What Makes it Special?
- Browse Nizwa Souqs and watch the Friday livestock auction unfold.
- Step back in time at Al Hamra’s living history museum.
- Experience a camel ride and sleep under stars in a peaceful Wahiba Sands desert camp.
- Cool off in Wadi Bani Khalid’s natural turquoise pools.
- Soak up views over Wadi Ghul, Oman’s impressive ‘Grand Canyon’.
- End your holiday with sea views and spa time on Muscat’s coast.
Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point, a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our Oman experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect holiday to match.
Whilst some of Oman’s attractions require a 4x4 and a rugged attitude to travel, we understand that this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Luckily, plenty of the country can be seen from the comfort of the main road, including all of Muscat, the towns of the interior, and even the viewpoint over Oman’s “Grand Canyon”, Wadi Ghul. On this trip, you only need to go off-road briefly to explore the Wahiba Sands, a smooth and gentle experience that's well worth the adventure.
This short itinerary is particularly good if you're a family travelling during a half-term break, or a couple simply wanting to get away for a short time to experience a taste of the Middle East. You'll pack a lot into these eight days, but have plenty of opportunities to relax too.
8 hours from London
When to go
- October to April
Average temperature
- 29°C
Average rainfall
- Dry season: 9mm/month
Itinerary at a Glance
Day by Day
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this Oman holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your trip will be tailored to suit you.
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Your Omani adventure begins with an overnight flight to Muscat. You can choose a direct route with Oman Air for ease, or opt for a more budget-friendly option with a connection through a Middle Eastern hub. As always, just chat to us about what would suit you best and we'll do our best to find an option to suit.
After landing in Muscat, you’ll either pick up your saloon car at the airport (if you’re off on a self-drive adventure), or your friendly driver-guide will be ready and waiting to meet you. Your first experience will be a stunning drive through the impressive Sumail Gap in the Hajar Mountains, until you reach Nizwa in Oman’s interior. You’ll be spending the next three nights in one of our favourite hotels in the region – we’ll be sure to pick the perfect one for you.
You’ll start the day today at the lively Nizwa Souq. If your visit is on a Friday, don’t miss the fascinating livestock auction, a true local tradition held in the shadow of the imposing Nizwa Fort. Later, you'll head up to the plateau for breathtaking views of Wadi Ghul, Oman’s impressive answer to the Grand Canyon.
You'll discover more of the region’s rich history today by visiting remarkable sites like Jabreen Castle, known for its intricate design, and the UNESCO-recognised Bahla Fort. Take a stroll through Al Hamra, a beautiful village nestled among a sea of lush palm groves, and visit the Bait al Safah Living History Museum to step back in time and see traditional Omani life in action.
Today, you’ll journey west to the golden dunes of the Wahiba Sands for an unforgettable desert experience – so often a highlight of any Oman holiday. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable desert camp, where you’ll enjoy the serenity of the endless dunes, a sky full of stars and some seriously delicious food. A camel ride or even a spot of dune-bashing can be arranged if you fancy a little extra desert adventure.
You’ll leave the desert behind this morning and start making your way back to Muscat, stopping along the way at plenty of Oman’s natural highlights. Cool off at the sparkling waters of Wadi Bani Khalid, pass through palm-lined canyons at Wadi Shab and Tiwi, and take in the impressive Bimmah Sinkhole. You'll arrive in Muscat ready to check in for a relaxing three-night stay by the coast.
Today, you’ll head off on a private tour of Oman’s capital. Highlights include the elegant Sultan’s Palace, the awe-inspiring Grand Mosque, and the electric Muttrah Souq, where you can shop for traditional crafts, try your hand at haggling and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
We've left the last full day of your holiday clear for you to unwind at your hotel today and do whatever you please – this is our ‘Gentle Oman’ holiday after all! Lounge by the beach, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or indulge in a spa treatment or two – the perfect way to recharge after a week of adventure.
Your time in Oman comes to an end today, with your private driver taking you to the airport for your flight home. With incredible memories of Oman’s landscapes, history, and warm hospitality, you’ll leave with plenty of stories to share – and hopefully a desire to return!
Places you'll visit
We have hundreds of partner hotels across the world, with our tailor made trips you can pick from our range of beautiful hotels
What You're Saying
“
From our very first contact with Emma she listened carefully to what we wanted and put together a fabulous Oman holiday for us. Our expectations, and hopes, were high and our trip exceeded them. We travelled from city to town, mountain to desert, inland and on the coast, staying in a variety of hotels. The information and suggestions we were given really enhanced our time. Everything was wonderful! I cannot imagine a better trip to Oman than we had, and we owe a huge debt of gratitude to Emma for all the knowledge and expertise she brought to planning our holiday.
Sarah Whitworth
Trustpilot
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“
A truly wonderful trip to Oman, curated by Catherine of Holiday Architects. Oman exceeded our expectations on all levels and the trip that was put together was perfect. enough variety to be really interesting but not too rushed to be unable to enjoy it. Can not recommend the country and HA enough.
Charlie Horrell
Trustpilot
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“
Catherine’s extensive knowledge of the country and her well informed guidance ensured that we enjoyed a memorable holiday in Oman which more than met our expectations of it. Careful and considerate planning accompanied a fascinating six day tour starting and ending in Muscat included Nizwa, Wahiba Sands, Sur and so much of interest en route, was led by a knowledgeable and attentive driver who contributed much to our comprehensive Omani experience. There were no hitches, all that was planned for us by Holiday Architects was honoured faultlessly with professional skill, and we would have no hesitation in relying upon them again.
Ian Munro
Trustpilot
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“
Emma was very knowledgeable about Oman, listened carefully to what we thought we wanted to do and put together a great itinerary which met our requirements. All the information provided before departure was detailed and helpful. Everything ran very smoothly throughout the holiday - was impressed by the efficiency and we had a great guide/driver. Emma followed up shortly after our return to check that we had had a great time and all had gone well.
Amanda Ferguson
Trustpilot
”
“
We decided to use the services of Holiday Architects for a trip to Oman, as I was impressed with the itinerary that Emma provided and her obvious detailed knowledge of the country that came across in our initial phone calls. I'm so glad we did as the actual trip was fantastic! Our trip covered four different areas - Muscat, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa mountain area and Salalah - in some quite spectacular hotels and with drivers/guides laid on by the local agents, Elite. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip and are so glad we chose Holiday Architects!
Mrs Weekes
Trustpilot
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“
Catherine at Holiday Architects masterminded a superb week’s holiday in Oman. The itinerary took in Muscat, Wahiba Sands, the Nizwa area and the Jabal Akhdar. We had an excellent driver/guide who helped us appreciate the culture, history and friendly people of this amazing country. Thank you so much Catherine and Holiday Architects!
Katherine A
Trustpilot
”
Holiday Gallery
Meet our Oman experts
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine and Emma are dedicated to all things Oman and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Catherine Williams
Destination Manager
Catherine’s explored Oman from top to toe. She's hiked the mountains, dived its coast and wandered the souks. She’s all about combining the great outdoors with local experiences and knows exactly how to plan a trip that's perfect for you.
Emma Higgins
Destination Manager
With a love for nature, culture and seriously good food, Emma was completely won over by Oman on her first visit. Since, she’s travelled from north to south, uncovering both classic sights and quieter corners that will make your holiday extra special.
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