TABLE OF CONTENTS. Oman and It s History 8 days / 7 nights. Coastal Oman 8 days / 7 nights. Oman for Families 7 days / 6 nights

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2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Oman and It s History 8 days / 7 nights Coastal Oman 8 days / 7 nights Oman for Families 7 days / 6 nights The Magestic Mountain of Oman 7 days / 6 nights The Many Beauties of Oman 9 days / 8 nights The Magnificent Wadis & Infinite Desert of Oman 8 days / 7 nights Amazing Salalah 3 days / 2 nights Mysterious Salalah 4 days / 3 nights

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4 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 02: FULL DAY MUSCAT CITY TOUR **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel After the splendor of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, give your senses a treat at the House of Amouage and its visitors center. Finish this full-day tour with some shopping at the modern City Centre shopping mall THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Not to be missed whilst in Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a breathtaking and thoroughly original example of modern Islamic architecture. For many the muted shades and understated elegance of its exterior, which hide the sheer scale and opulence, found within make it the most beautiful mosque in the world. Opened by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in May 2001, the mosque can hold over 20,000 worshippers in its prayer halls, courtyards and passageways. Feast your eyes on the treasures within the enormous hand-woven carpet lying in the main prayer hall and the magnificent Swarovski chandelier that hangs from the central dome bathing the room in an exquisite light - both of which are amongst the largest in the world. Make some time to visit the fascinating library and look at the intricate mosaic designs in the outer corridors, which are equally charming. At night the mosque is tastefully lit against the dark sky and is a treat to behold EXPLORE THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Browse the fossils and study the rock samples in this wonderful small museum, a great morning out for nature lovers, amateur geologists and those who would love to learn more about the flora, fauna and topography of Oman. You won t miss the vast whale skeleton welcoming you to the famous sea life exhibit where you can learn so much about Oman s precious ocean environment. CELEBRATE THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT WITH LUNCH Considered to be one of the world s finest acoustic spaces, the serene beauty of the Royal Opera House Muscat stands proud in the center of the Capital Area. Already a national icon the Opera House is the center for performing arts in the country and every season it invites only the very best international companies and performers to grace its stage. If you are not able to see one of their worldclass performances, the building is open to the public in the mornings so arrange a visit to marvel at the magnificent external architecture and spectacular interior decoration.

5 AMOUAGE THE GIFT OF KINGS Fancy the chance to see the workings behind one of the most luxurious perfume brands in the world? A knowledgeable guide will walk you around the Visitors Centre and talk you through the history, raw ingredients and various production stages of the Amouage range. You will smell fantastic for the rest of the day after being given a rare opportunity to sample these world famous fragrances. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 03: MUSCAT BARKA FISH MARKET NAKHL RUSTAQ AL WAKKAN VILLAGE **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel You will be collected from your hotel at the morning and driven to Barka to see the Fish Souq in full swing. Cherish the date palm plantations on the road to Nakhl where you will enjoy the warm waters of the Thowara Spring, see the impressive falaj system and wander around the highest fort in Oman. After a picnic or lunch in a local restaurant, you will head through a break in the Jebel and into Wadi Bani Auf. Enjoy the scenery and the thrilling drive as you venture further into the wadi until you reach the charming, tranquil village of Bilad Sayt where you can enjoy a gentle walk around the beautiful houses and terraces. BARKA FISH SOUQ Little more than a large canopy standing virtually on the beach, an early morning visit to Barka s fabulous fish market is a great way to start a trip to Al Batinah region. Open every morning, the market teems with fishermen trading their early morning catch; tuna, hamour, mullet, sardines, squid and, if you re in the right season, Omani lobsters and prawns. Auctioneers command the crowd from a dedicated area selling the bigger fish and around the market fruit and vegetable sellers set up stalls to tempt the passing custom. Make sure you get up early to see this delightful place and experience a slice of Oman unchanged. NAKHL: THE FORT AND THE TEMPTING WARM WATER SPRING Nakhl means date palm and as soon as you ascend to any height you will see why; the old town sits amid vast swathes of rich green date plantation. The finest Omani dates come from here farmed using very long, sophisticated irrigation systems which ensure the water is distributed throughout the town. Dip your feet into the warm waters of the famous Thowara Spring and see the water source itself and the locals swimming in the shady pools. Make your way back through the old part of the town to the imposing Nakhl Fort, the highest fort in Oman. This is a charming old building to explore and there are some glorious views from the higher ramparts.

6 RUSTAQ: THE FORT AND THE HEALING HOT WATERS Rustaq is a sprawling town famous for its ancient fort, the exceptional honey made nearby and healing hot waters. The Al Kisfr Hot Springs run at 45 C are known for their healing properties particularly beneficial for rheumatism and skin problems. After a look at the springs wind your way through the town s old quarter, noting the henna trees growing there, to see the commanding edifice of Rustaq Fort. The fort as we now know it was built in the 17th century on the site of the 13th century fort Qalat Al Kisra and it was a prominent site for religious learning in Oman for many years. The newly renovated building is an imposing one, constructed over three levels and watched over by four towers. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI MISTAL AND THE HEIGHTS OF WAKAN VILLAGE Very different from the narrow gorges of some, Wadi Mistal is a broad gravelly plain ringed by soaring peaks in all directions. Mistal is another of the vast wadi systems, which carry the traveler from the low lying plains of the Al Batinah region up into the peaks of the Hajar Mountains. Follow the road that runs along the wadi bed and then head up along a winding, dizzying graded road until you reach the village of Wakan perched on the face of the mountain. At the entrance to the village there is a viewpoint that gives you a breathtaking view of Wadi Mistal and the surrounding peaks. Wind your way around the edge of Wakan village to find yourself amongst fruit trees, terraces and wooden bowers supporting vines. A multitude of butterflies will accompany if you choose to keep walking up the stone steps, which follow the falaj system for approximately half an hour to the water source in the mountainside. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Golden Tulip Nizwa hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 04: NIZWA AL HAMRA BAIT AL SAFAH BAHLA JABREEN NIZWA FORT AND SOUQ **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel AL HAMRA AND BAIT AL SAFAH Driving into the well-preserved mountain town of Al Hamra is like stepping into a time warp. Traditional mud brick houses line winding, stony alleyways making it a great place to wander imagining how much, or how little, life must have changed. Whilst you re there pay a visit to Bait as Safah the traditional house which has been beautifully restored and turned into a living museum. Local ladies will show you the age-old methods of grinding coffee and flour, making bread and pressing oil.

7 BAHLA: THE FORT AND ITS POTTERS It is rumored that the potters of Bahla have magic in their fingers and, whether this is true or not, this small town just 40km from Nizwa is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Oman s biggest and most elaborate forts and the only one inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is believed to have accommodated a fort since pre-islamic times but the present-day structure was built in the 13th century and extensively rebuilt in the 1600s. It was then closed for extensive renovation and reopened at the end of It is an enormous structure, which could occupy you for several hours if you wish to explore its rooms, towers, Mosques and wells in detail. Outside the Fort walls take a leisurely stroll amongst some of the fine old houses keeping your eyes peeled for sections of the ancient city walls. And then to those magic craftsmen, Bahla s potters dominate the lovely old Souq where the distinctive earthenware pottery and the tiny workshops that produce it can be found at every turn. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT JABREEN CASTLE: OMAN S MOST SPLENDID Standing alone on an empty plain, stark against the Jebel Akhdar mountain range in the background, Jabreen Castle will creep into your imagination as soon as you lay eyes on it. Widely regarded as Oman s most splendid castle, it was built during a period of of peace, and its simple majesty reflects that. It is less fortified than other castles in the country and gives one the sense of calm, contemplation and of being a home recently abandoned. In reality it was only inhabited for a couple of decades before being deserted and sinking into disrepair until recent years. It is not a museum-style place, full of artifacts and trinkets to look at but this is more than made up for by its exquisite design features unmatched in Oman and something a little bit magical which is hard to put your finger on. NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Golden Tulip Nizwa hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB

8 DAY 05: NIZWA JABEL AKHDAR BIRAKAT AL MAUZ WAHIBA SANDS **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel JEBEL AKHDAR: THE GREEN MOUNTAIN The personality of Jebel Akhdar is singular. Its wadis, plateaus, peaks and terraced hillside all enjoy cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than elsewhere in Oman, which give this mountain region a gentler face than others. You will start your uphill journey in the village of Birkat al Mawz that was named after its extensive banana cultivation and the pools of mountain water which collect here. There are some attractive old houses here and a 17th century Mosque. The village is the gateway into Wadi Madaeen, which carves its way through the mountainside. Follow the blacktop road for 36km up onto Saiq Plateau, a vast upland expanse lying at 2,000m above sea level. The Plateau has been inhabited and cultivated for many years but, until the blacktop road was completed in recent years, it remained virtually inaccessible to visitors. There are many interesting sights up here - walk down the steps into wonderful Wadi Bani Habib with its crumbling abandoned houses and cultivated wadi bed where garlic is grown in the clay soil in the middle and pomegranate trees cling to the side near the rocks; pay a visit to Al Ayn village where you can walk through traditional houses stacked on the mountainside; find the magnificent views of the villages of Al Ayn and Al Aqr hanging on the mountainsides; drive up to the highest point of the Jebel Akhdar to absorb the scenes beneath you; seek out the famed Jebel roses growing near the peak or simply walk around in the cooler air enjoying the pockets of green fecundity and growth in this unforgiving rocky terrain. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride.

9 Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp, Tent room incl. HB DAY 06: WAHIBA SANDS THE INLAND TOWNS - WADI BANI KHALID RAS AL HADD **4WD** Breakfast at the camp and check out 08:00 am pick up from the camp THE INLAND TOWNS Echoes of the prosperity and significance of Ibra strategically situated on the old trade route between Muscat and Sur and onward to East Africa and India can still be felt in the old quarter through the remains of its stately mud brick mansions, numerous mosques and watchtowers. There is an ancient mosque which has two Qibla (directions in which to pray) one towards Mecca and one towards Jerusalem. This is testament to Oman s early adoption of Islam as it was during the Prophet Mohammed s lifetime that prayer was redirected from Jerusalem to Mecca. The old town of Al Kamil sits, surrounded by trees, on the Muscat to Sur highway where it forks east to Sur and south to Al Ashkara. An attractive place with crumbling watchtowers and a nice souq, the recent addition of the Castle Museum to Al Kamil makes a welcome break in your journey. This restored grand old family house is an eccentric but fascinating place packed full of objects collected by the family over the years. Travel further down highway to experience the authentic appeal of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan. Here you will find a simple mosque topped with no less than 52 domes. WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX

10 RA AS AL HADD HOME OF THE TURTLES The stunning beaches of Ra as al Hadd are not only appealing to Oman s human visitors. Many turtles visit the most easterly point of the Sultanate to lay their precious eggs every year. To see these massive aquatic animals lumbering onto the shore to lay their eggs and to see the hundreds of tiny hatchlings scuttling down to the sea are rare sights indeed. Oman takes its responsibility seriously with regard to regulation and management of this phenomena and visitors are asked to respect the strict rules regarding photography of and interference with the turtles. You will stay in a nearby hotel and will then be driven to one of the nesting sites in the early morning to get your best chance of seeing the turtles in action. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach resort Hamoor non sea view room incl. HB DAY 07: RAS AL HADD SUR WADI TIWI BIMAKH SINKHOLE WADI DAYQAH QURIYAT - MUSCAT **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE SUR DHOW FACTORY The old town of Sur faces out to the sea from whence its fortunes came. As the capital of the Sharqiya region, it has an illustrious past as one of the most important ports in the region, a key point of trade with East Africa and India. The forts and watchtowers, which circle the town, give a hint at its past significance. Head to the harbor to find its main attraction, the traditional dhow building yard that still manufactures wooden boats as it has for hundreds of years. Oman is immensely proud of its maritime heritage and, although demand has decreased, Sur still makes boats for customers all over the world, which are proof of the quality of their workmanship. The yard is a laid back place which you may wander around at your leisure. WADI TIWI Similar in form to Wadi Shab this wadi has the advantage of being discoverable by vehicle. You can wind your way through the, sometimes narrow, wadi enjoying the plantations and the pools from the comfort of your car. As in Wadi Shab, birds and butterflies abound and you will be given some fantastic photo opportunities.

