Day 01: Arrival at Seeb International airport (Muscat)

You will be met on arrival and transferred to the hotel of your choice (see tour options at the end of this itinerary).

Day 02: Half-day city tour of Muscat - depart 08:00 / return 13:00 hrs

The City tour commences with a visit to The Grand Mosque.See the interior of one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world with its splendid hand-made carpet, that took 4 years to complete, and Swarovski crystal chandelier. Drive through the elegant residential Shatti Al Qurum Area. Continue for a photo-stop at the magnificent Al Alam Palace, residency of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali. Also visit a museum to get an insight into Oman's history and culture. The tour ends with a visit to Muttrah Souq. You are then returned to your hotel in Muscat.

Day 03: Excursion to Nakhal and Rustaq Forts via Barka - 0830 / 1700 hrs

Begins with a drive towards Barka stopping at the Barka Fish Market. A visit to the Fish souk is an experience by itself. Open on all sides - one side to the water - so that all possible breezes are caught, the main fish hall is full of traders selling everything from shell fish to gigantic tuna. At the lower level the fish are skinned and filleted with a skill and rapidity that is stunning. A great photo opportunity!

This is followed by a visit to Nakhl Fort, which has a magnificent Fort eternally rising out of the Rocky Mountain and towering well above this small town, with large Date Plantations. Crowning a 200m high rocky prominence, the 350-year-old Nakhal Fort lies in the Al Batinah region. The 17th Century fortress overlooks palm plantations and beautiful countryside. The gate, fence and towers of the fort were built during the reign of Imam Said bin Sultan. While visiting the fort be sure to stop by the famous mineral laden hot springs flowing from the mountain rocks, all year round.

After a tour of the Nakhl fort, which take around an hour, proceed towards Rustak. The fort at Rustaq was carefully built with stones fixed together with mortar and mud bricks. The fort has four towers and contains several wells. It also houses many buildings for habitation and storage constructions, a mosque, weapon's room, prison and a reception area. Return to Muscat in the evening.

Day 04: Muscat to Nizwa - Visit Bahla and Jabrin Castle - 0830 / 1700 hrs

Nizwa, capital of the interior, is the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa boasts of the famous Round Tower Nizwa Fort. Wander the alleys of the Souq, renowned for its Friday Goat Auction, ornamental silver and carved Omani khanjars (daggers). Bahla is a mystical town straight out of an Arabian tale with old shops selling traditional clay pottery, silverware etc.

Bahla fort is one of the oldest remaining forts in Oman, and this fact puts it in a position of great historical importance. UNESCO has listed it among its World Heritage Sites. The Bahla Fort has a walled building in a triangular shape. It has a 12 km city wall and 132 watchtowers complete with guardrooms. The Ministry of Heritage and Culture undertook the renovation, and work is still in progress at the site.

Jabrin Castle is one of finest of Oman's castles built in the late 17th century. The castle displays the highest achievement in Omani ceiling painting and beautifully executed woodcarvings.This Castle has the distinction of being one of the most impressive forts of Oman. It has been embellished with sophisticated artistry such as beautiful carvings in the rooms, elaborate balconies, and ceilings bedecked with finely painted flowers and symbols. The Castle was built by Bil'arab bin Sultan, an Imam of the Ya'aruba dynasty. It is now a resting place for his tomb. Overnight stay in Nizwa at the hotel of your choice.

Day 05: Nizwa Fort then drive to Wahiba Sands for Dune bashing, camel safari and desert camp

Visit Nizwa Fort - built by Iman Sultan bin Saif bin Malik Al Ya'arubi and is today a magnificent historical site. Standing proud in the heart of Nizwa, it is connected to the Nizwa Castle. Adjoining the fort and castle area is a bustling souk. The massive circular tower characterizing the Nizwa Fort is unique in Oman. Designed to ward off the most violent attacks, its traditional doors are inches deep with holes through which boiling oil was poured on enemies. In 1990, the Ministry restored and furnished the fort, and visitors here can see handicrafts and artifacts unique to Oman. A tour through Nizwa Souk leaves visitors enchanted with the vast variety of souvenir shopping - mud pots, silver coffee pots, incense burners, finely worked silver amulets, anklets, bangles and khanjars on display.

In the afternoon check out of your hotel in Nizwa and proceed towards Wahiba (3 hour drive) for dinner and overnight stay at the desert camp.

Day 06: Wahiba / Wadi Bani Khalid / Muscat

Spend some time at desert; visit a Bedouin house and later drive back to Muscat (4 hour drive) visiting Wadi Bani Khalid en route, which is a stark contrast to the desert. It comprises of small pretty villages embedded in the mountains. The Wadi has clear, deep blue water.

Check into hotel on arrival in Muscat. Rest of the day free on own. Overnight in Muscat.

Day 07: Depart Muscat

Assistance and transfer to the airport for connecting flight for onward destination.