Detailed Itinerary

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Oman

Oman - a stunning contrast of beaches, mountains

and deserts, is one of the hidden treasures of the exotic

Middle East. Add over a thousand ancient forts, castles

and watchtowers, lively souks, the Bedouin culture,

and you have an unforgettable traditional Arabian

experience. Add the extravagance and architecture of

Dubai and Abu Dhabi and you have a unique Arabian

experience filled with surprise and contrast.

We begin our journey in the United Arab Emirates, in

the city of Dubai. We explore the city’s architectural

marvels and also take in the sites of nearby Abu Dhabi.

Travel by traditional dhow to the stunning Fjords of

Musandam. Travel by ferry to Oman’s thriving capital of

Muscat. Visit the Grand Mosque, the largest in Oman.

Travel along the coast to Ras Al Jinz, where we have the

unique opportunity to see the endangered Green Turtles

coming ashore at night to nest.

We travel into the Great Wahiba Sands, where the

amber-hued dunes meet the Arabian Sea and an

overnight in a traditional Bedouin camp. We hike in the

Facts & Highlights• 20 land days • Start in Dubai, U.A.E. and finish in Muscat, Oman • all meals included • Includes 3 internal flights • Explore the sites of Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Muscat • Sail in the Fjords of Musandam by Dhow • Enjoy a Desert Adventure - Bedouin tents, camels and dunes • Hike in the Hajar Mountains • Visit the Grand Canyon of Arabia • Watch Sea Turtles laying eggs on the beach • Walk inside of Wadis (dry river beds) • Explore the southern province of Salalah/Dhofar • See famous frankincense trees

Departure Dates & PriceOct 27 – Nov 15, 2015 - $7995 Nov 01 – Nov 20, 2016 - $8295Activity Level: 2/3Comfort Level: Travel is partially by microbus, 4 wheel drive landcruisers, & traditional dhows. Roads can be rough and some off-roading may be required.

AccommodationsComfortable hotels/lodges. 2 nights camping in the desert in Bedouin tents with twin beds.

Jun 04/15Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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Jabal Akhdar - the “Green Mountains”- and visit a palm

tree oasis and the town of Bahla, once known for its black

magic and “jins”, now a pottery making center. We visit the

“Grand Canyon of Arabia” and hike to the remote village of

Wadi Nakhr in the Jebel Shams.

Flying to Salalah, we explore the southernmost province

of Oman, known for its frankincense, the tomb of the

Prophet Job, the natural titanic blow holes at Mughsail,

and the traditional Omani mud houses. Our journey ends

back in Muscat. Join us as we explore interesting cities, the

beauty of the coast, the desert, the mountains and culture

of this wonderful Arabian destination.

DAy 1 ArrIve In DubAIUpon arrival a transfer will be waiting for you at the

airport. Day is free to rest or explore on your own.

In the evening, meet your Tour Leader, National

Guide and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and

orientation.

Overnight in Dubai.

DAy 2 DubAI SIteSToday we set out on a city tour of this fascinating

city. Our first stop is the striking sail-shaped Burj Al

Arab hotel. Located on the sands of Jumeirah Beach,

on an artificial island, this luxury hotel is the fourth

tallest in the world, at 1,053 feet (321 meters). We

continue with your guide along the shoreline to

Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s upmarket residential areas.

See the winding lanes that lead to hidden courtyards

and the mud-brick homes topped by traditional wind

towers, designed to catch cooling offshore breezes.

Next, we visit Al Bastakiya’s old Al Fahidi Fort,

home to the Dubai Museum and take in views of the

cannons, turrets and fortified walls. We cross Dubai’s

central waterway, Dubai Creek, in a traditional water

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taxi called an ‘abra’, a ‘must-do’ activity in Dubai!

On the Deira side of Dubai Creek, soak up the colors

and perfumes of the spice souk. Our last stop is

Dubai’s legendary gold souk before we return to our

hotel.

Overnight in Dubai.

DAy 3 Abu DHAbI SIteSAbu Dhabi is close enough to Dubai to make it a

perfect day trip from Dubai. In Abu Dhabil, the first

destination is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,

one of the largest mosques in the world. We then

continue to the Women’s Handicraft Centre.