11 THE BIMMAH SINKHOLE Recently mooted as the most beautiful sinkhole in the world, the cerulean waters of Bimmah Sinkhole attract thousands of visitors every year. It was created by the collapse of a soft limestone ceiling in an underground cavern which is rather less poetic than the Arabic name of Meteor Fall Park suggests. The sinkhole is a beautiful natural phenomenon and a great place to stop for photos or a quick swim. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX QURIYAT AND WADI DAYQAH Quriyat is the plural of Quriya meaning village, so called because, although a modestly sized town, it is a collective of around 30 distinct communities. It sits on the coast 80km from Muscat, an old fishing port that boasts a pretty seafront and harbour and an attractive 200-year-old fort another one that has recently reopened after substantial renovation. Not far from the town is the impressive Wadi Dayqah Dam, which was completed in 2012 in a bid to assist with the management of the limited water resources in the Sultanate. In Oman s predominantly arid landscape it is a wonder to see such an enormous body of clear blue water. After Quriyat you will get onto the coast road and drive back to Muscat. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 08: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home.

12 HOTELS Hotel Muscat Holiday hotel, 4* city hotel Golden Tulip Nizwa, 4* city hotel Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach hotel **FOR 3RD ADULT SHARING DBL ROOM ON EXTRA BED IN ARABIAN ORYX CAMP & TURTLE BEACH RESORT ACCOMMODATION IN A SINGLE ROOM** Please note: There will be an additional charge over Christmas and New Year period, which will be advised at the time of tour confirmation. INCLUDED SERVICES Accommodation in selected hotels for 7 nights Daily buffet breakfast. Picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant is provided on Day x dinner at Arabian Oryx Camp 1 x dinner at Turtle Beach resort All Meals are on food-only basis unless stated otherwise. Sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary with English speaking driver cum guide, with suitable vehicles on Day 2 7 Arrival and departure private transfers as mentioned in the itinerary with English speaking driver with suitable vehicles All entrance fees to the sightseeing places as mentioned in the program (subject to change). **No guide during sea tours** Sites as mentioned on the program description kindly note some sites that are subject to closure due to religious festivals, Government holidays and some due to weather conditions and seasonality. All known taxes and service charges All tour is based on private basis except the sea tours EXCLUDED SERVICES Oman Visa: on arrival USD (OMR 20.00) per person for stay more than 10 days on arrival USD (OMR 5.00) for stay less than 10 days prearranged visa USD per person Any item of personal nature. Any meals/beverages which are not mentioned under included services. Tips and porterage. Any optional tours / excursions

13 TERMS AND CONDITIONS This offer is valid for min. pax as stated above travelling together If a total of 9 rooms (approx. 18 pax) is exceeded, group rates will be applicable, kindly contact us for further details and assistance in this regard. Offer is on request basis and upon availability. All accommodation as mentioned above meal plan All above mentioned rates are in US Dollar and inclusive of currently valid taxes and service charges. In case these are changed we have to adjust the prizes as well. Please note that at the moment all offered tours and points of interest are open and accessible. Should the date of travel fall on a public holiday or a unforeseen event making the visit impossible is Desert Gate Tourism not responsible for any refund. Please note that Friday & Saturday are public holidays in Oman a lot of points of interest are closed on Fridays. CANCELLATION CHARGES: Within days prior to arrival no charges Within days prior to arrival 50% Within 14 days prior to arrival 100%

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15 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel, Al Waha superior room incl. BB DAY 02: MUSCAT CITY TOUR AFTERNOON SUNSET CRUISE **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Not to be missed whilst in Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a breathtaking and thoroughly original example of modern Islamic architecture. For many the muted shades and understated elegance of its exterior, which hide the sheer scale and opulence, found within make it the most beautiful mosque in the world. Opened by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in May 2001, the mosque can hold over 20,000 worshippers in its prayer halls, courtyards and passageways. Feast your eyes on the treasures within the enormous hand-woven carpet lying in the main prayer hall and the magnificent Swarovski chandelier that hangs from the central dome bathing the room in an exquisite light - both of which are amongst the largest in the world. Make some time to visit the fascinating library and look at the intricate mosaic designs in the outer corridors, which are equally charming. At night the mosque is tastefully lit against the dark sky and is a treat to behold MUTRAH A SLICE OF OMANI LIFE This old center of Oman s trade boasts an enchanting mix of old and new: in busy Port Sultan Qaboos you will see rickety old fishing dhows tied up alongside cruise liners and vast cargo ships gleaming in the sunshine; in the souq you will find stalls selling the finest Omani incense and ornate silver khanjars amongst many other treasures. The main drag of the souq retains the hustle, the bustle, the smells and the sounds of the old market but also seek out the rambling streets and dusty shops which spread out behind the souq and use your bartering skills to pick up some spices, nuts, jewelry, scarves or souvenirs to take home. With its magnificent mountain backdrop the cornice curving around the natural sea harbor is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or relax with a fruit juice absorbing the Mutrah life and the buzz of daily life. There are winding alleyways to explore and the intricate Lawati Mosque and old Portuguese merchants houses to photograph. Early risers should also arrange a visit to the fish market where between 6 and 10am you can see local fishermen selling their daily catch. The market operates as it has for centuries with an ever changing array of seafood spread out on concrete slabs by swarthy old fishermen who then bundle it into bags for customers to take home. Drive the old road behind Riyam park to get some great views or take a two hour hike along the ancient pathway in the Ophiolite hills. Seek out the history museum at Bait al Baranda at one end of the corniche and Ghalaya s Museum of Modern Art at the other.

16 A CULTURAL EXPERIENCE AT BAIT AL ZUBAIR MUSEUM A collection of marvelous treasures, which paint a picture of Oman long ago. Located in old Muscat this beautiful old townhouse was converted into a museum by the Zubair family in Since then it grown into a network of rooms and galleries exhibiting all manner of wonderful things. It houses a wealth of old coins, weaponry, jewelry, pottery, furniture and clothing which give a alluring glimpse into the Omani past. Outside in the courtyard you can see an example of an old village with a functioning falaj system - critical to cultivation in days gone by and still used by farmers in the interior today. In addition to its collection of artifacts, Bait al Zubair has also become a leading center. MUSCAT OLD TOWN Its harbor still guarded by the ancient twin forts of Jalali and Mirani, old Muscat is the small administrative center of the Sultanate where, until as recently as 1970, the city gates would lock the walled city at nightfall. See the old city gates and parts of the wall which have been restored, wander up the promenade towards the striking architecture of Al Alam Palace, one of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said s official residences and visit the old harbor with its centuries old stone sentinels. Those in search of some historical facts and figures will find several museums: as well as Bait al Zubair, there is the Omani-Franco museum and the Muscat Gate Museum and, opening in late 2014, the much anticipated National Museum. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 12:00 12:30 15:00 pm pick up from the hotel EXPLORE MUSCAT BY SEA Why not end your day with a cruise along the splendid Muscat coast, seeing many of the sights from a different angle whilst relaxing with a drink or even dinner? For your vessel, you can choose between a modern catamaran or a traditional fishing dhow. At the end of a hectic workday, busy day, visiting, new to the area or a local who just wants to remember the beautiful area we live in, please join us aboard and experience the sea as we quietly cruise along these unspoiled waters. On this cruise, about two hours in length, we do only light narration so that you can just relax and enjoy. As you gaze out across the sea, you'll marvel at the changing colors of the sky and the horizon emblazoned in shades of fiery gold, red and pink. Then, just as the sun sets, we'll sail along the shoreline near the Muscat, where the delicate mix of hues painting the city give you the chance to photograph the Old Town glistening in dramatic color. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 18:00 18:30 Overnight at Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel, Al Waha superior room incl. BB

17 DAY 03: MUSCAT QURIYAT WADI DAYQAH WADI ARBAEEN BIMAKH SINKHOLE **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel QURIYAT AND WADI DAYQAH Quriyat is the plural of Quriya meaning village, so called because, although a modestly sized town, it is a collective of around 30 distinct communities. It sits on the coast 80km from Muscat, an old fishing port that boasts a pretty seafront and harbor and an attractive 200-year-old fort another one that has recently reopened after substantial renovation. Not far from the town is the impressive Wadi Dayqah Dam, which was completed in 2012 in a bid to assist with the management of the limited water resources in the Sultanate. In Oman s predominantly arid landscape it is a wonder to see such an enormous body of clear blue water. WADI ARBAEEN An untouched haven of water and mountains, Wadi Arbaeen owes much of its undisturbed beauty to the fact that it lies off the main drag and therefore its visitors are limited. After a short bumpy ride through pools and over boulders you will find yourself in the midst of tranquil nature with little but birdsong and the splash of tiny waterfalls to disturb you. Relax and enjoy the clear refreshing pools or take a walk deeper into the wadi to find yourself even further from humanity. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX THE BIMMAH SINKHOLE Recently mooted as the most beautiful sinkhole in the world, the cerulean waters of Bimmah Sinkhole attract thousands of visitors every year. It was created by the collapse of a soft limestone ceiling in an underground cavern which is rather less poetic than the Arabic name of Meteor Fall Park suggests. The sinkhole is a beautiful natural phenomenon and a great place to stop for photos or a quick swim. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Wadi Shab Beach resort, 3* beach resort, Deluxe room incl. HB

18 DAY 04: WADI SHAB FINNS BEACH - WADI TIWI SUR RAS AL HADD **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel WADI SHAB Cutting a narrow, deep slice through the mountain Wadi Shab offers visitors a charming walk through the village past impossibly blue pools of water, date and banana plantations, terraced fields and an inventive falaj system. For those who are a little braver, keep going over boulders and along narrow paths, past abandoned villages and deeper pools until you find yourself at the water source. WHITE SANDS BEACH A beautiful small stretch of beach with gleaming white sand and sapphire waters interrupts the rocky coastline not far from Wadis Shab and Tiwi. If you wish to venture into the water, the snorkeling is great but if you would simply like to stretch your legs this is a wonderful place for beachcombing. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI TIWI Similar in form to Wadi Shab this wadi has the advantage of being discoverable by vehicle. You can wind your way through the, sometimes narrow, wadi enjoying the plantations and the pools from the comfort of your car. As in Wadi Shab, birds and butterflies abound and you will be given some fantastic photo opportunities. THE SUR DHOW FACTORY The old town of Sur faces out to the sea from whence its fortunes came. As the capital of the Sharqiya region, it has an illustrious past as one of the most important ports in the region, a key point of trade with East Africa and India. The forts and watchtowers, which circle the town, give a hint at its past significance. Head to the harbor to find its main attraction, the traditional dhow building yard that still manufactures wooden boats as it has for hundreds of years. Oman is immensely proud of its maritime heritage and, although demand has decreased, Sur still makes boats for customers all over the world, which are proof of the quality of their workmanship. The yard is a laid back place which you may wander around at your leisure.

