Private Tour Highlights
- Shop in Muscat's unique souks to find the best of Omani goods.
- Learn about Muscat's rich culture and history. Explore many historic forts and visit museums.
- See the exciting landscape of wadis, mountains, desert, and canyons.
- Explore the Wahiba Sands and get a glimpse into the Bedouins way of life.
- Enjoy the unique Islamic architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, once the largest mosque in the world.
Tour Overview
See the highlights of Oman in this ten-day trip. Start the trip by visiting the capital city of Muscat, offering a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial center existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbor, Muscat means “Anchorage” and lies in a natural volcanic bowl. In Muscat, take a tour of the Grand Mosque and the Bait Al Zubair Museum to get a brief introduction that traces Oman’s history and development. Visit the Royal Opera House Musca, a towering beacon shedding light on the various trends of the Renaissance march towards growth. Explore the Bateel date store with an impressive variety of date products on display, chocolate dates, date filled biscuits, dates with nuts and dried fruits, bottled sparkling date juice, date balsamic vinegar and a variety of other items available for purchase. Travel to Nizwa, known as the capital of the interior. This area is the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa boasts of the famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and its Souq renowned for its Friday cattle auction, intricately hand-carved “Khanjars” (daggers) and ornamental silver jewelry. Spend a day traveling through the Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sea of sand and dunes rising up to 200 meters. Take in the breathtaking sights of the ever-changing patterns of the dunes. Visit a Bedouin house in this wilderness. Explore the Wadi Bani Khalid, filled with small pretty villages embedded in the mountains. See the Wadi’s beautiful clear blue water. Drive along a quaint fishing village of Quriyat. The drive along the coast offers tantalizing glimpses of the sea. See the Bimah sinkhole, a limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom. Visit the Bahla Fort, which has been declared as a World Heritage site. Explore Jabrin, the finest of Oman’s castles built in the late 17th century became a seat of Omani learning. Admire the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz situated at the foothills of Jebel Akhdar, the Green Mountains. Enjoy a walk through its oasis and dense date plantations, an ideal choice for those wanting to experience Oman’s scenic beauty. Travel along the Batinah coast and stop at the Seeb Fish Souq by the seaside. Wind through the mountains with small pools of water dotting the Wadi bed. Travel the winding road that leads to Jebel Akhdar, the green jewel of the Al Hajjar mountain ranges, a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains. Al Jebel Al Akhdar is famed for its fruit orchards typically laid out terrace style along the slopes of mountains which are endowed with natural springs and aflaj. The village rose of Al Ain dot the landscape. The roses of Jabal Al Akhdar fill the air with fragrance when in full bloom. See the rose water be distilled in the homes of the villagers. Stop at the bustling Muttrah souq, the colorful souq dates at least a century back. Explore the city of Salalah. Visit the Biblical “Nabi Ayoub” Prophet Job’s Tomb, perched high up in the “Jebels” (mountains). En route are spectacular views of the plains, mountain landscape and emerald green pastureland. Proceed to Mughsail Beach where “Blow-holes” – (perforations in the limestone rock) through which sea water gushes during high tide. Experience the Hairpin Bend Roads, the views are breathtaking due to heights involved. At the nearby bird sanctuary, one may see seasonal birds. Enjoy the view of the stark shape of leafless Frankincense Trees that dot the landscape. Once traded as a commodity more precious than gold, frankincense harvested in Dhofar is rated the best in the world. See the ruins of the fabled city of Ubar, chronicled in classical works as the “Atlantis of the sands” are among a series of exciting archaeologists excavations currently underway along the route.
Inclusions
Exclusions
International airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services and other personal items or services not mentioned.
Package Price: From £$ 5127
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Oman and Explore Muscat
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Upon arrival into Muscat, be met by a local Yampu representative who will transfer the traveler to the hotel.
