Marvel at the grandeur of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, with its imposing exterior and breathtakingly beautiful interior
Northern Oman, Oman, Muscat
A Day in The Empty Quarter
While in Dhofar, a must-see is the spectacular Rub Al Khali desert or ‘Empty Quarter’, the region’s most remarkable sight and the world’s largest expanse of uninterrupted desert.
Visit the fascinating World Heritage Site known as the Lost City of Ubar, a legendary ancient kingdom that was swallowed whole by the desert sands. It was gone without a trace, earning the name ‘Atlantis of the Sands’, before being spotted by satellites and excavated in 1992. Your guide will explain its history before making your way to the Empty Quarter. Take in the incredible views of the dunes and stop for some lunch before returning to Salalah. Along the way, visit Wadi Dawka, otherwise known was the frankincense Wadi, home to the region’s largest collection of frankincense trees. It’s the perfect spot to learn a little more about its use in both the past and modern worlds.
What you’ll do
- Explore the Rub Al Khali, the world’s largest uninterrupted desert
- Visit the legendary Lost City of Ubar, rediscovered in 1992
- Hear fascinating tales about Ubar’s history and excavation
- Stop for a picnic lunch among the majestic dunes
- Learn about frankincense trees at Wadi Dawka, a UNESCO site
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in Oman
Oman
Opulent Oman Adventure
Not only is Oman a breathtakingly beautiful country with heaps of heritage and charm, it’s also home to some exceptional hotels with a true sense of place in each location. There is no need to come here and feel you have to choose between luxury and adventure. It is the perfect place to combine both.
This suggested two-week holiday itinerary covers four of Oman’s distinct regions from the lush tropics of the south up to the rugged tip of the north. From picture-postcard beaches to otherworldly deserts to dramatic mountain canyons and of course, outstanding accommodation.
As with all ETG holidays, your own private guide will be on hand to reveal the country’s beauty and help you get under the surface of its fascinating history and culture.
Highlights
Desert landscapes
Ramble through the rippling dunes of the remote and mysterious Empty Quarter – the largest sand desert in the world
Zighy Bay
Parasailing, four-wheel-driving or gliding down the rugged mountains to the turquoise shore of Zighy Bay
Spectacular mountain resort
Swim in an infinity pool enveloped in the epic scenery of the Jabal Akhdar mountains
Oman
Classic Oman
This simple overland loop is a neat way to get a flavour for the diverse landscape of beautiful Oman in a 10-day time frame without rushing or taking domestic flights. You’ll experience Omani culture and history as you travel around and have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views too.
Highlights
Spectacular landscapes
Experience the awe-inspiring Jabal Akhdar mountain range
Spot dolphins
Embark on a thrilling boat cruise in the Sea of Oman
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
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Oman
Classic Family Oman Holiday
When planning a family holiday, it’s unusual to be able to include mountain, desert and beach in one trip. But, in Oman, you can do all three with ease. This holiday immerses you in the remarkable scenery, includes the best family-friendly hotels and is packed with experiences to wow all ages.
The following suggested itinerary includes a fun-filled week exploring the desert and mountains with your own private guide, then 4 days enjoying beach-life in Muscat.
Highlights
Canyon adventures
Gazing down into an impossibly deep canyon in the Jabal Akhdar mountain range
Cool down in Wadis
Jumping and splashing through cooling pools and streams as you follow the valley path through one of Oman’s tropical wadis
Sleep under the stars
A taste of the traditional Bedouin way of life as you camp overnight among the atmospheric dunes of Wahiba Sands
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