Oman
Discover the Land of Ancient Seafarers
November 11 – November 21, 2025
Tour is escorted by Undiscovered Frontiers
Tour Manager & Local Guides
Tour Introduction:
The Sultanate of Oman is a land of stunning natural beauty intertwined with a mix of history and tales. Oman, the Arab World's longest independent state, has embraced modernization and advancement while preserving the key components of its culture and heritage, making it the ideal travel destination for anyone seeking an authentic Arabian experience. The Sultanate's historic heritage and history of seafaring, trading, and discovery are profoundly ingrained in Oman's culture. Long-standing traditions now coexist with modern living, with the latest fashion alongside traditional handcrafted products, jewelry, and even livestock markets around the country. Omanis are quite friendly of visitors from other nations, as evidenced by the great hospitality offered to visitors. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery and adventure to learn about majestic forts and palaces, vibrant souqs, sprawling deserts and four UNESCO world heritage sites which add greater charm to country’s heritage.
Tour Itinerary:
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Welcome to Oman! Arrive in Muscat and proceed to Passport Control for immigration followed by baggage collection and clearing customs formalities. After baggage collection, walk towards the arrival lounge where you shall be met by our representative who will assist you while transferring to Radisson Panorama 5* or a similar hotel for check-in. Free evening at leisure and enjoy your welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.
Note: The hotel is available for check-in at 2:00 pm.
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After breakfast, we will proceed for the Muscat half-day city tour starting with Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The first stop is a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, and one of the most popular places to visit in Muscat. Accommodating up to a stupendous 20,000 worshippers at a time, the structure features a blend of various architectural styles, which is highlighted by its beautiful décor and the spectacular crystal chandeliers and handmade Persian rugs here, which are some of the largest in the world (FRIDAY CLOSED). Later proceed to Al Alam Palace (Photo stop only – entry not allowed). Al Alam Palace, also known as Sultan's Palace and the Sultan Qaboos Palace, is one of the six royal residences of Sultan Qaboos located in Muscat. It looks out to the Gulf of Oman. The ruling monarch’s residence was built in 1972 and holds a history of 200 years. We will continue to Muttrah, the older parts of town. Here you will visit a traditional Muttrah souq selling handicrafts, fabric, Omani clothes, spices, jewelry, and all sorts of hardware, and is far more aimed at locals than tourists. Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest markets in Oman, dating back about two hundred years. Its antiquity has perhaps increased the extent of its beauty, magic, and allure. The market starts at a gate facing the Sea of Oman and Mutrah Corniche and ends with another gate in the city’s old quarters that usually receive visitors coming from other Omani towns and villages. In the evening return to the hotel and relax. Dinner at the local restaurant and overnight stay at Radisson Panorama 5* or a similar hotel.
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Wake up early morning for a quick breakfast, after which we head out for an exciting journey through the mountains of Oman. The mountain roads are picturesque but steep and to ensure the safety of our guests we have an experienced driver escorting you on this tour with a 4WD. We then proceed towards Nakhl passing through roads surrounded by green expanses of date palms and making a quick stop at the Ain Al Thowarah Hot Springs. From here we proceed to Al Awabi where we take a turn towards Wadi Bani Auf. The route we follow takes us on a picturesque if rather bumpy drive through rocky valleys and dramatic canyons displaying spectacular rock structures that showcase the evolution of the Wadi and the rock formation through the ages. Our next stop is a visit to a traditional Omani village, Bilad Sayt. The village is tucked away in the mountains with little houses set on rocky slopes and the large swathes of terrace farms surrounding it adding to its old-world charm. The route winds through the scenic mountains down to the village of Al Hamra, which is characterized by its mud houses and date plantations. From here it’s a short drive to Jabrin Castle, one of the most intricately decorated and beautifully furnished castles in Oman. With fine calligraphy etched into the walls, beautiful handpainted ceilings, amazing hand-carved door frames, decorative arches, and windows and balconies, this castle is one of the only castles in Oman still furnished according to the time it was originally constructed in. A visit to the Jabreen Castle is a delight for visitors looking to get a feel of ancient times. We then head to the hotel where we will stay for the night. Dinner and overnight stay at Golden Tulip or a similar hotel in Nizwa.
