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Sheriff Bespoke Family Adventure to Oman
Oman
From
This trip supports
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Esential info
- Reviews
- Packing list
Grade:
Entry Level
Type:
Cultural
Transfers
Duration:
7 Nights
6 - 6
Group size
Leaders
Tour Highlights
- View Oman's largest canyon from Jebel Shams (mountains of the sun)
- Explore turtle nesting sites
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Swim at Wadi Bani Khalid
- Enjoy the captivating Rose Hike
- Visit Nizwa, once Oman's Capital and enjoy the livestock market
- Dolphin watching & snorkeling
Explore the vast landscapes of Oman in this guided tour
Oman is one of the best-kept secrets of the Middle East—safe, relaxed, and refreshingly untouched. While its more famous neighbor, the UAE, draws throngs of visitors, Oman remains a hidden gem, offering pristine, rugged landscapes and warm hospitality from some of the friendliest people in the Gulf. If you’re seeking a unique cultural experience in a stunning natural setting, Oman is the perfect escape.
This journey showcases the country’s diverse beauty and charm, from Muscat’s vibrant souks and the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to the serene oases of Wadi Shab and the golden dunes of Wahiba Sands. The mountains offer breathtaking views from Jabal Shams and cultural treasures in Nizwa’s historic markets and villages like Misfath and Al Hamra. Along the coast, you’ll explore turtle nesting sites and enjoy dolphin spotting and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
With its rugged landscapes, rich traditions, and as much flavor as its smoky coffee served with dates, Oman offers an unforgettable and truly authentic travel experience.
Day 1: Welcome to Oman
Transfer
4 star hotel
Following your arrival into Muscat airport, you will be met and transferred to your wonderfully located hotel.
Depending on your arrival time in Muscat, you can spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the city's vibrant charm. Begin with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Muttrah Corniche, where you can enjoy stunning waterfront views and the refreshing sea breeze. Then, dive into the bustling energy of the Muttrah Souk, one of the oldest markets in Oman, to explore its maze of vibrant shops filled with spices, textiles, jewelry, and local treasures.
Overnight: Al Falaj Hotel (Interconnecting Family Room)
Please note that your guide will meet you tomorrow and be with you until day 6.
Day 2: Along the coast to Raz al Jinz
Boat/Ferry
Transfer
Breakfast
Camping
Your journey today takes you along the scenic coast toward Ras al Jinz, but before leaving Muscat, make a stop at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This magnificent mosque, located near the heart of Muscat, serves as a beacon of knowledge and culture in the Islamic world. Marvel at its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and the serene atmosphere that makes it a must-visit destination.
Continue your drive to Wadi Shab, a hidden gem nestled in Oman’s rugged landscape. After a short boat ride across the river (about 5 minutes), embark on an hour-long hike along a scenic path. Your effort will be rewarded with a stunning oasis featuring crystal-clear pools and sun-drenched rocks perfect for relaxation. For the adventurous, venture further into the wadi to discover a grotto with a natural waterfall—a magical spot that feels like nature’s secret retreat. Don’t forget your swimwear for a refreshing dip in the natural pools!
In the afternoon, you’ll reach Ras al Jinz, where you’ll spend the night. This beach is renowned as one of the best locations in the world to witness green turtles hatching. While the peak season is between May and September, there’s still a chance to see them outside these months. Keep in mind that nature is wonderfully unpredictable, so sightings aren’t guaranteed.
The guided turtle-watching tour typically starts at 9:00 PM (subject to change). For those curious to learn more about these incredible creatures, the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve Museum offers fascinating insights into the lives of these endangered animals.
This is a shared group activity, adding to the experience of witnessing nature's wonders together.
Overnight: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel (The accommodation lies close to the beach, either in a private luxury tent or in a room)
Day 3: To the desert
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Camping
Get ready for a change of scenery as you journey to the breathtaking desert expanse of Wahiba Sands. Along the way, make a stop at the enchanting Wadi Bani Khalid.
The drive to Wadi Bani Khalid is an experience in itself, with a spectacular road winding through colorful rock formations before arriving at this stunning oasis. Known for its crystal-clear natural pools and easy access, it’s a favorite spot among locals, particularly on weekends. Take a refreshing dip in the inviting waters while soaking in the surroundings. Be sure to wear modest swimwear to respect local customs and fully embrace this unique opportunity to connect with the culture.
