Half Term Family Oman

DAY 1 DEPART THE UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Muscat

DAY 2 & 3 MUSCAT BEACH

Your personal driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall to take you to your hotel. Along the way, you'll catch sight of some of the city's famous landmarks, including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Check in at the Shangri-La Resort where you'll have two nights to relax and enjoy the set beautiful beach, swimming pools and a wide range of facilities.

DAY 4-5 NIZWA AND THE DESERT

Today your driver-guide will pick you up, and your journey will begin. The first stop is in Nizwa, Oman's former capital and spiritual centre. Take a break and visit the fort, where you can climb the tower and take in the fantastic view.

Next, you'll head to the village of Adam, where you'll meet the owner of a small camel farm. You'll learn about the importance of camels in Bedouin culture, as they serve as both a means of transport and a source of meat, milk, and wool.

But the real fun begins as you snake into the breathtaking dunes towards your desert camp. Upon arrival at camp, take a back of a camel ride and enjoy an unforgettable sunset.

After spending a night under the starry sky, you'll have the chance to experience the stunning desert in all its glory. After breakfast, buckle up for a thrilling dune-bashing ride with your driver. You'll witness his incredible driving skills as you tackle the sandy terrain. Don't worry, he'll adjust his driving style to ensure everyone is safe and comfortable.

 After this exhilarating ride, you'll have lunch in the home of a Bedouin family. You'll get to experience and learn about their unique way of life.

In the afternoon, you'll return to camp for one more evening taking in the unique atmosphere of the desert and a last sleep in your cosy family tent.

 DAY 6 TURTLES and WADI's

Today, you'll leave your camp and head to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most famous evergreen dry river valleys in the region. Here there is a constant stream of water flowing all year round, and the large ponds are lined with lush green palm trees. The turquoise and sapphire-coloured waters will tempt you to jump in and take a refreshing swim.

After approximately two hours of driving, you'll reach your seaside accommodation. This area is an important nesting place for a variety of turtle species, including endangered green and hawksbill. During your stay, you have the opportunity to learn about their life and place in local mythology at the well-laid-out museum on-site before joining a ranger to walk down to the beach and seek out the turtles themselves.

In the evening, you can witness majestic turtles laying their eggs.

DAY 7-9 RETURN TO MUSCAT AND THE BEACH

Head back along the coast to Muscat, but not before stopping to explore some sights. First up, you could choose to take a short hike in Wadi Shab. After crossing a small pond, you'll embark on a 60-minute walk along the creek with its lush vegetation and through a spectacularly deep and narrow gorge - this will bring you to some terrific freshwater pools. (This hike is recommended for those eight years and older who are good swimmers).

Alternatively, you could visit the incredible Bimmah sinkhole, a limestone crater formed by the collapse of the ceiling of an underground river thousands of years ago. The sinkhole is fed with underground seawater, and its turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.

In the afternoon, you'll arrive back at your hotel, Shangri-La Al Waha, where you can relax and unwind.

The following day you'll be picked up by your driver-guide and taken to the nearby port, where you'll join a dolphin-watching tour. Get ready to see a variety of marine mammals happily diving up and down. It's a fantastic opportunity to witness these amazing creatures up close!

On the final day, there is time for a stroll through the charming Mattrah district. From here, you'll enjoy stunning views of the old town, nestled between towering cliffs and the sea.

The highlight of the day is a treasure hunt in the Souk, Oman's oldest market.

Later, you'll indulge in a delicious lunch at Bait al Luban restaurant, where you'll experience the traditional Omani way of dining - sitting on the floor! And finally, it's time to head back to your hotel for one last night.

Day 10 FLY HOME

Depart Muscat for your flight back to the UK.

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace and style. Get in touch to find out how this suggested itinerary could inspire your own family adventure.