Program 3 Fly and Drive Tour: 8 Days - 7 Nights

Day 1: Arrival in Muscat

Meet and assist at the airport by our representative, followed by transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: - , - , -)

Day 2: Muscat, Birkat Al Mauz, Nizwa, Bahla, Jabreen, Tanuf, Nizwa

After breakfast, depart by 4x4 for a full-day excursion to Birkat Al Mauz, a village nestled in a lush oasis at the foot of the Hajjar Mountains. Here lies one of the country’s oldest irrigation systems: Falaj Al Muyassar, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Aflaj Irrigation Systems”. Still fully functional after centuries, this masterpiece of hydraulic engineering sustains date palms, banana plantations and agriculture, supporting local life since the 13th century. Walking among the ruins of the abandoned village, with its mudbrick houses and ancient walls, you’ll feel the quiet presence of history, where tradition and nature coexist in harmony.

Continue to Nizwa, the former spiritual and cultural capital of Oman, a city shaped by centuries of trade, conflict and heritage. Dominating the skyline is the imposing Nizwa Fort, built in the 17th century under Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’rubi. Its massive 35-metre cylindrical tower was a marvel of defensive design, featuring hidden passages, trap doors and ventilation shafts. Inside, restored chambers and painted frescoes offer a glimpse into Oman’s past. Adjacent to the fort lies the vibrant Nizwa Souq, renowned for its silver craftsmanship. This is where generations of artisans have forged the khanjar, the iconic curved dagger symbolizing Omani identity.

Next, travel to Bahla, an ancient fortified town surrounded by a 12-km mudbrick wall, one of the longest in Oman. The Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a powerful testament to the region’s historical significance and architectural ingenuity. Nearby, small pottery workshops continue age-old traditions, crafting vessels using techniques passed down through generations.

From there, visit Jabreen Castle, often regarded as the most beautiful castle in Oman. Built in 1675, it served not only as a residence but also as a centre of Islamic learning, with dedicated rooms for astronomy, medicine and Quranic studies. Intricately carved wooden ceilings, ornate stucco work and a natural cooling system reveal a level of sophistication rare for its time.

Along the way, a brief stop at the ruins of old Tanuf, a medieval settlement destroyed during tribal conflicts. Its stone houses, clinging to the mountainside, stand in silent contrast to the modern dam nearby, a quiet dialogue between Oman’s past and present. Return to Nizwa hotel for overnight stay. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 3: Nizwa, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands

After breakfast, set off towards the Sharqiyah Sands, heading first to the lush Wadi Bani Khalid. Nestled between rugged cliffs and palm groves, its turquoise pools are fed by underground springs and remain refreshingly cool year-round. This natural oasis offers a perfect moment to swim or simply relax before venturing deeper into the desert.

As you enter the heart of the Wahiba Sands, a vast sea of red dunes stretching endlessly, you’ll meet local Bedouin families who have lived in harmony with the desert for generations. A short camel ride across the soft sands, experiencing the desert as travellers did for centuries. As the sun sets, the dunes glow in golden and amber hues, transforming the sky in a breath-taking display. Overnight at the Camp at Wahiba Sands. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 4: Wahiba Sands, Sur, Ras Al Hadd, Ras Al Jinz

After breakfast, cross the golden dunes of the Wahiba Sands towards the coast and the historic port town of Sur, once a vital hub in maritime trade between Oman, East Africa and India. Its seafaring legacy dates back to the 6th century, when Omani sailors began crossing the Indian Ocean. Today, its narrow streets reveal ancient houses with intricately carved wooden doors and arabesque windows, while fishing dhows in the harbour continue the rhythm of coastal life.

Separated from Sur by a bay lies the fortified village of Al Ayjah, protected by watchtowers and Portuguese-era forts. On the sheltered lagoon sits the traditional Dhow Yard, one of the last active shipbuilding sites in Oman. Here, master craftsmen still build these iconic wooden vessels using no nails or blueprints, only hand tools and knowledge passed orally through generations. The sound of hammers on teak echoes as it has for centuries.

Continue to Ras Al Hadd for hotel check-in. In the evening, transfer to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, one of the most important nesting sites in the world for green sea turtles. Under the cover of darkness, and in silence, you may witness the magical moment when females emerge from the sea to lay their eggs in the sand, a rare and deeply moving experience. Rangers ensure minimal disturbance, preserving the natural cycle. Return to the hotel overnight. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 5: Ras Al Hadd, Wadi Shab, White Beach, Bimmah Sinkhole, Quriyat, Muscat

After breakfast, begin the journey back to Muscat along the scenic coastal road. First stop: Wadi Shab, a hidden oasis tucked within a rocky gorge. After a pleasant 40-minute walk through palm-lined paths, you’ll reach crystal-clear pools, waterfalls and natural caves. Some are accessible only by small boat, adding a sense of adventure to the exploration.

Next, visit White Beach, where golden sand meets the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman in a striking contrast. Along the coast, pass through Fins and Bimmah, where tiny coves hide beneath dramatic cliffs. Near Dibab, discover the Bimmah Sinkhole, known locally as “Bait Al Afreet”, the “House of the Demon”. This natural crater, filled with vivid green water, is surrounded by limestone walls. A concrete staircase leads down to the water, making it ideal for a refreshing swim.

The route then turns inland briefly before reaching Quriyat, a coastal village at the edge of a sandy plain, overlooked by the Eastern Hajjar Mountains. During low tide, a small island with a Portuguese watchtower becomes accessible on foot. Along the shore, a protected inlet lined with dense mangrove forest provides a sanctuary for marine life and migratory birds. Arrive in Muscat in the evening, overnight at the hotel in Muscat. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 6: Muscat – City Tour

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day tour of Muscat, where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly. Depart from your hotel and head to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the few grand mosques open to non-Muslims. Admire its magnificent Persian carpet, one of the largest handwoven carpets in the world, and the grand Swarovski chandelier in the main prayer hall.

Continue to Old Muscat, where history comes alive. Visit the Al Mirani and Al Jalali Forts, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century to guard the harbour. Between them stands the Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial residence of the Sultan, a symbol of national pride. Nearby, the Bait Al Zubair Museum offers a deep dive into Omani heritage, with collections of traditional weapons, costumes and household items displayed in a restored Omani house.

Take a walk along the Corniche, with views of the sea and mountains. Conclude the tour with a visit to the Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the region, filled with the scent of frankincense, spices and handcrafted silver. Return to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 7: Free Day in Muscat

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax at the hotel or explore the nearby beaches. Overnight in Muscat. (Meals included: B , - , -)

Day 8: Departure from Muscat

After breakfast, enjoy free time at the hotel until transfer to Muscat Airport for your departure flight. (Meal included: Breakfast)

End of services.

Suggested Hotels:

Muscat:               Royal Tulip Muscat, Intercity Muscat or similar

Nizwa:                        Intercity Hotel Nizwa or heritage INN

Wahiba                       Desert Rose Camp or similar

Sur                              Sur Plaza Hotel