Classic Oman

Maximise your time during your Oman tour by flying overnight to Muscat. We’ll meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel, The Chedi, a serene oasis of fluttering palms and tranquil pools set on one of Oman's best beaches.

Modern life meets tradition in this coastal city that mixes Arabic architecture with vibrant African influences. Plunge into the bustling hospitality of one of the Middle East's friendliest nations and tour the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. You can step back in time at the Bait Al Zubair museum, viewing Omani antiquities. Glide along the attractive corniche to the Muttrah Souq, where you can haggle with locals for bargains.

Head into the clouds as you climb into the mountains of Jebel Akhdar today. Visit the fish market in Barka, and watch sunbaked forts and oasis towns slip past the window. The road twists through dramatic peaks and canyons to Bilad Sayt, a hillside village. Pass mud houses and date plantations before reaching Alila Jabal Akhdar, carved high in the Al Hajar mountains and peering down over the rugged landscape.

Explore the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz before heading to the green jewel of the Al Hajar mountain range, Jebel Al Akhdar. Village-hop the hilltop settlements of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib and Al Ain, awash with the fragrance of perfumed rose water.

The day is yours to do as you please. Take the opportunity to further explore the majestic surrounding landscape, maybe taking a canyon hike. Make use of the facilities at the hotel, including the swimming pools, fitness centre and spa.

Nizwa is an attractive hill town that stands out against the surrounding hills. You'll get a chance to see the thriving livestock market (this is on a Friday morning only, so the sightseeing might need to be amended to fit this visit in). Before heading up to the highest peak, Jebel Shams. You’ll venture into the desert at Sharqiya Sands, with vast dunes rising up to 200 metres. Then spend the night under the stars at Desert Nights Camp.

En route to Wadi Arbayeen, see how traditional dhow ships were made in Sur. You can choose to stay overnight to witness sea turtles coming ashore to nest (best time for turtle viewing is June to September). Alternatively, relax on Fins Beach or discover the pearl-white villages of Wadi Tiwi, before visiting the mysterious Bimah Sinkhole. As you skirt this dramatic coastline, look out for sharks in the waters below and gazelle moving among the hills inland. Return to Muscat in the evening to check in to your hotel.

Watch the wadis drop out of sight as you fly home, or extend your stay in the Middle East with a few more nights in Muscat or a trip to the big city and bright lights of Dubai.