Visit the Royal Opera House Muscat, a towering beacon shedding light on the various trends of the Renaissance march towards growth. Proceed to Shatti Al Qurum and visit the Omani Heritage Gallery which is a unique outlet through which native artisans can market their goods. A variety of distinctive Omani crafts are available, including Bedouin rugs made with natural dyes, terracotta pottery, basketry, copper pots, silver jewelry, and frankincense from the Dhofari region of Oman. Visit the Bateel date store with an impressive variety of date products on display, chocolate dates, date filled biscuits, dates with nuts and dried fruits, bottled sparkling date juice, date balsamic vinegar and a variety of other items available for purchase. Visit Bait Al Adam Museum and witness the unique collection of currency, paintings, photographs, guns etc. Explore the venue with the owner of the museum and enjoy a coffee with the curator. On the outskirts of Muscat, visit the House of Amouage. At night, go to the Muttrah. Drive along the waterfront corniche and take the first stop at the bustling Muttrah souq. The colorful souq will take you at least a century back. After having enjoyed time at the Souq, have a short walk along the corniche with lots and lots photo opportunities. The "Frankincense burner" is a delight to watch in the night with its full illumination. Proceed for a photo stop to the magnificent Al Alam Palace, official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts Mirani & Jalali. Head towards Kargeen restaurant for a Delicious Middle Eastern dinner. Don't forget to try the Lemon Mint, which is the highlight of their menu. (No alcohol served) After dinner, transfer back to the hotel at around 2130 Hrs.
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Jebel Akhdar
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Depart Muscat and travel to Nizwa, capital of the interior, is the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa boasts of the famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and its Souq renowned for its Friday cattle auction, intricately hand-carved "Khanjars" (daggers) & ornamental silver jewelry. Drive to the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz. Enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations. Proceed to Wadi Al Madeen where there is a check post. From here a 36 km stretch of winding road takes one to Jebel Akhdar (2000 mts above sea level) the green jewel of the Al Hajjar mountain ranges, a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains. Al Jebel Al Akhdar is famed for its fruit orchards typically laid out terrace style along the slopes of mountains, which are endowed with natural springs and aflaj. The villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) visit to village rose & Al Ain dot the landscape. The villages overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks, gorges and wadis. The roses of Jabal Al Akhdar fill the air with fragrance when in full bloom (March / April). Rose water is distilled in the homes of the villagers. Lunch at the Sahab hotel in Jebel Akhdar. After, return to the hotel in Muscat.
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Oman's Grand Canyon
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Drive to the foothills of the Jebel Akhdar mountain range. The first stop is at the Nizwa Souq famed for its Antiques and silver jewelry. A brief photo stop at the Round Tower Fort before proceeding ahead. The next stop takes us to Wadi Nakher located in the depth of the deepest canyon. Visit Misfah a pretty mountain village with stone dwellings still in existence. While heading for Jebel Shams stop at the terrace farming village of Wadi Ghul. In the Jebel Akhdar range Jebel Shams the highest peak offers a spectacular view. (It is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing and walking shoes). After, return to the hotel in Muscat. ...read less
Fascinating Forts
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En route to Jabrin, visit the Bahla Fort which has been declared as a World Heritage site. Jabrin, the finest of Oman's castles built in the late 17th century, became a seat of Omani learning. The castle displays the highest achievement in Omani ceiling painting & beautifully executed woodcarvings. En route to Muscat visit the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz situated at the foothills of Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountains). Enjoy a walk through its oasis and dense date plantations. Jabrin Castle and Bahla Fort. After, return to the hotel in Muscat. ...read less
Wahiba Sands
The Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sea of sand and dunes rising up to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer's delight. Visit a Bedouin house in this wilderness. In stark contrast to this is Wadi Bani Khalid. It comprises of small pretty villages embedded in the mountains. The Wadi has clear deep blue water. After, return to the hotel in Muscat.
The Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sea of sand and dunes rising up to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer's delight. Visit a Bedouin house in this wilderness. In stark contrast to this is Wadi Bani Khalid. It comprises of small pretty villages embedded in the mountains. The Wadi has clear deep blue water. After, return to the hotel in Muscat.
Wadi Arbayeen
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This tour provides many interesting contrasts. Proceed towards the fishing town of Quriyat through the stark mountain terrain. Drive through the fishing village of Quriyat along the picturesque waterfront. There is a good chance of spotting Flamingos and Eagles at an inland stream. From here proceed towards the coast and visit the spectacular Bimah sinkhole which is a limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom. Then start on an adventurous route cutting through the mountains. At the end of the drive, Wadi Arbayeen awaits with its deep pools of water set among the date palms. Enjoy a picnic lunch here. Drive back via Wadi Mazara visiting the Wadi Dayqah Dam. After, return to the hotel in Muscat.
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Transfer to Salalah and tour the Frankincense Trail
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Take a flight from Muscat to Salalah.