19 RA AS AL HADD HOME OF THE TURTLES The stunning beaches of Ra as al Hadd are not only appealing to Oman s human visitors. Many turtles visit the most easterly point of the Sultanate to lay their precious eggs every year. To see these massive aquatic animals lumbering onto the shore to lay their eggs and to see the hundreds of tiny hatchlings scuttling down to the sea are rare sights indeed. Oman takes its responsibility seriously with regard to regulation and management of this phenomena and visitors are asked to respect the strict rules regarding photography of and interference with the turtles. You will stay in a nearby hotel and will then be driven to one of the nesting sites in the early morning to get your best chance of seeing the turtles in action. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach resort Hamoor non sea view room incl. HB DAY 05: RAS ALL HADD THE INLAND TOWNS - WADI BANI KHALID WAHIBA SANDS - MUSCAT**4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE INLAND TOWNS Echoes of the prosperity and significance of Ibra strategically situated on the old trade route between Muscat and Sur and onward to East Africa and India can still be felt in the old quarter through the remains of its stately mud brick mansions, numerous mosques and watchtowers. There is an ancient mosque which has two Qibla (directions in which to pray) one towards Mecca and one towards Jerusalem. This is testament to Oman s early adoption of Islam as it was during the Prophet Mohammed s lifetime that prayer was redirected from Jerusalem to Mecca. The old town of Al Kamil sits, surrounded by trees, on the Muscat to Sur highway where it forks east to Sur and south to Al Ashkara. An attractive place with crumbling watchtowers and a nice souq, the recent addition of the Castle Museum to Al Kamil makes a welcome break in your journey. This restored grand old family house is an eccentric but fascinating place packed full of objects collected by the family over the years. Travel further down highway to experience the authentic appeal of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan. Here you will find a simple mosque topped with no less than 52 domes. WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the

20 undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel, Al Waha superior room incl. BB DAY 06: MUSCAT NIZWA AL HAMRA BAHLA JABREEN MUSCAT **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience.

21 AL HAMRA AND BAIT AL SAFAH Driving into the well-preserved mountain town of Al Hamra is like stepping into a time warp. Traditional mud brick houses line winding, stony alleyways making it a great place to wander imagining how much, or how little, life must have changed. Whilst you re there pay a visit to Bait as Safah the traditional house which has been beautifully restored and turned into a living museum. Local ladies will show you the age-old methods of grinding coffee and flour, making bread and pressing oil. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX BAHLA: THE FORT AND ITS POTTERS It is rumored that the potters of Bahla have magic in their fingers and, whether this is true or not, this small town just 40km from Nizwa is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Oman s biggest and most elaborate forts and the only one inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is believed to have accommodated a fort since pre-islamic times but the present-day structure was built in the 13th century and extensively rebuilt in the 1600s. It was then closed for extensive renovation and reopened at the end of It is an enormous structure, which could occupy you for several hours if you wish to explore its rooms, towers, Mosques and wells in detail. Outside the Fort walls take a leisurely stroll amongst some of the fine old houses keeping your eyes peeled for sections of the ancient city walls. And then to those magic craftsmen, Bahla s potters dominate the lovely old Souq where the distinctive earthenware pottery and the tiny workshops that produce it can be found at every turn. JABREEN CASTLE: OMAN S MOST SPLENDID Standing alone on an empty plain, stark against the Jebel Akhdar mountain range in the background, Jabreen Castle will creep into your imagination as soon as you lay eyes on it. Widely regarded as Oman s most splendid castle, it was built during a period of peace, and its simple majesty reflects that. It is less fortified than other castles in the country and gives one the sense of calm, contemplation and of being a home recently abandoned. In reality it was only inhabited for a couple of decades before being deserted and sinking into disrepair until recent years. It is not a museum-style place, full of artifacts and trinkets to look at but this is more than made up for by its exquisite design features unmatched in Oman and something a little bit magical which is hard to put your finger on. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel, Al Waha superior room incl. BB

22 DAY 07: DOLPHIN WATCHING AND SNORKELING AFTERNON AT LEISURE Breakfast at the hotel 07:00 am / 09:00 am pick up from the hotel Your day will start on the water with a dolphin watching trip. EXPLORE MUSCAT BY SEA You don t have to travel far from land to find yourself surrounded by countless dolphins dancing in the waters around your boat. The Sea OF Oman is heavily populated with a variety of dolphins and an early morning boat trip is an excellent way to experience them at close quarters. Leaving from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha your boat captain will be talking. Afternoon at leisure Overnight at Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel, Al Waha superior room incl. BB DAY 08: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home.

23 HOTELS Hotel Shangri la Al Waha hotel, 5* beach hotel Wadi Shab resort, 4* beach hotel Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach hotel

24

25 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 02: FULL DAY MUSCAT CITY TOUR INCL DOLPHIN WATCHING IN THE MORNING **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 07:00 am / 09:00 am pick up from the hotel Your day will start on the water with a dolphin watching trip. Back on land you will then visit the Children s Museum for some interactive fun. Enjoy a picnic or lunch at a local restaurant after which you will spend the afternoon in one of the city shopping centers where the children can play in the dedicated Play Zones whilst the adults enjoy some gentle shopping. EXPLORE MUSCAT BY SEA You don t have to travel far from land to find yourself surrounded by countless dolphins dancing in the waters around your boat. The Sea OF Oman is heavily populated with a variety of dolphins and an early morning boat trip is an excellent way to experience them at close quarters. Leaving from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha your boat captain will be talking to the other boats at sea on the radio to give you the very best chance of finding these friendly fish. LET THE KIDS RUN WILD AT THE CHILDREN S MUSEUM Are the children tired of sightseeing and history museums? Give them a couple of hours off in the brilliantly interactive Children s Museum. They can press buttons, turn handles, leap about on shadow walls and keep themselves entertained whilst absorbing all sorts of scientific facts. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT 3 HOURS AT GRAND MALL OR CITY CENTER SEEB MALL Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB

26 DAY 03: MUSCAT QURIYAT WADI DAYQAH WADI ARBAEEN BIMAKH SINKHOLE **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel QURIYAT AND WADI DAYQAH Quriyat is the plural of Quriya meaning village, so called because, although a modestly sized town, it is a collective of around 30 distinct communities. It sits on the coast 80km from Muscat, an old fishing port that boasts a pretty seafront and harbor and an attractive 200-year-old fort another one that has recently reopened after substantial renovation. Not far from the town is the impressive Wadi Dayqah Dam, which was completed in 2012 in a bid to assist with the management of the limited water resources in the Sultanate. In Oman s predominantly arid landscape it is a wonder to see such an enormous body of clear blue water. WADI ARBAEEN An untouched haven of water and mountains, Wadi Arbaeen owes much of its undisturbed beauty to the fact that it lies off the main drag and therefore its visitors are limited. After a short bumpy ride through pools and over boulders you will find yourself in the midst of tranquil nature with little but birdsong and the splash of tiny waterfalls to disturb you. Relax and enjoy the clear refreshing pools or take a walk deeper into the wadi to find yourself even further from humanity. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX THE BIMMAH SINKHOLE Recently mooted as the most beautiful sinkhole in the world, the cerulean waters of Bimmah Sinkhole attract thousands of visitors every year. It was created by the collapse of a soft limestone ceiling in an underground cavern which is rather less poetic than the Arabic name of Meteor Fall Park suggests. The sinkhole is a beautiful natural phenomenon and a great place to stop for photos or a quick swim. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Wadi Shab Beach resort, 3* beach resort, Deluxe room incl. HB

27 DAY 04: WADI SHAB FINNS BEACH - WADI TIWI SUR RAS AL HADD **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel WADI SHAB Cutting a narrow, deep slice through the mountain Wadi Shab offers visitors a charming walk through the village past impossibly blue pools of water, date and banana plantations, terraced fields and an inventive falaj system. For those who are a little braver, keep going over boulders and along narrow paths, past abandoned villages and deeper pools until you find yourself at the water source. WHITE SANDS BEACH A beautiful small stretch of beach with gleaming white sand and sapphire waters interrupts the rocky coastline not far from Wadis Shab and Tiwi. If you wish to venture into the water, the snorkeling is great but if you would simply like to stretch your legs this is a wonderful place for beachcombing. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI TIWI Similar in form to Wadi Shab this wadi has the advantage of being discoverable by vehicle. You can wind your way through the, sometimes narrow, wadi enjoying the plantations and the pools from the comfort of your car. As in Wadi Shab, birds and butterflies abound and you will be given some fantastic photo opportunities. THE SUR DHOW FACTORY The old town of Sur faces out to the sea from whence its fortunes came. As the capital of the Sharqiya region, it has an illustrious past as one of the most important ports in the region, a key point of trade with East Africa and India. The forts and watchtowers, which circle the town, give a hint at its past significance. Head to the harbor to find its main attraction, the traditional dhow building yard that still manufactures wooden boats as it has for hundreds of years. Oman is immensely proud of its maritime heritage and, although demand has decreased, Sur still makes boats for customers all over the world, which are proof of the quality of their workmanship. The yard is a laid back place which you may wander around at your leisure.

28 RA AS AL HADD HOME OF THE TURTLES The stunning beaches of Ra as al Hadd are not only appealing to Oman s human visitors. Many turtles visit the most easterly point of the Sultanate to lay their precious eggs every year. To see these massive aquatic animals lumbering onto the shore to lay their eggs and to see the hundreds of tiny hatchlings scuttling down to the sea are rare sights indeed. Oman takes its responsibility seriously with regard to regulation and management of this phenomena and visitors are asked to respect the strict rules regarding photography of and interference with the turtles. You will stay in a nearby hotel and will then be driven to one of the nesting sites in the early morning to get your best chance of seeing the turtles in action. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach resort Hamoor non sea view room incl. HB DAY 05: RAS ALL HADD THE INLAND TOWNS - WADI BANI KHALID WAHIBA SANDS **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE INLAND TOWNS Echoes of the prosperity and significance of Ibra strategically situated on the old trade route between Muscat and Sur and onward to East Africa and India can still be felt in the old quarter through the remains of its stately mud brick mansions, numerous mosques and watchtowers. There is an ancient mosque which has two Qibla (directions in which to pray) one towards Mecca and one towards Jerusalem. This is testament to Oman s early adoption of Islam as it was during the Prophet Mohammed s lifetime that prayer was redirected from Jerusalem to Mecca. The old town of Al Kamil sits, surrounded by trees, on the Muscat to Sur highway where it forks east to Sur and south to Al Ashkara. An attractive place with crumbling watchtowers and a nice souq, the recent addition of the Castle Museum to Al Kamil makes a welcome break in your journey. This restored grand old family house is an eccentric but fascinating place packed full of objects collected by the family over the years. Travel further down highway to experience the authentic appeal of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan. Here you will find a simple mosque topped with no less than 52 domes.

