Oman In Style

Itinerary

• Oman

  Officially the Sultanate of Oman, is an Arab country in southwest Asia on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates on the northwest, Saudi Arabia on the west and Yemen on the southwest. The coast is formed by the Arabian Sea on the south and east and the Gulf of Oman on the northeast. Excellent tourist facilities are available in the major cities of Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, and Nizwa and can increasingly be found elsewhere in the country.

• Muscat

  Muscat is the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Oman. The city lies on the Arabian Sea along the Gulf of Oman and is in the proximity of the strategic Straits of Hormuz. The rocky Western Al Hajar Mountains dominate the landscape of Muscat. Known since the early 1st century CE as an important trading port between the west and the east, Muscat was ruled by various indigenous tribes as well as foreign powers such as the Persians and the Portuguese Empire at various points in its history. A regional military power in the 18th century, Muscat's influence extended as far as East Africa and Zanzibar. Since the ascension of Qaboos bin Said as Sultan of Oman in 1970, Muscat has experienced rapid infrastructural development that has led to the growth of a vibrant economy and a multi-ethnic society.

• Nizwa

  The oasis city of Nizwa, the largest in the interior province, was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries. Today it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions with its historical buildings and imposing fort built in the mid 17th century by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'ribi, The town's immense palm oasis stretches for eight kilometers along the course of two wadis. It is famous for its bustling souq where tourists can buy exquisite copper and silver jewellery and other craft items.

• Rub Al Khali Desert

  The Rub' al Khali, which translates as Empty Quarter in English, is one of the largest sand deserts in the world, encompassing most of the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula. The desert is 1,000 kilometres (620 mi) long, and 500 kilometres (310 mi) wide, and is neither inhabited nor traversed by the Bedouins. Between 1946 and 1950 Wilfred Thesiger crossed the area several times and mapped large parts including the mountains of Oman. Summer temperatures of nearly 55 °C (131 °F) and dunes over 330 metres (1,100 ft) make Rub' al Kali one of the most forbidding environments on Earth.

• Salalah

  Salalah is the capital and seat of the governor or Wali of the southern Omani province of Dhofar. Salalah is a city of antiquity, boasting both the ruins of the fortified town Sumharam, an important port from 100 BC – AD 400, and the alleged resting place of Job in nearby Jabal Gadu. The city is a popular destination for tourism due to the natural attractions of the nearby mountains and abundant stands of frankincense trees lining mountain wadi courses. Around the city and into the mountains the countryside is lush and green during the monsoon period with the vegetation supporting herds of cattle. The climate supports wildlife often more commonly associated with East Africa, such as leopards and hyenas.

• • Muscat
  • Traditional Omani Dhow
  • The Chedi Muscat

  Day 1: Muscat

  You will be met by a Representative at immigration and ushered into the lounge, where you will be served mineral water, Omani coffee, dates etc while your visa is being processed. You'll then be taken through passport control without queuing.

  Take an airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide in Muscat.

  Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.

  Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat

  Situated on the stunning Boushar Beachfront in Oman, where crystal Gulf waters mirror images of glorious mountain ranges, The Chedi Muscat is an oasis of mysticism and luxury. Simple elegance, stylish furnishings and subtle bursts of vibrant hues, characteristic of traditional Omani architecture, distinguish an ageless charm, which the hotel exudes. Each of the 151 exquisite rooms and suites offer exclusive access to turquoise pools bordered by cosy cabanas, a water garden, and a private stretch of sandy shore. Amid a contrasting backdrop of deserts, mountains, beaches and luxurious urban living, The Chedi Muscat with its engaging service and modern amenities, is a hallmark of hospitality excellence.

• • Muscat
  • Bait Al Zubair Museum

  Day 2: Muscat

  Spend the morning in the company of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking Guide to explore the wonderful city of Muscat. After being picked up from your hotel, the tour will start with a visit of the Grand Mosque, standing in stately grandeur. A visit to this beautiful piece of architecture is a must for all tourists (open daily for visitors, between 0800–1100 Hrs, except Fridays) Dress code – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers), From here move on to the fish and vegetable waterfront markets in Muttrah. Feel free to mingle with the crowd. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new - sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. Then take in the views on the drive past the Corniche and to the capital area before a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Enjoy a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history before being returned to your hotel.

  We drive past the Corniche and to the capital area to visit Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history. We next proceed to take a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new. Sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. From here, we take you to the modern shopping complex zone in Al Qurum. Feel free for some shopping at the popular “Qurum City centre” and enjoy some of the best deals and bargains. Wrap the day by taking a drive along the embassy area which gives a spectacular outlook of the Muscat city with lights.

  Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat
• • Nizwa
  • Wadi Bani Auf
  • Falaj Daris Hotel

  Day 3: Muscat - Bilad Sayt - Nizwa

  Board 4WD air conditioned vehicles and drive along the Batinah Coast. We stop at the camel breeding farm for a while and see the numerous camels that are bred in this farm. From here, we drive to Wadi Bani Awf, one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite.

  Wadi Bani Awf is one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite. As you drive into the wadi, after 1km, a deviation to the right will bring you to an impressive gorge, ‘the Snake Canyon’. The first half kilometres is fun hiking in a narrow section of the canyon. The canyon opens up into a wide wadi and then, the next kilometres and so is easy hiking among boulders. The Canyon narrows to less than 5 meters wide and eventually gives way to a pool. Feel free to enjoy a swim in the pool. Later we drive further to the charming village of Bilad Sayt. After parking the vehicle near the mouth of the narrow “V” shaped gorge, you will set out on foot. The first view of the town will come after you emerge from an improbable canyon cleft. It is like discovering a lost city, or seeing Petra for the first time.

  Accommodation: Falaj Daris Hotel

  Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4km away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Oman is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, a country that combines luxurious comfort and safety amidst rugged mountains, panoramic beaches and striking desert view. Oman offers culture, arts, heritage, nature, sports, adventure, entertainment and knowledge.

• • Hajar Mountains

  Day 4: Bilad Sayt - Misfat Al-Abriyyin - Nizwa

  Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.

  We drive further on to Sharf Al Alamayn, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Hajar Mountains. The sudden drop makes a beautiful photographic moment. Start your trek to Misfat Al Abriyyin. Misfat remains one of the most historical towns in Oman where not much have changed throughout the years. The trek affords some of the best views into the wadis on the northern side of the western Hajar Mountains.

  Accommodation: Falaj Daris Hotel
• • Wadi An Nakhr

  Day 5: Misfat Al-Abriyyin - Al Hamra - Nizwa

  Drive to Wadi Ghul in 4WD airconditioned vehicle.

  We drive to Wadi Ghul and begin the trek. Here you will see the abandoned village on a ledge of an outcrop where two wadi’s converge. The village is that of Ghul. Up on the right is where the current village lies. The old village goes back to antiquity. Further down is Wadi An Nakhr where we will meet with weavers. Over a cup of “Arabic coffee” (Kahwa) you will get a demonstration of the weaving process. Arrive at the summit of Jebel Shams, also known as the “Al Khatim plateau”. Enjoy lunch near the rim of the Canyon or the Nakhr Gorge. After lunch we continue our trek on an ancient donkey path, which follows the West flank of Wadi An Nakhr known as the “Grand Canyon”, and leads to the abandoned village of As Saab. The walk allows spectacular views into Wadi An Nakhr the “Grand Canyon” and down to Al Hamra.

  Accommodation: Falaj Daris Hotel

• Day 6: Al Hamra - Muscat

  Drive to Muscat through the Sumail Gap via Izki and Wadi Fanjah.

  Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.

  Pick-up at your hotel and transfer to Bin Ateeq Restaurant (Omani Restaurant) for a sumptuous Omani Dinner. Bin Ateeq is acclaimed for serving some of the finest Omani cuisine in Muscat. Diners congregate on woven rugs at low tables and cushions to savour the finest Omani food in private rooms. After dinner return transfer to the hotel.

  Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat
• • Salalah
  • Salalah at Sunset
  • Hilton Salalah Resort

  Day 7: Muscat - Salalah

  Take your flight from Muscat to Salalah.

  Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

  Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  Enjoy a half day private city tour which will give you a variety of old and modern culture of the region. Drive through the greenery of coconuts, Banana and Papaya plantations. A visit to the Museum will give an introduction to the history and culture of Dhofar. In the Heritage Souk, you can find different types of Omani crafts and incense burners. A visit of the New Souk will give you an exact view of the Arabian market. Drive to the Gold souk which offers modern and traditional style Dhofari ornaments. On the way to Al Hafa, you can see some typical Dhofari houses with caravan windows and doors. Walking past the Sultan’s residential palace Al Husn, you'll reach the Old Souk where Frankincense, Dhofari traditional clothes and cosmetics are available. Before returning to the hotel, visit the ancient city of Zufar, the ruins of Al Balid, which was visited by Ibn Batuta and Marco Polo, describing it as a ‘beautiful, large and noble city’.

  Accommodation: Hilton Salalah Resort

  Relax by the Hilton Salalah Resort's freeform pool overlooking the white-sand beach. Browse the shopping arcade, work out in the gym or unwind in 6 restaurants and bars. Dine on seafood at the Palm Grove or Arabic cuisine at Al Maha restaurant. Sip cocktails at the Hilton Salalah Resort's Sunset Lounge. Do business by the Indian Ocean at the Hilton Salalah Resort with 6 meeting rooms, ballroom, business center and wireless internet access in public spaces. The hotel is 20 minutes away from the airport by free shuttle. All Hilton Salalah Resort rooms have high-speed internet access. Step up to a Deluxe Room, Deluxe Plus Room or Suite for mountain and sea views. Relax by the beachfront pool, browse the shopping arcade or entertain the kids in the playground. Visit Salalah attractions on your doorstep such as the Gold Souk and the Frankincense Route.

