Oman Dhows, Mountains & Salalah

£5,999.00

This 18-day itinerary takes you from the fjords of Musandam on a traditional dhow to the cultural heart of Muscat, then inland to Oman’s forts, villages and high mountain scenery before a night in the desert and a coastal stretch with turtle watching. The final chapter is Salalah and Dhofar, where beaches, frankincense history and greener landscapes give the trip a completely different feel.

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Day 1: Dubai – Khasab (Musandam)

Cross the border into Oman and follow the coastal road into the Musandam Peninsula. On arrival in Khasab, settle into your hotel and enjoy your first views of the steep cliffs and calm waters that define this remote corner of the country.

Day 2: Musandam Fjords Dhow Cruise and Jebel Harim 4×4 Tour

Spend the morning cruising through the fjords by traditional dhow, with time for swimming, snorkelling and the chance to spot dolphins. In the afternoon, head inland by 4×4 to Jebel Harim, stopping at viewpoints and small mountain settlements before returning to Khasab.

Day 3: Khasab – Fly to Muscat

Transfer to Khasab Airport for your short flight to Muscat. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to relax or enjoy the marina area nearby.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Daymaniyat Islands

Head out by boat to the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve known for clear water, coral reefs and abundant marine life. Spend time snorkelling and relaxing on board before returning to Muscat for a free afternoon.

Day 5: Muscat City Tour

Explore Muscat’s key landmarks, including the Grand Mosque, museums and the old town area with its forts and waterfront. Finish the day browsing Muttrah Souq and strolling along the corniche, taking in the city’s relaxed coastal feel.

Day 6: Muscat – Sur – Ras al Jinz

Travel along the coast, stopping to explore Sur and its dhow-building heritage. Continue south to Ras al Jinz, where you join an evening excursion to the beach for the chance to see nesting turtles (subject to natural conditions).

Day 7: Ras al Jinz – Wadi Bani Khalid – Wahiba Sands

After breakfast, head inland to Wadi Bani Khalid for time to swim or relax beside its clear pools. Later, continue into the Wahiba Sands, arriving at your desert camp in time to enjoy the changing light over the dunes.

Day 8: Wahiba Sands

Spend a full day exploring the desert interior, with time to venture deeper into the dunes and gain insight into Bedouin life. The pace is unhurried, allowing you to enjoy the vastness and stillness of the landscape.

Day 9: Wahiba Sands – Sinaw Market – Manah – Nizwa

Leave the desert behind and travel towards Nizwa, stopping at Sinaw Market if timing allows. Continue via cultural stops in Manah before arriving in Nizwa, one of Oman’s most historic inland towns.

Day 10: Nizwa – Al Hamra – Misfah – Jebel Shams Area

Visit Nizwa Fort and souq before heading into the mountains. Pass through Al Hamra and Misfah, then continue to the Jebel Shams area for dramatic canyon views and time to appreciate the highland scenery.

Day 11: Bahla – Jabrin – Jebel Akhdar

Explore Bahla Fort and Jabrin Castle, then ascend to the cooler heights of Jebel Akhdar. Along the way, stop at Birkat Al Mauz to walk through its date plantations and falaj irrigation system.

Day 12: Jebel Akhdar

Spend the day exploring Jebel Akhdar’s villages, terraces and viewpoints. Depending on the season, learn about rose water production and enjoy gentle walks through the highland settlements.

Day 13: Jebel Akhdar – Bilad Sayt – Wadi Bani Auf – Wakan

Travel one of Oman’s most scenic mountain routes, passing through the striking village of Bilad Sayt and the rugged landscapes of Wadi Bani Auf. Continue to Wakan for an overnight stay in a traditional mountain setting.

Day 14: Fly to Salalah

Transfer to the airport for your flight south to Salalah. On arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the coast.

Day 15: Salalah and West Dhofar

Discover Salalah and the surrounding west Dhofar region, including coastal viewpoints, beaches and sites linked to the frankincense trade. The day balances cultural visits with time to enjoy the scenery.

Day 16: Sumhuram, Mirbat and Jabal Samhan

Explore the historic port of Sumhuram and the coastal town of Mirbat before heading inland to Jabal Samhan for sweeping views over cliffs and valleys, revealing a greener side of southern Oman.

Day 17: Salalah at Leisure

A full day free to relax at your hotel or explore Salalah independently, enjoying the slower pace and coastal atmosphere.

Day 18: Departure

Transfer to Salalah Airport for your onward flight, bringing the journey to a close.

Price includes:

  • Accommodation in specified hotels
  • Daily breakfast (B)
  • Lunch on specified days (L)
  • Dinner on specified days (D)
  • Transfers and transportation as per itinerary
  • Guided tours and excursions
  • Snorkeling equipment and refreshments on dhow cruise
  • Entrance fees to specified sites

Price excludes:

  • International flights
  • Oman visa fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Optional activities

Highlights

  • Dhow cruise in Musandam’s fjords with dolphin spotting and snorkelling
  • Night-time turtle watching at Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve
  • Two nights in the Wahiba Sands desert at Arabian Nights Resort and Spa
  • Jebel Akhdar’s terrace villages and mountain scenery, with a stay at The Suwgara heritage inn
  • Salalah and Dhofar highlights, including frankincense sites, coastal scenery, and Jabal Samhan views

Oman Information

  • Capital City: Muscat
  • Time Difference: GMT +4
  • Language: Arabic and English
  • Fly with: BA, Oman Air
  • Flight time: 7 hours
  • Best time to go: October to April
  • Currency: Omani Rials
  • Visa required: Yes on arrival
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