On the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a country of ancient traditions, Islamic culture, walled cities, abandoned villages, 400-year-old forts that watch over the ever-shifting sands of desert dunes, valleys and limestone mountains.
In the desert, sparkling oasis, winding wadis, striking fjords and rock faces form a cinematic landscape. The sweeping ivory stone of the historic watchtowers and fortresses are set against the dramatic backdrop of intense, endless desert. In Muscat, succumb to temptation in the lively souks and their vibrant textiles, aromatic spices and intricate jewelry. Ascend to Jabal Akhdar, where rugged, sun-scorched mountains cradle natural springs and offer a peaceful retreat.
1 Arrive Muscat, OmanOverlooking the Gulf, the Omani capital’s ancient sites, colonial fortresses, modern high-rise towers and colorful souks are huddled between mountains carved from the earth’s mantle and the Arabian sea. The skyline is pierced by neat rows of date palms and the minarets of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, while some of the best beaches and most elegant resorts in Oman can be found on this glittering coastline.
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2 Muscat | Make Your Day Your OwnUnwind with time at leisure to rest or explore your resort’s facilities.
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3 Muscat | A Bustling SoukReview Muscat’s most iconic landmarks, from the Royal Opera House and the Grand Mosque to the Muttrah souk and the Bait Al Zubair Museum, to tap into Oman’s culture and history through both ancient traditions and contemporary movements.
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4 Jabal Akhdar | Peaks, Wadis And FortsIn Barka, observe the vibrant colors at the Barka souk before touring the nearby fish market for a glimpse into this local trade. Continue along the Batinah plain past picturesque wadis to reach the oasis of Nakhl and the Nakhl fort. A walking tour of Bilad Sayt showcases a quaint Omani village with old-world appeal. Explore its patchwork of terrace farming and traditional houses laid out against the rocky slopes. Pass by Al Hamra, a village characterized by its mud houses and date plantations.
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5 Jabal Al Akhdar | Endless Mountain VistasNearly 10,000 feet above sea level, the Jebel Akhdar Mountains are a chain of craggy, pink-ochre peaks punctuated by green terraces of fruit orchards and date plantations watered by mountain springs. While exploring them, discover traditional, lost-in-time villages of stone and mud houses tucked away here and there, overlooking spectacular peaks, gorges and wadis.
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6 Wahiba Sands | Intersecting The DunesExplore Nizwa and its fort, a converted military stronghold with panoramic views of the ancient town and surrounding mountains. Then, proceed to the undulating red and white dunes of Wahiba Sands, taking note of the pretty villages that cling to the slopes of the rugged mountainside en route. Upon reaching camp, set out to discover the boundless dunes by 4x4 vehicle, continuing into the desert sunset by camel back. Your overnight camp is an exclusive camping experience in the desert.
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7 Wahiba Sands | Desert OasisVisit Wadi Bani Khalid, an oasis of shaded palms and natural pools, with the opportunity to take a dip in the clear, cool waters.
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8 Depart MuscatMeals: