EGYPT

Mutrah Corniche - Courtesy of Ministry of Tourism Oman
Caspian
Sea
Muscat Stopover
4 days/3 nights
Magical Muscat is the gateway to this unique destination so rich in history. A unique blend of the ancient and modern, Muscat is a beautiful clean city, which lies in the middle of a maze
of brown pleated mountains, lulled by the Arabian Sea. The city has undergone dramatic development in the past two or three decades, however it has never lost its pride in its heritage,
culture and the beautiful natural environment that surrounds it.
DAY 1 - MUSCAT
On arrival you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. Close by is the
bustling Al Khwair strip and restaurants providing an authentic Omani dining experience.
Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel.
DAY 2 – Batinah & Wakkan
After breakfast commence your full day tour with driver/guide in 4X4 vehicle travelling along
the fertile Batinah coast dotted with beautiful beaches, forts and fishing villages. Visit the town
of Nakhl located below the lofty Jebel Nakhl, with its 350 year old fort. Travel inland to mineralladen
hot springs and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade. This afternoon ascend to the beautiful
village of Wakkan, lush in its plantations and fruit and vegetable farming. Return to Muscat this
evening for dinner. Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel (BL).
DAY 3 – Majestic Forts, Caves & Mountains
Forts and castles are Oman’s most striking cultural landmarks with an estimated 500 forts,
castles and towers in the region. With your driver/guide and 4X4 vehicle visit the 17th century
Nizwa Fort and Souq famous for its silverware. The next stop is at one of the largest caves
in the region – Al Hoota Cave, a magnificent underground cavern and lake system running
through the Hajjar Mountains. Here you will be guided by an expert through the tunnels for an
unforgettable experience. Lunch will be taken at a local restaurant before travelling up towards
Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun), the tallest peak in Oman at a height of 3010m. Overnight:
Radisson Blu Hotel (BL).
DAY 4 – Muscat
This morning take in the sights of Muscat, a blend of the ancient and modern. Start with a visit
to the Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel and a must for all tourists (open Sat to Thu 08h00
– 11h00 only and a strict dress code applies). A drive along the corniche to Old Muscat will take
in the “Sidab Women’s Sewing Group”, a non-profit community organisation inspired and run by
local women to help develop skills and create handicrafts that reflect Omani culture and earn an
income for the local community. Take a special tour of the Muttrah souq with its narrow, winding
alleys where exotic aromas and perfumes fill the air. Visit the museums and finally a photo stop
at the Al Aalam Palace, official residence of the Sultan, and flanked by the 16th century twin
Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Later today transfer to the airport for departing flight (B).
Khasab
Musandam
Peninsula
Persian Gulf
Dubai
Muscat
Nizwa
Sur
Ras Al Had
Wahiba Sands
Salalah
OMAN
Arabian Sea
INCLUDED: Private airport transfers, accommodation with breakfast, lunches as
specified, mineral water & soft drinks during tours, Entrance fees to museums, monuments
and Al Hoota Cave. Transfers are in air-conditioned saloon vehicles with touring in 4X4 airconditioned
vehicles with English speaking driver/guide.
PER PERSON - 4 days/3 nights
TWIN
Nov 10 – May & Sep – Oct 11 $1225
Jun – Aug 11 $1120
Christmas, New Year & holiday period supplements apply. Alternative hotels can be
arranged - contact us for prices. Please note Forts and Museums are generally closed on
Fridays and National Holidays. Reductions apply to a minimum of four travelling on all tours.
22
OMAN BENCH INTERNATIONAL 2011