admire the skills of Oman’s great 17th-century builders with a visit to some of the country’s most impressive forts.

  • Experience the hustle and bustle of Nizwa’s Friday cattle market, the largest in Oman.

  • Embark on a spectacular walk along the rim of the 'Grand Canyon' of Oman at Jebel Shams.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Tour Starts In Muscat

Location: Muscat

Accommodation: Al Faraj or similar

Accommodation Name: Al Faraj or similar

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

The tour starts from Oman’s International airport to coincide with the suggested Group Tour flights. We will head straight to the magnificent mosque of Sultan Qaboos, one of the largest in the Arab world, whose grand marble halls are capable of holding some 20,000 people. After which we will begin our guided tour of the city. One of Arabia’s most picturesque cities, Muscat lies within the protective embrace of a ring of horse-shoe mountains that run down into the glittering waters of Muscat Bay. We will drive along the engaging sea-front to the Al Alam Palace and the 16th century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. We will also have a chance to visit Muscat’s renowned Muttrah souk, one of the best in the region. There will be free time in the afternoon for those that want to explore independently, or time to rest and freshen up.

Day 2: Muscat - Bimmah Sink Hole - Wadi Shab - Sur

Location: Sur

Accommodation: Sur Plaza or similar

Accommodation Name: Sur Plaza or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We set off south along the coast this morning, first visiting Bimmah Sink Hole, a depression filled with crystal clear turquoise water that some locals believe was formed by a meteor. We then head to Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most spectacular wadis, which can be reached via a remote pathway, taking us over boulders and through streams, before reaching this stunning natural swimming pool where we can enjoy a dip. After enjoying lunch at the nearby restaurant, we continue on to the port town of Sur. Once a major port trading mainly with East Africa, this interesting town perfectly exemplifies Oman's seafaring traditions. Here we can enjoy a wander through a labyrinth of streets, home to many fine old houses with carved doors and arabesque windows. Sur is most famous for its Dhow building, and so a visit to the shipyard will hopefully give us a glimpse of some of the craftsmen at work.

Day 3: Sur - Wadi Bani Khalid - Wahiba Sands

Location: Wahiba Sands

Accommodation: Sama Al Wasil Camp or similar

Accommodation Name: Sama Al Wasil Camp or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we leave Sur and drive inland towards the deserts of the Wahiba Sands. En route we visit Wadi Bani Khalid, another of Oman's most beautiful wadis, a picture-perfect oasis with palms trees lying next to crystal-clear water. After a chance to explore on foot or have a swim, we then drive into the vast, open landscapes of the Wahiba Sands, over 10,000 square kilometres of shifting sands and towering dunes that are home to isolated settlements of semi-nomadic Bedouin. En route we stop at the home of a Bedouin family where we can enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch in the company of our welcoming hosts. Driving through an ever-changing landscape of colours and contours, we eventually reach our fixed camp in the heart of the desert.

Day 4: Wahiba Sands - Ibra - Birkat Al Mauz - Jebel Akhdar

Location: Jebel Akhdar

Accommodation: Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar or similar

Accommodation Name: Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The adventure turns west today, towards the Hajar Mountains and the limestone slopes of Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain). Stopping off at the old town of Ibra en route, we have a chance to visit the local women’s market, a colourful display of fabrics, exquisite embroidery, and handicrafts. Continuing on our journey into the mountains, we can soak up the rich natural and cultural diversity of village life in this area, with visits to Al Munisifeh and Birkat Al Mauz. A fascinating insight into local Omani culture, the day is filled with wonderful scenery, captivating villages, ancient labyrinthine water systems and orchards of walnuts, pomegranates and damask roses.

Day 5: Jebel Akhdar - Bahla & Jabrin Forts - Nizwa

Location: Nizwa

Accommodation: Nizwa Heritage Inn or similar

Accommodation Name: Nizwa Heritage Inn or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we enjoy a short walk through the nearby local villages. Beyond being scenically stunning, the area is rich with produce including Damask roses, pomegranates, walnuts, juniper trees, and more. We can learn about the traditional open-air water system known as ‘Falaj’, which winds its way around the villages, filling the area with the sound of running water. Following a brief photo stop to take in the UNESCO World Heritage setting of Bahla Fort, we move on to Jabrin, possibly the finest of Oman's 17th century fortresses, whose exquisite painted wooden ceilings provide an eloquent testimony to the skills of the fort's original builders. We end the day in the town of Nizwa, the historical and heritage capital of Oman.

Day 6: Nizwa - Al Hamra - Jebel Shams

Location: Nizwa

Accommodation: Sama Heights Resort or similar

Accommodation Name: Sama Heights Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we experience the hustle and bustle of Nizwa’s Friday cattle market, the largest in Oman and an exciting way to see local life and learn about Omani culture. The souq is also in full swing on a Friday morning, and we will see many local Omanis and Bedouin communities travelling down from the mountains to sell their goats, bulls and the occasional camel. The livestock market is usually busiest between 7–9am, so expect an early start. From here we then visit the famous round tower fort of Nizwa, built in the 17th century to guard the Sumail Gap during the struggle between the Sultan and the Radical Imams. This fort is one of the best examples of defensive architecture in the country and it’s worth climbing to the top of the tower to get a great view of the city and surrounding date plantations. We continue on to Al Hamra and its incredibly atmospheric old town, where there are mud houses dating back 400 years that are still occupied. Here we visit a heritage house where we can enjoy lunch, before driving on to Jebel Shams via the ‘Grand Canyon’ viewpoint.