Your adventure into the Wahiba Desert begins in Bidiyah, the gateway to this remarkable landscape. After preparing your vehicle by deflating the tires, you’ll embark on a journey through a world of ochre dunes and ever-changing horizons. Reach your overnight spot nestled in the heart of the desert, and take a moment to witness the sunset—a magical spectacle of colors painting the sand.
For a truly unforgettable experience, rise early to watch the sunrise as it slowly emerges over the dunes, casting a golden glow across the vast desert. A moment of tranquility and wonder awaits.
Overnight: Desert Nights Camp (2 Bedroom Villa - All rooms are fully air-conditioned with an en-suite bathroom)
Day 4: Up to the mountains
Transfer
Breakfast
3 star hotel
Today, your journey takes you to the mountains, with Nizwa as your final destination for the night. Along the way, there are several fascinating stops to explore.
Begin with the modern city of Ibra, once a prominent trading hub in Oman. Ibra is home to several historical forts, some of the oldest mosques in the sultanate, and Oman’s only souk exclusively for female shoppers—a unique cultural experience.
Next, visit the charming village of Birkat al Mawz, meaning “Banana Pool,” named for its abundant banana plantations. Nestled between mountains and plains, this village boasts an ancient falaj irrigation system that has sustained its lush plantations for centuries. A walk through the tranquil palm gardens and a leisurely stroll through the village are must-do activities to appreciate its beauty and heritage.
Arrive in Nizwa, a city steeped in history and surrounded by a lush palm oasis and towering mountains. Once Oman’s capital, Nizwa has preserved its authenticity and offers a delightful mix of history and local culture. Explore the city’s vibrant souk, where you’ll find food stalls, local handicrafts, antiques, and silver khanjars—traditional curved daggers.
For a deeper dive into the city’s rich heritage, visit the iconic 17th-century Nizwa Fort, Oman’s most visited national monument. Its striking 40-meter-tall round tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and provides insight into the town’s storied past.
Overnight: Al Diyar Hotel (2 Bedroom Apartment)
Day 5: Local animal market and the Grand Canyon
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Guest house
Start your day with a visit to the lively Nizwa livestock market, held every Friday against the stunning backdrop of Nizwa Fort. This bustling event is a hub for local farmers trading animals such as cows, donkeys, and goats. The energy and activity of the market offer a fascinating glimpse into daily life, as men and animals interact in a scene filled with vibrant traditions and community spirit.
From Nizwa, continue your journey to Jebal Shams, Oman’s highest peak at 3,009 meters. Known as the "Mountain of the Sun," Jebal Shams offers breathtaking vistas and is the perfect place to stretch your legs. The views over Wadi Ghul, often called the Grand Canyon of Arabia, are nothing short of spectacular.
For hiking enthusiasts, the W6 path—commonly referred to as the Balcony Walk—is a must. This trail hugs the rim of Al Nakhr Canyon, providing dramatic views with the mountain on one side and the steep canyon drop on the other. After a 4-kilometer trek (approximately 1.5 hours one way), you’ll reach the abandoned village of Al Sab. Whether you opt for a shorter or longer hike, the path offers unforgettable scenery and the chance to connect with the rugged beauty of the region.
End your day in the traditional village of Misfah al Abriyeen, perched a thousand meters above sea level. This picturesque village is characterized by its narrow alleys, mud-brick buildings, and lush agricultural terraces that wrap around the mountainside. Ingenious irrigation systems, carved from the rock, channel water to sustain the gardens and provide drinking water to the community.
Overnight: Misfah Old House ( 2 Traditional En-suite Rooms )
Day 6: Back to Muscat
Transfer
Breakfast
4 star hotel
Optional Activity (not included in the cost of your trip): Begin your day with a 1-hour horseback riding tour through Al Hamra. At the horse stables, a local guide will welcome you and share fascinating insights into the history of Arabian horses, their care, and the equipment used. Once ready, you’ll set off on a ride through lush green farms and along the ancient falaj irrigation canals, experiencing the serene beauty of the area before returning to the stables.
Next, visit Al Hamra before heading down the mountain. Take to the narrow streets of this ancient village for an enchanting stroll through its charming semi abandoned Yemeni style mud-brick houses.
