Explore Oman

Ahlan wa sahlan! Welcome to Jordan. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel in Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Oman and the beautiful coastal capital of Muscat. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm today, where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers.
If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the city’s relaxed seaside atmosphere. You might visit the elegant Royal Opera House Muscat, known for its stunning contemporary Omani architecture, or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the beach beside the sparkling Gulf of Oman.
This evening, perhaps join your group for dinner at a local restaurant and sample traditional Omani cuisine, including slow-cooked shuwa, fresh salads and warm local breads.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Today, begin exploring the highlights of Muscat with a visit to the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. As the largest mosque in Oman, it can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers and is home to one of the world’s largest handwoven carpets, crafted over four years by skilled Iranian artisans.

Continue to the historic heart of Muscat, where the impressive 16th-century Portuguese forts of Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort overlook the harbour and guard the city’s coastline. Then head to the lively fishing port of Muttrah, filled with traditional wooden dhows and colourful fishing boats. Wander through the bustling souq, where you can browse local perfumes, spices, silver and handmade souvenirs.
Later, visit the Sidab Women's Group and discover how the organisation supports and empowers local women through sustainable handicrafts and reusable bag production. After learning about their inspiring work, enjoy a delicious homemade meal prepared by your hosts, featuring local salads, sambusas and traditional stews.

Your afternoon is free for further exploration or relaxation. If you wish, you can join an optional sunset cruise for spectacular views of Muscat’s dramatic rocky coastline from the sea.

• Today’s total driving time will be approximately 1.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities to explore the cultural highlights of Muscat along the way.
• Visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque requires adherence to a strict dress code. Women must fully cover their arms, legs and hair, leaving only the face and hands visible. Thin or see-through fabrics are not permitted. Men are also required to wear clothing that fully covers the arms and legs. Suitable outfits can be rented at the mosque entrance if necessary.
• If your travel group has fewer than six participants, you’ll still visit the Sidab Women's Group to learn about their inspiring work supporting local women. However, in this case, lunch will be enjoyed at a nearby restaurant rather than at the organisation itself.

Today, travel through the dramatic natural landscapes of Oman to Hawiyat Najm Park, home to the stunning Bimmah Sinkhole. Formed by limestone erosion, this spectacular natural pool is famous for its vivid turquoise waters and makes the perfect place to relax and cool off during the journey.

Continue to Wadi Tiwi, often called the “wadi of nine villages,” where traditional communities are connected by lush date plantations and ancient falaj irrigation channels. Learn about the cultural importance of dates in Omani life, discover how they are grown and harvested and enjoy a walk through the peaceful village surroundings.

Later, continue south to Ras al Hadd and settle into your beachside resort. Spend the evening relaxing by the coast and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of this scenic seaside destination.

Today’s total drive time is approximately 4 hours. With several stops along the way, you'll arrive Ras al Hadd by mid afternoon though.
It's possible to book an excursion with the resort to visit the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, however, we advise against it due to concerns of animal welfare in regards to how the visit is organized at the reserve.

After breakfast, travel to Sur, a historic coastal city famous for its rich maritime heritage and traditional dhow-building industry. Visit a local dhow workshop where skilled craftsmen continue this centuries-old tradition, and learn from a local builder about the construction process, materials and cultural importance of these iconic wooden vessels that once dominated trade routes across the region.

Continue through the spectacular Eastern Hajar Mountains, passing remote villages perched among rugged mountain landscapes. Arrive at the tranquil oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can relax and cool off with a swim in the clear waters surrounded by palm trees and dramatic cliffs.

Later, journey into the golden dunes of Wahiba Sands, where endless rolling sand dunes rise up to 150 metres high. Climb a dune for an unforgettable desert sunset before returning to camp for dinner beneath the stars. Spend the evening enjoying traditional music, tea and the warm hospitality of the desert atmosphere.

• Today’s total driving time will be approximately 5 hours. With sightseeing stops along the way, you can expect to arrive at your desert camp in Wahiba Sands during the late afternoon.
• In accordance with local customs and Ministry of Tourism guidelines in Oman, women wishing to swim in Wadi Bani Khalid should wear modest swimwear such as shorts and a T-shirt covering the shoulders, chest and knees.
• Your desert accommodation consists of private standalone rooms designed with the comforts of a hotel, including ensuite bathrooms, electricity and climate control. Wi-Fi and phone reception are generally strongest near the reception area of the camp.
• Optional desert activities may also be available during your stay, depending on occupancy levels and seasonal conditions. Please speak with your leader on arrival for the latest information and availability.

