SELF-DRIVE 8-DAY Oman TOUR
8-day Oman journey combining Muscat’s cultural highlights, mountain landscapes, historic forts and villages, desert adventures, scenic wadis and authentic Omani experiences, with the freedom of a private 4X4 and selected guided activities.
ITINERARY
Arrive in Muscat – Transfer to the Hotel
You will arrive at Muscat International Airport, where you will be met by our friendly and efficient AFAQ Travel & Tourism chauffeur. You will then be assisted to the comfort of the vehicle for your transfer to the hotel.
Handover of Vehicle – Muscat City Tour
The vehicle will be handed over to you at the hotel. You can then begin your Muscat city tour with a visit to the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Middle East and open to non-Muslims and expatriates in Oman.
Continue to Muttrah Fish Market, followed by a visit to Bait Al Zubair Museum, where you can discover Oman’s rich traditions, culture and heritage. You will then have a photo stop at Al Alam Palace, the official ceremonial residence of His Majesty, flanked by the historic Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali.
Continue along the picturesque Muttrah Corniche to Muttrah Souq, a traditional Arab market filled with handicrafts, souvenirs and local treasures. You can also enjoy time along the Corniche and take in views of the cruise ships at Mina Al Sultan Qaboos Port.
From the Palace, continue to the hotel.
Muscat – Al Hamra – Misfat Al Abriyeen – Jebel Shams Grand Canyon
The day begins with a journey towards Misfat Al Abriyeen, a mountain village set among beautifully terraced plantations of date palms. The ancient houses and ruined watchtower perched on the mountainside create a distinctive glimpse into traditional Oman.
Continue to Al Hamra, one of Oman’s oldest villages, known for its traditional clay houses dating back hundreds of years. Explore the old village and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape from the viewpoint.
Continue towards Jebel Shams, known as the “Sun Mountain” and one of Oman’s highest peaks. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views over the famous Grand Canyon of Oman. The cooler mountain temperatures and high-altitude setting offer a memorable overnight experience beneath the stars.
Jebel Shams – Bahla Fort – Jabreen Castle – Nizwa
After an early breakfast, visit the Grand Canyon of Oman and enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery before continuing towards Bahla, one of Oman’s oldest towns and a former regional centre.
As Bahla Fort is currently closed for renovation, a photo stop will be made from outside. Bahla is also renowned for its traditional pottery.
Continue to Jabreen Castle, where you can experience the atmosphere of Oman’s medieval heritage and admire its beautifully painted ceilings, carved door frames and historic interiors.
After exploring the area, continue to Nizwa and check in to the hotel.
Nizwa Fort & Souq – Ibra – Wahiba Sands – Dune Bashing & Sunset
After an early breakfast, visit the spectacular Nizwa Fort with its massive Circular Cannon Tower, one of Oman’s most impressive historic landmarks. Explore the fortress, its rooms, passages and towers while enjoying views over the ancient town and surrounding mountains.
Continue to Nizwa Traditional Souq, a lively marketplace where you can discover handicrafts, pottery, jewellery, souvenirs and other local products. The souq is particularly lively in the early morning.
Resume your journey towards Ibra and Al Mudayrib, where you can see traditional watchtowers overlooking the villages from the surrounding hills.
Continue to Wahiba Sands, where golden dunes stretch across the Sharqiyah Desert. Upon arrival at the desert camp, settle into your Bedouin-style accommodation before enjoying an exciting dune-bashing experience and spectacular sunset views.
The evening continues with delicious Arabic cuisine, live entertainment and time around the campfire beneath the starry sky.
Desert – Wadi Bani Khalid – Sur Dhow Factory – Al Ayjah – Ras Al Jinz
After an early breakfast at the desert camp, depart on an exciting 4WD journey through the desert. Visit a local Bedouin home and experience traditional Omani hospitality over coffee.
Continue to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis, known for its clear blue pools and year-round water. The surrounding mountain landscape and date-palm oasis create a striking contrast with the desert.
After lunch, continue to the coastal city of Sur and visit a traditional dhow-building factory, where Arabian dhows are crafted using traditional techniques.
After some time to relax at the hotel, dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. before travelling to Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve at around 9:00 p.m. to observe nesting sea turtles.
Turtle sightings are a natural phenomenon and therefore cannot be guaranteed. The visit is expected to finish around 11:00 p.m., followed by a return to the resort.
Sur – Wadi Shab – Bimmah Sinkhole – Muscat
Depart from your hotel in Sur and travel towards Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most renowned natural attractions. Upon arrival, take a small fishing boat across the wadi to begin the walk through the dramatic canyon.
Continue through the canyon until reaching the pools, where you can relax and enjoy a swim in the clear water. Depending on conditions, you may have the opportunity to swim through the famous narrow keyhole into a hidden cave with a waterfall.
After enjoying Wadi Shab, continue to Bimmah Sinkhole. The landscape surrounding the sinkhole creates an impressive natural setting before you begin your journey back towards Muscat.
Airport Transfer – Departure
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Oman before your guide transfers you to Muscat International Airport for your departure.
PRICING
| No. Pax | Room Type | Mode of Transport | Cost per Person | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Adults | 1 Double Room | 1 Private 4X4 | USD 980 | USD 1,960 |
| 4 Adults | 2 Double Rooms | 1 Private 4X4 (2 Driver Option) | USD 750 | USD 3,000 |
| Extra Bed | 1 Extra Bed with existing room | — | — | USD 300 |
What’s Included
Two-way airport transfers.
4X4 rental car for 6 days (Days 2–6) with unlimited kilometre access.
Accommodation for 7 nights with breakfast.
Guide assistance in the desert until the camp, including dune bashing and sunset.
Complimentary dinner for 3 nights (Days 3, 5 & 6).
Daily bottled mineral water on board.
What’s Not Included
Any item of a personal nature.
Any entrance fees.
Any supplement charges for the festive season.
Lunch and dinner (pay as you eat).
Any airfare and visa charges.
Tips.
Anything else not mentioned in the itinerary.
Important Notes
If the quoted hotel for the tour cannot be confirmed, an alternative hotel will be used and either a supplement or reduction will apply.
All museum and fort visits are subject to change without notice. Museums are normally closed on Fridays. Similarly, visits to forts may be changed without notice, as certain forts may temporarily close for renovations.
Please note that this is a quotation only. All confirmations are subject to availability at the time of actual booking and acceptance of the quotation.
Your Tour Operator
AFAQ Travel & Tourism
A Muscat-based travel company offering guided tours, tailor-made journeys, transportation and experiences across Oman.
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