Day 1 Muscat★Meeting Day
All day
Today is an all-day gathering day. Everyone will take their own flights to Muscat, the capital of Oman, and check in at the designated hotel (note: the check-in time for Oman hotels is generally after 14:00. Tourists who arrive early can store their luggage and then have free time).
Itinerary Presentation ※ First Encounter丨The Pearl of the Arabian Peninsula
丨Free gathering day
The Sultanate of Oman, known simply as Oman, is one of the oldest countries on the Arabian Peninsula and was named one of the world's top ten countries to visit in 2022 by Lonely Planet. With its magnificent landscapes blending desert, ocean, and mountain, it offers a feast for both adventure and leisure. Its rich history is reflected in World Heritage sites such as the ancient city of Nizwa and the Bahla Fort, showcasing the legendary splendor of Arab civilization.
Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, nestles between the mountains and the Gulf of Oman on the Arabian Sea. This city blends tradition and modernity, boasting a 16th-century Portuguese fortress and a 21st-century Grand Mosque. Here, free from the oppressive pressure of skyscrapers, lies a subtle melding of Arabian charm and modern elegance.
How to get to Muscat:
This itinerary is for the destination of Muscat (airport code MCT), the capital of Oman. You need to book your own flight tickets
Currently, you can choose China Eastern Airlines to fly directly from Beijing, or choose Emirates/Qatar/Gulf Airlines to transfer. If you buy a connecting flight, please pay attention to the time between the two flights: generally more than 3 hours, so as not to miss the flight. For more questions, please consult the product manager
Note: Be sure to confirm the flight schedule with the product manager before booking your flight!
丨Explore the world and step on the line:
What are the differences between visiting the line and normal travel?
Traveling is different from ordinary travel. There will be many unexpected factors that affect the experience, but there are also gains and losses:
1. Fully experience the folk customs of many places, and stepping on the lines requires more detailed and in-depth understanding;
2. Will visit many unknown places or tourist spots that are not on the regular route;
3. Adventurousness: the itinerary may be changed at any time if unexpected attractions appear along the way;
4. It may involve interviewing special people, visiting, or attending special events.
5. You will get a video of the line-stepping record edited by us.
Our product manager will communicate with you one-on-one. For more details, please click [Notice] → [Safety Tips]
Day 2 Muscat
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Treasures丨Understated and Magnificent Arabian Fairy Tales
丨 A First Look at Oman: Gorgeous Architecture and Brilliant History
After breakfast at the hotel, we will officially start our exploration of Oman.
First, we'll visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a modern religious landmark in Oman, blending Ottoman, Mughal, and native Omani styles. Beneath its 50-meter dome, a 4,200-square-meter expanse of the world's second-largest handmade Persian carpets spreads out like clouds, while a 14-meter crystal chandelier casts a halo of light. Five minarets reach toward the sky, nestled between the desert and the ocean, quietly testifying to the majesty and splendor of Islamic civilization.
We then visited the Royal Opera House in Muscat, the Arab world's first international opera house. Its white limestone exterior features geometric openwork patterns, while its interior, richly decorated with traditional Omani wood carvings and gold leaf, exudes an exquisite, magnificent beauty and a vibrant artistic atmosphere. As the first venue for Western opera in the Gulf region, it is not only a symbol of Oman's commitment to cultural openness, but also a vital bridge connecting Arab traditions with global art.
Afterward, we'll visit the exterior of the Sultanate of Muscat. As the Sultan's office and the center of state affairs, it's closed to the public. While it's only accessible from the outside, it's still worth the trip. Strolling the square in front of the palace, you'll see the milky white palace towering over the sea, its golden dome gleaming in the sunlight of the Gulf of Oman.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, explore Oman's glorious history at the National Museum of Oman. The camel bells of the Frankincense Road, witnesses of Zheng He's voyages, and the shadow of the Sohar's sails all come to life in the interweaving exhibition halls. From prehistoric fossils to modern manuscripts, 24,000 exhibits, like fragments of time, piece together the epic story of this land spanning 500 million years. Beneath the honeycomb dome, tradition and modernity resonate here, offering the first step to understanding the soul of Oman.
After a mind-blowing session, relax and unwind at the Muttrah Souq. As Oman's oldest souq, its maze-like alleyways and rich frankincense will evoke images of the Arabian Nights. Once a key port on the Maritime Silk Road, it remains bustling with the cries of vendors and the dazzling array of small goods neatly arranged. Oh, and don't forget to bargain if you're looking for bargains!