Admire the skill and dexterity of local ladies making

traditional handicrafts. This center was established

to provide training and job opportunities for women

in the region, as well as preserve and protect the local

heritage.

We continue our exploration of the city through

the well laid out roads, surrounding lush greenery,

beautiful parks, and rows and rows of trees until we

reach Abu Dhabi’s oldest building, Al Husn Palace

built in the 18th century.

Enjoy a magnificent view of the city by driving along

the beautiful Corniche and make a photo-stop at the

Breakwater. We then visit the Heritage Village and

journey to the past, to experience life before oil was

discovered.

Before returning to Dubai/Sharjah, we tour the

Dhow Yard where wooden ships are still being built

using simple tools and techniques handed down

through many generations, all without blue prints!

We return to Dubai for overnight.

DAy 4 DubAI, tO KHASAb, FOrtreSSToday we have a free morning in Dubai before

departing for our drive to Khasab. After lunch, we

visit the Fortress in Khasab.

Dinner and overnight in Khasab.

DAy 5 FjOrDS OF MuSAnDAM - DHOw cruISeToday we can enjoy a full day Dhow cruise.

Enjoy an unforgettable day cruising along the

“Fjords of Musandam” on board our traditional

Omani Dhow, where you can sit comfortably on

cushions and carpets while feasting your eyes on

the striking scenery. A Dhow trip to the fjords

offers an insight into its fantastic landscape. During

the Dhow cruise you can cruise into the fjords of

Musandam and discover different villages. The

Dhow is anchored at the famous Telegraph Island as

well as Seebi Island where you can swim and snorkel

in the clear waters. There is also the possibility to

see dolphins along the way. Lunch and refreshments

will be served on board. Snorkeling equipment and

towels are be provided. We return to Khasab for

dinner and overnight.

DAy 6 Fly tO MuScAt, MutrAH SOuKToday we take a flight that will take us to Oman’s

captial sity of Muscat. In the evening, we visit the

famous old Mutrah Souk (market) on the Corniche,

a great place to browse, shop, enjoy the ambience

and maybe even practice you bartering skills.

Overnight in Muscat.

DAy 7 bAnDAr KHAyAn FjOrDS by bOAt, MuScAt SIteSOur exploration of the city starts with the visit to

the Grand Mosque, The 3rd biggest mosque in the

world and a very good example of modern Omani

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architecture. The Grand Mosque, until recently was

home to the largest Persian carpet in the world. We

continue our exploration with a boat excursion to

Bandar Khayan Fjords before lunch.

After lunch, we explore the old section of town. Our

first stop is at the Bait Zubair Museum to see its

wonderful display of historic photos and traditional

furniture. We then drive through the Cornice (the

capital’s main port area) stopping at the Jalani and

Mirani Forts and The Al Alam Palace.

Overnight in Muscat.

DAy 8 tO Sur vIA wADI SHAb AnD QAlHAtToday we travel to Sur by coastal route using 4-wheel

drive vehicles. A very scenic journey, the road

is paved in portions but also goes though Wadi

Dayquat and across the jebel (range of hills). We visit

the Quariyat Castle, the Bimmah Sinkhole and Fins

Beach enroute to Sur. We stop in Wadi Shab, said to

be one of the most beautiful places in Oman, with

waterfalls and turquoise pools.

We enjoy a 1-2 hour hike in Wadi Shab before

continuing on to Qalhat. Qalhat is one of Oman’s

most ancient sites, a settlement from the 2nd

century AD.

Overnight in Sur.

DAy 9 bIlAD Sur cAStle, DHOw yArDS, turtle wAtcHIngThis morning we see the sights of Sur. We stop at

the Bilad Sur Castle, built over 200 years ago and

Sunysilah Castle which is 300 years old. We then

visit the Dhow Yards and if there is any construction

going on we will spend some time seeing these

wooden boats being built by hand. Next, we proceed

to Ras al-Hadd for dinner. This evening, we visit

Ras.Al-Jinz, the easternmost point in Oman and

the natural nesting beach for endangered Green

Back turtles. Oman is a vital area for Green Turtles

in the Indian Ocean and the Green Back Turtle is

heavily protected by the government of the country.

