Nizwa, Wahiba & Muscat: Discover Arabia’s Gem in Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is a sure-fire contender for any ‘off the beaten track’ award, and for that reason, we just had to share this Arabian gem with you. An eight-night whistle-stop tour of Oman’s northeastern region is sure to leave you yearning for more as you witness the spectacular sand dunes of Sharqiya, try mouth-watering Omani cuisine in a Nizwa souk and experience total cultural immersion in the coastal town of Sur. Spend your nights in enchanting Bedouin camps, hilltop hideaways and luxurious beach-side abodes as you fall for Arabia’s gem.

History & Culture in Nizwa

Hit the ground running as you leave the bustling city of Muscat behind and make your way to the historic inland town of Nizwa. Enjoy the mesmerising landscapes that have enriched Omani life for thousands of years. The small verdant town of Fanja is a particular highlight for us, with its rich history and wild wadis whilst the town of Jabrin is home to one of the most impressive forts in Oman and is your last cultural pit stop before arriving at the Sahab Hotel; the ideal spot from which to watch mesmerising sunsets and sunrises.

Souks & Tombs

Two nights at Sahab, dipping into remote villages by day and listening to Bedouin tales by night, will also give you plenty of time to visit Nizwa with one of our expert guides. A guided exploration of the town’s souks makes for an exciting morning filled with rich cuisine, ornately decorated handicrafts and the rich perfume of burning incense. Once you have had your fill of bustling markets we will take you out to the fascinating Beehive tombs in the prehistoric village of Bat and the Saiq Plateau. The areas temperate climate gives birth to an eclectic variety of flora and fauna making this a beautiful and surprising anomaly in the desert landscape.

Beneath the Stars of the Wahiba Desert

After an early start to catch the Arabian sunrise, we will whisk you south and into the famed Wahiba Desert. Countless wadis dot your path here with this land of colossal sand dunes well worth a morning hike – armed with a gourmet breakfast picnic basket of course. What’s more, your private guide will also show you to the best hidden away tranquil enclaves as you continue your journey off-road into the very heart of the Wahiba Desert to arrive at your authentic Bedouin camp where the stars, candles and campfires will be your only source of light during the crystal clear nights.

Sandboarding on the Dunes

If you can tear yourself away from your luxury camp and its stunning views, pay a visit to Wani Bani Khalid; a valley of tumbling waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for cooling off and topping up your tan. Spend time with a Bedouin family trying traditional Omani khawa (coffee) and dates whilst listening to their many stories of desert dwelling. For the adrenaline junkies among us, we’ve found the perfect dune for a spot of sand boarding. High octane and a great work out – it’s a whole lot of fun.

By the Beach in Muscat

The final leg of your trip will then see you leave the Oman desert behind and head for the fishing town of Sur. Take a quick dip in the crystal clear waters at Wadi Tiwi before continuing on back to Muscat for a final three of nights on the beach. Holed up at the Shangri-La Al Waha, reminisce of your nights in the desert as you sit in the lap of luxury with the Arabian Sea’s soft sand between your toes. From the dramatic shoreline, lapped by sapphire seas, to the hotel’s own turtle sanctuary, the dive centre and its luxurious Chi spa, a few nights here will be the perfect finale to your Oman adventure.