Upon arrival in Salalah, visit the Biblical "Nabi Ayoub" Prophet Job's Tomb, perched high up in the "Jebels" (mountains). En route are spectacular views of the plains, mountain landscape and emerald green pastureland. Proceed to Mughsail Beach where "Blow-holes" - (perforations in the limestone rock) through which sea water gushes during high tide. Experience the Hairpin Bend Roads for approximately 15/20 kms, which will take travelers to a wadi. The views are breathtaking due to heights involved. This is the road that goes to the Yemen border. At the nearby bird sanctuary, one may see seasonal birds. En route, the stark shape of leafless Frankincense Trees dot the landscape. Once traded as a commodity more precious than gold, frankincense harvested in Dhofar is rated the best in the world. ...read less
East Salalah
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Visit the fishing village of Taqa, an old town with an interesting castle surrounded by watchtowers and Taqa stone houses. Proceed onward to Khor Rori creek, the site of the ruined city of Samhuram and capital of ancient Arabia's frankincense trade. Excavations have produced evidence of an ancient city with trade links by sea to Far Eastern destinations and with even distant Greece. Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar, was an important town as early as the 9th century for its trade in frankincense, horses and slaves. See some of the old houses famous for its woodcarvings. If lucky see boatloads of fish arriving into the harbor. One of Dhofar's best-known historic sites is Bin Ali's Tomb. The twin domed structure; tomb of Mohamed bin Ali who died in 1135 AD is a fine example of medieval architecture. Return via Ayn Razat, manicured gardens fed by natural underground springs.
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Lost City
Proceed on a full day to UBAR. The ruins of the fabled city of Ubar, chronicled in classical works as the "Atlantis of the sands" are among a series of exciting archaeologists excavations currently underway along the route. In the Rub-Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) area we experience dune driving before returning to the hotel.
Proceed on a full day to UBAR. The ruins of the fabled city of Ubar, chronicled in classical works as the "Atlantis of the sands" are among a series of exciting archaeologists excavations currently underway along the route. In the Rub-Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) area we experience dune driving before returning to the hotel.
Depart Oman
At the appropriate time be met at the hotel to transfer back to the Salalah airport for departing flight.
At the appropriate time be met at the hotel to transfer back to the Salalah airport for departing flight.
Muscat, Muscat Governorate, Oman
Jebel Akhdar, Al Batinah South Governorate, Oman
Nizwa, Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate, Oman
Jebel Shams, Jabal Shams, Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate, Oman
Wahiba Sands
Quriyat, Muscat Governorate, Oman
Wadi Arbeieen, Quriyat, Muscat Governorate, Oman
Salalah, Dhofar Governorate, Oman
Mughsail Beach, Mughsayl, Oman
Dhofar Governorate, Oman
Taqah, Dhofar Governorate, Oman
Mirbat, Dhofar Governorate, Oman
Rub al-Khali, Oman
Places You'll See
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Muscat
Muscat is the capital and largest city of Oman. The city of Muscat is the combination of three smaller towns that have blended together over time. There are three distinct sections of the city because of this. What used to be the smaller town of Muscat, referred to as “the walled city”, was home to the royal palaces. Matrah was a fishing village. Ruwi was and still is the commercial and diplomatic center of the city.
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Salalah
Salalah, sometimes referred to as the “second city of Oman”, is located in the southern part of Oman. Salalah belongs to the region of Dhofar, best known for its frankincense trade. There are also many mountain tribes in the area. The old part of the city Haffa, is famous for its souqs.
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Hotel Options
4 Star Properties
Muscat : Park Inn by Radisson Muscat
Park Inn by Radisson Muscat
Muscat , OMAN
You’ll be pleasantly surprised at this hotel’s central location in Muscat near shopping areas, ministries, embassies and historic buildings. Take a break from sightseeing or your busy meeting schedule and stroll Al Ghubra Beach or the gardens at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. After a full day, stay in for the evening and enjoy this Oman hotel’s many amenities, including the rooftop swimming pool, fitness center and selection of restaurants and bars. Organize smart meetings and other special events in our 5 flexible, modern venues.