29 WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp, Tent room incl. HB DAY 06: WAHIBA NIZWA FORT AND SOUQ - BAHLA JABREEN MUSCAT **4WD** Breakfast at the camp and check out 08:00 am pick up from the camp

30 NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience. BAHLA: THE FORT AND ITS POTTERS It is rumoured that the potters of Bahla have magic in their fingers and, whether this is true or not, this small town just 40km from Nizwa is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Oman s biggest and most elaborate forts and the only one inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is believed to have accommodated a fort since pre-islamic times but the present-day structure was built in the 13th century and extensively rebuilt in the 1600s. It was then closed for extensive renovation and reopened at the end of It is an enormous structure, which could occupy you for several hours if you wish to explore its rooms, towers, Mosques and wells in detail. Outside the Fort walls take a leisurely stroll amongst some of the fine old houses keeping your eyes peeled for sections of the ancient city walls. And then to those magic craftsmen, Bahla s potters dominate the lovely old Souq where the distinctive earthenware pottery and the tiny workshops that produce it can be found at every turn. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT JABREEN CASTLE: OMAN S MOST SPLENDID Standing alone on an empty plain, stark against the Jebel Akhdar mountain range in the background, Jabreen Castle will creep into your imagination as soon as you lay eyes on it. Widely regarded as Oman s most splendid castle, it was built during a period of peace, and its simple majesty reflects that. It is less fortified than other castles in the country and gives one the sense of calm, contemplation and of being a home recently abandoned. In reality it was only inhabited for a couple

31 of decades before being deserted and sinking into disrepair until recent years. It is not a museumstyle place, full of artifacts and trinkets to look at but this is more than made up for by its exquisite design features unmatched in Oman and something a little bit magical which is hard to put your finger on. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 07: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home.

32 HOTELS Hotel Muscat Holiday hotel, 4* city hotel Wadi Shab resort, 4* beach hotel Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach hotel Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp

33

34 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 02: FULL DAY MUSCAT CITY TOUR **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Not to be missed whilst in Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a breathtaking and thoroughly original example of modern Islamic architecture. For many the muted shades and understated elegance of its exterior, which hide the sheer scale and opulence, found within make it the most beautiful mosque in the world. Opened by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in May 2001, the mosque can hold over 20,000 worshippers in its prayer halls, courtyards and passageways. Feast your eyes on the treasures within the enormous hand-woven carpet lying in the main prayer hall and the magnificent Swarovski chandelier that hangs from the central dome bathing the room in an exquisite light - both of which are amongst the largest in the world. Make some time to visit the fascinating library and look at the intricate mosaic designs in the outer corridors, which are equally charming. At night the mosque is tastefully lit against the dark sky and is a treat to behold MAKE A SPLASH AT WADI AL KHOUD A world away from city life, get the chance to settle under some shade near the village to relax and watch the colorful birds, have a cooling dip in the pools and streams which are plentiful in the winter months or take a thrilling drive deeper into the Wadi splashing and sliding through the water. The delightful village of Al Khoud is just 20 minutes from Muscat International Airport and is the perfect place to experience a bit of rural Oman without venturing too far from the city. The Wadi, or river bed, is a huge valley which stretches for many kilometers but you can choose to explore as little or as much as you wish. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT

35 MUTRAH A SLICE OF OMANI LIFE This old center of Oman s trade boasts an enchanting mix of old and new: in busy Port Sultan Qaboos you will see rickety old fishing dhows tied up alongside cruise liners and vast cargo ships gleaming in the sunshine; in the souq you will find stalls selling the finest Omani incense and ornate silver khanjars amongst many other treasures. The main drag of the souq retains the hustle, the bustle, the smells and the sounds of the old market but also seek out the rambling streets and dusty shops which spread out behind the souq and use your bartering skills to pick up some spices, nuts, jewelry, scarves or souvenirs to take home. With its magnificent mountain backdrop the cornice curving around the natural sea harbor is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or relax with a fruit juice absorbing the Mutrah life and the buzz of daily life. There are winding alleyways to explore and the intricate Lawati Mosque and old Portuguese merchants houses to photograph. Early risers should also arrange a visit to the fish market where between 6 and 10am you can see local fishermen selling their daily catch. The market operates as it has for centuries with an ever changing array of seafood spread out on concrete slabs by swarthy old fishermen who then bundle it into bags for customers to take home. Drive the old road behind Riyam park to get some great views or take a two hour hike along the ancient pathway in the Ophiolite hills. Seek out the history museum at Bait al Baranda at one end of the cornice and Ghalaya s Museum of Modern Art at the other. A CULTURAL EXPERIENCE AT BAIT AL ZUBAIR MUSEUM A collection of marvelous treasures, which paint a picture of Oman long ago. Located in old Muscat this beautiful old townhouse was converted into a museum by the Zubair family in Since then it grown into a network of rooms and galleries exhibiting all manner of wonderful things. It houses a wealth of old coins, weaponry, jewelry, pottery, furniture and clothing which give a alluring glimpse into the Omani past. Outside in the courtyard you can see an example of an old village with a functioning falaj system - critical to cultivation in days gone by and still used by farmers in the interior today. In addition to its collection of artifacts, Bait al Zubair has also become a leading center.

36 MUSCAT OLD TOWN Its harbor still guarded by the ancient twin forts of Jalali and Mirani, old Muscat is the small administrative center of the Sultanate where, until as recently as 1970, the city gates would lock the walled city at nightfall. See the old city gates and parts of the wall which have been restored, wander up the promenade towards the striking architecture of Al Alam Palace, one of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said s official residences and visit the old harbor with its centuries old stone sentinels. Those in search of some historical facts and figures will find several museums: as well as Bait al Zubair, there is the Omani-Franco museum and the Muscat Gate Museum and, opening in late 2014, the much anticipated National Museum. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 03: MUSCAT BARKA FISH MARKET NAKHL RUSTAQ JABEL SHAMS **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel You will be collected from your hotel at the morning and driven to Barka to see the Fish Souq in full swing. Cherish the date palm plantations on the road to Nakhl where you will enjoy the warm waters of the Thowara Spring, see the impressive falaj system and wander around the highest fort in Oman. After a picnic or lunch in a local restaurant, you will head through a break in the Jebel and into Wadi Bani Auf. Enjoy the scenery and the thrilling drive as you venture further into the wadi until you reach the charming, tranquil village of Bilad Sayt where you can enjoy a gentle walk around the beautiful houses and terraces. BARKA FISH SOUQ Little more than a large canopy standing virtually on the beach, an early morning visit to Barka s fabulous fish market is a great way to start a trip to Al Batinah region. Open every morning, the market teems with fishermen trading their early morning catch; tuna, hamour, mullet, sardines, squid and, if you re in the right season, Omani lobsters and prawns. Auctioneers command the crowd from a dedicated area selling the bigger fish and around the market fruit and vegetable sellers set up stalls to tempt the passing custom. Make sure you get up early to see this delightful place and experience a slice of Oman unchanged.

37 NAKHL: THE FORT AND THE TEMPTING WARM WATER SPRING Nakhl means date palm and as soon as you ascend to any height you will see why; the old town sits amid vast swathes of rich green date plantation. The finest Omani dates come from here farmed using very long, sophisticated irrigation systems which ensure the water is distributed throughout the town. Dip your feet into the warm waters of the famous Thowara Spring and see the water source itself and the locals swimming in the shady pools. Make your way back through the old part of the town to the imposing Nakhl Fort, the highest fort in Oman. This is a charming old building to explore and there are some glorious views from the higher ramparts. RUSTAQ: THE FORT AND THE HEALING HOT WATERS Rustaq is a sprawling town famous for its ancient fort, the exceptional honey made nearby and healing hot waters. The Al Kisfr Hot Springs run at 45 C are known for their healing properties particularly beneficial for rheumatism and skin problems. After a look at the springs wind your way through the town s old quarter, noting the henna trees growing there, to see the commanding edifice of Rustaq Fort. The fort as we now know it was built in the 17th century on the site of the 13th century fort Qalat Al Kisra and it was a prominent site for religious learning in Oman for many years. The newly renovated building is an imposing one, constructed over three levels and watched over by four towers. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI GHUL, WADI NAKHER AND JEBEL SHAMS: OMAN S GRAND CANYON The two wadis slice through rock to create a vast, deep gorge in the shadow of Jebel Shams the highest peak in the Sultanate - to create Oman s Grand Canyon, the most dramatic natural feature in a country which has many on offer. Driving from Nizwa you will stop at Ghul first. See the ancient abandoned villages on the hillside before you continue along the wadi bed to Wadi Nakher with Jebel Shams, or the Sun Mountain towering above you. The drive from Nizwa around the flanks of the mountain and up to the peak will take you around an hour and a half. Once at the top the views of the very scale of the great chasm created by Wadis Nakher and Ghul below is mind-blowing. There is virtually nothing manmade anywhere in sight but take time to look for the giveaway wisps of smoke from the tiny villages which lie almost imperceptible in the wadis below and watch the Egyptian vultures circling high on the thermals. Visit the tiny village of Khateem clinging to the rocks to look at the goat wool rugs and trinkets made up here on the mountain. Go for a short stroll to absorb rugged, desolate beauty of the place, or take a more serious trek down into the Canyon to the deserted village of Sab Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Jabel Shams resort, Mountain resort, Sunset chalet incl. HB

38 DAY 04: JABEL SHAMS AL HAMRA BAIT AL SAFAH BIRKAT AL MAUZ JABEL AKHDAR **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel AL HAMRA AND BAIT AL SAFAH Driving into the well-preserved mountain town of Al Hamra is like stepping into a time warp. Traditional mud brick houses line winding, stony alleyways making it a great place to wander imagining how much, or how little, life must have changed. Whilst you re there pay a visit to Bait as Safah the traditional house which has been beautifully restored and turned into a living museum. Local ladies will show you the age-old methods of grinding coffee and flour, making bread and pressing oil. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT JEBEL AKHDAR: THE GREEN MOUNTAIN The personality of Jebel Akhdar is singular. Its wadis, plateaus, peaks and terraced hillside all enjoy cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than elsewhere in Oman, which give this mountain region a gentler face than others. You will start your uphill journey in the village of Birkat al Mawz that was named after its extensive banana cultivation and the pools of mountain water which collect here. There are some attractive old houses here and a 17th century Mosque. The village is the gateway into Wadi Madaeen, which carves its way through the mountainside. Follow the blacktop road for 36km up onto Saiq Plateau, a vast upland expanse lying at 2,000m above sea level. The Plateau has been inhabited and cultivated for many years but, until the blacktop road was completed in recent years, it remained virtually inaccessible to visitors. There are many interesting sights up here - walk down the steps into wonderful Wadi Bani Habib with its crumbling abandoned houses and cultivated wadi bed where garlic is grown in the clay soil in the middle and pomegranate trees cling to the side near the rocks; pay a visit to Al Ayn village where you can walk through traditional houses stacked on the mountainside; find the magnificent views of the villages of Al Ayn and Al Aqr hanging on the mountainsides; drive up to the highest point of the Jebel Akhdar to absorb the scenes beneath you; seek out the famed Jebel roses growing near the peak or simply walk around in the cooler air enjoying the pockets of green fecundity and growth in this unforgiving rocky terrain. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Alila resort, 5* mountain resort, Mountain view room incl. HB

