Embark on an extraordinary journey through Oman, where the vibrant spirit of Muscat meets the timeless serenity of the desert.  Begin your stay at the Mercure Hotel Muscat 4*, where included excursions open the city and surrounding landscapes to you. Explore the bustling streets and historic forts of Muscat on a half-day city tour, cruise alongside playful dolphins, and venture into the dramatic Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba Sands. Longer stays allow for trips to the historic forts of Nizwa, Bahla, and Jibrin, the pristine Dimaniyat Islands, or the breathtaking canyons of Wadi Shab.

Extend your adventure with a stay in the desert. Experience private guided tours through golden dunes, a short camel ride at sunset, and a magical sunset experience under a sky filled with stars.

Exploring the Sultanate of Oman

As the oldest independent state in the Arab world, Oman – perfectly located on the south-east coast of the Arabian Peninsula – is ideal for those seeking fascinating history, colourful souks, impressive mosques, and sun-drenched beaches.

For first-time visitors, the best starting point is the picturesque city of Muscat, a waterfront gem backed by mountains, full of characterful architecture, fantastic museums, rich heritage, and warm Omani hospitality. Highlights include the lively Mutrah Souk, the glamour of the Royal Opera House, and the grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a striking example of opulent Islamic architecture.

Important: Standard excursions include an English-speaking guide. Boat trips do not include a guide.

Offer 1 – Included excursions by length of stay:

4-night stay

• Muscat city tour (half-day)
• Wadi Bani Khalid & Wahiba Desert excursion
• Dolphin-watching and snorkelling cruise

5-night stay

• Nizwa, Bahla & Jibrin Castle day trip

6-night stay

• Dimaniyat Islands snorkelling excursion

7-night stay

• Bimah Sinkhole & Wadi Shab excursion

Offer 2 – Included excursions for the first stay at Mercure Hotel Muscat:

4-night stay

• Muscat city tour (half-day)
• Dolphin-watching and snorkelling cruise

5-night stay

• Nizwa, Bahla & Jibrin Castle day trip

6-night stay

• Dimaniyat Islands snorkelling excursion

7-night stay

• Bimah Sinkhole & Wadi Shab excursion
• Wadi Bani Khalid & Wahiba Desert excursion

Muscat half-day city tour

Start with the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a sandstone and marble masterpiece with a hand-made Persian carpet and Swarovski chandelier. Stop for photos at the Royal Opera House, then cross the Ministry area to reach Muscat’s old town.

Visit the lively Mutrah Fish Market to explore Omani marine life and local culture. Continue to Mutrah Souk, one of the oldest in the country, for silver jewellery, incense, and traditional souvenirs.

Dive into Omani heritage at Bait Al Zubair Museum, featuring jewellery, weapons, and traditional costumes. End at Al Alam Palace, flanked by 16th-century Portuguese forts Mirani and Jalali.

Dress code reminder: Women must cover hair, arms, and legs for the mosque; men should wear long trousers and a shirt.

Wahiba Desert & Wadi Bani Khalid excursion (min. 2 people)

Explore Oman’s interior from Muscat to Wadi Bani Khalid with turquoise pools and palm-lined scenery, then venture into Wahiba Desert dunes and experience Bedouin culture.

Notes:

• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with reduced mobility
• Minimum age: 2
• Duration: approx. 8 hours

Dolphin-watching & snorkelling cruise

Cruise along Muscat’s stunning coast, enjoy dolphin spotting, and snorkel in a secluded cove. Spotting turtles is possible. Water and soft drinks are provided.

Notes:

• Bring sun protection, a dry bag, swimsuit, and towel
• All participants must swim confidently and handle occasional currents
• Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed and animals must not be touched

Nizwa, Bahla & Jibrin day trip, min. 2 people

Discover Oman’s interior, starting with Nizwa, former capital in the 6th-7th centuries. Explore Nizwa Fort and the famous souk for silver jewellery and handcrafted khanjars.

After lunch in a local restaurant, continue to Bahla, known for pottery workshops and its huge clay fort (photo stop), then finish at Jibrin Castle, a 300-year-old architectural gem.