In fact, over 275 of the Sultanate’s beaches double-up

as nesting grounds for five of the seven recognized

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species of sea turtles, the most common being the

Green Back Turtle. After dark, we are led to the beach

by a warden to (hopefully) see the females return to

their beach to lay eggs. (Please note that the main

nesting season is Jun-Aug, at other times of the year,

there may not be turtles every night).

We return to our accommodation around 11:00pm.

Overnight in traditional beach huts, with palm

leaves for the walls and grass huts for the roof,

shared bathrooms, located on a beautiful blue lagoon.

DAy 10 OASIS, greAt wAHIbA SAnDS & beDOuIn tentSAfter breakfast we drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful

oasis in the middle of barren mountains. (Wadi means

a valley or ravine that is dry except in the rainy season).

We have time to visit some of the villages located in the

area before proceeding to the Great Wahiba Sands. The

Great Wahiba Sands are longitudinal sand dunes that

run south from the Eastern Hajars to the Arabian Sea.

The dunes are 100-150 metres high in stunning shades

of orange to amber.

The area is also home to the Bedouins and their many

camels, with camps along the tracks and trails. We

overnight in a camp in traditional Bedouin tents, with

shared, open-air washroom facilities.

DAy 11 DeSert exPerIence, cAMel SAFArI, beDOuIn vIllAgeToday we venture into the desert wilderness. We visit

a Bedouin house, before driving across the dunes to

the beach to enjoy our picnic lunch. This afternoon, we

return to the camp to experience a short camel safari

(optional but included in price).

Tonight, we have a traditional Arabic meal. The

camp provides us the opportunity to experience the

spectacular desert night skies. Overnight at the camp

in traditional Bedouin tents, with shared, open-air

washroom facilities.

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DAy 12 cAMel FArM, IbrA, jAbAl AKHDAr

For those that wish to rise early, a sunrise walk in the

dunes is a wonderful way to start the day. We then

begin traveling towards Jabal Akhdar. Enroute, we

stop in the town of Ibra and walk through the old

section of town. We continue to Al Mudaibi to visit

a camel farm. Traveling to Samail, we pass through

a lush oasis to the Samail Gap. We arrive at Jabal

Akhdar for dinner and overnight.

DAy 13 HIKe tO wADI HAbIbJebel Akhdar translates to “Green Mountains” and is

one of the most scenic areas in Oman. This morning

we hike (2-3 hours) to Wadi Habib and we see the

lovely terraced plantations, old mud homes, fruit

plantations and rose gardens, rose water production

is a cottage industry in this area. After a picnic lunch,

we return to our hotel where the remainder of the

day is free for you to explore on your own.

Overnight at Jabal Akhdar.

DAy 14 nIzwA FOrt, SOuK, bAHlA, jArbIn cAStleThis morning we drive to Nizwa, located in a palm

tree oasis, high in the mountains. We take a walking

tour of the town and visit Nizwa Fort, built in the

17th century and climb the tower to enjoy the

spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. We

also visit the town’s souk (market) where you can

look for the silver khanjars - a curved Omani dagger

that is an important symbol of manhood and wealth.

This afternoon, we visit Bahla Village, once known

as a mystical village and known for black magic and

“jins” (evil spirits). Today Bahla is famous for its

pottery. We see a pottery making demonstration and

then visit Jabrin Castle, one of the best preserved

castles in Oman. We overnight in a nice Resort on a

hill, overlooking the city of Barka.

DAy 15 wADI gHul - tHe grAnD cAnyOn OF ArAbIAToday is an exciting day of natural beauty and

Omani traditions and customs. Our first stop this

morning is at the abandomed village of Wadi Ghul,

in the Jebel Shams. Jebel Shams means “Mountain

of the Sun” and is the highest peak in Oman. Right

beside the mountain is Wadi Ghul, the Omanis

call it the “Grand Canyon of Arabia”. We hike from

the village to Wadi Nakhr (3 hours), an old, remote

villags. The main industry in Wadi Nakhr is carpet

weaving and we hope to see a demonstration while

we are there. We continue on to Al Hamra, one of

the oldest villages in the country and after lunch,

we learn about ancient Omani daily life including

Qahwa (coffee) making, the making of Omani bread,

percolating of rose water, grain grinding, extraction

of Alshoa medicine, the making of perfumes and

frankincense and hand tailoring of the Omani

Kumma (male head cover).