Crowne Plaza Muscat
Muscat , OMAN
Check into an elegant seaside hotel in Oman’s thriving capital with a private beach and easy access to local businesses. The dazzling Crowne Plaza® Muscat hotel looks out across the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman from a lush clifftop in fashionable Qurum Heights. With a panoramic terrace, pool and private beach, the hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Muscat International Airport and steps from Qurum Beach with its cafe-lined promenade. Oman’s main business and ministerial districts are 10 minutes away. Families and couples can sunbathe on the private beach and swim in a pool set in leafy gardens alive with bougainvillea and date palms. After exploring ancient Muttrah Souq and Corniche, you can savor a cool drink in our English-style Dukes Bar as the sun dips into the Gulf. For dinner, how about Italian, Persian, or lavish buffets on the terrace of Tropicana with stunning sea views? Business travelers enjoy the hotel’s relaxed vibe and convenient services such as complimentary Wi-Fi and parking, 24-hour room service and a Concierge who can pre-arrange taxi fares. After work, you can re-energize in the Cliff Club Fitness Center, challenge colleagues to a game of tennis or squash and de-stress in the sauna or steam room with our compliments. With 200 stylish rooms and a convenient, prestigious location in Oman, you’ll find Crowne Plaza Muscat an ideal hotel for productive business and enjoyable leisure time.
Salalah : Millennium Resort Salalah
Millennium Resort Salalah
Salalah , OMAN
Millennium Resort Salalah is a new, yet already the award-winning 5-star resort situated North of Salalah in the area of Al Saada, just a few kilometers from the beach, the mountains and only 15 minutes by car from Salalah Airport. This exclusive resort is catering to both leisure and business travelers reputed for its refinement, considerate service and attention to details.
Enjoy the comfort of our 285 elegantly appointed rooms, apartments, chalets, and villas – all offering incredible views overlooking the city, mountain and even the sea. The recreation facilities include a gym, lazy river, kids’ playground area, and spa. Designed with the utmost care to ensure privacy and tranquillity for every guest, the spa complex features multiple treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and a beauty salon for women make the Millennium Resort Salalah the best place where to stay during your next holidays in Oman.
The abundant city of Salalah is widely known as Arabia’s perfume capital and the second-largest city in Oman. Famous for its history, culture and natural beauty, you can experience all of the exciting things to do here, including visiting the beautiful beaches and coastline, and exploring the natural attractions of the nearby mountains with abundant frankincense trees lining mountain wadis. Millennium Resort Salalah places you within easy reach of popular local attractions including Old Luban Souq, Ain Razat, Al-Mughsail Beach, Sumhuram and Khor Rori, Mirbat Village, Lost City of Ubar, Al-Balid Archaeological Park, Al Haffa Old Souk, Empty Quarter Camping, Job’s Tomb, Museum Salalah, and Wadi Derbat.
5 Star Properties
Sheraton Oman
Muscat , OMAN
Built in 1985 and completely renovated in 2016, the Sheraton Oman Hotel is a landmark in the city of Muscat and has been a synonym for 5-star hospitality for over 3 decades. Located on top of Ruwi, the financial and business district of Muscat, the hotel is the tallest building in the city and has long been part of the social fabric of the local community.
Muscat : The Grand Hyatt Muscat
The Grand Hyatt Muscat
Muscat , OMAN
Travel to Oman where “Beauty has an Address” and stay in one of Muscat’s hotels. Grand Hyatt is a 5 star hotel in Muscat situated on a pristine stretch of beach in the capital of the Sultanate of Oman and is a striking illustration of Arabian architecture. Sited in the heart of the Embassy and Ministry district of the city in Shatti Al Qurm, majestic surroundings and traditional Omani hospitality combine for a truly unforgettable stay. The white, sandy stretch of Shatti Al Qurum beach is situated directly outside Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel. This public beach on the Gulf of Oman is lined with palm trees and has jogging paths, walkways and picnic areas located beside it. Grand Hyatt Muscat is perfect for both business and leisure pursuits. For a weekend in Muscat or if you’re staying longer, it is one of the largest and most opulent luxury hotels Muscat has to offer, with 280 stylishly appointed hotel rooms & suites, with a remarkable Arabian style interior design. The property has outstanding recreational facilities and numerous meeting and event spaces for up to 1000 people, which cater to a wide range of events and business requirements. Our luxury hotel in Oman offers wedding packages and special offers according to the needs of our guests and the season. Guests have the option to choose from a variety of award-winning restaurants, bars and lounges including Tuscany, Grand Hyatt Muscat’s signature Italian restaurant, and the Safari Rooftop Grill House. Taking advantage of our fitness center Club Olympus, guests can enjoy healthy and relaxing moments in the temperature controlled swimming pool, the whirlpool bath or playing tennis in one of our courts. Visitors can enjoy numerous activities nearby at our luxury hotel in Muscat. These include Golf, visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Mutrah Souq, Muscat Old Town, the Mutrah Corniche, the National Museum, or the Bait Zubair Museum which are all located in the surrounding area of this five-star hotel. Our hotel also guarantees all the luxury guest services to its visitors, such as airport transfer, parking for more than 300 cars and Internet access and business services.
