Deserts, Mountains and Beaches of Oman

The Tulip is located a short taxi ride from the corniche, so you can enjoy an evening walk along the seafront to Muscat’s lively bazaar, or ‘souk’.

Depending on the time of your arrival, we can arrange for a short sightseeing tour of Muscat this afternoon.

Nakhl’s most outstanding archeological feature is its pre-Islamic fort, which perches on a craggy, 200ft high hill, surveying the town and the surrounding mountains. Allow two hours to explore the fort and the “Ain Thura” springs.

From Nakhl, drive 20 mins to Wadi Ban Awf for a short trek in the wadi and a picnic lunch (sandals and sun protection are essential!)

In the afternoon, continue by car to Misfah (40 mins), a beautiful settlement set against a backdrop of terraced plantations, date palms and stunning mountains. Enjoy a walk along the old village falaj system, one of the oldest of its kind in Oman, before checking in at Misfah Old House for dinner and overnight.

NB. Take only a small bag of luggage from the car to the hotel as it is a lengthy walk with many steps, cars not being allowed in the village. Misfah Old House does not serve alcohol.

Today’s 4-5 hour trek follows the Wadi Ghul canyon trail. This is a relatively easy walk with few steep climbs, but it offers a window onto some of Oman’s most striking mountain scenery (with justifiable exaggeration is this area often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Oman”!) The trail ends at the ruins of an ancient Omani village and a nearby spring pool—bring your swim wear if you’d like to stop for a swim in the pool. (Those not wishing to complete the full trek to the deserted village can instead enjoy a brief walk to a viewpoint a little way along the canyon trail.)

This afternoon, transfer to Nizwa and check-in at the Falaj Daris Hotel for dinner and overnight.

A former capital, Nizwa is among Oman’s oldest cities. It centres on Nizwa Fort, arguably Oman’s most magnificent standing fortress, as well as Nizwa souk, the largest market in the country besides Muttrah (in Muscat).

Also of note is the Daris Falaj, the largest falaj (traditional water irrigation system) in Oman, and a recognised World Heritage Site.

From Nizwa, continue to the Wahiba Sands for two nights in the desert. You’ll be staying at the Wahiba Sands Desert Camp, from where you’ll be able to explore the desert dunes on guided walks. NB. Have a head torch ready for this eco-friendly camp – the lighting in the tents is not especially bright.

You will need desert boots or light weight mountain boots for the desert trek (trekking sandals should also be fine). Excellent protection against the sun is essential. If you want to do a full-day walk, a picnic lunch will be provided, but you may prefer to return to camp for lunch.

After an early dinner, you will have time to visit the famous turtle sanctuary at Ras Al Jinz, before returning to your hotel.

Time allowing, stop at Wadis Shab and Tiwi – beautiful wadis and oases with date and lemon plantations – as well as the Limestone sinkhole at Bimah, en route to Muscat.

Depending on your flight schedule, the rest of this afternoon is free for you to explore Muscat.

When ready, transfer to Muscat Airport for your evening flight home, or, if flying out tomorrow morning, we can arrange for an additional night in Muscat.