Explore Oman Tour
Oman - Group Tour or Tailormade Holiday Option
Explore Oman on a ten-day adventure through a country where the past echoes alongside the vibrancy of modern life. Here, majestic mountains reach for the sky, their slopes contrasting with the immaculate white sand beaches lining the coastline. Golden dunes stretch towards the horizon, interrupted only by the sparkling turquoise waters of secluded desert oases. This is Oman, a land woven from breathtaking landscapes and a rich history.
Nature enthusiasts will find Oman a paradise, offering a stunning array of natural beauty. Sunlit beaches invite you to unwind, while the vast deserts tell the tales of ancient nomads. You can find peace in the cool shade of palm trees that border crystal-clear lagoons or lose yourself in the maze of wadis—valleys carved by time and wind into the heart of the mountains. These havens offer a refreshing escape and a glimpse into the hidden wonders of Oman.
Travel back in time by exploring Oman’s rich cultural heritage. Visit grand forts and castles, whose weathered stones tell stories of battles and empires. Museums brimming with treasures speak of a bygone era with each artifact showcasing the ingenuity and artistry of those who came before. Oman is expert at blending tradition with modernity.
As your journey progresses, be prepared to be enchanted by Oman as the country reveals its treasured secrets, from the towering peaks of its mountains to the vast expanses of its deserts. Immerse yourself in a land where history whispers from every corner, and where the past and present intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Experience the warmth of Omani hospitality, where ancient customs blend with the energy of a growing nation. All tailor-made to your own requirements.
Day 1 – Welcome to Oman
Upon reaching Muscat International Airport, a driver will be ready at the gate to accompany you to your hotel. The check-in process will be seamless, allowing you to quickly settle into your accommodation. Take some time to explore the surrounding area at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere. Finally, relax and unwind as you prepare for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: None
Day 2 - Muscat
Take breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable guided tour of Muscat. Immerse yourself in the bustling ambiance of the Fish Market, witnessing firsthand how the catch of the day is sold to locals. Then, explore the vibrant Matrah Souks. Explore Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the country's tallest structure, boasting an imposing 90-metre minaret and four additional minarets symbolizing the five pillars of Islam. Delve into Oman's rich cultural heritage at the captivating Bait Al Zubair Museum. Then, view the majestic Al Alam Palace and the Opera House. Return to the hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Muscat, cherishing the memories of the day.
Meals: B
Day 3 – Oman’s Coastal Beauty
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and a relaxing morning on the beach. Later in the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquillity and beauty of Oman's coastal landscape with a sunset cruise on a Dhow. As the day winds down, board a traditional dhow boat and set sail along Muscat's serene coastline. Watch as the golden sun slowly descends, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. Feel the gentle breeze and listen to the soothing sounds of the sea as you cruise along the crystal-clear waters. Throughout the journey you can enjoy refreshments provided onboard. After two hours of scenic bliss, return to the hotel.
Meals: B
Day 4 - Jabal Al Akhdar
Embark on a journey to Jabal Al Akhdar, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and fertile valleys. En route, marvel at the ancient Falaj irrigation system in Birkat Al Mouz, showcasing Oman's historical water management prowess. Explore the charming village surrounded by verdant greenery and UNESCO-listed heritage sites, offering insights into the nation's cultural legacy. Journeying further to Jebel Akhdar, discover quaint villages nestled amidst terraced fields, where locals cultivate an array of fruits such as apricots, peaches, grapes, and pomegranates. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to unwind amid the tranquil mountainous surroundings. overnight stay in Jabal Al Akhdar
Meals: BL
Day 5 – Traditional Villages
Start your day with a delightful breakfast while taking in the breathtaking mountain vistas. Then, embark on an village hike in Jabal Akhdar. Begin your journey at Diana's Point, a scenic spot offering panoramic views of three picturesque villages nestled amidst lush gardens. Later, explore Al Aqur, known for its charming historic houses and rich cultural heritage. Next, visit Al Ain village to see its traditional Falaj irrigation system and vibrant Rose Garden, immersing yourself in the region's agricultural traditions. Conclude your hike in Shuraijah village, where you can soak in the tranquil ambiance and admire the rustic charm of the surroundings. After your hike, return to your hotel and indulge in some leisure time. Enjoy an overnight stay in Jabal Al Akhdar, surrounded by the serenity of Oman's mountainous landscapes.