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Breakfast at the hotel and check out. Proceed to visit the famous Nizwa Fort. This seventeenth-century fort is one of the best representatives of the architecture of its time and is famous for its circular main tower, one of the largest of its kind. After the tower, we make a quick visit to the Nizwa souq close by, where you’ll find everything from traditional khanjars(daggers) to local handicrafts and jewelry. If you visit on a Friday, you will have the chance to witness the weekly cattle auction that takes place here. Through its many alleys and divisions, Nizwa Souq has kept for hundreds of years its original appearance. We continue to drive towards Wadi Bani Khalid also known as Wadi Hayer. A desert paradise in the middle of the sweltering sands, Wadi Bin Khalid is an oasis in the middle of date palm trees with a network of pools with sparkling blue water surrounded by rock valleys which makes it an ideal spot to relax or enjoy a refreshing swim (Swimming dress code applies for ladies). The pools in the Wadi have absolutely clear sparkling waters and there is even a waterfall here. Then will proceed toward the Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sea of sand and dunes rising to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer’s delight. Enjoy stunning sunset views of the desert. Dinner and overnight at Desert Nights Camp or similar.
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Breakfast at the camp and drive towards Sur. A visit to this quaint seaside town is a great way of understanding the history of Oman’s coastal villages and offers a glimpse into what life was like in the Gulf fishing villages of old. We will take a tour of the Dhow factory here for which the town is famous. Walking along the Dhow Yard we will see many Dhows or local fishing boats in various stages of construction and learn about the history of this Dhow manufacturing town. Post the Dhow Yard tour we will head to the center of the town and visit the Sineslah Fort, a three-hundred-year-old square fort with round watchtowers. After taking a short break for lunch we take the highway heading towards Muscat. Heading toward the coast for a tour of the Bimah Sinkhole. After spending some time at the Bimah Sinkhole, we will take an adventurous route through the spectacular mountains to reach Wadi Arbayeen, situated in the Al Sharqiyah region of Oman. Then we proceed onwards to Muscat, enjoying the scenic drive back as we cross many sights including making a stop at Quriyat. When we arrive at this seaside fishing town, we can spend some time exploring the town itself before heading over to the four-hundred-year-old Quriyat fort. We can also visit the Fish Souk(marketplace) where one can explore the day-to-day activities of a fish market. From here we’ll drive through the mountains as the road cuts through the rugged Eastern Hajjar range. Dinner at the local restaurant and overnight stay at Radisson Panorama 5* or a similar hotel in Muscat.
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Enjoy a pleasant breakfast at the hotel and then you will be transported to the Muscat airport to catch a flight to Khasab, the capital of the Musandam governorate, a peninsular region featuring extensive fjord-like craggy inlets and surrounded by looming mountains. Arrive at the Khasab airport and depart for a tour of the city and its sights including Khasab Fort and the prehistorical rock paintings at Wadi Tawi. The Kasbah Fort is a striking structure built by the Portuguese on top of another ancient fort to strengthen their stronghold here during their colonization of the area in the seventeenth century. From here we take the coastal road towards the north, to visit the ruins of Qadah village. Here you will find extraordinary cave-style rock houses carved into the mountain slopes with ancient petroglyphs which feature humans and animals decorating the walls. In the afternoon we proceed on a half-day mountain safari in a 4WD to the highest peak of the Musandam Peninsula, Jabel Harim. Drive up a winding road surrounded by deep valleys, which stands at an astonishing height of 2087 meters above sea level. En route to the peak, we will make a stop at the mountain village of Sayhe which is situated at 1100 meters above sea level. This tiny mountain village is a great place to enjoy the beauty of Musandam and offers a fantastic view of the city of Dibba and the canyon below. Next, we will visit the Khawr Al Najid, one of the most popular destinations in the area due to the amazing views of the Indian Ocean it offers. There is also a natural creek of fresh water known as the Khor Najid lagoon, which has been used as a pit stop by travelers and traders for centuries. Then we proceed to visit Birkhat Khalidiya Park, where you will be amazed by the green landscapes. With numerous hardy acacia trees spread across the park, this is an area that remains a verdant green throughout the year. Afterward, check in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at Atana Khasab or a similar hotel.
