Luxury tour of Oman

You'll be picked up by your private driver this morning to discover the sights of Muscat by helicopter. A great introduction to this fascinating city and wonderful experience, a spectacular 15-minute flight is a great way to start your trip. After, you head out on a luxury yacht and spend the day spotting wild dolphins and snorkelling in the beautiful coral reefs close to Muscat. Your tour includes a private barbecue on the beach.

Depart Muscat today as you head up to the spectacular Jebel Akhdar, which translates as ‘Green Mountains.’ En route, you stop at the village of Birkat Al Mauz, where you will find restored fortified houses. There is also an impressive example of a traditional falaj (irrigation channel) which runs behind some of the houses. In the evening, the Alila set up an exclusive, private four-course dinner for you in a pavilion overlooking the canyon where you are surrounded by nature while watching the sunset.

Today will be spent exploring Nizwa and the mountains and wadis in the surrounding area. Nizwa was once the capital of Oman for 200 years and boasts a wealth of history including its impressive fort. There, you will have time to shop in the traditional souq, and also have lunch with a local family which will help you understand modern Omani life. After, visit various mountainous, traditional villages as you make your way back to your hotel.

Alongside your local guide, you hike The Balcony Walk, in Jebel Shams, which features the Wadi Ghul canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” Your guide will show you the way and although the hike is straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels, you can stop as often as you need and admire the epic vistas. After, as a reward for your hard efforts, we have booked you in for a spa treatment back at the Alila.

This afternoon, travel to the Wahiba Sands and drive over the dunes, deep into the endless desert. Just before you reach your private glamping site, your driver will drop you off and you’ll take a traditional ride for the last few kilometres, aboard a camel. On arrival, the camp’s friendly staff will prepare dinner around the campfire and will regale tales of desert life. After, spend the evening stargazing and gazing at the twinkling night sky.

Today you depart your desert camp and return toward Muscat. En route, your first stop will be Sur, once a centre of boat building in the Middle East, to visit its dhow (traditional wooden boat) factory. Next, continue on to the Bimmah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater in which you can take a dip. After, you’ll visit Wadi Arbaeen with its deep pools of water and date palms. You reach Muscat in the late afternoon.

Rest and relax on your final full day in Oman. Enjoy the copious facilities at Al Bustan Palace, or sunbathe on the beach or by the pool. In the evening, your private driver and guide will show you some of the hidden sights of Muscat, including the small fishing village of Haramel, one of the oldest communities in the area. You also visit well-known sites including the Mirani and Jalali forts, built in the 16th century by the Portuguese and recently restored. After, head to a local restaurant for a delicious Omani dinner for your final evening in the country.

Your final day begins with a culinary tour which takes you from Muttrah Souq where you will buy fresh vegetables and fish, to the National Hospitality Institute for your traditional Omani cooking class. After, enjoy the fruits of your labour. Then, your private driver will collect you from the class and transfer you to Muscat International Airport for your flight home. A local representative will provide assistance in the airport to avoid any unnecessary stress. Your return flight will arrive the same day.