Salalah : Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
Salalah , OMAN
Recline on our well-lit beach and by the pool with sumptuous cuisine at the relaxing Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. Receive a warm welcome from friendly Omani staff as you cross 42 acres of lush, landscaped gardens and enter into the gleaming Lobby of Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. We’ll show you to your room or Suite, or point you towards our 3 interconnecting pools, tennis and squash courts or par-3 garden golf course. A courtesy shuttle bus whisks you from Salalah International Airport to Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah in 25 minutes. We combine a resort getaway with easy access to the center of Salalah, just 10 minutes’ drive away. Lush hotel gardens lead to the gentle turquoise waters, lapping against the beach. Locals are drawn to our night-time attractions, from sumptuous themed buffets with Arabic Music on the white sand at Dolphin Beach Restaurant and disco nights at Al-Luban nightclub on weekends. Al-Khareef Pub, with its rich wood and stained glass, is a homely space serving draught beers. Dine al fresco on the Arabic-style terrace of Darbat restaurant or sip cocktails at the Pool Bar. You can sit back and relax at Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah. From our dedicated children’s entertainment team to the Crowne Meetings Director who’ll help organize banquets and conferences, we’ll take care of all the details.
Luxury Properties
Muscat : Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah-Al Husn
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah-Al Husn
Muscat , OMAN
The 180 rooms and suites Al Husn offers Shangri-La’s highest level of service, amenities and privileges to the most discerning of travelers. These are amongst the largest and most luxurious in Oman, with an inviting decor inspired by royal Arabian palaces and accented by authentic Omani artworks. Guests can enjoy access to the private a 100-metre beach, as well as enjoy complimentary mini-bar, daily complimentary afternoon tea and pre-dinner cocktails and canapes service. Whilst there are no children’s facilities in Al Husn, children can enjoy facilities such as the Lazy River, children’s pool, play room and water aquatic play area in Al Bandar and Al Waha hotels. Children below 16 are not permitted to use the private beach or Al Husn pool.
Muscat : Al Bustan Palace Hotel
Al Bustan Palace Hotel
Muscat , OMAN
Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel is set in exquisite gardens between the dramatic Hajar Mountains and shimmering sea. The hotel’s journey since opening in 1985 is one of stateliness and grandeur, while reflecting Omani culture, and traditions. Tucked away between the rugged Al Hajar mountain range and the Sea of Oman, Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a hidden jewel amongst luxury hotels in Muscat, Oman, a beachfront retreat that welcomes guests with customs steeped in ancient traditions and contemporary comfort. From each of our luxury Muscat hotel’s 250 guest rooms and suites’ private balconies, guests can gaze upon magnificent mountain, sea or garden views. They can relax on the pristine stretch of private beach or dine on its sandy carpet under the stars, in one of our Muscat hotel’s three distinctive restaurants. Perfect for couples, business guests and families alike, Al Bustan Palace provides all the ingredients that will stir memories for a lifetime.
Salalah : Al Baleed Resort Salalah
Al Baleed Resort Salalah
Salalah , OMAN
Between a beach and freshwater lagoon, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers refreshing luxury, and also a gateway to Oman’s cultural treasures. Experience a beachfront oasis that is the first luxury villa resort of its kind in Salalah, along the south coast of Dhofar. Admire how history, culture, and nature unite in striking elegance to honor the destination. Middle Eastern design reflects Dhofar’s rich heritage and is inspired by the region’s iconic coastal fortresses. Intricate, artistic details complement the princely comforts, unparalleled amongst Salalah hotels. Walkways are surrounded by towering palms, magnificent trees, tropical gardens and lush water features, creating tranquil journeys to new discoveries. Relax at the exotic infinity pool, or soak up the sea view from our private shore. Ancient spa rituals performed by highly skilled therapists await you in Salalah’s first hammam. Children’s and teens’ clubs engage younger guests with their own pool, creative activities and local adventures. Culinary experiences immerse you in the Middle East’s exquisite tastes and take curious diners on scintillating journeys. Sip refreshments and savor marinated barbecue dishes at the Mediterranean beach bar. Gourmet world flavors are yours to enjoy all day. For dinner, let us tempt you with Asian specialties from countries that border the Mekong River. Just a stroll away, the Al Baleed Archaeological Park invites you to step back in time – explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site of citadel and grand mosque ruins, and arouse your senses in the Museum of Frankincense.