Notes:

• Wear comfortable clothes, sports shoes, sun protection in summer, and warmer layers in winter
•  Lunch included, drinks excluded

Dimaniyat Islands snorkelling excursion

Spend the day exploring the Dimaniyat Islands, a snorkelling paradise off Oman’s coast. Swim among coral reefs, marine life, and spot turtles, all on pristine white-sand beaches. A protected area perfect for discovering Omani marine ecosystems.

Notes:

• Bring sun protection, a dry bag, swimsuit, and towel
• All participants must swim confidently
• Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed; animals must not be touched

Bimah Sinkhole & Wadi Shab excursion (min. 2 people)

Drive along the coast to Sur, stopping at Bimah Sinkhole, a natural water-filled crater, then explore Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis with rock formations and natural pools.

Hike through caves, plantations, and cliffs, swimming through a “keyhole” to reach a hidden oasis. Approx. 1-hour one-way hike.

Notes: Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, dry bag, flip-flops, swimsuit, and towel

Situated in the heart of Muscat, Mercure Hotel Muscat 4* offers a tranquil retreat in a dry property, ideal for guests seeking a serene and respectful atmosphere. With panoramic views of the Oman Sea, it provides easy access to Muscat’s bustling souks, cultural landmarks, and stunning coastline.

You can unwind by the outdoor pool, rejuvenate at the spa, or maintain your routine at the fitness centre. Warm Omani hospitality and modern amenities, including free parking, make this a perfect base for discovering the capital’s charm and heritage.

Step into the Deluxe Room, a spacious retreat where elegance and comfort combine effortlessly. Natural light fills the space, highlighting soft textures, warm fabrics, and refined finishes. Guests can choose either sweeping mountain vistas or serene sea views from the window, creating a sense of calm and connection to nature.

This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).

Discover Muscat by visiting the Grand Mosque, the Muttrah fish market and the traditional souk filled with Omani treasures. Finish with a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum and admire the Al Alam Palace, surrounded by the historic Mirani and Jalali forts.

Depart Muscat for an unforgettable exploration of Wadi Bani Khalid, where turquoise pools and palm-fringed landscapes await. Enjoy a refreshing swim before continuing to the Wahiba Desert, for a thrilling drive through the dunes and a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Set off on a 4-hour dhow cruise to Bandar Khayran with snorkelling, a secluded beach and maybe even a sighting of dolphins.

Visit the oasis town of Nizwa, once the capital of the Julanda dynasty in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. Nizwa Fort is an impressive reminder of its former importance as the political and cultural capital of Oman. Nizwa is also famous for its silverware, jewellery and handmade Omani daggers (khanjar), which can be found in the Nizwa souk. 

Visit an island paradise on this half-day snorkelling excursion. Dimaniyat Island is renowned for its exceptional marine biosphere, with several kinds of coral reefs, a large number of sea turtles, white sandy beaches and pristine blue water. The tour runs from 8:30am to 1:30pm. 

Leave Muscat and follow the coastal road towards Sur. The first stop is at Bimah Sinkhole, a natural crater filled with fresh water. Continue to Wadi Shab, set deep in the mountains. Wadis are deep river valleys, and often feature spectacular rock formations and natural pools. 

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Whether you seek adventure or a serene retreat, the choice is entirely yours at the Thousand Nights Camp. Nestled in the heart of the Wahiba Desert, this luxurious Bedouin hideaway combines the spirit of ancient traditions with the comforts of modern hospitality. Golden dunes stretch endlessly into the horizon, setting the stage for moments of discovery and calm beneath the vast desert sky.

As evening falls, the air fills with the rhythm of local music and the gentle fragrance of spices drifting from the campfire. Here, time slows, and every sense awakens to the beauty and stillness of the Arabian desert.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Bedouin tradition within the Sheikh’s Woven Tent, where handcrafted fabrics, earthy textures, and warm lantern light create an intimate desert sanctuary. The soft scent of desert sand mingles with the aroma of local spices, while wide openings frame endless golden dunes under the vast sky.

This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).

Spend your days unwinding by the pool as you gaze across endless dunes, or set out on exhilarating desert adventures.