• • Rub Al Khali Dunes
  • Desert Camp

  Day 8: Salalah - Rub Al Khali Desert

  Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.

  Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.

  Accommodation: Desert Camp

  Spend the night in your private desert camp. Guests are treated to traditional Arabian hospitality, with typical, home-cooked Omani food, Arabic coffee and dates. In the evening the colours of the desert landscape are particularly beautiful, and guests sleep out under the stars on mattresses among the dunes, or in tents if it is cold. An al fresco breakfast is served at first light.

• • Camel Trek

  Day 9: Rub Al Khali Desert - Salalah

  Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.

  Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.

  Accommodation: Hilton Salalah Resort
• • Frankincense Tree

  Day 10: Salalah

  Enjoy a guided day trip of the surroundings of Salalah. After being picked up from your hotel you will pass the Royal Farm and Marmura Palace on the way to Taqa, a village famed for sardines and fertilizers. Here you can see an interesting castle. East of Taqa lies the ruins of Sumhurum (Khor Rori), where the legendary palace of Queen Sheba is believed to have been. Khor Rori was also a port for Frankincense trade. A drive along the coastal road takes you to the old city of Arabian horses and Slave trade, Mirbat. After a photo stop at Bin Ali Mosque, built in the 14th century, visit Mirbat Castle and the Old Merchant Houses, which is similar to Yemeni architecture with its carved doors and windows. Returning to Salalah, continue to the home of Jebalis with their camel and cattle herds. At the foot of the Qara mountains, you will reach a natural spring of Ain Razat which is a beautiful park surrounded by hills. On the drive across the Qara mountains, you can appreciate the beauty of Dhofar mountains. At Job’s tomb, where the remains of the Islamic prophet, identified as job of the Old Testament can be found. Enjoy lunch en route.

  Accommodation: Hilton Salalah Resort

• Day 11: Salalah - Muscat

  Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

  Take your flight from Salalah to Muscat.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• • The Chedi Muscat

  The Chedi Muscat

  Situated on the stunning Boushar Beachfront in Oman, where crystal Gulf waters mirror images of glorious mountain ranges, The Chedi Muscat is an oasis of mysticism and luxury. Simple elegance, stylish furnishings and subtle bursts of vibrant hues, characteristic of traditional Omani architecture, distinguish an ageless charm, which the hotel exudes. Each of the 151 exquisite rooms and suites offer exclusive access to turquoise pools bordered by cosy cabanas, a water garden, and a private stretch of sandy shore. Amid a contrasting backdrop of deserts, mountains, beaches and luxurious urban living, The Chedi Muscat with its engaging service and modern amenities, is a hallmark of hospitality excellence.

  • More information
• • Falaj Daris Hotel

  Falaj Daris Hotel

  Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4km away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Oman is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, a country that combines luxurious comfort and safety amidst rugged mountains, panoramic beaches and striking desert view. Oman offers culture, arts, heritage, nature, sports, adventure, entertainment and knowledge.

  • More information
• • Hilton Salalah Resort
  • Al Maha Restaurant

  Hilton Salalah Resort

  Relax by the Hilton Salalah Resort's freeform pool overlooking the white-sand beach. Browse the shopping arcade, work out in the gym or unwind in 6 restaurants and bars. Dine on seafood at the Palm Grove or Arabic cuisine at Al Maha restaurant. Sip cocktails at the Hilton Salalah Resort's Sunset Lounge. Do business by the Indian Ocean at the Hilton Salalah Resort with 6 meeting rooms, ballroom, business center and wireless internet access in public spaces. The hotel is 20 minutes away from the airport by free shuttle. All Hilton Salalah Resort rooms have high-speed internet access. Step up to a Deluxe Room, Deluxe Plus Room or Suite for mountain and sea views. Relax by the beachfront pool, browse the shopping arcade or entertain the kids in the playground. Visit Salalah attractions on your doorstep such as the Gold Souk and the Frankincense Route.

  • More information
• • Desert Camp

  Desert Camp

  Spend the night in your private desert camp. Guests are treated to traditional Arabian hospitality, with typical, home-cooked Omani food, Arabic coffee and dates. In the evening the colours of the desert landscape are particularly beautiful, and guests sleep out under the stars on mattresses among the dunes, or in tents if it is cold. An al fresco breakfast is served at first light.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Tours, Transfers, Flights, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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