Journey with us on A Mystical Odyssey in Bhutan (12 - 18 March '23).
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The land of pomegranates, desert dreams, and warm waters that seem impossibly blue. A journey through Oman takes you on hidden tracks that connect centuries past with the perfumed present. This 7D6N itinerary showcases Oman in all her finery. From camel backs to dhow boughs, the bejewelled beauty of Muscat’s Grand Mosque to off-road adventures in the Hajar Mountains, you can sail across sands and seas while unravelling ancient traditions, swim in turquoise sink holes, and push through caves that contain stories untold. Oman is a rare pearl, a place where soft moods meet striking landscapes and the senses drink it all in.
This journey outline is by no means fixed. As the traveller takes centre stage in our planning – from the type of lodging to daily activities – your journey will be crafted to suit you.
Marhaba! Welcome to Muscat!
Upon arrival at Muscat airport, you will be met by our Primeclass Lounge colleagues, who will take care of your immigration entry procedures while you recover from your flight. Your personal chauffeur will bring you to the Kempinski Hotel, where you will spend the next two nights. The recently opened 5-star hotel is located in the modern district of Al Mouj, directly on the beach and its mixture of Omani tradition and European elegance will enchant you.
Our Omani guide will show you around the capital. In addition to the Grand Mosque the fish market the traditional Souk and the old city centre he will also offer a look behind the scenes of the Omani culture and way of life. In the evening, you can stroll around the Souk or board the old Dhow ship for a sunset cruise along the cost before you head back to the Kempinski Hotel for dinner.
The first stop is in Barka, a small coastal town famous for its lively fish market, Halwa dumplings and bullfights. Shortly after, you will reach Nakhl, a picturesque city on the edge of the western Hadjar Mountains. Here you will visit the 350-year-old castle next to the hot springs. Enjoy the adventurous off-road ride through Wadi Bani Awf, one of the country’s most stunning wadis. The path takes you on a 2,000 meter journey, past lush green date palms, deep canyons and breathtaking views. Amidst the rugged mountains, discover Bilad Sayt, one of the small secluded villages that has maintained its traditional charm. In the afternoon you will arrive at the „Green Mountain“ of Oman and the fantastic Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel, situated at an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level. From here you can make wonderful day trips into the spectacularly scenic surroundings.
Today will be the prime day for an adventure through the surrounding mountain region. The Jabal Akhdar region (“Green Mountain“ in English) is one of the most fertile in the country and looks especially lush and green in the winter months. Here on the remarkable terraced fields you will find pomegranates, apricots, almonds, walnuts, grapes growing, as well roses, from which the famous Jabal Akhdar rose water is distilled. In the afternoon we recommend a detour to the former capital, Nizwa. Begin by exploring the traditional souks known for their silverware and pottery. Then climb the fort’s tower, where you will have a wonderful view of the city and the neighboring mountains. After, you will ascend back up the mountain to ensure you catch the stunning sunset from the hotel.
Before you start this day in the desert, you can visit some of the charming villages along the way. It is worthwhile to explore the mountain village of Birkat Al Mauz, where you can find the famous Falaj water channels. You can also make a stop in Mudayrib, a village that offers a special glimpse into authentic local life. It is worth seeing the lively market square with its historic houses. You will then visit Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most alluring and famous wadis in the country. You will have time to refresh yourself in the inviting pristine pools and go for small hikes in the area as well.
Allow yourself to be amazed by a ride through the breathtaking dunes of the Wahiba Sands Desert. The changing color of the sand throughout the day is a particularly magnificent sight. As the afternoon turns to evening the sand becomes a stunning shade close to red while in the morning it appears to be white. In the end of your journey through the dunes, be ready for the next adventure – an impressive sunset camel ride to your private camp for the night. The luxury tents will be set up exclusively for you in the Wahiba Sands desert, approximately 40 kilometers far from the main trail. Enjoy this scene of absolute serenity far away from civilization in a beautiful natural atmosphere!
After breakfast, you leave the desert and continue towards the coast, reaching the port city of Sur. Here you will visit a dhow shipyard after a short city tour. Later, you drive back the panoramic road by the sea towards Muscat. Along the eastern Hadjar Mountains you will reach two of the most beautiful wadis in the country, Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Shab. Another enjoyable location is the Fins Beach. The white sand and blue-green water invite visitors for relaxation and offer spectacular sceneries for pictures. After the wadis, you will make a short stop at the Bimmah Sinkhole, a limestone crater that is fed by underground seawater. In the early evening you arrive in Muscat at the airport. From there, your journey will continue to Salalah.
Take your time with brunch this morning, and perhaps pick up any last minute souvenirs in the Oman airport before being sent to the airport for your international departure.
Let’s plan your perfect escape. To start the conversation, contact us via our interactive form or drop us an email at ask@blueskyescapes.co.
Muscat, Barka, Nakhl, Wadi Bani Awf, Jabal Akhdar, Nizwa, Wahiba Sands Desert, Sur
November (26°C-31°C) to Mid April (25°C-30°C).
From 1200 m to 3,000 m.
Easy to Moderate. No difficult hikes involved.
Pricing upon request.
As we’ll customise your journey based on your preferences and needs, please note that this indicative price is just a rough estimate. Prices can fluctuate depending on season, type of accommodation and activities/experiences chosen (private vs. shared) etc.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