39 DAY 05: NIZWA FORT AND SOUQ BAHLA JABREEN - MUSCAT **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience. BAHLA: THE FORT AND ITS POTTERS It is rumoured that the potters of Bahla have magic in their fingers and, whether this is true or not, this small town just 40km from Nizwa is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Oman s biggest and most elaborate forts and the only one inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is believed to have accommodated a fort since pre-islamic times but the present-day structure was built in the 13th century and extensively rebuilt in the 1600s. It was then closed for extensive renovation and reopened at the end of It is an enormous structure, which could occupy you for several hours if you wish to explore its rooms, towers, Mosques and wells in detail. Outside the Fort walls take a leisurely stroll amongst some of the fine old houses keeping your eyes peeled for sections of the ancient city walls. And then to those magic craftsmen, Bahla s potters dominate the lovely old Souq where the distinctive earthenware pottery and the tiny workshops that produce it can be found at every turn. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX

40 JABREEN CASTLE: OMAN S MOST SPLENDID Standing alone on an empty plain, stark against the Jebel Akhdar mountain range in the background, Jabreen Castle will creep into your imagination as soon as you lay eyes on it. Widely regarded as Oman s most spendid castle, it was built during a period of of peace, and its simple majesty reflects that. It is less fortified than other castles in the country and gives one the sense of calm, contemplation and of being a home recently abandoned. In reality it was only inhabited for a couple of decades before being deserted and sinking into disrepair until recent years. It is not a museum-style place, full of artifacts and trinkets to look at but this is more than made up for by its exquisite design features unmatched in Oman and something a little bit magical which is hard to put your finger on. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 06: MUSCAT - WAHIBA SANDS WADI BANI KHALID MUSCAT RETURN RENTAL CAR **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am start your journey from the hotel BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX

41 WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 07: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home.

42 HOTELS Hotel Muscat Holiday hotel, 4* city hotel Jebel Shams resort, Mountain resort Alila hotel, 5* Mountain resort

43

44 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 02: FULL DAY MUSCAT CITY TOUR **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel After the splendor of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, give your senses a treat at the House of Amouage and its visitors center. Finish this full-day tour with some shopping at the modern City Centre shopping mall THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Not to be missed whilst in Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a breathtaking and thoroughly original example of modern Islamic architecture. For many the muted shades and understated elegance of its exterior, which hide the sheer scale and opulence, found within make it the most beautiful mosque in the world. Opened by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in May 2001, the mosque can hold over 20,000 worshippers in its prayer halls, courtyards and passageways. Feast your eyes on the treasures within the enormous hand-woven carpet lying in the main prayer hall and the magnificent Swarovski chandelier that hangs from the central dome bathing the room in an exquisite light - both of which are amongst the largest in the world. Make some time to visit the fascinating library and look at the intricate mosaic designs in the outer corridors, which are equally charming. At night the mosque is tastefully lit against the dark sky and is a treat to behold EXPLORE THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Browse the fossils and study the rock samples in this wonderful small museum, a great morning out for nature lovers, amateur geologists and those who would love to learn more about the flora, fauna and topography of Oman. You won t miss the vast whale skeleton welcoming you to the famous sea life exhibit where you can learn so much about Oman s precious ocean environment.

45 CELEBRATE THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT Considered to be one of the world s finest acoustic spaces, the serene beauty of the Royal Opera House Muscat stands proud in the center of the Capital Area. Already a national icon the Opera House is the center for performing arts in the country and every season it invites only the very best international companies and performers to grace its stage. If you are not able to see one of their worldclass performances, the building is open to the public in the mornings so arrange a visit to marvel at the magnificent external architecture and spectacular interior decoration. AMOUAGE THE GIFT OF KINGS Fancy the chance to see the workings behind one of the most luxurious perfume brands in the world? A knowledgeable guide will walk you around the Visitors Centre and talk you through the history, raw ingredients and various production stages of the Amouage range. You will smell fantastic for the rest of the day after being given a rare opportunity to sample these world famous fragrances. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 03: MUSCAT BARKA FISH MARKET NAKHL RUSTAQ WADI BANI AUF **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel Start towards to Barka to see the Fish Souq in full swing. Cherish the date palm plantations on the road to Nakhl where you will enjoy the warm waters of the Thowara Spring, see the impressive falaj system and wander around the highest fort in Oman. After a picnic or lunch in a local restaurant, you will head through a break in the Jebel and into Wadi Bani Auf. Enjoy the scenery and the thrilling drive as you venture further into the wadi until you reach the charming, tranquil village of Bilad Sayt where you can enjoy a gentle walk around the beautiful houses and terraces. BARKA FISH SOUQ Little more than a large canopy standing virtually on the beach, an early morning visit to Barka s fabulous fish market is a great way to start a trip to Al Batinah region. Open every morning, the market teems with fishermen trading their early morning catch; tuna, hamour, mullet, sardines, squid and, if you re in the right season, Omani lobsters and prawns. Auctioneers command the crowd from a dedicated area selling the bigger fish and around the market fruit and vegetable sellers set up stalls to tempt the passing custom. Make sure you get up early to see this delightful place and experience a slice of Oman unchanged.

46 NAKHL: THE FORT AND THE TEMPTING WARM WATER SPRING Nakhl means date palm and as soon as you ascend to any height you will see why; the old town sits amid vast swathes of rich green date plantation. The finest Omani dates come from here farmed using very long, sophisticated irrigation systems which ensure the water is distributed throughout the town. Dip your feet into the warm waters of the famous Thowara Spring and see the water source itself and the locals swimming in the shady pools. Make your way back through the old part of the town to the imposing Nakhl Fort, the highest fort in Oman. This is a charming old building to explore and there are some glorious views from the higher ramparts. RUSTAQ: THE FORT AND THE HEALING HOT WATERS Rustaq is a sprawling town famous for its ancient fort, the exceptional honey made nearby and healing hot waters. The Al Kisfr Hot Springs run at 45 C are known for their healing properties particularly beneficial for rheumatism and skin problems. After a look at the springs wind your way through the town s old quarter, noting the henna trees growing there, to see the commanding edifice of Rustaq Fort. The fort as we now know it was built in the 17th century on the site of the 13th century fort Qalat Al Kisra and it was a prominent site for religious learning in Oman for many years. The newly renovated building is an imposing one, constructed over three levels and watched over by four towers. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI BANI AUF AND THE VILLAGE OF BILAD SAYT Wadi Bani Auf is a 26km long, dramatic gorge, which you can follow high up into the Hajar Mountains. It is the home to the Al Aufi tribe who populate lovely old villages growing fruits and vegetables in the fertile land and keeping bees to make the honey the region is famous for. Further into the wadi, inaccessible by vehicle, there is the formidable Snake Canyon that offers brave visitors a challenging hike through pools, down slippery slopes and over large boulders. Continue higher a drive that is not for the faint hearted and you will reach the enchanting mountain hamlet of Bilad Sayt where you can walk through the labyrinthine passageways between traditional stone and mud houses and enjoy the rich green patchwork of terraced fields which surround this rural village. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Jabel Shams resort, Mountain resort, Sunset chalet incl. HB

47 DAY 04: JABEL SHAMS AL HAMRA BAIT AL SAFAH BAHLA JABREEN NIZWA FORT AND SOUQ **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel AL HAMRA AND BAIT AL SAFAH Driving into the well-preserved mountain town of Al Hamra is like stepping into a time warp. Traditional mudbrick houses line winding, stony alleyways making it a great place to wander imagining how much, or how little, life must have changed. Whilst you re there pay a visit to Bait as Safah the traditional house which has been beautifully restored and turned into a living museum. Local ladies will show you the age-old methods of grinding coffee and flour, making bread and pressing oil. BAHLA: THE FORT AND ITS POTTERS It is rumoured that the potters of Bahla have magic in their fingers and, whether this is true or not, this small town just 40km from Nizwa is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Oman s biggest and most elaborate forts and the only one inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is believed to have accommodated a fort since pre-islamic times but the present-day structure was built in the 13th century and extensively rebuilt in the 1600s. It was then closed for extensive renovation and reopened at the end of It is an enormous structure, which could occupy you for several hours if you wish to explore its rooms, towers, Mosques and wells in detail. Outside the Fort walls take a leisurely stroll amongst some of the fine old houses keeping your eyes peeled for sections of the ancient city walls. And then to those magic craftsmen, Bahla s potters dominate the lovely old Souq where the distinctive earthenware pottery and the tiny workshops that produce it can be found at every turn. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT JABREEN CASTLE: OMAN S MOST SPLENDID Standing alone on an empty plain, stark against the Jebel Akhdar mountain range in the background, Jabreen Castle will creep into your imagination as soon as you lay eyes on it. Widely regarded as Oman s most spendid castle, it was built during a period of of peace, and its simple majesty reflects that. It is less fortified than other castles in the country and gives one the sense of calm, contemplation and of being a home recently abandoned. In reality it was only inhabited for a couple of decades before being deserted and sinking into disrepair until recent years. It is not a museum-style place, full of artifacts and trinkets to look at but this is more than made up for by its exquisite design features unmatched in Oman and something a little bit magical which is hard to put your finger on.

48 NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Golden Tulip Nizwa hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 05: NIZWA JABEL AKHDAR BIRAKAT AL MAUZ WAHIBA SANDS **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel JEBEL AKHDAR: THE GREEN MOUNTAIN The personality of Jebel Akhdar is singular. Its wadis, plateaus, peaks and terraced hillside all enjoy cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than elsewhere in Oman, which give this mountain region a gentler face than others. You will start your uphill journey in the village of Birkat al Mawz that was named after its extensive banana cultivation and the pools of mountain water which collect here. There are some attractive old houses here and a 17th century Mosque. The village is the gateway into Wadi Madaeen, which carves its way through the mountainside. Follow the blacktop road for 36km up onto Saiq Plateau, a vast upland expanse lying at 2,000m above sea level. The Plateau has been inhabited and cultivated for many years but, until the blacktop road was completed in recent years, it remained virtually inaccessible to visitors. There are many interesting sights up here - walk down the steps into wonderful Wadi Bani Habib with its crumbling abandoned houses and cultivated wadi bed where garlic is grown in the clay soil in the middle and pomegranate trees cling to the side near the rocks; pay a visit to Al Ayn village where you can walk through traditional houses stacked on the mountainside; find the magnificent views of the villages of Al Ayn and Al Aqr hanging on the mountainsides; drive up to the highest point of the Jebel Akhdar to absorb the scenes beneath you; seek out the famed Jebel roses growing near the peak or simply walk around in the cooler air enjoying the pockets of green fecundity and growth in this unforgiving rocky terrain. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX

49 BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp, Tent room incl. HB DAY 06: WAHIBA SANDS THE INLAND TOWNS - WADI BANI KHALID RAS AL HADD **4WD** Breakfast at the camp and check out 10:00 am pick up from the camp THE INLAND TOWNS Echoes of the prosperity and significance of Ibra strategically situated on the old trade route between Muscat and Sur and onward to East Africa and India can still be felt in the old quarter through the remains of its stately mud brick mansions, numerous mosques and watchtowers. There is an ancient mosque which has two Qibla (directions in which to pray) one towards Mecca and one towards Jerusalem. This is testament to Oman s early adoption of Islam as it was during the Prophet Mohammed s lifetime that prayer was redirected from Jerusalem to Mecca. The old town of Al Kamil sits, surrounded by trees, on the Muscat to Sur highway where it forks east to Sur and south to Al Ashkara. An attractive place with crumbling watchtowers and a nice souq, the recent addition of the Castle Museum to Al Kamil makes a welcome break in your journey. This restored grand old family house is an eccentric but fascinating place packed full of objects collected by the family over the years. Travel further down highway to experience the authentic appeal of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan. Here you will find a simple mosque topped with no less than 52 domes.