Finally, at sunset, we arrived at the nearby Mutrah Fort, a 16th-century Portuguese maritime sentry. Its mottled stone walls reveal a striking presence. From its summit, we gazed across the dazzling "S-Bay of Muscat," a thousand sails passing by, the setting sun melting into a golden hue. It felt as if we could hear the clash of swords between colonists and Omani warriors. Today, it stands quietly amidst the bustling souq, a perfect juncture of history and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Day 3 Muscat → Green Mountains
·morning
Itinerary presentation ※ Wonderland丨Pink Paradise under the Green Mountains
Starting today, we will travel by off-road vehicle.
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Green Mountains, the "Hanging Gardens" of the Hajar Mountains. Rising 2,000-3,000 meters above sea level, the average summer temperature is a mere 25°C, a stark contrast to the desert. Once a military stronghold during tribal conflict, it is now renowned for its Rose Valley and thousand-year-old rice terraces, a hidden gem where adventure and healing coexist.
丨Ancient Crafts/Oman’s Millennium Craft Heritage
Upon arrival, we'll visit a local traditional rose water distillery. Green Mountain's rose water is renowned, a millennium-old tradition preserved in the region. Its traditional distillation process has even been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The distillery also produces the raw materials for the state-of-the-art perfume brand, AMOUAGE. We'll experience the rose water harvesting process with the villagers and observe the traditional distillation techniques of experienced artisans, embracing this millennium-old tradition that hasn't faded with time.
·afternoon
丨The Fun of the Mountains/Measuring the Tradition of “Living” with Footsteps
In the afternoon, we will start a [Village Hike]. Following a professional hiking guide, we will pass through three ancient villages, admire the magnificent Green Mountain Canyon, pass by the cliff terraces to see farmers irrigating their orchards with the ancient Falaj water system, and stroll through the rose farm to fall into the fragrant pink paradise.
Note: The rose season in Oman's Green Mountains is from late March to early May each year. However, the blooming of roses is easily affected by the weather. Temperature, light, precipitation and other factors will affect its flowering period, so the specific blooming date cannot be guaranteed.
丨Cliff Treasure/Stay at Green Mountain Cliff View Hotel
At night, stay at our carefully selected cliff view hotel hidden in the Green Mountains, enjoying the magnificent view of the Green Mountain Canyon and feeling like you are on vacation!
Day 4 Green Mountain → Nizwa
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Civilization丨Whispers from the Ancient City of Nizwa
This morning everyone can enjoy a morning without Morning Call and freely enjoy the leisure time in Green Mountain.
Later, we'll depart for Nizwa. Oman boasts over 1,500 castles, and Nizwa, as the ancient capital, boasts the most. Once a major center of Islamic scholarship, it boasts a rich history and culture, and is the very soul of Oman.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we'll explore the geometry of time at the Oman Trans-Century Museum. Named the "Best Modern Museum in the Arab World" in 2024, its avant-garde design and striking visuals are sure to amaze you. The building blends modern minimalism with traditional Omani elements, inspired by the unique landscape and geometric contours of the Hajar Mountains and Valley. The overall design blends harmoniously with nature, while the white facade shimmers brilliantly in the sunlight. The museum traces the history of time, spanning millennia from the origins of the Arabian Peninsula to present-day Oman. Through immersive, high-tech interactive features, visitors can immerse themselves in Oman's epic journey.
Afterward, head to Nizwa Castle and step into a real-life "Monument Valley." As the largest and most intact of Oman's more than 100 remaining castles, it's arguably the "King of Castles." Inside, you'll discover a labyrinthine structure, hot oil defenses, and hidden staircases, inspiring a sense of adventure and revealing the Arabian Peninsula's wartime past. As the setting sun casts its shadows across the ochre-colored walls, the interplay of light and shadow creates a picturesque scene, creating stunning images. Don't miss the opportunity to ascend the circular main tower for a panoramic view of Nizwa!
Afterwards, everyone arranged their own dinner nearby.
