Oman: Mountains, Desert & Monsoon Coast

On arrival at Muscat International Airport you will be met and transfered to your hotel.

Nestled between the Arabian Ocean and the Western Al Hajar Mountains, Muscat, Oman's capital, harmoniously blends ancient charm with modernity. As a vital trading port for centuries, Muscat has embraced significant development while retaining its cultural heritage. Begin the day with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Continue to Old Muscat, where whitewashed buildings frame the ceremonial Al Alam Palace, flanked by historic Portuguese-era forts.

In the afternoon, explore Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in Arabia, followed by a stroll along the corniche as the sun sets over the harbour.(B)

Today is one of the most scenic drives in Oman. Depart Muscat by 4WD and enter the dramatic Wadi Bani Awf, winding through rugged gorges, mountain passes and remote hamlets. Stop at Bilad Sait, a stunning terraced village tucked between peaks, often described as one of Oman’s most beautiful settlements. Descend from the mountains into the Nizwa region by late afternoon. Note: This is a long but unforgettable day, suited to travellers who enjoy adventure and landscapes. (BL)

Spend the morning exploring Nizwa Fort, a powerful symbol of Oman’s history, followed by time in the lively souq known for silver jewellery, pottery and dates. Later, ascend into the cool highlands of Jabal Akhdar, a dramatic mountain plateau rising over 2,000 metres above sea level. Check in and enjoy the crisp air and panoramic canyon views. (BD)

You have a full day to explore Jabal Akhdar’s natural beauty and traditional mountain life. Visit stone villages such as Al Ayn or Wadi Bani Habib, walk along ancient falaj irrigation channels, and learn about seasonal rose and pomegranate cultivation. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy the scenery, or take a short guided walk. (BD)

After breakfast, descend from Jabal Akhdar, continuing the journey, driving through the Nizwa–Manah region to visit the Oman Across Ages Museum, a striking, modern museum that narrates Oman’s journey from ancient civilisations to the present day, offering valuable cultural context for the landscapes you have been travelling through. After the museum visit, continue towards the desert. Enter Wahiba Sands by 4WD, driving across rolling dunes to reach your desert camp. Enjoy the drive to the camp, sunset views over the sands, followed by a traditional dinner and a peaceful night under the stars.(BD)

After breakfast in the desert, depart Wahiba Sands and drive towards the eastern coast of Oman. Your first stop is Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the country’s most scenic wadis, known for its clear pools, date palms and dramatic canyon walls. There is time to walk along the wadi and weather permitting, enjoy a refreshing dip. 

Continue towards the coast to the historic port town of Sur, once a major centre of maritime trade. Visit the traditional dhow yard, where wooden boats are still built using age-old techniques, and enjoy a short stop along the waterfront. In the afternoon, drive north along the coast to Wadi Tiwi, a lush, green canyon nestled between steep cliffs and the Arabian Sea. Settle into your boutique accommodation and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. (BD)

After breakfast, depart Wadi Tiwi and continue north along Oman’s scenic coastal road. Stop at Bimmah Sinkhole, a dramatic natural limestone crater filled with turquoise water, set within a landscaped park. Take time for photographs and a short walk around the sinkhole.

Continue the drive to Muscat, arriving in time for your domestic flight to Salalah. Upon arrival, you will be transfered to your beachfront resort to enjoy a relaxed evening by the Arabian Sea.(B)

After breakfast, set out on a full-day exploration of Salalah and its surroundings, discovering a region unlike anywhere else in Arabia.

East Salalah: Begin with a visit to Al Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a major port on the ancient frankincense trade route. Walk through the ruins overlooking the lagoon and visit the Frankincense Land Museum, which brings to life the history of maritime trade, Omani seafaring, and the prized frankincense resin that made this region famous. Continue through lush coconut and banana plantations — a distinctive feature of Salalah’s monsoon-fed landscape — before stopping at Ayn Razat, a natural spring surrounded by gardens and hills.

West Salalah: After a lunch break (own arrangement), travel west along the coast to Mughsail Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs, sweeping sands, and seasonal blowholes that send seawater shooting high into the air during the Khareef months. Drive through scenic mountain roads offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon. (B)

Spend your day at leisure or enjoying the activities provided by the resort.

Optional Activity: Full-Day 4WD Excursion to Ubar for those seeking adventure, an optional full-day 4WD journey takes you into the Rub al Khali, the vast Empty Quarter desert. Travel through remote desert landscapes to reach Ubar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “Atlantis of the Sands.” Once a legendary trading hub on the Frankincense route, Ubar is now an archaeological site surrounded by endless dunes, offering a powerful sense of isolation and history. The journey itself is as rewarding as the destination, crossing gravel plains, sand seas and dramatic desert horizons. Time is allowed to explore the site and absorb the atmosphere before returning to Salalah by late afternoon.(B)

Today after breakfast, you will be met for your private transfer to Salalah Airport for your onward journey. (B)