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Enjoy breakfast at the Hotel, we head to the Khasab Port for a full-day dhow cruise. Experience the beauty of the coast of Oman, on a relaxing cruise as you sail along Oman's spectacular coast on a 'Dhow,' a traditional wooden boat. Hop on to a traditional Omani Dhow and settle on the cushioned seats of the vessel to sip a beverage of your choice and snack on dates as you enjoy the cool sea breeze and take in the spectacular scenery. Be sure to try the Kahwa, a traditional Omani-style coffee, onboard. We will visit some small fishing villages along the coast so you can witness the daily routine of the fishermen, talk to the locals, and learn more about the lifestyle of the people here. Afterward, we head to the famous Telegraph Island located close to the shore. Also known as Jazira Al Matlab, it is so named after the now abandoned telegraph station built here by the British in 1864. We will enjoy a pleasant lunch on the Dhow, as we are buffeted by the cool breeze, and proceed to cruise past the sights of the coast including the spectacular fjords of Musandam before we head back to the marina. After the end of the Dhow Cruise, we will return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at Atana Khasab or a similar hotel.
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In the morning, after breakfast at the hotel, your adventure in Oman will continue in Salalah for which you will be transported to the Khasab Airport to board the flight for Muscat and onwards to Salalah. After you arrive at the Muscat Airport you will be escorted along the way to catch your second flight to Salalah. On landing at the Salalah Airport, you will be driven to your hotel after which you have a free evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Crowne Plaza or similar in Salalah.
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Have an early morning breakfast, so we can set out on a long day tour of the most popular destinations in Salalah. In the morning, we will set out for our tour driving eastwards. Approximately 35km along we will hit the coastal village of Taqah. After visiting Taqa castle we then proceed onward to Khor Rori, a freshwater creek surrounded by greenery which attracts many aquatic birds. Just next to the creek lies the site of the ruined city of Samhuram, the capital of ancient Arabia's frankincense trade. Rediscovered in the nineteenth century by a British archaeologist and explorer, excavations have produced evidence of an ancient city dating back to the 2nd century BC with trade links by sea to far eastern destinations and maybe even Greece. The ruins are part of the Incense Route in Oman which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the ruins, we continue along the road to Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar. From the ninth century onwards, the town became famous as the regional hub for trade in frankincense, horses, and slaves. Two columns with statues of prancing horses stand at the entrance to the town, as a nod to its history as an important breeding center for Arabian steeds, and some of the old houses still bear the woodcarving denoting its time as the capital of trade and commerce. The main fort in the town lies in ruins, despite being the site of the famous Battle of Mirbat, and it is closed to the public though you can make out the unusual hexagonal tower at one corner. One of Dhofar's best-known historic sites is Bin Ali's Tomb. The tomb belongs to Mohamed bin Ali, a well-respected religious leader who died in 1135 AD. After lunch, we drive along Ittin Road up through steep paths to visit one of the most popular tourist sites in Salalah, Dohar. High in the mountains lies the tomb of the Prophet Job or Nabi Ayub as he is called in Arabic. We then drive down to Al Mughsail Beach, whose white sand and blue waters make it the most popular beach in Salalah. We thereafter continue along the ‘Hairpin-bend’ road towards the western border of Oman. See the historical ‘Frankincense trees’ growing in their natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting the dry & craggy countryside. Take a short walk into the valleys to smell the ‘Holy incense’ amidst the scenic view of the region. On reaching Salalah, you can enjoy your evening of leisure. Dinner at the local restaurant in Salalah and overnight at Crowne Plaza or similar.