Day 5 Nizwa → Misfat → Mount Shams
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Ancient Village丨Oasis Heritage Hidden from the World
丨Magic Castle/Witness the "Land of a Thousand Castles"
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for a visit to Jabrin Fort, a 17th-century masterpiece of Omani ingenuity that cleverly blends a military fortress with an Islamic academy. Within its thick rammed earth exterior, the domed "Hall of the Sun and Moon" is hidden. Its spiral staircase and observatory speak of the fusion of science and faith. Its mud brick carvings and wooden columns, despite the vicissitudes of time, still shine with the glory of its golden age.
Afterward, visit the nearby Bahla Fort, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. Aside from renovations, it has remained largely intact since the 12th century. The fort boasts 12 kilometers of walls and 132 watchtowers. Its lower levels are constructed of massive stone foundations and its upper levels are constructed of adobe brick, showcasing the ingenuity of medieval Arab fortifications.
·afternoon
丨Life in the Ancient Village/Escape from the concrete and experience the tranquility of the ancient village
In the afternoon, we'll depart for Misfat, an ancient oasis village nestled deep in the Hajar Mountains of Oman. Dating back 2,000 years, it was named one of the "World's Best Tourist Villages" by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2021. Its most remarkable feature is the terraced agriculture sustained by the falaj irrigation system. The scattered arrangement of mud-brick houses with palm-wood roofs, and the stone alleys and wooden doors that retain their original beauty, make it more vivid than any museum.
We'll first visit the Bad Safa Museum in Hamra. Unlike typical, cold exhibition halls, this is a living museum where people actually live, like stepping back into a real Omani home a century ago. Following the local guide, villagers will demonstrate various traditional Omani crafts. As you stroll through the museum, each artifact reveals the wisdom of survival in the desert and mountains.
Afterward, we'll officially explore the ancient village of Misfat. Thousands of canals crisscross the village, and we'll stroll through it, with cliffs on one side and oases on the other, learning about the ancient Falaj irrigation system. Accompanied by the sound of gurgling water, we'll encounter the occasional donkey caravan passing by. There's no fixed route, so we'll leisurely wander through the village's alleys, enjoying each unexpected encounter. If you feel tired, you can find a random cafe to sit down, feel the cool breeze from the valley, and catch a glimpse of the villagers passing by...
丨Mountain Sunset/Chill Time Above the Canyon
After the ancient village tour, we will set off to watch the sunset from Mount Shams, the highest peak in Oman. The name comes from the Arabic word "Mountain of the Sun" because it is bathed in golden sunlight all year round.
We specially arranged a [Sunset Drinks], where we watched the sunset dye the distant mountains golden red on the cliffs of Mount Shams, and the steep cliffs of the Arabian Canyon became darker and darker in the twilight. While tasting traditional Omani snacks, we admired the last rays of sunset and got drunk with the evening breeze.
Afterwards, we will return to the hotel at the top of Mount Shams to rest.
Note: Accommodation conditions on Mount Shams are limited, and hotel standards vary. There may be issues with large and small beds. We will randomly assign rooms, and we hope everyone will be fair. Thank you for your understanding.
Day 6: Mount Shams → Nizwa → Wasiba Desert
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Sand Dunes丨The "Golden Symphony" of Oman's Inland
Friday limited edition/Observe the "Business War" at the local morning market
Today, we need to wake up early to witness a fascinating and down-to-earth "business war." The Nizwa Cattle and Sheep Market, open only every Friday, embodies the wildest Omani atmosphere. Everyone gathers in a large circle, while vendors lead their prized sheep around the market. Buyers, upon spotting a favorite, examine them like surgeons. The cries of cattle and sheep, the shouts of vendors, and the clamor of bargaining intertwine to create a lively and authentic atmosphere, a vivid picture of human nature unfolding.
Afterwards, we'll depart for the Wasiba Desert, a typical inland desert, approximately 180 kilometers long from north to south and 80 kilometers wide from east to west, covering an area of approximately 12,500 square kilometers. The desert is renowned for its spectacular sand dunes, rich biodiversity, and profound Bedouin culture.
·afternoon
丨Poems of the Sand Sea/Walking to the Red Dusk with Camel Bells
Schedule a desert camel ride around sunset. As the setting sun paints the dunes a molten gold, we'll saddle our camels and journey over vast golden waves. Our Bedouin guides hum ancient songs, while the camel bells echo through the silence. Shadows stretch out, seemingly overlapping with caravans from millennia ago. It's a truly soul-stirring desert symphony.
Return to the hotel for dinner and rest.
