Iconic Oman

Iconic Oman

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6 Days From

$1259

Iconic Oman

6 Days Starting in Muscat, Oman and ending in Nizwa, Oman

Visiting: Muscat, Sur, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1259

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Iconic Oman" tour and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of Oman. Begin your journey in Muscat, exploring dazzling souks, the Grand Mosque, and the Bait Al Zubair Museum. Travel along the magnificent coastline to Sur, renowned for its traditional dhow craftsmanship, and witness the nesting of Green Turtles at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. Discover the lush oasis and turquoise pools of Wadi Bani Khalid, and experience the vast, undulating dunes of Wahiba Sands. Visit the historic Nizwa Fort, bustling cattle market, and traditional souk. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and guided city tours, all while traveling in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural wonders, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

  • See Muscat city, famous for dazzling souks and superb seafood

  • Experience magnificent coastline to Sur, best known for the craftsmanship associated with traditional 'Dhows'

  • Discover Wahiba, Oman’s most beautiful wadis famous for its lush green oasis, water pools, and deep canyons

  • Visit the busy cattle market, the traditional Nizwa souk, and the impressive 17th Century Nizwa Fort

  • Explore the Grand Mosque and Bait Al Zubair Museum in Muscat

  • Witness the nesting of Green Turtles at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

  • Relax and swim in the beautiful turquoise pools of Wadi Bani Khalid

  • Walk through the bustling Muttrah Souq and along the waterfront corniche in Muscat

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Muscat Arrival

Location: Muscat

Accommodation Name: hotel

On arrival at the International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Muscat. The remainder of the day is at leisure.




Overnight in Muscat

Day 2: Muscat - Sur (B/L/-)

Location: Sur

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today after breakfast at the hotel, your tour begins with the visit of the Grand Mosque (except Friday) & Bait Al Zubair Museum (except Friday) which is a brief introduction that traces Omans history and development. Later drive to Ras Al Jinz. your first stop will be at Bimah Sinkhole, a large limestone crater which has become a famous weekend getaway for locals too. From here you proceed to Wadi Shab or Wadi Tiwi and explore the wadi.



Upon arrival in check-in at the hotel.  Post an early dinner (By own), you will drive to Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. Oman is a vital area for Green Turtles in the Indian Ocean and the Green Back Turtle are heavily protected by the government of the country. In fact, over 275 of the Sultanate's beaches double-up as nesting grounds for five of the seven recognized species of sea turtles, the most common being the Green Back Turtle. We are led to the beach by an ecologist to see the female Turtles return to their beach to lay eggs. (Please note that the main nesting season is Jun-Aug, at other times of the year, there may or not be turtles every night).




Overnight in Sur

Day 3: Sur - Wahiba (B/L/D)

Location: Wahiba Sands

Accommodation Name: camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and start your journey visiting Building Yard. You can experience the building process as traditional dhow is still built and you can have a close look at the manufacturing process. Post-visit you will drive to Wadi Bani Khalid. You stop here to relax a bit and enjoy a swim in the beautiful turquoise pools. (Change the Coach/Coaster to 4WD for your trip to Wahiba). The Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and the White Sea of sand and dunes rising to 200 meters are also host to a variety of flora and fauna. You will further drive towards the dunes. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographers delight.




Overnight in Wahiba

Day 4: Wahiba - Nizwa (B/L/-)

Location: Nizwa

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning after breakfast at camp, your journey will take you to Nizwa. (Change the vehicle to Coach for your trip to Nizwa). Continue your journey to the oasis village of Bahla, the center of the pottery art in northern Oman. The village is surrounded by a 12 km mud wall that protects the palms and the fort (UNESCO world heritage site - photo stop from outside). Subsequently, visit the castle of Jabrin during Palms. It displays the Islamic art in perfection, and it was the residence of the Imam Bilarab in 17 Century. In Oman there are numerous caves, earlier of just as numerous Adventurers were visited. Afterward, you will visit the village Al Hamra, which is famous for its dark red clay two-story houses. On the surrounding one still sees on hills the isolated watchtowers. In the evening arrive Nizwa, the old capital in the 6th and 7th centuries with its Fort. You will visit \"Bait Al Safah\" at Al Hamra Al Bait, a castle built during the Al Yaaribah era, hundreds of years ago, consisting of four-story and well described in a book by the Omani scholar Yousuf Al Sharouni. Bait Al Safah exhibits of Omani traditional handicrafts reflecting the cultural variation of the Sultanate throughout its rich history. The traditional handicrafts are displayed in such a way as to reflect the changes and developments witnessed through time as well as their connection with the various daily life requirements.




