Private Experiences from Muscat – Oman Tours
Desert and Wadi Experiences
Wadi Bashing 580 Kilometre round trip
These Oman Tours along the coastline to Sur, offer breathtaking glimpses of the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman offset by pristine white beaches. Stop off for a picnic lunch and swim, at beautiful Wadi Arbayeen, a lush green oasis. The ruins of Bibi Miriam’s Tomb can be seen at the village of Qalhat. Return to Muscat along the coast.
Wahiba Wilderness (550 km)
The Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating copper coloured sand dunes rising up to 200 meters, en route to the desert, visit Ibra and Wadi Bani Khalid.
Batinah Bash (340 km)
A full day tour, along the northern Batinah coast. The first stop is the Seeb Fish Souq. Drive through the date palms to the sparkling springs and Fort at Nakhl. Enjoy a picnic lunch and swim at Nakhl. Visit the beautiful Wakan Village famous for its terrace farming. Stop off at Wadi Abhyad.
Wadi Arbayeen (340 km)
This tour offers many interesting contrasts. Head off for the fishing town of Quriyat, through the rugged mountain terrain. Drive through the fishing village visiting the 400 year old Quriyat Fort, before heading for the Fish souk where a variety of fish is traded for local consumption as well as export. There is a good chance of spotting Flamingos and Eagles at an inland stream. From here, follow the coast before starting an adventurous route cutting through the mountains. At the end of the drive Wadi Arbayeen awaits, with its deep pools of water set among the date palms. Enjoy a picnic lunch here. Drive back via Wadi Mazara.
Mountain Experiences
Al Hoota Caves (350 km)
The highlight of this trip is a visit to the latest attraction in the Nizwa region, the Al Hoota caves, where one gets a chance to view stalactites and stalagmites, as well as an underground lake. The show-cave can only be reached by visitors in an electrical train that runs through a tunnel alongside the main entrance. The cave is equipped with pathways and special lighting system. Guided tours provide explanations and are customized according to visitor’s expectations. (Except Mondays) Continue to Nizwa Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th century, and the Souq renowned for its’ Friday animal auction, intricately hand-carved “Khanjars” (daggers) and ornamental silver jewellery. En route to Muscat, visit the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz situated at the foothills of Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountains). Enjoy a walk through its oasis and dense date plantations.
Oman’s Grand Canyon (560 km)
Drive to the foothills of the Jebel Akhdar mountain range. The first stop is at the Nizwa Souq, known for its antiques and silver jewellery, and a brief photo stop at the Round Tower Fort. On to Wadi Nakher, located in the depth of a canyon. Visit Misfah, a pretty mountain village with stone dwellings still in existence. While heading for Jebel Shams stop at the terrace farming village of Wadi Ghul. In the Jebel Akhdar range, Jebel Shams the highest peak offers a spectacular view.
Jebel Akhdar Trail (550 km)
Set off for Nizwa Round tower Fort and Nizwa Souk. Drive to the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz. Enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations. On to Wadi Al Madeen. From here a 36 kilometer stretch of winding road leads to Jebel Al Akhdar (2000 metres above sea level). Jebel Al Akhdar is known for its fruit orchards laid out terrace style along the slopes of the mountains. A large variety of fresh fruit such as peaches, apricot, fig, grapes, apple, pears, plums, almond, walnuts are grown here. The villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of the old houses) and Al Ain dot the landscape. The villages overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic peaks, gorges and wadis. A picnic lunch is included. remove
Majestic Mountains (400 km)
The first stop is the 300 year old Fort, Bait Na’aman. It is a beautiful country house, which has been restored and furnished. At this Fort, one can witness the traditions of the Imam and his family. The castle has been reinstated with all the time-honoured artefacts such as Khanjars, artillery, jewellery and pottery. Proceed to Al Awabi and take the turn off to Wadi Bani Auf. This is a unique drive through the sedimentary mountains. For those inclined to, there is a wonderful canyon to explore, on foot. The route through the mountains is dramatic! Bilad Sayt is one of Oman’s most quaint villages with an old world appeal. Explore this tranquil village on foot, with its patchwork of terrace farming and traditional houses laid out against the rocky slopes. An ideal spot for a picnic lunch! After the visit to the village, proceed to the Snake Gorge, where one can enjoy a short stroll (weather permitting). Proceed to Wadi Sahtan where one can meet the beekeepers. View the beautifully carved door at the Al Hazm Fort before returning to one of our Muscat Hotels (Picnic lunch included).
On the Water Experiences
Forts & Palaces by Catamaran
Sail from the Marina in the path of Alphonso Albuquerque and the Sultans of Oman – this unique and informative guided tour on board the magnificent SY Azzura, a catamaran offering fabulous view of the Portuguese Forts, the Al Alam Palace and the original waterfront homes on the Corniche.
Dolphin Watching
Watching wild dolphins is a thrilling way to start the day and the lucky may even come across one of the many species of whales that can be found just a few kilometers from Muscat’s rugged coast. Not every trip guarantees a sighting, but you are sure to enjoy a trip out to sea and enhance your knowledge of nature’s most fascinating marine mammals. (Refreshments included).
Snorkelling at Bandar Khayran
Catch the wonders of life underwater in Oman’s pristine waters. Bandar Khayran is 20 kilometres from Muscat, a sanctuary to a wide variety of fish and coral. (Refreshments included).
Twilight Dhow Cruise
(4pm – 6pm Thursdays and Sundays)
See Muscat through the eyes of ancient seafarers who plied this route for centuries. Photograph the spectacular Al Bustan Palace Hotel before returning to the Marina. (Refreshments will be served on board. (There is an option of a private cruise with dinner on board)
Day on the Beach
Drop off at a secluded beach for the day, with snorkelling equipment and a picnic. This can be combined with early morning dolphin watching.
A Day at the Damaniyat Islands
Enjoy a day swimming and snorkelling off the Islands which offer protection to migratory birds as well as several species of whale, dolphin and turtles.
The Islands can be approached either by car, 90 kms and then a boat from Mussanah, or by boat from Muscat, a 3 hours round trip)
A minimum of 4 people are required for this day tour, please enquire for further details.
Deep Sea Fishing
Bird Watching Experience
Please enquire for further details for a half or full day tour with a private guide in Muscat.