50 WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX RA AS AL HADD HOME OF THE TURTLES The stunning beaches of Ra as al Hadd are not only appealing to Oman s human visitors. Many turtles visit the most easterly point of the Sultanate to lay their precious eggs every year. To see these massive aquatic animals lumbering onto the shore to lay their eggs and to see the hundreds of tiny hatchlings scuttling down to the sea are rare sights indeed. Oman takes its responsibility seriously with regard to regulation and management of this phenomena and visitors are asked to respect the strict rules regarding photography of and interference with the turtles. You will stay in a nearby hotel and will then be driven to one of the nesting sites in the early morning to get your best chance of seeing the turtles in action. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 14:00 14:30 Overnight at Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach resort Hamoor non sea view room incl. HB DAY 07: RAS AL HADD SUR WADI TIWI FINNS BEACH - WADI SHAB **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel THE SUR DHOW FACTORY The old town of Sur faces out to the sea from whence its fortunes came. As the capital of the Sharqiya region, it has an illustrious past as one of the most important ports in the region, a key point of trade with East Africa and India. The forts and watchtowers, which circle the town, give a hint at its past significance. Head to the harbor to find its main attraction, the traditional dhow building yard that still manufactures wooden boats as it has for hundreds of years. Oman is immensely proud of its maritime heritage and, although demand has decreased, Sur still makes boats for customers all over the world, which are proof of the quality of their workmanship. The yard is a laid back place which you may wander around at your leisure.

51 WADI TIWI Similar in form to Wadi Shab this wadi has the advantage of being discoverable by vehicle. You can wind your way through the, sometimes narrow, wadi enjoying the plantations and the pools from the comfort of your car. As in Wadi Shab, birds and butterflies abound and you will be given some fantastic photo opportunities. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WHITE SANDS BEACH A beautiful small stretch of beach with gleaming white sand and sapphire waters interrupts the rocky coastline not far from Wadis Shab and Tiwi. If you wish to venture into the water, the snorkeling is great but if you would simply like to stretch your legs this is a wonderful place for beachcombing. WADI SHAB Cutting a narrow, deep slice through the mountain Wadi Shab offers visitors a charming walk through the village past impossibly blue pools of water, date and banana plantations, terraced fields and an inventive falaj system. For those who are a little braver, keep going over boulders and along narrow paths, past abandoned villages and deeper pools until you find yourself at the water source. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Wadi Shab Beach resort, 3* beach resort, Deluxe room incl. HB DAY 08: WADI SHAB BIMAKH SINKHOLE WADI ARBAEEN WADI DAYQAH QURIYAT MUSCAT RETURN RENTAL CAR **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am start your journey from the hotel THE BIMMAH SINKHOLE Recently mooted as the most beautiful sinkhole in the world, the cerulean waters of Bimmah Sinkhole attract thousands of visitors every year. It was created by the collapse of a soft limestone ceiling in an underground cavern which is rather less poetic than the Arabic name of Meteor Fall Park suggests. The sinkhole is a beautiful natural phenomenon and a great place to stop for photos or a quick swim. WADI ARBAEEN An untouched haven of water and mountains, Wadi Arbaeen owes much of its undisturbed beauty to the fact that it lies off the main drag and therefore its visitors are limited. After a short bumpy ride through pools and over boulders you will find yourself in the midst of tranquil nature with little but birdsong and the splash of tiny waterfalls to disturb you. Relax and enjoy the clear refreshing pools or take a walk deeper into the wadi to find yourself even further from humanity.

52 LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX QURIYAT AND WADI DAYQAH Quriyat is the plural of Quriya meaning village, so called because, although a modestly sized town, it is a collective of around 30 distinct communities. It sits on the coast 80km from Muscat, an old fishing port that boasts a pretty seafront and harbour and an attractive 200-year-old fort another one that has recently reopened after substantial renovation.not far from the town is the impressive Wadi Dayqah Dam, which was completed in 2012 in a bid to assist with the management of the limited water resources in the Sultanate. In Oman s predominantly arid landscape it is a wonder to see such an enormous body of clear blue water. After Quriyat you will get onto the coast road and drive back to Muscat. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 09: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home.

53 HOTELS Hotel Muscat Holiday hotel, 4* city hotel Jebel Shams resort, Mountain resort Golden Tulip Nizwa, 4* city hotel Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach hotel Wadi Shab resort, 4* beach hotel

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55 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO MUSCAT AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Arrival in MCT International Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 02: FULL DAY MUSCAT CITY TOUR **SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel 09:00 am pick up from the hotel THE SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Not to be missed whilst in Muscat, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a breathtaking and thoroughly original example of modern Islamic architecture. For many the muted shades and understated elegance of its exterior, which hide the sheer scale and opulence, found within make it the most beautiful mosque in the world. Opened by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in May 2001, the mosque can hold over 20,000 worshippers in its prayer halls, courtyards and passageways. Feast your eyes on the treasures within the enormous hand-woven carpet lying in the main prayer hall and the magnificent Swarovski chandelier that hangs from the central dome bathing the room in an exquisite light - both of which are amongst the largest in the world. Make some time to visit the fascinating library and look at the intricate mosaic designs in the outer corridors, which are equally charming. At night the mosque is tastefully lit against the dark sky and is a treat to behold MAKE A SPLASH AT WADI AL KHOUD A world away from city life, get the chance to settle under some shade near the village to relax and watch the colorful birds, have a cooling dip in the pools and streams which are plentiful in the winter months or take a thrilling drive deeper into the Wadi splashing and sliding through the water. The delightful village of Al Khoud is just 20 minutes from Muscat International Airport and is the perfect place to experience a bit of rural Oman without venturing too far from the city. The Wadi, or river bed, is a huge valley which stretches for many kilometers but you can choose to explore as little or as much as you wish. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT

56 MUTRAH A SLICE OF OMANI LIFE This old centre of Oman s trade boasts an enchanting mix of old and new: in busy Port Sultan Qaboos you will see rickety old fishing dhows tied up alongside cruise liners and vast cargo ships gleaming in the sunshine; in the souq you will find stalls selling the finest Omani incense and ornate silver khanjars amongst many other treasures. The main drag of the souq retains the hustle, the bustle, the smells and the sounds of the old market but also seek out the rambling streets and dusty shops which spread out behind the souq and use your bartering skills to pick up some spices, nuts, jewelry, scarves or souvenirs to take home. With its magnificent mountain backdrop the corniche curving around the natural sea harbor is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or relax with a fruit juice absorbing the Mutrah life and the buzz of daily life. There are winding alleyways to explore and the intricate Lawati Mosque and old Portuguese merchants houses to photograph. Early risers should also arrange a visit to the fish market where between 6 and 10am you can see local fishermen selling their daily catch. The market operates as it has for centuries with an ever changing array of seafood spread out on concrete slabs by swarthy old fishermen who then bundle it into bags for customers to take home. Drive the old road behind Riyam park to get some great views or take a two hour hike along the ancient pathway in the Ophiolite hills. Seek out the history museum at Bait al Baranda at one end of the corniche and Ghalaya s Museum of Modern Art at the other. A CULTURAL EXPERIENCE AT BAIT AL ZUBAIR MUSEUM A collection of marvelous treasures, which paint a picture of Oman long ago. Located in old Muscat this beautiful old townhouse was converted into a museum by the Zubair family in Since then it grown into a network of rooms and galleries exhibiting all manner of wonderful things. It houses a wealth of old coins, weaponry, jewelry, pottery, furniture and clothing which give a alluring glimpse into the Omani past. Outside in the courtyard you can see an example of an old village with a functioning falaj system - critical to cultivation in days gone by and still used by farmers in the interior today. In addition to its collection of artifacts, Bait al Zubair has also become a leading center.

57 MUSCAT OLD TOWN Its harbor still guarded by the ancient twin forts of Jalali and Mirani, old Muscat is the small administrative center of the Sultanate where, until as recently as 1970, the city gates would lock the walled city at nightfall. See the old city gates and parts of the wall which have been restored, wander up the promenade towards the striking architecture of Al Alam Palace, one of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said s official residences and visit the old harbor with its centuries old stone sentinels. Those in search of some historical facts and figures will find several museums: as well as Bait al Zubair, there is the Omani-Franco museum and the Muscat Gate Museum and, opening in late 2014, the much anticipated National Museum. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 03: MUSCAT QURIYAT WADI DAYQAH WADI ARBAEEN BIMAKH SINKHOLE **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel QURIYAT AND WADI DAYQAH Quriyat is the plural of Quriya meaning village, so called because, although a modestly sized town, it is a collective of around 30 distinct communities. It sits on the coast 80km from Muscat, an old fishing port that boasts a pretty seafront and harbor and an attractive 200-year-old fort another one that has recently reopened after substantial renovation. Not far from the town is the impressive Wadi Dayqah Dam, which was completed in 2012 in a bid to assist with the management of the limited water resources in the Sultanate. In Oman s predominantly arid landscape it is a wonder to see such an enormous body of clear blue water. WADI ARBAEEN An untouched haven of water and mountains, Wadi Arbaeen owes much of its undisturbed beauty to the fact that it lies off the main drag and therefore its visitors are limited. After a short bumpy ride through pools and over boulders you will find yourself in the midst of tranquil nature with little but birdsong and the splash of tiny waterfalls to disturb you. Relax and enjoy the clear refreshing pools or take a walk deeper into the wadi to find yourself even further from humanity. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX

58 THE BIMMAH SINKHOLE Recently mooted as the most beautiful sinkhole in the world, the cerulean waters of Bimmah Sinkhole attract thousands of visitors every year. It was created by the collapse of a soft limestone ceiling in an underground cavern which is rather less poetic than the Arabic name of Meteor Fall Park suggests. The sinkhole is a beautiful natural phenomenon and a great place to stop for photos or a quick swim. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Wadi Shab Beach resort, 3* beach resort, Deluxe room incl. HB DAY 04: WADI SHAB FINNS BEACH - WADI TIWI SUR RAS AL HADD **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel WADI SHAB Cutting a narrow, deep slice through the mountain Wadi Shab offers visitors a charming walk through the village past impossibly blue pools of water, date and banana plantations, terraced fields and an inventive falaj system. For those who are a little braver, keep going over boulders and along narrow paths, past abandoned villages and deeper pools until you find yourself at the water source. WHITE SANDS BEACH A beautiful small stretch of beach with gleaming white sand and sapphire waters interrupts the rocky coastline not far from Wadis Shab and Tiwi. If you wish to venture into the water, the snorkeling is great but if you would simply like to stretch your legs this is a wonderful place for beachcombing. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX WADI TIWI Similar in form to Wadi Shab this wadi has the advantage of being discoverable by vehicle. You can wind your way through the, sometimes narrow, wadi enjoying the plantations and the pools from the comfort of your car. As in Wadi Shab, birds and butterflies abound and you will be given some fantastic photo opportunities. THE SUR DHOW FACTORY The old town of Sur faces out to the sea from whence its fortunes came. As the capital of the Sharqiya region, it has an illustrious past as one of the most important ports in the region, a key point of trade with East Africa and India. The forts and watchtowers, which circle the town, give a hint at its past significance. Head to the harbour to find its main attraction, the traditional dhow building yard that still manufactures wooden boats as it has for hundreds of years. Oman is immensely proud of its maritime heritage and, although demand has decreased, Sur still makes boats for customers all over the world, which are proof of the quality of their workmanship. The yard is a laid back place which you may wander around at your leisure.

