Fly from UK to Muscat. Meeting and assistance by the Novaturient representative on arrival and transfer to Shangri La Barr Al Jissah-Al Waha for 2 nights stay.
Morning sightseeing begins with visiting the beautiful Grand Mosque with its stunning Islamic architecture. Drive to the old part of the city and explore the Muttrah Souk - a traditional market filled with frankincense, silver handicrafts, wickerwork, delicious halwa and lovely pashmina shawls. The next visit is to the Bait Al Zubair museum and finally the Sultan's Palace surrounded by the Forts of Mirani and Jalali. These were built by the Portuguese in the 16th C. during their rule of the coastal cities of Oman. Afternoon at leisure.
The first stop is at the Nakhl, Omans highest Fort that's been standing proudly on a hilltop for 350 years. See the museum and exhibit of ancient guns. Also visit some charming old neighbourhoods and clay houses, including those at Wadi Bani Auf, Bilad Sayt, the 400-year-old town of Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abryeen. Stay at The Golden Tulip Hotel for 1 night.
After breakfast visit the unique cattle market (only on Fridays). Local livestock owners, both women and men come to the market with sheep, goats and occasionally camel. Also visit the Nizwa Fort strategically built atop a hill towering over the ancient city. Drive to Jabal Akhdar mountain, enroute a brief stop at Bahla famous for its gigantic Fort and distinctive earthenware pottery, see the 17th C. Jibreen castle and Wadi of Maydeen, located at the foot of the mountain, with its beautiful natural spring. Overnight at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar.
Wake to breath-taking views, then, after breakfast drive to Wadi Bani Habib, a green deserted village on top of the Saiq Plateau. Next to Birkat Al Mauz, a village of clay ruins. Then explore the beauty of the Wahiba desert with is amazing dunes, interact with the local Bedouin, visit a home and eat luscious dates washed down with delicious coffee! Stay at The Desert Nights Camp for the night.
A great fun experience is the Wadi day- take a dip and relax in the cool waters of a natural pool... remember to bring your swimming clothing (bikinis are not allowed)! It's so refreshing to bathe in the cool, deep waters shaded by palms. Drive on to Sur to watch fishermen working in the harbour. Visit the dhow-building yard to see the artisans at work hand building the traditional boats. Check in at The Ras Al Jinz Carapace for an overnight stay. At around 9pm, rangers will take you on a 15 minutes walk to the turtle nesting site of Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Centre.
After breakfast drive to Muscat via the coastal road. Enroute explore Wadi Tiwi, a deep and narrow gorge carved out of the mountains, running between towering cliffs right down the sea. Also visit the Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater filled with blue-green sea water. On arrival in Muscat, check in at Shangri La Barr Al Jissah-Al Waha for an overnight stay.
Transfer to the airport to board your return flight home.
