Oman today is a modern state with an enviable infrastructure of fine roads, electricity and water, even in remote villages, together with good schools and hospitals. Everywhere is extremely clean and crime and violence are almost unheard of, making Oman a safe holiday destination in the Middle East. The Omanis are warm, welcoming, friendly people who are very proud of their country. Unlike Dubai, there are no skyscrapers in the capital, Muscat, and most new buildings adhere to traditional Arabian designs.
Our holidays combine three very contrasting areas of Oman enabling you to experience the very best of this remarkable and fascinating country.
On arrival in Muscat you will collect your visa at the airport and then be transferred to the Al Bustan Palace Hotel*****, for a 3 nights stay. Lavishly renovated, this hotel with its stunning atrium and exquisite interiors, exudes the richness of Arabian culture, art and history.There are five restaurants and a choice of bars and terraces where you can dine 'al fresco', or enjoy an aperitif or nightcap at the water's edge.
In Muscat we have arranged a half-day city tour to see the GRAND MOSQUE, the SULTAN'S ROYAL AL ALAM OFFICIAL PALACE, flanked on each side by the forts of Jalali and Mirani, and visits to the BAIT AL ZUBAIR MUSEUM and MUTTRAH SOUK. Here you will find gold, silver and spices in the narrow lanes, the air heavy with the smell of frankincense and sandalwood.
Your tour continues with a short internal flight to SALALAH in the Dhofar region of South Oman to spend 5 nights in SALALAH at the Hilton Salalah Hotel *****. The hotel has 147 en suite rooms, restaurants and bars and is set in gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean. This area is affected by the khareef (monsoon) from June to September and is greener than the north with miles of sandy beaches, lagoons and towering mountains. Coconut palms replace the date palms of the north and this area is world famous for its frankincense trees. Excursions whilst in Salalah will include a short city tour, then east to TAQAH and the fishing harbour of MIRBAT with its fascinating old town and fine houses.
There will also be a full day drive west to visit JOB'S TOMB, then along the coastline stopping for lunch by the magnificent MUGHSAYL BEACH and continuing through dramatic mountain scenery towards the YEMEN border, with many photo stops on the way. A half day excursion takes you to the ruins of SUMHURAM, a famous port in the past for the export of frankincense, with views over KHOR ROURI LAGOON where there will be time to explore the beautiful white sand beach and for lunch in a typical Omani restaurant. You will also have an opportunity to visit the glittering gold and Frankincense souks of Salalah.
Your journey will then take you back to MUSCAT by internal flight and then by road to NIZWA and 3 nights at the GOLDEN TULIP NIZWA Hotel***. Set amidst the rugged HAJAR MOUNTAINS. Whilst here, excursions will include a full day to BAHLA, renowned for its pottery and huge fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and to JABRIN CASTLE. There will also be a visit to
the markets, souks and massive fort, followed by a spectacular drive up AL JABAL AL AKHDAR (The Green Mountain), with its beautiful rose gardens and terraced lush countryside.
A spectacular highlight of the tour ias a visit to the highest mountain peak in Oman – JABAL SHAMS (over 3000m) and Oman’s amazing 'GRAND CANYON'.
Your tour returns again to Muscat for a further 5 nights at the splendid Al Bustan Palace Hotel where you can relax and enjoy the opulence of this lovely hotel and its superb facilities.
Back in Muscat there will be a leisurely afternoon cruise (weather permitting) along the coastline in a traditional Dhow, as well as a 4WD excursion to WAHIBA SANDS, home to the Bedouin tribes.
TRANSPORT/GUIDE
Air-conditioned coaster bus with water on board. 4WD vehicles while in Nizwa and for the Wahiba Sands excursion.
An English-speaking guide will be with you on all excursions throughout your holiday.
