Oman Hiking & Camel Riding
10 Days
from
$7,520
to
$12,070
per person*
Highlights:
Oman
(Muscat, Nizwa, Salalah, Rub Al Khali Desert)
Trip Start/End:
Muscat
/
Muscat
Explore the Sutanate of Oman in your private vehicle with English speaking guide. Beginning in Muscat, you will be met at the airport with assistance of clearing customs and baggage retrieval (visa service included). That evening, board your Sunset cruise and take in the splendor of this country's capital city. The following day, enjoy a private city tour of Muscat - visit the Grand Mosque, Souqs of Mutrah, Sultan's Palace, forts of Jalali and Mirani, and end the day with a tour of Bait Al Zubair museum. The next day, travel outside of Muscat to Barka and Nakhl, visiting forts and the famous hot water spring of Nakhl (lunch included). Continuing with day excursions from Muscat, travel via Fanjah, Izki and Nizwa, along the Wadi Nakr (known as the Grand Canyon of Oman). On the return to Muscat, the final stop is at the picturesque village of Misfat Al Abrein.
Start your exploration of the southern tip of Oman with a city tour of Salalah. Visit the museum and experience the history of Dhofar. Drive through the surrounding plantations on the way to Al Hafa, passing the Sultan's residential palace Al Husn en route to the Old Souk. Visit the ancient city of Zufar and the ruins of Al Balid before returning to your hotel (Lunch included with half day tour). Then head inland to the vast "Empty Quarter" desert, empty of human existence and stretching for thousands of kilometers. Spend two days on camel back experiencing the vastness and solitude of Rub al Khali. Return to Salalah for a final night of relaxation on the balmy ocean coast.
Note: Dress code – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Muscat
| - VIP Meet and Greet Service (including Visa) - Vehicle/Driver
- Transfer - Muscat - Muscat [Airport] - Vehicle/Driver
- Shared - Sunset Dhow Cruise (2hrs) - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*)
Grand Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: The Chedi Muscat (5*) (Superior)
Alt: (None)
|
- Day 2
- Muscat
| - Private - Guide
- Private - City Tour (1/2d) - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - Museum & Souqs (1/2d) - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*)
Grand Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: The Chedi Muscat (5*) (Superior)
|
- Day 3
- Muscat - Bilad Sayt - Nizwa
| - Private - Guide
- Transfer - Muscat - Bilad Sayt [Wadi Bani Auf] - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - Hiking; Wadi Bani Auf
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Falaj Daris Hotel (3.5*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Misfat Al-Abriyyin - Al Hamra - Nizwa
| - Private - Guide
- Transfer - Misfat Al-Abriyyin - Al Hamra [Wadi Ghul] - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - Hiking; Wadi Ghul - Wadi An Nakhr
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Falaj Daris Hotel (3.5*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Al Hamra - Muscat
| - Private - Guide
- Transfer - Al Hamra - Muscat [via Wadi Fanjah] - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Shared - Sunset Dhow Cruise (2hrs) - Vehicle/Driver
- Omani Cuisine (incl. Transfer) - Per Person
| Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*)
Grand Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: The Chedi Muscat (5*) (Superior)
|
- Day 6
- Muscat - Salalah
| - Private - Guide
- Air - Muscat - Salalah [Direct] - Economy
- Transfer - Salalah - Salalah [Airport] - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - City Tour (1/2d) - Car/Driver
| Crowne Plaza (5*)
Standard Sea View (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Hilton Salalah Resort (4*) (Seaview with Balcony)
|
- Day 7
- Salalah - Rub Al Khali Desert
| - Private - Guide
- Transfer - Salalah - Rub Al Khali Desert [Sharf Al Alamayn] - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Private - Camel Trek - Camel
- Dinner (included)
| Desert Camp
tent (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Rub Al Khali Desert
| - Private - Guide
- Private - Camel Trek - Camel
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Desert Camp
tent (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Rub Al Khali Desert - Salalah
| - Private - Guide
- Private - Camel Trek - Camel
- Lunch (included)
- Transfer - Rub Al Khali Desert - Salalah [Transfer] - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Crowne Plaza (5*)
Standard Sea View (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Salalah - Muscat
| - Private - Guide
- Transfer - Salalah - Salalah [Airport] - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Salalah - Muscat [Direct] - Economy
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Muscat
Grand Hyatt Hotel - Muscat
Day 1: Muscat
You will be met by a Representative at immigration and ushered into the lounge, where you will be served mineral water, Omani coffee, dates etc while your visa is being processed. You'll then be taken through passport control without queuing.
Take an airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide in Muscat.
Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) The Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) is located on the sandy beach of Shatti Al Qurm, overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman and right in the heart of the diplomatic and government district of the city. The property is one of the largest and most opulent hotels Muscat has to offer. The interior includes many gold and stained glass features and facilities include concierge service, fitness centre, parking, and shops.
Muscat
Bait Al Zubair Museum
Day 2: Muscat
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Spend the morning in the company of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking Guide to explore the wonderful city of Muscat. After being picked up from your hotel, the tour will start with a visit of the Grand Mosque, standing in stately grandeur. A visit to this beautiful piece of architecture is a must for all tourists (open daily for visitors, between 0800–1100 Hrs, except Fridays) Dress code – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers), From here move on to the fish and vegetable waterfront markets in Muttrah. Feel free to mingle with the crowd. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new - sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. Then take in the views on the drive past the Corniche and to the capital area before a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Enjoy a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history before being returned to your hotel.
We drive past the Corniche and to the capital area to visit Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history. We next proceed to take a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new. Sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. From here, we take you to the modern shopping complex zone in Al Qurum. Feel free for some shopping at the popular “Qurum City centre” and enjoy some of the best deals and bargains. Wrap the day by taking a drive along the embassy area which gives a spectacular outlook of the Muscat city with lights.
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) 
Nizwa
Wadi Bani Auf
Falaj Daris Hotel
Day 3: Muscat - Bilad Sayt - Nizwa
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Board 4WD air conditioned vehicles and drive along the Batinah Coast. We stop at the camel breeding farm for a while and see the numerous camels that are bred in this farm. From here, we drive to Wadi Bani Awf, one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite.
Wadi Bani Awf is one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite. As you drive into the wadi, after 1km, a deviation to the right will bring you to an impressive gorge, ‘the Snake Canyon’. The first half kilometres is fun hiking in a narrow section of the canyon. The canyon opens up into a wide wadi and then, the next kilometres and so is easy hiking among boulders. The Canyon narrows to less than 5 meters wide and eventually gives way to a pool. Feel free to enjoy a swim in the pool. Later we drive further to the charming village of Bilad Sayt. After parking the vehicle near the mouth of the narrow “V” shaped gorge, you will set out on foot. The first view of the town will come after you emerge from an improbable canyon cleft. It is like discovering a lost city, or seeing Petra for the first time.
Accommodation: Falaj Daris Hotel (3.5*) Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4km away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Oman is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, a country that combines luxurious comfort and safety amidst rugged mountains, panoramic beaches and striking desert view. Oman offers culture, arts, heritage, nature, sports, adventure, entertainment and knowledge.
Wadi An Nakhr
Day 4: Misfat Al-Abriyyin - Al Hamra - Nizwa
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Drive to Wadi Ghul in 4WD airconditioned vehicle.
We drive to Wadi Ghul and begin the trek. Here you will see the abandoned village on a ledge of an outcrop where two wadi’s converge. The village is that of Ghul. Up on the right is where the current village lies. The old village goes back to antiquity. Further down is Wadi An Nakhr where we will meet with weavers. Over a cup of “Arabic coffee” (Kahwa) you will get a demonstration of the weaving process. Arrive at the summit of Jebel Shams, also known as the “Al Khatim plateau”. Enjoy lunch near the rim of the Canyon or the Nakhr Gorge. After lunch we continue our trek on an ancient donkey path, which follows the West flank of Wadi An Nakhr known as the “Grand Canyon”, and leads to the abandoned village of As Saab. The walk allows spectacular views into Wadi An Nakhr the “Grand Canyon” and down to Al Hamra.
Accommodation: Falaj Daris Hotel (3.5*) 
Traditional Omani Dhow
Day 5: Al Hamra - Muscat
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Drive to Muscat through the Sumail Gap via Izki and Wadi Fanjah.
Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Pick-up at your hotel and transfer to Bin Ateeq Restaurant (Omani Restaurant) for a sumptuous Omani Dinner. Bin Ateeq is acclaimed for serving some of the finest Omani cuisine in Muscat. Diners congregate on woven rugs at low tables and cushions to savour the finest Omani food in private rooms. After dinner return transfer to the hotel.
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) 
Salalah
Salalah at Sunset
Crown Plaza Salalah
Day 6: Muscat - Salalah
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Take your flight from Muscat to Salalah.
Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Enjoy a half day private city tour which will give you a variety of old and modern culture of the region. Drive through the greenery of coconuts, Banana and Papaya plantations. A visit to the Museum will give an introduction to the history and culture of Dhofar. In the Heritage Souk, you can find different types of Omani crafts and incense burners. A visit of the New Souk will give you an exact view of the Arabian market. Drive to the Gold souk which offers modern and traditional style Dhofari ornaments. On the way to Al Hafa, you can see some typical Dhofari houses with caravan windows and doors. Walking past the Sultan’s residential palace Al Husn, you'll reach the Old Souk where Frankincense, Dhofari traditional clothes and cosmetics are available. Before returning to the hotel, visit the ancient city of Zufar, the ruins of Al Balid, which was visited by Ibn Batuta and Marco Polo, describing it as a ‘beautiful, large and noble city’.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza (5*) The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah is situated in 45 acres of lush tropical garden, overlooking the Indian Ocean and on a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The resort enjoys an ideal location being just 10 minutes drive from the Salalah International Airport, 8 minutes from the city center and 15 minutes from the Port of Salalah. All 153 rooms including 9 suites and the 19 three-bedroom family villas are stylishly appointed and equipped with private bathroom, radio, International direct dial telephone, voice mail, interactive television including satellite channels, and mini-fridge. The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah boasts of the only 'Green' 9 holes Par 3 Golf Course in Oman.
Rub Al Khali Dunes
Desert Camp
Day 7: Salalah - Rub Al Khali Desert
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.
Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.
Accommodation: Desert Camp Spend the night in your private desert camp. Guests are treated to traditional Arabian hospitality, with typical, home-cooked Omani food, Arabic coffee and dates. In the evening the colours of the desert landscape are particularly beautiful, and guests sleep out under the stars on mattresses among the dunes, or in tents if it is cold. An al fresco breakfast is served at first light.
Camel Trek
Day 8: Rub Al Khali Desert
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.
Accommodation: Desert Camp Day 9: Rub Al Khali Desert - Salalah
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.
Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza (5*) Day 10: Salalah - Muscat
Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.
Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.
Take your flight from Salalah to Muscat.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Grand Hyatt Hotel - Muscat
Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) - Muscat
The Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) is located on the sandy beach of Shatti Al Qurm, overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman and right in the heart of the diplomatic and government district of the city. The property is one of the largest and most opulent hotels Muscat has to offer. The interior includes many gold and stained glass features and facilities include concierge service, fitness centre, parking, and shops.
- Falaj Daris Hotel
Falaj Daris Hotel (3.5*) - Nizwa
Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4km away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Oman is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, a country that combines luxurious comfort and safety amidst rugged mountains, panoramic beaches and striking desert view. Oman offers culture, arts, heritage, nature, sports, adventure, entertainment and knowledge.
- Crown Plaza Salalah
Crowne Plaza (5*) - Salalah
The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah is situated in 45 acres of lush tropical garden, overlooking the Indian Ocean and on a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The resort enjoys an ideal location being just 10 minutes drive from the Salalah International Airport, 8 minutes from the city center and 15 minutes from the Port of Salalah. All 153 rooms including 9 suites and the 19 three-bedroom family villas are stylishly appointed and equipped with private bathroom, radio, International direct dial telephone, voice mail, interactive television including satellite channels, and mini-fridge. The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah boasts of the only 'Green' 9 holes Par 3 Golf Course in Oman.
- Desert Camp
Desert Camp - Rub Al Khali Desert
Spend the night in your private desert camp. Guests are treated to traditional Arabian hospitality, with typical, home-cooked Omani food, Arabic coffee and dates. In the evening the colours of the desert landscape are particularly beautiful, and guests sleep out under the stars on mattresses among the dunes, or in tents if it is cold. An al fresco breakfast is served at first light.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Oman
VISA/PASSPORT
A valid passport and visa are required for entry into Oman for both US and Canadian citizens. Omani embassies and consulates issue multiple-entry tourist and/or business visas valid for up to two years. Omani immigration officials at the port of entry determine the length of stay in Oman, which varies according to the purpose of travel. Alternatively, U.S. citizens may obtain a 30-day visa by presenting their U.S. passports on arrival at all Oman land, sea, and air entry points. Note: The validity period of the applicant's passport should not be less than six months. Adequate funds and proof of an onward/return ticket, though not required, are strongly recommended. The fee is Rials Omani 6.00 (approximately USD 16.00). Visas can also be prearranged for a processing fee of approximately $30 and generally takes 3 weeks to process.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Oman for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is required. Medical facilities are poor quality and not widespread. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/oman.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Muscat.
Government: Sultanate since 1744.
Language: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken.
Religion: Predominantly Muslim, including Shi’ite Muslim, Sunni Muslim and facilities for the worship of other religions.
Time: GMT + 4.
Electricity: 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz.
Telephone: Country code +968.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with international mobile phone companies. Coverage is variable.
Internet: There are Internet cafes throughout Oman.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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