+44 (0)20 8741 7390 One of Arabia s undiscovered gems, Oman is a land of rugged coastlines and vast deserts where tradition and progress go hand in hand. Blessed with a dazzling array of natural and cultural highlights, the country that spawned the legends of Sinbad the Sailor is also home to shifting sands and towering mountains, colonial forts and the rich azure waters of the Arabian Sea. This wonderful adventure takes you from the heart of its picturesque capital, deep into the mountains, deserts and tribal strongholds of the old Omani Imamate. Beginning in Muscat you will follow the coastline south, heading to the historic old dhow shipyards of Sur and on towards Raz Al Jinz, the nesting grounds of rare green sea turtles. After a night camping amongst the shifting sands of Wahiba, your journey then takes you on towards the rugged peaks of the Hajar Mountains and the high point of your adventure. Here, amongst the dramatic landscapes of the Green Mountain, you ll discover villages steeped in the traditions of ages past, where ancient falaj water systems share the timeless vistas with imposing forts and wadis and oases that are amongst the most beautiful anywhere in eastern Arabia. HIGHLIGHTS: Visit the turtle nesting site at Raz Al Jinz Camp amongst the remote deserts of the Wahiba Sands Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Hajar Mountains Explore the stunning 17th century forts of Nizwa and Jabrin Walk and swim in the beautiful oasis of Wadi Bani Khaled TOUR INCLUDES: 6 nights mid-range accommodation and 1 night in a fixed camp 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners Accompanied by an experienced English speaking driver/guide Private 4WD Land Cruiser Sightseeing programme including all entrance fees Private transfers to and from all airports *Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room
ITINERARY DAY 1: MUSCAT Arriving in Muscat the journey to your hotel will take in the magnificent setting of the Grand Mosque, built to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the reign of Sultan Qaboos. Please be aware that to enter the Grand Mosque ladies should be fully covered, including a head scarf, and men are not allowed in wearing shorts. A guided tour of the capital this afternoon then provides an opportunity to visit the excellent Natural History Museum and the Al Alam Palace, before taking a wander around the Muttrah Souq. (B) DAY 2: MUSCAT - RAZ AL JINZ Turning south this morning, your journey takes you towards the turtle nesting grounds of Raz Al Jinz, passing by the Bimh Sink Hole and the popular setting of Finn Beach. A stop amongst the beautiful landscapes of Wadi Shab provides a chance for a walk through one of Oman's most spectacular wadis, before continuing on past the historic old port town of Sur. Arriving in Raz Al Jinz later this afternoon, there will be time to freshen up before heading out this evening to search for turtles. (B,D) DAY 3: RAS AL JINZ - WAHIBA SANDS Following the coast back towards Sur this morning there will be an opportunity to take in this pretty port town and wander through the old dhow shipyards, before turning inland towards the picturesque setting of Wadi Bani Khaled, easily one of Oman's most beautiful wadis. After a chance for a walk and a swim, the journey then continues into the desert, towards the rolling dunes and shifting sands of Wahiba where, after a bit of dune-bashing, you'll settle down for a peaceful night under the desert sky. (B,D) DAY 4: WAHIBA SANDS - JEBEL AKHDAR The adventure turns west today, towards the Hajar Mountains and the limestone slopes of Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain). Stopping off at the town of Ibra en route, you'll have a chance to visit the local market, before spending the rest of the journey soaking up the rich natural and cultural diversity of village life. A fascinating insight into local Omani culture, the morning is filled with wonderful scenery, captivating villages, ancient labyrinthine water systems and orchards of walnuts, pomegranates and damask roses. Free afternoon. (B)
DAY 5: JEBEL AKHDAR - NIZWA - JEBEL SHAMS The first stop of the day will be in the historic old city of Nizwa, home to an imposing 17th century fort and a bustling souk. You will also visit the impressive fort at Jabrin, possibly the finest of Oman's 17th century fortresses, whose exquisite painted wooden ceilings provide an eloquent testimony to the skills of the fort's original builders. Following a brief photo stop to take in the UNESCO World Heritage setting of Bahla Fort, you'll then head into the spectacular mountain landscapes of Jebel Shams. (B,D) DAY 6: JEBEL SHAMS At over 3,000 metres, Jebel Shams (The Mountain of the Sun) is one of the highest points on the eastern Arabian Peninsula. Often called the 'Grand Canyon' of Oman, these mountains stretch in a 700 kilometre arc that is filled with hidden valleys and fertile oases. This morning you will take a walk along the rim of the canyon, enjoying the views out across Wadi Ghul, before driving down to the stunning hillside town of Misfah and continuing on to the atmospheric old village of Al Hamra. Return to your hotel for the evening. (B,D) DAY 7: JEBEL SHAMS - MUSCAT The drive back to Muscat today takes you through Wadi Bani Awf and Bilad Sayt, an idyllic mountain village with a wealth of picturesque terraces. Enjoying one of the most scenic road trips in the country, the drive then takes you by way of the beautifully restored fort at Nakhal. The views from the roof are particularly impressive, whilst Nakhal's famous springs provide a wonderfully sheltered spot to take in the lush plantations and mountain peaks before continuing the journey back to the capital. (B) DAY 8: MUSCAT Transfer to the airport for the return flight back home. (B)