59 RA AS AL HADD HOME OF THE TURTLES The stunning beaches of Ra as al Hadd are not only appealing to Oman s human visitors. Many turtles visit the most easterly point of the Sultanate to lay their precious eggs every year. To see these massive aquatic animals lumbering onto the shore to lay their eggs and to see the hundreds of tiny hatchlings scuttling down to the sea are rare sights indeed. Oman takes its responsibility seriously with regard to regulation and management of this phenomena and visitors are asked to respect the strict rules regarding photography of and interference with the turtles. You will stay in a nearby hotel and will then be driven to one of the nesting sites in the early morning to get your best chance of seeing the turtles in action. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 16:00 16:30 Overnight at Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach resort Hamoor non sea view room incl. HB DAY 05: RAS ALL HADD THE INLAND TOWNS - WADI BANI KHALID WAHIBA SANDS **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 10:00 am pick up from the hotel THE INLAND TOWNS Echoes of the prosperity and significance of Ibra strategically situated on the old trade route between Muscat and Sur and onward to East Africa and India can still be felt in the old quarter through the remains of its stately mud brick mansions, numerous mosques and watchtowers. There is an ancient mosque which has two Qibla (directions in which to pray) one towards Mecca and one towards Jerusalem. This is testament to Oman s early adoption of Islam as it was during the Prophet Mohammed s lifetime that prayer was redirected from Jerusalem to Mecca. The old town of Al Kamil sits, surrounded by trees, on the Muscat to Sur highway where it forks east to Sur and south to Al Ashkara. An attractive place with crumbling watchtowers and a nice souq, the recent addition of the Castle Museum to Al Kamil makes a welcome break in your journey. This restored grand old family house is an eccentric but fascinating place packed full of objects collected by the family over the years. Travel further down highway to experience the authentic appeal of Jalan Bani Bu Hassan. Here you will find a simple mosque topped with no less than 52 domes.

60 WADI BANI KHALID Water flows all year round in this very beautiful and popular natural retreat. A zigzag drive up the mountainside will get you to the entrance of this long river bed populated with villages and fertile plantations. The water flowing from several springs collects in deep, clear pools that are made easily accessible by a series of paths and bridges. You may swim but remain respectful to the local people by staying well covered. As long as the water levels are not too high you can explore further into the undeveloped parts of the wadi and, not for the faint hearted, take some sturdy walking shoes and a torch and seek out the Moqal Cave. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX BE MESMORISED BY THE WAHIBA SANDS A trip into the Wahiba (or Sharqiya) Sands is the perfect way to get taste of storybook Arabian desert. The rosy, windswept, ever moving dunes of the Sands are everything you imagine they will be. Bedu families still exist here eking out a traditional nomadic existence raising livestock with little but an exceptional understanding of the harsh environment in which they live. Living an incredible life far removed from that of most Omanis, the Bedu women are bold, brightly dressed and often to be seen behind the wheel of an ancient pick up hurtling up and down dunes. Whilst in the Sands with us you will get a glimpse of this lifestyle when you share coffee and dates with a Bedu family, look at some of the handicrafts made by the family and maybe have some henna painting done. You can also choose to so some Dune Bashing hurtling around the dunes in a 4WD handled by an experienced desert driver. If you wish to overnight in one of the well-equipped desert camps, you will see the desert at its most glorious as the sun sets and get the chance to go for a camel ride. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 14:00 14:30 Overnight at Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp, Tent room incl. HB DAY 06: WAHIBA NIZWA FORT AND SOUQ BIRKAT AL MAUZ JABEL AKHDAR **4WD** Breakfast at the camp and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel

61 NIZWA: THE FORT AND SOUQ Rising from the lush greenery and dates palms fed by the longest falaj system in the country, Nizwa city is a great place to spend the morning. You can not miss Nizwa Fort, an impressive piece of 17th century architecture whose 40m central tower soars above the rest of the building. Clamber up to the top for glorious views of the city and mountains beyond. Pay a visit to Nizwa Souq, which remains central to the life of the city providing locals with their daily needs and the souvenir-hunting visitor with Omani silver, halwa and excellent Khanjars. Although it is open every day, if you can manage it head to Nizwa Souq on a Friday morning when you will see the wonderful commotion of the goat and cattle auctions, a truly authentic experience. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT JEBEL AKHDAR: THE GREEN MOUNTAIN The personality of Jebel Akhdar is singular. Its wadis, plateaus, peaks and terraced hillside all enjoy cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than elsewhere in Oman, which give this mountain region a gentler face than others. You will start your uphill journey in the village of Birkat al Mawz that was named after its extensive banana cultivation and the pools of mountain water which collect here. There are some attractive old houses here and a 17th century Mosque. The village is the gateway into Wadi Madaeen, which carves its way through the mountainside. Follow the blacktop road for 36km up onto Saiq Plateau, a vast upland expanse lying at 2,000m above sea level. The Plateau has been inhabited and cultivated for many years but, until the blacktop road was completed in recent years, it remained virtually inaccessible to visitors. There are many interesting sights up here - walk down the steps into wonderful Wadi Bani Habib with its crumbling abandoned houses and cultivated wadi bed where garlic is grown in the clay soil in the middle and pomegranate trees cling to the side near the rocks; pay a visit to Al Ayn village where you can walk through traditional houses stacked on the mountainside; find the magnificent views of the villages of Al Ayn and Al Aqr hanging on the mountainsides; drive up to the highest point of the Jebel Akhdar to absorb the scenes beneath you; seek out the famed Jebel roses growing near the peak or simply walk around in the cooler air enjoying the pockets of green fecundity and growth in this unforgiving rocky terrain. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Sahab hotel, 4* mountain resort, Deluxe room incl. HB

62 DAY 07: JABEL AKHDAR - WADI BANI AUF NAKHL RUSTAQ MUSCAT RETURN RENTAL CAR **4WD** Breakfast at the hotel and check out 08:00 am pick up from the hotel WADI BANI AUF AND THE VILLAGE OF BILAD SAYT Wadi Bani Auf is a 26km long, dramatic gorge, which you can follow high up into the Hajar Mountains. It is the home to the Al Aufi tribe who populate lovely old villages growing fruits and vegetables in the fertile land and keeping bees to make the honey the region is famous for. Further into the wadi, inaccessible by vehicle, there is the formidable Snake Canyon that offers brave visitors a challenging hike through pools, down slippery slopes and over large boulders. Continue higher a drive that is not for the faint hearted and you will reach the enchanting mountain hamlet of Bilad Sayt where you can walk through the labyrinthine passageways between traditional stone and mud houses and enjoy the rich green patchwork of terraced fields which surround this rural village. LUNCH AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OR PICNIC LUNCH BOX NAKHL: THE FORT AND THE TEMPTING WARM WATER SPRING Nakhl means date palm and as soon as you ascend to any height you will see why; the old town sits amid vast swathes of rich green date plantation. The finest Omani dates come from here farmed using very long, sophisticated irrigation systems which ensure the water is distributed throughout the town. Dip your feet into the warm waters of the famous Thowara Spring and see the water source itself and the locals swimming in the shady pools. Make your way back through the old part of the town to the imposing Nakhl Fort, the highest fort in Oman. This is a charming old building to explore and there are some glorious views from the higher ramparts.

63 RUSTAQ: THE FORT AND THE HEALING HOT WATERS Rustaq is a sprawling town famous for its ancient fort, the exceptional honey made nearby and healing hot waters. The Al Kisfr Hot Springs run at 45 C are known for their healing properties particularly beneficial for rheumatism and skin problems. After a look at the springs wind your way through the town s old quarter, noting the henna trees growing there, to see the commanding edifice of Rustaq Fort. The fort as we now know it was built in the 17th century on the site of the 13th century fort Qalat Al Kisra and it was a prominent site for religious learning in Oman for many years. The newly renovated building is an imposing one, constructed over three levels and watched over by four towers. Estimate arrival time is approx.. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at Muscat Holiday Hotel, 4* city hotel, Standard room incl. BB DAY 08: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to Muscat Int l APT to fly home

64 HOTELS Hotel Muscat Holiday hotel, 4* city hotel Wadi Shab resort, 4* beach hotel Turtle Beach resort, 3* beach hotel Arabian Oryx Camp, Desert Camp Alila hotel, 5* Mountain resort

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66 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO SALALAH AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL AFTERNOON SALALAH CITY TOUR **SALON CAR / 4WD** Arrival in Salalah Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. 16:00 pm Pick up from the hotel. Proceed to visit The Museum of the Frankincense Land. Opened in July 2007 at Al Balid Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site located in Salalah, the Frankincense Land Museum is the latest addition to Oman s heritage and cultural scene. (Opened Sat - Wed 8:00 14:00 & 16:00 20:00, Thu Fri 16:00 20:00). It houses two main halls, namely the History Hall, depicting the geography, history of the ancient Frankincense trail and the historical background of the Sultanate through a number of archaeological findings, and The Marine Hall, featuring displays about the development of Oman s rich marine history. A complete history of the Maritime trade & ship building industry of Oman could be experienced here, with meticulously carved replicas of the ancient boats & ships of the Omani Maritime trade. Drive through lush green plantations of vegetables & fruits. Make a brief stop to taste a fresh coconut water drink at fruit stalls (at own cost) lining the streets within the periphery of the old Salalah town (Haffah). Make a Photo stop at the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque. View the Official Palace of His Majesty the Sultan (Al Husn Palace) & stroll through the old Haffah souq, famous for the sale of high quality Frankincense & numerous other Dhofari traditional souvenirs. Visit the new Salalah region of the gold/ silver souq, with ample opportunity for shopping, before we return to the hotel. Estimate arrival time is approx. 19:00 19:30 Overnight at SLL hotel as per tariff