Meals : B
Day 6 – Nizwa and Jabal Shams
After breakfast, you will leave Jabal Akhdar and travel to Nizwa and discover its iconic fort, a towering testament to Oman's history. After exploring the fort, navigate the vibrant alleyways of Nizwa's souk, immersing yourself in local commerce and culture. The journey then continues to Jabal Shams, Oman's "Grand Canyon," where you can get panoramic views of the dramatic cliffs, deep ravines, and rugged landscapes. In Al Hamra, explore Bayt Al Safah Museum, delving into Oman's cultural heritage and gaining insight into its traditional way of life. The day ends in Misfat Al Abriyeen, a charming village with lush greenery and historic terraced fields. As the sun sets, unwind for the night in the village's peaceful ambiance, reflecting on the day's adventures and looking forward to what tomorrow brings.
Meals: BLD
Day 7 - Wahiba Sands
At dawn, guided by your local expert, take a journey to the magnificent Wahiba Sands. Pause at Birkat Al Mawz, a picturesque oasis nestled amidst mountains, to explore ancient ruins, banana plantations, and the restored Bait al Redidah fort. Then, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site, Falaj Al Khatmain, showcasing Oman's ingenuity in sustaining life in this arid land. You can enjoy lunch at the nearby Razwan Restaurant, recharging for the adventures ahead. Afterwards, your explore Oman tour continues to Bidiyah, where the vast expanse of the Wahiba Sands awaits with its towering dunes and expansive golden sands. If you are feeling adventurous, why not try an exhilarating dune bashing experience, before you check-in at your Resort Camp. This evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the towering dunes before returning for a sumptuous dinner. Conclude the day by relaxing in the serene ambiance of the desert night
Meals : BLD
Day 8 – Sur and Ras al Jinz
Your Oman adventure continues on a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion. Start by visiting the natural beauty of Wadi Bani Khalid, where you'll hike amidst stunning scenery and discover Olympic-sized pools nestled in the landscape. Then, journey to Sur, a town renowned for its traditional architecture and rich heritage. Explore its historic dwellings and intricate structures, gaining insights into Omani culture. Continue your exploration of Oman with a visit to the Sur Dhow yards, where the age-old craft of dhow construction comes to life. Witness artisans at work as they create these iconic vessels using traditional methods. You will then head to Jinz and settle into the Ras Al Hadd hotel, where you'll enjoy a delicious dinner. As the day draws to a close, experience the magic of turtle-watching along the shores of Ras Al Hadd. You will witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, a truly enchanting experience. Finally, retreat to the comfort of your hotel for a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of the coastal town.
Meals : BD
Day 9 - Wadi Tiwi and Muscat
Embark on a picturesque coastal journey from your starting point to Muscat. Traverse the stunning gorge of Wadi Tiwi, where traditional villages and verdant plantations dot the landscape, creating a breathtaking scene. Explore the remarkable natural formation of Bimmah Sinkhole, carved by a meteor impact. As you continue your drive towards Muscat, soak in the scenic views and arrive at your beach hotel for check-in. With the evening free, unwind and indulge in leisure activities before retiring for the night, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the nearby waves.
Meals: BL
Day 10 – Depart from Oman
At a suitable time, your friendly driver will be waiting to escort you to the airport, ensuring a seamless transition at the end of your explore Oman private tour. As you check in and board your flight back home, let the memories of Oman's stunning natural beauty and authentic experiences warm your heart and inspire your spirit.
Meals: B
Note: Contact us if you would like to extend your stay in Salalah.
Group departure dates 2025
2 May - 11 May
26 September - 5 October
14 November - 23 November
Group departure dates 2026
8 May - 17 May
25 September - 4 October
20 November - 29 November
Price - £2495 per person (based on two people travelling and sharing a double room)
Single supplement - £1055
Minimum of four people and maximum of twelve on the group departures
Private Guided Tour
Scheduled to your dates and requirements. The Explore Oman Private Tour can be tailor-made to your exact requirements. Our expert travel consultants can design the tour to your budget and preferences. Just get in contact to find out more.
Price of itinerary as shown as a private option - from £3645 per person (based two people sharing per room)
What is included in the Explore Oman Tour
- Accommodation and meals as stipulated in the itinerary - Meals according to description - (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner • 3 Night at 4 Star hotel in Muscat on a bed and breakfast basis • 2 Night at 4 Stars hotel in Jabal Akhdar on bed and breakfast basis • 1 Night at local home stay in Misfat Abriyeen on Half Board • 1 Night at 4 Stars camp site in Whabia sands on Half Board • 1 Night at a 3 star hotel in Ras Jinz on a Half Board basis • 1 Night at 4 Star hotel in Muscat on a bed and breakfast basis
- Local transportation in Minibus and occasional 4WD Vehicle
- Service of an English-speaking Guide
- Entrance fees to Fort, Castle, Museum
- Water & soft drinks on tour
Not Included in the Explore Oman Tour
- International travel to the start and end point - contact us for information and flight options
- Any airport taxes
- Travel Insurance
- Any visa requirements
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks plus meals other than those mentioned on the program.
