Overview
With its jagged peaks, dazzling white mosques, mystical ruins, and lively souks laden with incense and oil, it’s easy to fall under the spell of Oman. On our captivating expedition with Trip Leader Annie Hawkins—WT’s consummate desert explorer—you’ll uncover the wonders of this enchanting realm. Our journey brings you from opulent Sultan’s palaces and historic Islamic forts to the towering Hajar mountains, where timeless mudbrick villages sit nestled in emerald palm forests, and ancient irrigation channels spiral magically through the arid landscape. We’ll ply the Arabian Sea coast aboard a traditional dhow, mingle with village traders at a spirited goat auction, visit a sea turtle sanctuary, and savor a rich local cuisine of succulent kebabs, saffron-infused rice, and cardamom coffee served with sweet dates. Oman’s dramatic wadis and their cool turquoise pools provide perfect natural oases, and our overnight in spectacular Wahiba Sands carries you back in time (in classic WT style!), for a camel ride amid the dunes and an exhilarating 4WD journey across the boundless desert. All along the way we’ll experience the generous spirit of the Omani people and hear intriguing tales of their tribal ancestry and seafaring heritage. Join us for a true adventure into the heart of this mesmerizing land!
This was a wonderful trip. It was well planned to give experience in different parts of Oman and different aspects of its history and modern life.
— Margaret H., Washington, DC
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-5
Muscat / Western Hajar Mountains
After exploring Muscat, head to the rugged Western Hajar, where traditional cliff-hugging villages sit amid gardens and date palm forests. Here we meet a traditional beekeeper, explore historic forts, see vast Wadi Nakhr, Oman’s “Grand Canyon,” and hike to isolated villages.
Days 6-8
Wahiba Sands / Desert-to-Sea Crossing
At Wahiba Sands, we’ll experience the life of a nomad—in WT style!—with camel rides amid the golden sand dunes, visits to Bedouin tribes, and an unforgettable evening under the stars, with the hypnotic sounds of Bedouin musicians transporting you back in time. A 4WD expedition carries us across the desert to the edge of the Arabian Sea, where we visit a turtle reserve and enjoy a cruise aboard a classic dhow, the vessels that once carried frankincense as far as India and Africa.
Days 9-12
Salalah and the Frankincense Trail
Along Oman’s Frankincense Trail, we’ll join an archaeologist in Salalah for in-depth discoveries of the nearby mythical ruins of Al Baleed, explore Nabi Ayub, storied resting place of the prophet Job, and visit the blowholes at Mugshail Beach, known to spout sea water as high as 100 feet during high tide. Depart on Day 12 via Muscat.
Desert Kingdom of Oman
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Cultural adventures with walking tours, hiking, rugged off-road travel, and optional camel riding