This afternoon, we stop at the Al Hoota caves, the

second largest natural caves in the world before

driving back to our Resort.

DAy 16 wADI bAnI AwF, MOuntAIn crOSSIngToday we will cross the Jebel Shams Mountain

range to the north side into the flatlands of the

batinah region. From the Mountain Plateau, we

take a breathe-taking adventurous switchback road,

offering spectacular view into large canyons, into the

Wadi Bani Awf. In the Wadi, we will stop for a picnic

break before continuing to Muscat.

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Overnight in Muscat.

DAy 17 Fly tO SAlAlAH - SOuKS, SIteS & FrAnKIncenSeWe fly to Salalah, the capital of the southernmost

province of Dhofar. We start exploration at the

“The Museum of the Frankincense Land”, in Balid

Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site. The

Frankincense Land Museum is the latest addition

to Oman’s heritage and cultural scene. It houses

two main halls, namely the History Hall, depicting

the geography, history of the ancient Frankincense

trail and the historical background of the Sultanate

through a number of archaeological findings and

the Marine Hall, featuring displays about the

development of Oman’s rich marine history. A

complete history of the Maritime trade & ship

building industry of Oman could be experienced

here, with meticulously carved replicas of the

ancient boats & ships of the Omani Maritime trade.

Drive through lush green plantations of vegetables

& fruits. Make a brief stop to taste fresh coconut

water drink at fruit stalls lining the streets within

the periphery of old Salalah town (Haffah). We stop

at the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque and view

the Official Palace of His Majesty the Sultan (Al

Husn Palace) & stroll through the old Haffah souk,

famous for the sale of high quality Frankincense

& numerous other Dhofari traditional jewellery

and souvenirs. The smell of frankincense fills the

souk. Haffah souk is very attractive with its small

shops lined with straight piles of incense boxes, clay

incense burners colorfully decorated with traditional

patterns and bags of incense crystals.

Overnight in Salalah.

DAy 18 SAlAlAH - tAQAH cAStle, AncIent cItIeS, tOMb OF tHe PrOPHet jOb

Our excursion begins in the morning with a visit

to the old fishing village of ‘Taqah’, famous for the

manufacture of ‘Dried Sardines’ & its traditional &

old ‘Dhofari Houses’. Visit the century old ‘Taqah

Castle’, the former official residence of the ‘Wali’

(Governor) of the region & obtain a glimpse into

the rich history of the region.

Continue to the ancient ruins of the once famous

city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). The city was

the easternmost outpost of the Hadramawt

Kingdom on the ancient incense route between the

Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and India. Khor

Rori was an important port on the coast of Dhofar

and one of the major trading cities of frankincense,

believed to have been the hub & harbour for the

shipping of Frankincense (UNESCO World Heritage

site).

We take a picturesque drive to ‘Mirbat’, the

ancient capital of Dhofar and the beginning of

the ‘Frankincense trail’. Stroll through the streets

lined with old Omani mud houses & visit the ‘twin-

domed Bin Ali’s Tomb, a classic example of medieval

architecture.

On our way back to western Salalah, explore the

natural spring of ‘Ayn Razat’, beautifully laid out

amidst the tranquil lush mountains & nourished

every day of the year by natural underground spring

water.

Next, we proceed to ‘Qara’ mountains to explore the

western part of Salalah. On a road steadily winding

up a steep incline, herds of Camels & Cattle are a

common sight, enjoy scenic views of a traditional

Dhofari rural landscape. We also visit the ancient

tomb of the ‘Prophet Job’ situated in the scenic

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green mountains of the Salalah Plains. Experience

and learn about the legendary story of the Prophet

Job and his devoutness.

We proceed to the beach of Mughsail where the

white sand touches the deep blue of the ocean.

At high tide, the waves burst through the natural

titanic ‘Blow Holes’, at the far end of the ‘Rocky

beach’ with a cave-like entrance.