Encounter graceful gazelles, ride a quad bike across golden sands, watch the sun sink into the horizon by a crackling campfire, or marvel at the star-filled sky as night falls, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Oman with an unforgettable excursion from Muscat to Wadi Bani Khalid, between turquoise pools and palm-lined landscapes, before an adventure in the dunes of the Wahiba Desert and an immersion in Bedouin culture.

Explore the oasis of Nizwa, its historic fort, bustling souk and famous silver jewellery and khanjars. Continue your journey with Bahla Fort and the magnificent Jibrin Castle, a masterpiece over 300 years old.

Explore the Bimah Sinkhole and hike through the magnificent Wadi Shab, famous for its rock formations and natural pools. End your adventure with a dip in a secret world accessible through a famous keyhole.

Depart Muscat for an unforgettable exploration of Wadi Bani Khalid, where turquoise pools and palm-fringed landscapes await. Enjoy a refreshing swim before continuing to the Wahiba Desert, for a thrilling drive through the dunes and a glimpse of Bedouin life.

Explore the historic town of Nizwa with its iconic fort and bustling souk, ideal for buying traditional souvenirs. Then discover the Oman Across Ages Museum, a modern immersion in the country's history, from the first inhabitants to the Oman of today.

Set off by 4x4 to discover Wadi Al Arbeieen and the Bimmah Sinkhole, while enjoying a picnic in a unique natural setting.

Explore Oman's natural and cultural wonders on a 4x4 adventure, with stops at Barka, Wadi Bani Awf and Bilad Sayt, one of the country's most beautiful villages. Enjoy a picnic amidst the spectacular scenery of Wadi Al Arbeieen and Bimmah Sinkhole before returning to Muscat.

Explore Nizwa, its historic fort and traditional souk, before heading to Jebel Shams for a breathtaking view of the ‘Grand Canyon’. Finish with a visit to the village of Al Hamra and its mud houses, returning to Muscat at 5pm.

Discover Nizwa, its historic fort and vibrant souq, then visit Birkat Al Mouz and its UNESCO-listed irrigation system. Finish the excursion at Jebel Akhdar, the ‘Green Mountain’, famous for its terraces, fruit and rose water production.

Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour sunset cruise along Muscat's coast, with water and soft drinks on board. Relax and watch the sunset over the sea before returning to your hotel.

Discover the Dimaniyat Islands, a haven of peace for divers and nature lovers. Explore crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, sea turtles and white sandy beaches in this unspoilt corner of Oman.

Set off on a 4-hour dhow cruise to Bandar Khayran with snorkelling, a secluded beach and maybe even a sighting of dolphins.

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a stunning waterside city where ancient traditions meet modern sophistication. Surrounded by rugged mountains and the Arabian Sea, it’s a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Must-sees:

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: A magnificent example of Islamic architecture, featuring an enormous chandelier and one of the world’s largest handmade Persian carpets.
• Mutrah Souq: A bustling, colourful market where you can shop for traditional Omani crafts, spices, and jewellery.
• Royal Opera House Muscat: A cultural gem offering world-class performances in a grand, luxurious setting.
• Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts: These historic forts overlook Muscat’s harbour, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
• Qurum Beach: A serene stretch of coastline perfect for relaxation or an evening stroll.

Culinary culture:

Muscat offers a rich culinary scene reflecting Oman’s diverse influences. Indulge in traditional dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked spiced lamb) or enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. For a sweet treat, try halwa, a sticky and fragrant Omani dessert.

Dive deeper:

Beyond Muscat, venture into Oman’s deserts and mountains for unforgettable experiences. Explore the golden dunes of Wahiba Sands with a 4x4 adventure, or hike the dramatic landscapes of Jebel Akhdar. Alternatively, visit the nearby fishing village of Quriyat or go dolphin spotting along the Omani coast.

Good to know:

Muscat enjoys a warm climate year-round, with the best time to visit being from October to April. Its welcoming atmosphere, rich traditions, and breathtaking surroundings make Muscat an enchanting destination for travellers seeking a unique Arabian experience. Kindly be aware that in Oman, the consumption of alcohol is only permitted in licensed hotels or facilities. Please check with the hotel before consuming. Please note that when visiting religious areas in Oman, it is important to dress modestly. Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs, while men should wear long trousers and a shirt.