Of all the countries in the Gulf you
will probably receive the warmest welcome from the Omani people.
The land area is approximately 300, 000 square kilometres
and is characterised by start mountain scenery, vast flat plains rolling deserts sands and
a varied coastline dotted with remote villages and centuries old forts.
Having a proud history, Oman has retained the
eminence of its past and is an enchanting discovery.
Muscat, the capital, is flanked by mountains and
has a magnificent natural harbour which is guarded by 16th century forts. In the
narrow lanes of the souks you will receive a warm welcome enabling you to browse
unhindered amongst the vast array of items for sale.
One can stroll along the harbour front corniche
of Muttrah district observing the traditional local architecture and lifestyle, explore
the Sultan's Palace in the old district of Muscat, and dine or stay in one of the hotels
in the commercial district of Ruwi.
As a base, Muscat offers the opportunity to take
day excursions into the Hajar Mountains, the Wahiba Sands, or perhaps "wadi
bashing" along the coast. However, the best way to really experience Oman is by
an individual Self-Drive Four Wheel Drive Safari travelling on the graded tracks across
the stunning Oman scenery.
Self Drive Itinerary
Day 01: MUSCAT ARRIVAL
Arrive
Muscat Seeb Airport and transfer to the Radisson SAS Hotel for 2 nights.
Day 02: MUSCAT
Morning delivery of your 4 wheel drive Land Cruiser
Full day exploring Muscat, Muttrah
and the souks. Request picnic box.
Day 03: MUSCAT TO SUR
Depart
Muscat by route 17 for Quriyat. Head southeast onto the track over the
hills, then down onto the coastal track heading through Fins and Tiwi. Suggest
picnic stop and refreshing swim at one of the sandy coves en-route. Evening
arrival into Sur for overnight at Sur Mercure Hotel. Sunset view of
Dhow building yards.
(optional extension night at Wahiba Sands )
  
Day 04 SUR TO NIZWA
Morning depart Sur by route
23 to Ibra. Take route 28 from Ibra to Izki and then up the mountains by route
33 to Izki to join route 15 from Muscat heading upwards to Nizwa for overnight at
Nizwa Hotel. Request picnic box.
 Day 05 NIZWA TO SOHAR
Early morning visit to the souks
before departing west along the mountains via Tanuf , Bahla and Jabrin on route 21 to
Ibri. (Optional side trip to Wadi Ghul.) Turn north onto route 08 to Yanqul where
you join the mountain track which descends across moonscape with palm filled crevasse and
wadis (which afford sheltered Picnic spots), before late afternoon arrival into Sohar
for overnight at Sohar Beach Hotel.
Day 06 SOHAR - RUSTAQ - NAKHL - MUSCAT
Morning visit the town
before heading east along route 01 towards Muscat. Turn off the highway
onto route 11 into the mountains to Rustaq arid then on route 13 to Nakhl before
returning to the coastal highway into Muscat to drop off your vehicle.
Evening
departure from Seeb Airport or maybe a few nights at Al Bustan Palace
or Grand Hyatt - or extension to Salalah .
An amended self-drive car itinerary is possible
using sealed roads but this is actually best accomplished as part of a U.A.E. and
Oman Self-Drive Itinerary.
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