We continue along the ‘Hair-pin-bend’ road

towards the Western Border of Oman, with its

breathtaking cliffs on either side, to see the

historical ‘Frankincense trees’ growing in their

natural habitat, deep down in the valleys, dotting

the dry & craggy countryside.

We take a short walk into the valleys to smell the

‘Holy Incense’ amidst the scenic view of the region.

On our return journey, we make a stop at the lagoon

at Mughsail where migratory birds (occasionally

flamingos) are a common sight.

Overnight in Salalah.

DAy 19 Fly tO MuScAtWe fly back to the capital city of Muscat. We have

a free afternoon before we meet for our farewell

dinner.

Overnight in Muscat.

DAy 20 DePArt MuScAtWe say a fond farewell to Oman with a transfer to the

airport for our departure flights.

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Questions & Answers1. How big are the groups?

Each group is limited to 16 participants. Small groups

are an important ingredient in adventure travel.

Small groups allow for more interaction and more

personalized service throughout the itinerary.

2.what is included in the tour price?

All accommodations throughout; all meals, starting

with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast

on departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks

tour); bottled drinking water throughout the trip; all

internal transportation; airport transfers on day 1

and departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks

tour); all day trips and entrance fees as outlined in

the itinerary; tips for hotels (porterage), national

guide, restaurants and spot guides; services of a trip

leader.

3.what is not included in the tour price?

International flights, tips to ElderTreks tour leader,

alcoholic drinks, visas and travel insurance.

4. Are these “educational” tours?

Yes, in the broadest sense of the word, “educational”.

We visit museums and local villages. We also have

talks and discussions on many aspects of the history

and culture of Oman, but this is only one aspect of

what we do. We believe that it is equally educational

to meet new people on a non-commercial basis, visit

their homes and even try to learn a few words in the

native language. Sometimes the most “educational”

moments are spent having a cold drink with locals in

a street market.

5. How do we travel during the tour?All local transportation is included in the land price

of the trip. The majority of our travel is by 4 Wheel

Drives, with some micro-coach travel and 2 domestic

flights. We also travel by traditional dhow and camel.

6. what are our accommodations like?We stay in comfortable accommodations with private

bath. 2 nights camping in the desert in traditional

“tents”, permanent tents with two single beds with

mattresses and bedding, sitting area, private open-

air facilities- toilet, sink and shower- just outside the

tent.

7. what about the weather?Omani winter is from the middle of November to the

middle of March, the best time of the year to visit.

Average temperatures in Muscat in Jan/Feb/Mar are

highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C). The

south has cooler average daytime highs around 77°F

(25°C), during Jan/Feb/Mar with a slightly higher

humidity. In the interior temperatures are cooler,

which can get as low as 55°F (12°C).

8. when is payment due?

A non-refundable deposit of $500 or £300 GBP

(plus insurance if you desire it) is due as soon as you

decide to go and will reserve your place on the tour.

The balance of the land payment is due 100 days

before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable

and these are outlined in the “Terms & Conditions”

section of our bro`chure.

9. Is medical insurance required?

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of your trip. Please note that medical insurance is not required for this adventure but is recommended. ElderTreks offers comprehensive travel insurance and we are happy to provide you with a quote if you call our office. If you are purchasing insurance elsewhere, please ensure you provide the details to ElderTreks as soon as possible. *Please note those travelers with pre-existing medical conditions must take out travel insurance at the time of

deposit10. what meals are included?

All meals are included, starting with dinner on day

1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day. In

many cases, we simply order a number of shared

dishes, so that we can try everything.

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11.what should I take on the tour?

There is a detailed “What to Take” list in our Trip

Kit, which we will send to you after you have booked

the trip.

12. can you arrange my flights?

We would be happy to take care of your air

arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight

itineraries, not group flights. Stop over enroute,

come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us

for a customized itinerary.

13. what if I would like more information?

If you have any further questions about the

adventure, please call our office for more details.

A Trip Specialist will be happy to answer your

questions. A Trip Kit containing further details on

the destination will be sent to you once you have

booked the trip.