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After breakfast at the hotel, we will go to the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, which is the largest mosque outside of Muscat and Nizwa. Later proceed to "The Museum of the Frankincense Land" which opened in July 2007 at Al Balid Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site in Salalah is the latest addition to Oman's heritage and cultural scene. Then go to the old Haffah souk, which is famous for selling high-quality Frankincense and other Dhofari traditional souvenirs. The frankincense aroma pervades the souk. Haffah souk is visually appealing, with its small shops lined up with straight piles of incense boxes, clay incense burners colorfully decorated with traditional patterns, and bags of incense crystals. This provides ample shopping opportunities. Dinner at a local restaurant in Salalah, followed by an overnight stay at the Crowne Plaza or a similar hotel.
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Breakfast at the hotel. You will be transferred to Salalah Airport to take a flight to Muscat and connect to your international flight onwards to USA.
Land Tour Price Only: (International Airfare, Taxes & Fuel surcharges are not included)
5-7 Travelers:
USD 6,410 Per Person
Based on double room
occupancy
8-9 Travelers:
USD 5,820 Per Person
Based on double room
occupancy
10 Travelers:
USD 5,710 Per Person
Based on double room
occupancy
Single Room Supplement:
USD 900 Per Person (For all nights of the tour if you wish to stay in a single room).
Note: Group tour rates are quoted on a transparent and competitive pricing basis for brackets of 5-7, 8-9, and 10 travelers. A minimum of 5 participants is required to run the tour, and the tour will have a maximum capacity of 10 participants. Tour booking is subject to the booking terms and conditions outlined in the reservation form. Please read the terms and conditions carefully, and feel free to contact us with any questions.
Tour Fitness Level
Moderate: Fits all age groups with good health, some fitness level, and a sense of adventure. There will be some long walking days and a bit of standing while touring. Access to some of the sites and attractions will require walking on uneven terrain or steep staircases. Few elevations, a pleasant but busy schedule, and several long overland drives during the tour. Feel free to discuss the details of the trip with us.
Lodging Level
Comfortable (3/4-stars): Lodges and hotels that provide a decent size room & an ensuite bathroom. A limited range of enhanced services, some of the onsite amenities, and a level of service that is acceptable by international standards.
Visa & Passport
U.S. passport holders require an Oman visa which can be obtained online. Further details related to the visa application process will be sent out sixty (60) days prior to the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & should include an empty page to stamp the visas.
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Ten (10) nights of accommodation at 4* & 5* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
4x4 vehicles as per itinerary (Seating 3 pax per Jeep)
Services of Tour Manager and local English-speaking guides throughout the itinerary.
Muscat – Khasab, Khasab – Muscat – Salalah,
Salalah - Muscat domestic flights.
Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary.
All meals as per the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Portage at the hotels.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Tour Does Not Include:
International air USA – Muscat - USA.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Consular visa fees for an Oman visa. (Obtained online or on arrival).
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, mineral waters, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Useful Details to Know and Tour Map:
This trip will require long driving distances overland. The roads are paved and in a good condition. For the comfort of the travelers, air-conditioned transportation will be provided throughout the trip. We will be making several restroom stops, stretching our legs, and enjoying the scenic views on the way. During the sightseeing days, travelers must be able to walk a minimum of two to three miles to keep up with fellow travelers. Walking to and from sites could be on uneven surfaces or unpaved paths. Please note that elevators are not available at tour sites. We may have a few drives on poor-quality roads which are required to access the historical and archeological gems of the country. Please make sure to have a comfy outfit and shoes for the sightseeing days. By signing up for this tour, participants agree that they have read and understood all the terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health and have an open mind, a sense of adventure, and the ability to be tolerant and patient for the entire period of the tour. To ensure that the itinerary runs efficiently and for the comfort and/or safety of travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to modify the order of the sightseeing activities at any time before departure or after the tour begins or cancel the tour if the planned itinerary is not possible to operate in the event of Force Majeure.
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