ACCOMMODATION JABEL AKHDAR ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Perched on a cliff 2,000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar overlooks a dramatic gorge, surrounded by magnificent views of the Al Hajar Mountains. There are 78 well- appointed suites and villas decorated and furnished in a contemporary style, ranging in size from 52 to 361 sqm. The hotel offers a perfect base from which to explore the region s rugged landscape and unwind in the comfort of the hotel, enjoying luxuries such as a heated outdoor infinity pool, gym and spa treatments. Dining options include a restaurant and a bar/lounge which both look out to the breathtaking views around. ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR RESORT Al Jabal Al Akhdar is part of the fabled Al Hajar Mountains and is home to the highest 5 star luxury resort in the Middle East. 2,000 metres above sea level, the Anantara is placed on the edge of a towering canyon allowing outstanding views from its luxury rooms and villas, elegantly designed to depict the regions ancient forts in a contemporary style. Go on a culinary adventure in the Italian, Moroccan and Arabian restaurant, where Arabian food classes are taught. The ideal setting for relaxation, indulge in the infinity pool, hot yoga and spa. THE SAHAB HOTEL The Sahab hotel is a unique boutique hotel situated on the Saiq Plateau which is located 2,004 metres above sea level on Jabal Al Akhdar in the western Hajjar Mountains, overlooking a canyon that contains ancient villages and famous terraced farms/gardens. The 27 rooms are subtly decorated and all have a private patio or terrace, many of which look towards the mountains. The wonderful pool and jacuzzi are surrounded by well tended gardens full of native plants and fossils dating back millions of years and again offer stunning views. The hotel has a good restaurant and is a perfect base for your excursions near Nizwa and in the Jebel Akhdar. JEBEL SHAMS THE VIEW The View is located at 1,400 metres above sea level, driving through 8 kms of winding road from Al Hamrah to Hail Al Shas. There are 30 comfortable bungalows all ensuite with terrace or verandha. There is a restaurant to enjoy evening meals after a day exploring the surrounding desert. MUSCAT
AL BANDAR, SHANGRI-LA'S BARR AL JISSAH RESORT The exclusive Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa enjoys an outstanding location nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the rugged Hajar Mountains and the spectacular blue waters of the Gulf of Oman. The resort comprises three separate and distinct hotels; Al Waha(The Oasis), Al Bandar (The Town) and Al Husn (The Castle). In the heart of the resort is the Al Bandar with an architecture inspired by old Muscat and facilities more suited to couples. Each of the 198 rooms are luxuriously designed with most featuring sea views and private balconies. Dining options are aplenty with 8 food & beverage outlets. Make use of the private beaches or the large swimming pool before floating to the neighbouring resorts on the connecting lazy river. A dive centre and well-appointed spa are also available. AL BUSTAN PALACE Experience an Oman luxury hotel where you can enjoy in an array of water sports, savour exquisite cuisine and, just minutes away, discover the rich history and traditions of an Arabian nation. A recent redefining renovation both inside and out the Al Bustan Palace is a Ritz-Carlton hotel set on a private beach with acres of lush gardens. Furnishings artistically combine local traditions and art deco creating a unique blend of Arabian culture and art. Noted for its 38-metre high domed atrium lobby, the Al Bustan Palace offers 250 guests rooms and suites, meticulously designed to reflect both local traditions and art deco influences with either mountain, sea or garden views, and modern amenities. In addition to the wonderful views, the hotel has an expansive one kilometre private beach, the longest in the country; five outdoor swimming pools, including a 50 metre long infinity pool; and excellent restaurants, from the China Mood featuring fresh and authentic Chinese cuisine to the all-day buffet at the Al Khiran Terrace restaurant and the casual seaside Beach Pavilion Restaurant & Bar. AL WAHA SHANGRI-LA RESORT AND SPA The largest of the three hotels at Muscat's Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, the Al Waha contains 262 modern rooms overlooking the pool, gardens or the sea. Designed in traditional Dhofari architectural style, the rooms offer free internet access, private bathrooms with separate showers, and access to the beach, pool, eight restaurants and all the resort facilities. CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT HOTEL The four star Crowne Plaza Muscat is nestled at the tip of Qurum Beach and has panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman. The elegantly appointed and recently refurbished rooms have all modern amenities you'd expect and the hotel offers excellent leisure facilities including floodlit tennis courts, a swimming pool, a state of the art gymnasium, squash courts, sauna and steam rooms and massage and spa treatments. Restaurants serve a variety of Persian, Italian and international food. GRAND HYATT MUSCAT HOTEL Located on a pristine sandy beach in the diplomatic district of Shatti Al Qurm, the five star Grand Hyatt hotel offers comfort and convenience. The impressive Arabian style lobby combined with the traditional Omani hospitality and a range of dining and leisure facilities make this one of Muscats most luxury hotels.