Early risers this morning can climb the dunes of Wahiba Sands to watch the desert transform in colour as the sun rises across the landscape. Alternatively, enjoy a slower start to the day before travelling deeper into the dunes to visit a local Bedouin family.

Named after the Wahiba tribe, this desert region has been home to generations of Bedouin communities who continue to preserve their traditions and way of life. Share coffee, fresh dates and conversation with your welcoming hosts while gaining insight into life in the desert.
Later, leave the sands behind and continue towards Nizwa, stopping along the way at the impressive Jabreen Castle. Built in 1675, this beautifully preserved fortress was once the residence of Imam Bil-

Arab Bin Sultan and is considered one of Oman’s most elegant castles. Explore its richly decorated rooms, hidden passageways and panoramic viewpoints as a local guide reveals the stories behind its architecture and history.
Arrive in Nizwa later in the day and settle into a traditional heritage property in the heart of the old town. This evening is free for you to wander through the historic streets, browse the local markets or relax at a rooftop café overlooking the city.

Today’s total drive time is approximately 4.5 hours.
Special note about departure ESLO260328, starting 28Mar, 2026: You won't be able to stay in the heritage property on this departure due to availability issue. You'll stay in a hotel in Nizwa town instead.

It may not be a heritage property but it still has the Omani character and has been well reviewed by our past travellers.

This morning, join your leader for a walk through the winding alleyways of Nizwa, one of Oman’s most historic and atmospheric cities. Explore the bustling souq, where different sections specialise in traditional halwa sweets, spices, ceramics, fresh produce and handcrafted goods. During your free time, you may wish to visit the impressive Nizwa Fort, renowned for its enormous circular tower designed to withstand the force of 24 cannons.

Leaving Nizwa behind, continue to the mountain village of Misfat Al Abriyeen, perched 1000 metres above sea level and recognised by the UNWTO for preserving traditional Omani culture and sustainable village life. Stroll through ancient stone pathways lined with date palms and discover the centuries-old irrigation systems that still support local agriculture today. Visit a local beekeeper to learn about honey production in the region and enjoy tasting several varieties of fresh local honey.

Later, sit down with your hosts for a traditional homemade Omani feast featuring dishes such as qabuli spiced rice, hummus, fresh Omani bread with honey, local coffee, tea and dates – a true taste of Oman’s famous hospitality.
In the afternoon, continue higher into the mountains towards Jebel Shams, known as the “Mountain of the Sun.” After checking into your hotel, head out to admire the dramatic canyon landscapes and, weather permitting, witness a spectacular sunset over Oman’s Grand Canyon.

Today’s total drive time is approximately 2 hours.

This morning, you have the opportunity to join an early hike along the famous Balcony Walk at Jebel Shams. Following the edge of Oman’s dramatic Grand Canyon, the trail rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views across rugged cliffs and deep valleys.

After breakfast, continue on a scenic drive towards Wadi Bani Awf, also known as Snake Gorge, located at the far end of the canyon. Along the way, stop in the remote mountain village of Bilad Sayt, a beautiful oasis surrounded by palm trees and traditional stone houses tucked deep within the mountains. Enjoy a walk through the village and experience one of Oman’s most picturesque rural landscapes.

Later, descend from the mountains and return to Muscat, arriving in the late afternoon. Your final evening is free to relax or perhaps gather with your group for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of your Omani adventure.

• Today’s journey includes approximately 7 hours of travel time, including around 3 hours of off-road driving through the rugged mountain landscapes of Oman.
• This morning’s optional hike along the canyon at Jebel Shams lasts around one hour and follows a rocky trail descending to a scenic viewpoint before returning the same way. As the route is exposed to the sun, it’s important to bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Travellers who prefer not to hike are welcome to relax at the hotel instead.
• The scenic mountain drive covers approximately 36 km (22 mi) on winding gravel roads with numerous twists and turns. If you are prone to motion sickness, taking preventative medication before departure is recommended. Road access is dependent on weather conditions, and in the event of rain, an alternative route may be used for safety reasons.

After breakfast, you are free to leave at any time, as there are no activities planned today. If you would like to spend some more time in Muscat, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).