- Expenditure of a personal nature, laundry, telephone bills, drinks, souvenirs, tips etc.
- Early check in/ late checkout fees if required
- Gratuities for local tour guide
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice. Please refer to the COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry.
Oman - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/oman
Visa and Passport Information
Passport validity - To enter Oman, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Visas - You can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa.
If you overstay or do not extend your visa or residency, the Omani authorities may fine and detain you. Fines can be up to 10 Omani rials a day, with a total maximum fine of 500 rials.
To stay longer than 14 days or for work, study or other reasons, you must have a visa. To avoid the risk of refusal, it’s better to apply for a visa online before you travel – you can select the ‘unsponsored visit visa’ option if you’re a tourist.
At Omani border control, you must be able to show:
- a ticket for return or onward travel
- proof of your accommodation – for example, a hotel booking
- proof of your travel health insurance
Local Laws and Custom
Oman’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK and reflect the fact that Oman is an Islamic country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. Make sure your actions do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious areas.
Tourists and visitors can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs. The legal drinking age is 21. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public, be drunk in public or to drink-drive. The police have arrested and charged British nationals for these offences. Border police may arrest passengers travelling through Omani airports or seaports under the influence of alcohol.
It is illegal to import or use e-cigarettes or vape products in Oman.
You should dress modestly in public areas including in shopping malls. Your clothing should cover the tops of your arms and legs (below the knee), and underwear should not be visible. Wearing tight-fitting clothes is likely to attract attention. Do not wear swimming costumes or beachwear in public areas, except on tourist beaches or at swimming pools. Cross-dressing is illegal.
It is illegal to live with or share a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex if you are not married or closely related.
Illegal drugs penalties - There are severe penalties for importing, trafficking, smuggling and possessing drugs, even residual amounts. In some cases, offenders could get the death penalty. There is no distinction in Omani law between ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ drugs – both are treated with equal severity.
Using cameras and binoculars - It is illegal to photograph some government buildings and military sites. Do not photograph people without their permission. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood – particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.
Drones - It is illegal to fly drones or any other remote-controlled flying device without a valid licence or in restricted airspace.
LGBT+ travellers - Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Oman. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Health
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines.
The quality of healthcare facilities in Oman is similar to those in the UK. British nationals must use the private healthcare system. Visitors who do not have travel insurance or the means to settle any charges may be stopped from leaving the country until the debt is paid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. FCDO has a list of medical providers in Oman where some staff will speak English.
Emergency medical number - Call 9999 and ask for an ambulance.
What to bring on your Explore Oman Tour
Clothing
Light clothing will be sufficient for most of your trip. Long sleeve shirts/tops and pants are ideal. Remember to dress with respect. It may get cold in the mountains in the evenings so bring a warm jumper or top. A light waterproof coat should be included.
Footwear
Well-worn low-cut hiking shoes are ideal for hiking activities. Any normal pair of running shoes or hiking shoes will be sufficient. Sandals or beach footwear is good for the coastal areas.
Luggage while on your tour
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suit case.
Equipment
We recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a waterbottle. A solar charger for your phone and other electronics is a good idea.
Currency
The Omani rial is the official national currency of Oman, and it's used nowhere else. The Omani rial is made up of 1,000 baisa. The Central Bank of Oman pegs the value of the Omani rial at $2.6008 (USD).
Money can easily be changed at banks in the main cities and ATMs that accept international cards are widespread. If you need to change money, please ask your driver or staff at your hotel where the best place to do this is. Nowadays international credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and Amex) are also accepted in many places throughout Oman, but this may not be the case everywhere you will be travelling.
Weather in Oman
Like most of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has a tropical desert climate, with scorching summers and pleasantly warm, dry winters. There is some regional variation between the more humid coastal areas, the arid desert interior and the cooler, more Mediterranean climate of the mountain regions. However, with an abundance of warm, sunny days and balmy seas, the pleasant weather in Oman makes it an almost year-round destination.
Electricity in Oman
In Oman the power sockets are of type G. The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Mobile Phones in Oman
Most of the big UK networks works will have connections in Oman and if your phone is enabled for overseas calls you should be able to get a signal, at least in the larger towns and cities. Connections elsewhere may not be so good.
Internet in Oman
You can access the internet either through hotel wifi or in some cafés, but you may find connections are temperamental at times and there may be charges involved in getting online. For self-drive trips, we always include a portable wifi device so you can be online wherever you are without spending a fortune on data.
Ready to book or need more information?
Then get in touch with our expert travel consultants now. We can help you with tailormade options, best times to travel and much more...