Day 7: Jebel Shams - 'Grand Canyon' Walk - Misfat Al Abriyeen

Location: Jebel Shams

Accommodation: The View or similar

Accommodation Name: The View or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

At over 3,000 metres, Jebel Shams (The Mountain of the Sun) is one of the highest points on the eastern Arabian Peninsula. Often called the 'Grand Canyon' of Oman, these mountains stretch in a 700-kilometre arc that is filled with hidden valleys and fertile oases. This morning we will embark on a spectacular walk along the rim of the canyon, enjoying the views out across Wadi Ghul and its fertile expanse of fig, apricot and pomegranate trees. We then continue to Misfat Al Abriyeen, an old mountain village and one of Oman’s prettiest, resplendent with its crumbling buildings and the atmospheric sounds of the open-air, falaj water systems. Here we can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and explore the area before enjoying some downtime at our hotel later in the afternoon, a stunning spot high up on the mountain.

Day 8: Jebel Shams - Bilad Sayt - Wadi Bani Awf - Muscat

Location: Muscat

Accommodation: Al Falaj Hotel or similar

Accommodation Name: Al Falaj Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The drive back to Muscat today takes us through Wadi Bani Awf and Bilad Sayt, an idyllic mountain village with a wealth of picturesque terraces. We spend some time exploring this area with a walk around the village and in the canyon, before enjoying some lunch nearby and driving on to Muscat for our final evening.

Day 9: Tour Ends In Muscat

Location: Muscat

Meals Included: Breakfast

The tour ends after breakfast today. Those on the suggested Group Tour flights will be transferred to the airport.

What's Included

  • MEALS

    8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners are included.

  • TRANSPORT

    The tour includes transportation predominantly in 4WDs, with a minibus used for the tour of Muscat.

  • GROUP SIZE

    The maximum group size for this tour is 12 participants.

  • CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS

    Contributions to climate and community projects are included for all bookings.

  • EXPERT TEAM

    The tour includes the full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate.

  • ACCOMMODATION

    Accommodation includes 3 nights in Premium and 5 nights in Superior accommodations.

  • ENTRANCE FEES

    All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • FITNESS RATING

    The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating.

What's Not Included

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

    Visas are nationality dependent and travel insurance is mandatory but not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are optional and not included, but guidance will be provided in the pre-departure information documents.

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included in the tour cost.

  • Airport Transfers

    Complimentary transfers are included only if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.

  • Beverages & Personal Costs

    Beverages and any costs of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs, are not included.

  • ExcludedItem

    We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.

    As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.



    Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
    ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
    Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
    International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
    Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
    Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

Responsible Travel

With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.

When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats. 

Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.

Visas

VISAS

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa

For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa if staying in Oman for 14 days or less (no extensions).  If you do require a visa you will need to get an e-visa before departure.  E-visas can be applied for through the following website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om/en/home

Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.

Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Oman.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is a requirement for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider. 

For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk

Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.

If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

Key Aspects to Consider

Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour.  This tour has a 'low/moderate' fitness rating as the walking on this tour is not strenuous however there are some walks where paths maybe uneven, narrow or slippery.

If you fancy a tipple whilst on holiday, it can be quite hard to get hold of alcohol outside of the main international hotels and therefore it may be worth picking up a bottle in Duty Free of your preferred drink to have while in the more remote parts.

Travelling Solo and single supplements

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!

Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.

Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.

Insurance

Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.

Travelling Solo

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!

Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.

Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.

Mode of Transport

Travel predominantly in 4WDs for an adventurous journey through Oman, with a minibus used for the tour of Muscat, ensuring comfort and accessibility throughout the trip.

Accommodation

Enjoy 3 nights in premium accommodations and 5 nights in superior accommodations, including stays at Al Faraj, Sur Plaza, Sama Al Wasil Camp, Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar, Nizwa Heritage Inn, Sama Heights Resort, and The View.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour predominantly uses 4WD vehicles, but a minibus may be used for the tour of Muscat.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners.

  • What is the maximum group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size for this tour is 12 people.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    The tour includes 3 nights in premium accommodation and 5 nights in superior accommodation.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour cost?

    Yes, all entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • What is the fitness level required for this tour?

    The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating, with some walks on uneven, narrow, or slippery paths.

  • Will there be opportunities to interact with local communities during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to local markets, a Bedouin family, and various villages, providing opportunities to interact with local communities.

  • Is travel insurance required for this tour?

    Yes, travel insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2002

  • Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?

    In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Emma Wright  

Emma Wright

My amazing adventure in Oman provided access to beautiful off the beaten track locations....

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Monday

Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 10, 2025
$4806

Sunday - Monday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$4806

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

Similar Tours