For the final stop, enjoy the captivating Rose Hike. This easy and picturesque trail begins in the village of Al Aqur and leads to Sayq, following an ancient path that once linked the local villages. Along the way, marvel at the terraced fields, traditional falaj irrigation systems, and views of the surrounding landscapes. The hike is a great way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Hotel (Family Room)
Day 7: Dolphin watching, snorkeling & free afternoon
Boat/Ferry
Transfer
Breakfast
4 star hotel
Head out into the open water for a truly unique experience. As you cruise along, keep your eyes on the horizon—you’ll not only get to admire Muscat from a completely different perspective, but you might also be treated to the sight of dolphins playfully surfacing nearby. While the captain and crew are skilled at locating these magnificent creatures, their appearance, of course, isn’t guaranteed.
After the cruise, take a refreshing dive into the sea and discover the marine life with a snorkeling activity. Explore the underwater world, teeming with colorful fish and coral. The excursion lasts approximately three hours, so don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection.
The afternoon is yours to unwind at your beachside hotel or take one last opportunity to explore the charming city of Muscat at your own pace.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Hotel (Family Room)
Please note as today is a group excursion, followed by a free afternoon, you will not have a guide.
Day 8: Departure Day
Transfer
Breakfast
As your time in Oman comes to an end, your transfer to the airport is scheduled 3 hours and 30 minutes before your flight. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable journey!
Adventure Optional Extras
Plant an additional 15 trees for your adventure
Carbon Compensation is not the perfect solution, and it is important to first reduce our carbon emissions as much as we can, yet trees remain an excellent natural technology to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to slow global warming.
For every client and guide who attends a YellowWood Adventure, we donate £30 to our partner charity WeForest to plant 15 trees to (over) compensate for the carbon footprint of the tour.
We also invite our clients to match this with an optional additional £30 for another 15 trees to be planted to help compensate for the carbon footprint of their international flights.
WeForest run many tree planting and tree maintenance projects such as this seedling nursery in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil and many other projects in other countries including Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania & India.
Click Here to find out more about their amazing projects around the world.
Not included
- Flights & airport taxes
- Insurance (compulsory)
- Al Hamra Horse Riding Tour (1 hour)
- Visas
- Drinks & Snacks
- Tipping
Contents
Travel & Arrival
Your YellowWood adventure starts at the airport in Muscat.
Airport & Arrival and Departure Info
Muscat International Airport (its slogan is “Gateway to Beauty & Opportunity”) is the main international airport in Oman, 32km from the city, and is modern and fully functioning.
Finding flights
Flights are not included in the cost of your holiday, and whilst we are happy to help advise you, responsibility for booking the correct flights rests with you. We recommend that you use a comparison tool such as www.momondo.co.uk or www.skyscanner.net when searching for flights.
Foreign Travel Advice
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Hotel Arrival
On arrival at the hotel, you should head to reception where they can show you to your room.
Accommodation
We fully believe in, and practice Responsible Tourism, using hotels run by locals. We put time and effort into building our relationship with them to ensure you have a a great trip.
We choose hotels based on cleanliness, comfort, safety, proximity to our route (to avoid unnecessary extra travel), and a warm client welcome, as well as reliability in their service to us. Some hotels will be basic, and in modern buildings and or in towns. Wherever we can, we will choose smaller more characterful, individual hotels, but in areas where tourism is still developing, this may not be available. An aspect of our adventures is to escape the ‘trappings’ of modern Western lifestyles and to experience new things which is exciting and memorable, and reflects the countries we are visiting. This is adventure travel and on occasion the advertised services at a hotel (eg wifi, or hot showers!) may not be functional on our arrival. This tends to occur in the smaller, more remote hotels. Very rarely a hotel lets us down and we are required to find alternative suitable accommodation that might not be our first choice.
This trip involves hotel and guesthouse accommodation. Where hotels and refuges are fully booked or unavailable, we will use an alternative of a similar standard, and equally well situated. We will provide you with an accurate list of accommodation, with contact information to leave with relatives, prior to departure on your adventure.
Guiding
Supporting you on your holiday will be an experienced and knowledgeable local, English speaking, Omani guide. This ensures you access to information on the country and culture of Oman, as well as directly supporting local trade and tourism.
Am I fit enough?
This itinerary is a Grade 3; an Entry Level adventure.
Some days involve short walks of up to 3 hours, but the distances are optional. You may be walking in the heat, over some uneven terrain but at a leisurely pace / the natural pace of the group. However, to get the most of out of this adventure, you need to be a regular walker and in good physical health.
Insurance
Holiday insurance is essential for all Yellow Wood Adventures. Unfortunately, anyone without insurance is not able to take part in the holiday, so please make sure you arrange cover. We recommend arranging your insurance cover when you book so that if you have problems during the run up to your holiday, and need to cancel, you are covered.
YellowWood partners with battleface as a travel insurance provider. Click here for a quote.
battleface insurance is provided in the UK by battleface Insurance Services Limited, a UK insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details provided on this webpage are for information only. Terms, conditions, exclusions, and limitations apply. Always read the description of cover contained within your policy to ensure it is suitable for your needs.
Prior to the holiday, we will ask you to send us details of your insurer, policy number, 24 hour emergency assistance contact details and the name, address, and telephone numbers of your NOK or persons to be notified in the event of an emergency.
You must ensure the travel insurance you purchase provides you with suitable cover for the entirety of your trip. Your travel insurance must include cover in the event that you have to cancel for a reason outside your control prior to departure, for any medical expenses you may incur whilst away (including repatriation in the case of medical need) and for the activities which you may participate in during your trip.
General information on Oman
For information on Oman, such as climate, weather, language, social norms, food & drink etc, please have a read of our Country specific information.
Reviews
Ken
Everything worked and worked well. Airport transfers smooth, convenient and worry-free. Accommodation was varied, often very nice indeed and far better than I expected as you drive off into this starkly beautiful country. Food is abundant and good - far too much of it for most of us. Sahid (our outstanding leader/driver) backed off some of the big meals at our request as the trip progressed and gave the group some options where he could. He made sure we had plenty of water and often stopped for Omani tea/coffee, cold drinks at times. Lots of great elements to the trip, all enjoyable. Though there is a fair amount of driving during the tour, it never seemed burdensome - the country is just too damned beautiful to enjoy in its rugged starkness. Every day was a highlight for me, no specific favourite.
Oman deserves all the superlatives it gets -magnificent scenery, safe, friendly environment, welcoming and engaging people. YellowWood delivers a winner on this trip! Kudos to all.
SK
5* Arabian Land and Sea Adventure…
Yellowwood Adventures organised a top-quality experience packed tour — long scenic drives, calm and comfortable accommodations, important city/village stays in Muscat, Nizwa, Misfah and Salahlah, cultural visits, good food and nature excursions. All amounted to the Oman encounter we wished for.
The Arabian night in the desert (even though it was curtailed by an unusual storm) and snorkelling around the Dimaniyat Island with green turtles became highlights.
This Oman itinerary offered a safe and historically rich Islamic cultural experience.
The local guides were professional, patient and knowledgeable. Much appreciated!
Thanks to you all for a very special time.
Undiscovered Oman: People & landscapes Feb 2024
Fran
Trip to Oman with YellowWood
Our recent trip to Oman with Yellow Wood was all we expected. Our guide was professional and had to make some last minute adaptations to schedule due to the weather, but none the less was keen that it didn't affect our expectations or enjoyment.
The itinerary was varied and appropriate. Thank you, YellowWood
Undiscovered Oman: People & landscapes Jan 2024
FWB
Oman Adventure
A truly interesting trip to Oman in part of the world we had never considered visiting before we saw the YellowWood trip information.
A fascinating country which hasn't been spoiled by oil money like some other Gulf states and still retains a lot of history and beauty of it's mountains, coast and deserts. Our head guide was superb and managed superbly in highly stressful situations such as having to suddenly abandon a night's desert camping due to a rainstorm and find alternative shelter for 10 people. The rainstorms that hit Oman made alterations to our itinerary inevitable but we still ended up visiting some fantastic locations, although this entailed some lengthy drives which were a bit mind and bum numbing!
Oman is well worth a trip with YellowWood!
Undiscovered Oman: People & landscapes Feb 2024
Receive a 15% discount off Water-to-Go filtration water-bottles to help reduce plastic waste.
Compulsory
- US$ or £GB to exchange for local currency
- Passport & insurance documents
- Credit / Debit card for ATM use
- Prescription medication & antibiotics such as Azithromycin to stop serious traveller's diarrhoea
- First aid kit: paracetamol, anti-diarrhoea tables, rehydration sachets, antihistamine cream, ibuprofen cream, thermometer & blister kit (eg plasters & zinc oxide tape).
- Insect repellent
- Washbag & microfiber towel
Items for Walking / Sightseeing
- Small daypack (about 20L) for sightseeing
- Waterproof Jacket
- Walking shoes or boots (already broken in)
- Sunglasses & high factor suncream
- Sun hat or baseball cap
- Waterproof stuff sacks to keep daypack contents dry
- Refillable water bottle
- Waterproof phone case
Clothing
- Socks / underwear
- Light clothes for day time - long & short sleeved tops.
- Trousers / shorts / skirts - NB dress modestly for religious buildings
- Sandals / trainers
- Warm jacket / fleece - it can be cooler at altitude and in the evenings
- Warm hat & gloves
- Water shoes or old trainers you don't mind getting wet for Wadi swimming
Optional
- Buff or light scarf useful for sun protection and covering shoulders / neck for church visits
- Camera & charging cables / plug
- Phone & charging cables / plug
- 2 prong adaptor - the associated plug type for Oman is G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Oman operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.
- Money belt or grab bag for essentials
This trip supports
Need a little help?
All adventures can be tailored as private bespoke trips.
Please contact us for more information:
+44 207 846 0197
Related Adventures
Booking Process
Select dates: Choose the dates for your adventure and consider adding any extra adventures or add-ons to enhance your experience.
Check the box to agree to our Terms & Conditions.
Make Booking: Click on "Make Booking." If you're booking more than 56 days before your adventure, you'll be redirected to secure WorldPay to make your deposit. If it's 56 days or less before your adventure, you'll need to make full payment. Rest assured, your money is held securely by the Travel Trust Association.
Your booking will show as 'pending' in your YellowWood online account.
Confirmation: We'll be in touch as soon as possible to confirm your booking or discuss any availability limitations. Please refrain from booking transport or flights until we've emailed you to confirm your booking. (Note: Receipt of your booking form is not confirmation.)
Making payment: Once your booking is confirmed, we'll change the status of your final invoice from 'Pending Approval' to 'Outstanding,' indicating that it's ready for payment online.
You will receive a reminder email for your final payment 56 days before the departure date.
Feel free to contact us with any questions about your adventure or booking, we're here to help!
Grading
To help you choose the right adventure for you, we have given each itinerary a grading that relates to the level of Walking / Trekking you will experience during the trip. This grading can be found on the Yellow map on the adventure page of the website.
All of our trips involve a level of general activity so are designed for people who are in good health, enjoy the outdoors, and have a taste for adventure and some level of fitness. As will be clear from our destinations, the climate (and altitude) may be different to that which you are used to, so please take this into consideration when choosing the most suitable holiday.
Please read our Adventure Itinerary & Essential Information for more information and don't hesitate to contact us if you would like to chat through whether you have found a suitable adventure for you.
Grade 1-3: Entry Level
You need to be in good physical health to enjoy your active holiday, but you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. These itineraries offer a mix of sightseeing and easier walking for around 2-4hrs a day, with the emphasis on sights and cultural experiences.
Walks will be well marked or on defined pathways, and often around sites of interest. The expected amount of descent/ascent will depend on the landscapes of the destination, but will not exceed 400m/day, and will often be much less. Walks are at low altitude (below 3000m).
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack with water and essentials. Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have a pair of comfortable and worn in walking shoes/boots.
Grades 4-6: Intermediate
You need to have a good level of fitness and be a regular walker for these adventures, with ideally some trekking experience. You can expect to be walking for 3-6 hours per day, not including rest stops, normally on good trail paths but with some uneven surfaces at times.
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack. You may be walking in more challenging temperatures. You will generally be walking at low altitude (below 3000m) but may walk at altitudes up to 4000m. The amount of ascent could be up to 800m in a day but will frequently be less. You may walk on consecutive days.
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable clothing for this adventure.
Grades 7-9: Challenging
You need to have a good level of fitness with previous experience of trekking. Extra training before your trip will ensure that you get the most out of your adventure. Areas will be remote and terrain uneven.
Expect to walk for 5 – 8 hours a day, not including breaks, with some very steep ascents and descents. You will be walking at altitude (over 3000m but not higher than 5000m).
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable equipment/clothing for this adventure (see the packing list for your adventure).
Please check individual itineraries for details of what you will need to be carrying with you.
Get in touch
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