67 DAY 02: FULL DAY EAST WEST SALALAH TOUR **SALON CAR / 4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel The excursion begins in the morning with a visit to the old fishing village of Taqah, famous for the manufacture of Dried Sardines & its traditional & old Dhofari Houses. Visit the century old Taqah Castle, the former official residence of the Wali (Governor) of the region & obtain a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Continue onto the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). The city was the easternmost outpost of the Hadramawt Kingdom on the ancient incense route between the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and India. Khor Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar, and one of the major trading cities with frankincense, believed to have been the hub & harbor for the shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage site). A picturesque drive then leads you to Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of the Frankincense trail. A picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant en route. Stroll through the streets lined with old Omani mud houses & visit the twin-domed Bin Ali s Tomb as a photo stop a classic example of medieval architecture. On our way back to western Salalah, explore the natural spring of Ayn Razat, beautifully laid out amidst the tranquil lush mountains & nourished every day of the year by natural underground spring water. Thereafter we proceed to Qara Mountains to explore the western part of Salalah. On a road steadily winding up a steep incline, herds of Camels & Cattle are a common sight which gives a scenic view of a traditional Dhofari rural beauty. Visit the ancient tomb of Prophet Job situated in the scenic green mountains of the Salalah Plains. Experience the legendary story of Prophet Job and his devoutness. Proceed to the beach of Mughsail where the white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean & at high tide, where waves burst through the natural titanic Blow Holes, at the far end of the Rocky beach with a cave-like entrance. We thereafter continue along the Hair-pin bend road towards Western Border of Oman, with its breath-taking cliffs on either side, to see the historical Frankincense trees growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the dry & craggy countryside. We take a short walk into the valleys to smell the Holy Incense amidst the scenic view of the region. On our return journey we make a photo stop at the lagoon at Mughsail where migratory birds occasionally flamingos are a common sight. Estimate arrival time is approx. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at SLL hotel as per tariff DAY 03: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to SLL APT to fly home.

68 HOTELS Hotel From Crowne Plaza & Hilton hotel From Marriott resort From Juweira & Rotana hotel INCLUDED SERVICES Picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant is provided on Day 2 All Meals are on food-only basis unless stated otherwise. Transfers, sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary with English speaking driver cum guide, with suitable vehicles (salon car max 3 pax, 4WD max 4 pax) All entrance fees to the sightseeing places as mentioned in the program (subject to change). Sites as mentioned on the program description kindly note some sites that are subject to closure due to religious festivals, Government holidays and some due to weather conditions and seasonality. All known taxes and service charges All tours and transfers are based on private basis except sea tours EXCLUDED SERVICES Oman Visa: on arrival USD (OMR 20.00) per person for stay more than 10 days on arrival USD (OMR 5.00) for stay less than 10 days prearranged visa USD per person Any item of personal nature. Any meals/beverages which are not mentioned under included services. Tips and porterage. Any optional tours / excursions Accommodation in Salalah Flight ticket Muscat Salalah - Muscat

69 TERMS AND CONDITIONS This offer is valid for min. pax as stated above travelling together If a total of 9 rooms (approx. 18 pax) is exceeded, group rates will be applicable, kindly contact us for further details and assistance in this regard. Offer is on request basis and upon availability. All accommodation as mentioned above meal plan All above mentioned rates are in US Dollar and inclusive of currently valid taxes and service charges. In case these are changed we have to adjust the prizes as well. Please note that at the moment all offered tours and points of interest are open and accessible. Should the date of travel fall on a public holiday or a unforeseen event making the visit impossible is Desert Gate Tourism not responsible for any refund. Please note that Friday & Saturday are public holidays in Oman a lot of points of interest are closed on Fridays. CANCELLATION CHARGES: Within days prior to arrival no charges Within days prior to arrival 50% Within 14 days prior to arrival 100%

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71 DAY 01: ARRIVAL TO SALALAH AND TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL AFTERNOON SALALAH CITY TOUR **SALON CAR / 4WD** Arrival in Salalah Airport. Meet and greet on arrival. Private transfer to the hotel and check in **VIP standard check in time is 14:00 HRS**. 16:00 pm Pick up from the hotel. Proceed to visit The Museum of the Frankincense Land. Opened in July 2007 at Al Balid Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site located in Salalah, the Frankincense Land Museum is the latest addition to Oman s heritage and cultural scene. (Opened Sat - Wed 8:00 14:00 & 16:00 20:00, Thu Fri 16:00 20:00). It houses two main halls, namely the History Hall, depicting the geography, history of the ancient Frankincense trail and the historical background of the Sultanate through a number of archaeological findings, and The Marine Hall, featuring displays about the development of Oman s rich marine history. A complete history of the Maritime trade & ship building industry of Oman could be experienced here, with meticulously carved replicas of the ancient boats & ships of the Omani Maritime trade. Drive through lush green plantations of vegetables & fruits. Make a brief stop to taste a fresh coconut water drink at fruit stalls (at own cost) lining the streets within the periphery of the old Salalah town (Haffah). Make a Photo stop at the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque. View the Official Palace of His Majesty the Sultan (Al Husn Palace) & stroll through the old Haffah souq, famous for the sale of high quality Frankincense & numerous other Dhofari traditional souvenirs. Visit the new Salalah region of the gold/ silver souq, with ample opportunity for shopping, before we return to the hotel. Estimate arrival time is approx. 19:00 19:30 Overnight at SLL hotel as per tariff

72 DAY 02: FULL DAY EAST WEST SALALAH TOUR **SALON CAR / 4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel The excursion begins in the morning with a visit to the old fishing village of Taqah, famous for the manufacture of Dried Sardines & its traditional & old Dhofari Houses. Visit the century old Taqah Castle, the former official residence of the Wali (Governor) of the region & obtain a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Continue onto the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). The city was the easternmost outpost of the Hadramawt Kingdom on the ancient incense route between the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and India. Khor Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar, and one of the major trading cities with frankincense, believed to have been the hub & harbor for the shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage site). A picturesque drive then leads you to Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of the Frankincense trail. A picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant en route. Stroll through the streets lined with old Omani mud houses & visit the twin-domed Bin Ali s Tomb as a photo stop a classic example of medieval architecture. On our way back to western Salalah, explore the natural spring of Ayn Razat, beautifully laid out amidst the tranquil lush mountains & nourished every day of the year by natural underground spring water. Thereafter we proceed to Qara Mountains to explore the western part of Salalah. On a road steadily winding up a steep incline, herds of Camels & Cattle are a common sight which gives a scenic view of a traditional Dhofari rural beauty. Visit the ancient tomb of Prophet Job situated in the scenic green mountains of the Salalah Plains. Experience the legendary story of Prophet Job and his devoutness. Proceed to the beach of Mughsail where the white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean & at high tide, where waves burst through the natural titanic Blow Holes, at the far end of the Rocky beach with a cave-like entrance. We thereafter continue along the Hair-pin bend road towards Western Border of Oman, with its breath-taking cliffs on either side, to see the historical Frankincense trees growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the dry & craggy countryside. We take a short walk into the valleys to smell the Holy Incense amidst the scenic view of the region. On our return journey we make a photo stop at the lagoon at Mughsail where migratory birds occasionally flamingos are a common sight. Estimate arrival time is approx. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at SLL hotel as per tariff

73 DAY 03: FULL DAY TOUR TO RUB AL KHALI **SALON CAR / 4WD** Breakfast at the hotel 08:00 am pick up from the hotel Once you are in Dhofar, it is an absolute must to visit Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter), Dhofars most remarkable and popular site with its un spoilt and magical sand dunes. We leave the Hotel at 07:30 hrs by 4x4 vehicle and drive towards the Qara mountain range with its spectacular view of the Salalah plains dotted with thick shrub & woodland. After having a small break in Thumrait town, which was famous as a Bedouin settlement, we proceed west on unpaved road crossing the huge gravel desert of Al Nejd. After a 175 Km journey from Salalah city we reach our first attraction in the desert, arriving at the Lost City of Ubar (UNESCO World heritage site). This legendary ancient kingdom, known as Ubar, was said to have existed in one of the most inhospitable places on earth - a vast and forbidding Rub Al Khali desert, appropriately known as the Empty Quarter. According to myth, the desert swallowed up Ubar. Quite literally, it sank without trace - becoming the fabled Atlantis of the Sands. This once buried city, which was spotted by satellite, gives you a glimpse of the value of work carried out by a team of explorers in 1982, led by Sir Ranulph Fiennes. A picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant en route. After walking around the site we proceed to the Empty Quarter to experience the biggest sand desert in the World by rambling on fascinating sand dunes. A breathtaking overview of the vast desert awaits you on the top of the dunes. We settle down for a typical Arabian lunch/picnic lunch in the desert thereafter. On our return to Salalah we drive into Wadi Dawka (UNESCO World heritage site) known as the Frankincense Wadi, which is also well-known as the biggest collection of the naturally grown Frankincense trees in the region. Experience the Frankincense and its use in the past as well as in the modern World. Return to Salalah by sunset. Estimate arrival time is approx. 15:00 15:30 Overnight at SLL hotel as per tariff DAY 04: DEPARTURE TRANSFER ** SALON CAR / MINIVAN** Breakfast at the hotel TBA - check out from the hotel (standard check out time is before 12:00 noon) TBA pick up from the hotel and private departure transfer to SLL APT to fly home.

74 INCLUDED SERVICES Picnic lunch box / lunch at local restaurant is provided on Day 2-3 All Meals are on food-only basis unless stated otherwise. Transfers, sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary with English speaking driver cum guide, with suitable vehicles (salon car max 3 pax, 4WD max 4 pax) All entrance fees to the sightseeing places as mentioned in the program (subject to change). Sites as mentioned on the program description kindly note some sites that are subject to closure due to religious festivals, Government holidays and some due to weather conditions and seasonality. All known taxes and service charges All tours and transfers are based on private basis except sea tours EXCLUDED SERVICES Oman Visa: on arrival USD (OMR 20.00) per person for stay more than 10 days on arrival USD (OMR 5.00) for stay less than 10 days prearranged visa USD per person Any item of personal nature. Any meals/beverages which are not mentioned under included services. Tips and porterage. Any optional tours / excursions Accommodation in Salalah Flight ticket Muscat Salalah - Muscat

75 TERMS AND CONDITIONS This offer is valid for min. pax as stated above travelling together If a total of 9 rooms (approx. 18 pax) is exceeded, group rates will be applicable, kindly contact us for further details and assistance in this regard. Offer is on request basis and upon availability. All accommodation as mentioned above meal plan All above mentioned rates are in US Dollar and inclusive of currently valid taxes and service charges. In case these are changed we have to adjust the prizes as well. Please note that at the moment all offered tours and points of interest are open and accessible. Should the date of travel fall on a public holiday or a unforeseen event making the visit impossible is Desert Gate Tourism not responsible for any refund. Please note that Friday & Saturday are public holidays in Oman a lot of points of interest are closed on Fridays. CANCELLATION CHARGES: Within days prior to arrival no charges Within days prior to arrival 50% Within 14 days prior to arrival 100%