Overnight in Nizwa

Day 5: Nizwa - Muscat (B/L/-)

Location: Muscat

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and your day, visiting the cattle market (only on Fridays). Every Friday morning (only), the paved area in front of the souq is a bustle with people and activity. Reluctant goats, sheep, and pale brown cows brought to the market by their owners; impromptu stalls piled high with Kaleidoscopic colors of dresses, toys, pots, and pans. Follow the crowd and you will invariably be led to the open-air goat market under the palm trees. Pretty longhair Omani goats and woolly sheep are tethered, waiting patiently – or not so patiently – to be walked around the circle of potential buyers. Walk to the famous Fort of Nizwa lies in the center of the City. Continue your trip to Muscat via Birkat Al Mouj. You will walk through its oasis and date plantations before continuing to Nizwa. With the 2 sets of ruins, a large banana plantation, and the scenic surroundings, the site is also home to the old Falaj irrigation system listed as UNESCO World heritage.



After arriving Muscat, have your lunch at the local restaurant. Later you will proceed to the Muttrah. Drive along the waterfront corniche and take our first stop at the bustling Muttrah Souq. The colorful souq will take you at least a century back. After having enjoyed your time at the Souq, you have a short walk along the corniche with lots and lots of photo opportunities.  The “Frankincense burner” is a delight to watch in the night with its full illumination. We proceed for a photo stop to the magnificent Al Alam Palace, the official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts Mirani & Jalali.




Overnight in Muscat

Day 6: Muscat - (B/-/-)

Location: Muscat

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the International Airport of Muscat for your flight back to home.

What's Included

  • 05 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable accommodation for 5 nights in superior hotels or similar, based on twin sharing.

  • Daily Breakfast

    Start each day with a delicious breakfast included in your stay.

  • 03 Lunches (at a local restaurant)

    Savor 3 lunches at local restaurants during your tour.

  • 01 special dinner at desert camp (Wahiba)

    Experience a special dinner at a desert camp in Wahiba.

  • Arrival & departure transfers

    Convenient transfers from and to the airport upon arrival and departure.

  • Transportation in Deluxe AC vehicle

    Travel comfortably in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.

  • Professional Speaking Guide Escorting City Tours

    Benefit from the knowledge of a professional speaking guide during city tours.

  • All local applicable taxes

    All local taxes applicable to the tour are included.

What's Not Included

  • Items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • International airfare for land only passengers

    International airfare is not included for passengers booking land-only packages.

  • Visa fees, if applicable

    Visa fees are not included and must be arranged separately if applicable.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Items not mentioned as included

    Any items or services not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably with arrival and departure transfers, and transportation in a Deluxe AC vehicle, with a switch to 4WD for the trip to Wahiba.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar, including a special dinner at a desert camp in Wahiba.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes arrival and departure transfers, and transportation in a Deluxe AC vehicle. For the trip to Wahiba, there will be a switch to 4WD vehicles.

  • What type of accommodation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar. There is also a special dinner at a desert camp in Wahiba.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes daily breakfast, 3 lunches at local restaurants, and 1 special dinner at a desert camp in Wahiba.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, a professional speaking guide will be escorting the city tours.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes visits to the Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Bimah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab or Wadi Tiwi, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, traditional dhow building yard, Wadi Bani Khalid, Bahla village, Jabrin Castle, Al Hamra village, Nizwa cattle market, Nizwa Fort, Birkat Al Mouj, Muttrah Souq, and Al Alam Palace.

  • Will I have the opportunity to see wildlife during the tour?

    Yes, you will visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve where you can witness the nesting of Green Turtles.

  • What should I know about the visit to Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve?

    The visit to Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve includes a guided tour by an ecologist to see the female turtles return to the beach to lay eggs. The main nesting season is from June to August, and at other times of the year, there may or may not be turtles every night.

  • Are there any special cultural experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to traditional markets like the Nizwa souk and the bustling Muttrah Souq, as well as a special dinner at a desert camp in Wahiba.

  • What is the level of physical activity required for this tour?

    The tour includes walking through various sites such as Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid, and the Muttrah Souq, so a moderate level of physical activity is required.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?

    Yes, items of personal nature, tips, gratuities, international airfare for land-only passengers, visa fees if applicable, and travel insurance are not included in the tour package.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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