THE CHEDI The Chedi arguably Oman s finest design hotel. The minimalist style of the hotel's low-rise buildings, spread throughout the beautifully landscaped gardens, derives from traditional Omani architecture. Decor of all rooms is in keeping with the sleek understated style of the hotel, with natural coloured materials and dark mahogany furniture. The two pools, each with their own restaurant and bar, are the perfect place for relaxation. The infinity Chedi pool, reserved exclusively for adults, enjoys views out to the ocean whilst the Serai pool is deal for families. Dining at The Restaurant is a superb experience - the menu offers Mediterranean, Asian, Indian and Arabic food in a refined atmosphere. TULIP INN Located in the diplomatic district of Muscat, The Tulip Inn is a modern 4* hotel providing 153 rooms and suites, a restaurant and a gym. Rooms are spacious and well furnished and the restaurant provides both Arabic and international cuisine. TULIP INN DOWNTOWN MUSCAT This 3-star hotel in Muscat provides luxurious modern services within a distinctive architecture, evoking a traditional architectural Omani fortress, and an interior imbued with rich colours and patterned textiles. Set in the business district in the centre of Muscat, the Ruwi hotel makes a great base for exploring the city with good access to the sights as well as shops and restaurants. There are 100 rooms, all spacious and elegantly designed with modern decor. There is a small bar in the basement along with a restaurant and an outdoor pool. The resturant serves itnernational cuisine and hosts themed evening entertainment. Work up a sweat in the hotel's full-service gym and wellness centre, or challenge a friend to a match on the squash courts. RAS AL JINZ CARAPACE LODGE The Carapace Lodge is set in a research facility on the beach in Ras Al Jinz, originally a scientific centre the lodge now provides accommodation in an ecotourism style for those wishing to see the turtles. Rooms in the main hotel are simple but large & clean. There is also the option to stay in one of 10 luxury tents located a short distance away up a nearby hill where you get stunning views of the coast. Meals are served in a small restaurant in the main hotel. Beach walks take place in the evening and early morning for guests to see and learn about the turtles that visit the beach, it's about a 15 minute walk to the stunning beach, you can only swim here from 6am - 1pm. Turtle viewing is at 8.45pm and 5am and hotel guests always go in the first viewing groups. SUR
SUR PLAZA The three star Sur Plaza hotel has 106 rooms and modern facilities. The rooms are simple but well decorated and appointed and have private bathrooms and satellite TV and free wifi. There are two restaurants offering a variety of Arabic, Continental, Indian and Chinese food and two bar/cafes where you can relax with a drink, occasional the hotel with offer BBQ s around the hotels pool. WAHIBA SANDS DESERT NIGHTS CAMP The Desert Nights Camp is an innovative camp where the ambience of traditional desert camping has been captured without compromising on comfort. The luxury Camp comprises of 44 Bedouin-style tents, fully air-conditioned, with bedrooms, attached baths and separate living areas. All units open out to panoramic vistas across the golden sands. Activites available include sunset dune transfer, camel ride inclusive, quad biking, bune bashing, sand boarding, private dinner on the dunes with butler and chef & camel treks. The hotel has a lovely restaurant, dinner is often accompanied by Bedouin musicians. HUD HUD WAHIBA SANDS Despite being mobile tents the Hud Hud Camps are designed with luxury and sustainability in mind. No electric light, other than solar, is used throughout the night providing a romantic candle lit atmosphere beneath the shimmering stars of the Omani desert. The camp has a large, evocative majlis, decorated in a style in keeping with the ambiance of the environment, with cushions and rugs, topical books, boules and board games. Ideal for escaping the daytime heat, dine beneath the shade in the majlis during the day whilst the evenings are for dining under the stars beside a crackling fire. Food is, as far as possible, locally sourced and is freshly prepared by the camp chef. Omani coffee flavoured with rose water or saffron and served with homemade baklava is a favourite. The delectable chef can create a bespoke menu for special events anything from a beach barbecue to an al fresco lunch or a more formal dinner party. The Shared camp will have only eight sleeping tents and private guides, retaining an exclusive feel. In the bedroom tents, traditional Bedouin tents are used, appointed with proper mattresses, crisp cotton linen, feather pillows and traditional furnishings. Each sleeping tent has its own private bathroom tent, open to the skies and furnished with soft towels, basin, shower and a selection of soaps and lotions. Toilets are essentially long drops however they are covered by a very comfortable seat. WAHIBA SANDS WILD CAMP Camp in the desert in modern dome tents. All camping equipment is provided although you might like to bring your own sleeping bag. Spending a night in the dunes is an extraordinary experience and the only way to truly experience the amazing quiet and stillness of this almost uninhabited landscape. See the sands turn all different colours as the sun sinks before sitting around a beduoin fire and eating dinner prepared by your guide. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Fax +44 (0) 20 8741 3610
Email info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com