Day 7: Washiba Desert → Sur → Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Living Beings丨A Pilgrimage of Life with Sea Turtles
This morning, everyone can still enjoy a morning without Morning Call and freely explore the leisurely time in the Wasibai Desert.
Later in the day, we will depart for Sur, a historic port city on Oman's eastern coast. It has been an important hub for Indian Ocean trade since the Middle Ages and is renowned for its traditional shipbuilding, which still preserves the millennia-old craftsmanship of the Arabian dhow.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we'll check out the Sur Lighthouse. Built in the 19th century to guide merchant ships in the Indian Ocean, its white tower creates a stunning contrast with the blue of the Arabian Sea. The azure waters of the Gulf of Oman surge beneath our feet, while the ancient shipyard and rugged coastline are all in sight.
Then, visit the Sur Traditional Handcrafted Dockyard to experience this living fossil of Omani maritime civilization, where ancient techniques are still practiced here. Using no blueprints, craftsmen rely solely on their experience to join teakwood and coconut ropes to create dhows that sail the Indian Ocean. We can observe the handcrafting process up close, marvel at the masterful craftsmanship, and even step inside the massive "dhow frame."
Afterward, we'll visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Sanctuary, a world-renowned nesting sanctuary for green turtles. Its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters create a pristine habitat. Every year, tens of thousands of turtles return, following their ancient instincts, to lay their eggs under the moonlight, a scene of epic natural wonder. The sanctuary's comprehensive ecological monitoring system has made it a global model for marine conservation.
After arriving, we checked directly into the only hotel in the reserve to rest. It was within walking distance to the turtle laying beach, which was super convenient!
丨Natural Epic/Exploring the Origin of Sea Turtles' Life Under the Stars
Meet at approximately 9 PM (please note, hours may vary seasonally; please consult on-site for details) for the "Night Turtle Watching" event, prime viewing time for watching turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Follow your guide and witness the moving scenes of a massive female green turtle trudging up the beach, digging a deep pit with her hind legs, and laying dozens to hundreds of eggs. The sea breeze caresses your face, and the gentle sound of waves creates a gentle background. At this moment, you'll almost hear the most primal rhythm of life.
Note: Sea turtles lay eggs year-round, but the peak period is from May to October. During this period, the probability of seeing sea turtles laying eggs is the highest, and the number of turtles is the highest. There is also a chance of seeing them in other months, but you may need to wait a little longer, so please understand!
Things to note when watching turtles laying eggs:
1. Do not use mobile phones, flashlights, flashlights or any form of artificial light to avoid scaring the turtles;
2. When approaching a turtle, please remain quiet and avoid talking loudly or making sudden noises.
3. Always keep at least 5-10 meters away from the turtles, forming a semicircle and observing them quietly. Touching the turtles or any form of interference is strictly prohibited.
Day 8 Ras Al Jinz Turtle Sanctuary → Wadi Tiwi → Wadi Shab → Muscat
·morning
Itinerary Presentation ※ Exciting Walk丨The Water World of the Arabian Peninsula
Around 5:00 a.m. (please note that hours may vary seasonally, so please consult the site for details) you can return to the Morning Turtle Watching. This is the perfect time to witness baby turtles hatching and heading for the sea. You might even encounter overtime turtles still laying eggs or burying nests in the early morning, and there are fewer people around. Upon reaching the beach, countless mysterious crawling marks greet you. In the morning light, overtime turtles struggle to reach the sea, while hatchlings stumble toward the roaring waves, as if witnessing the Earth's earliest heartbeat.
After the morning viewing, return to the hotel for breakfast.
丨Alien World/First experience of hiking and trekking in the Oman Valley
There are nearly thousands of river valleys of all sizes throughout Oman. During the rainy season, the lush vegetation and gurgling waters create a feeling of being in an alien world on a water planet, which will surely break your impression of the Arabian Peninsula as arid!
We'll hike up the Tiwi River Valley, a hidden gem rarely visited. The stream is as cool as silk, and palm fronds rustle overhead. Stone steps wind upward, each step shattering the sunlight on the water. A waterfall cascades down the rock face, its mist revealing the allure of a turquoise natural pool. Dive in, the current gently nudging you back, as if gently lifted by the hand of nature. For a thrill-seeker, you can also take a leap from the heights of the valley floor, showcasing your diving skills!
·afternoon
Now that we're here, why not spend the afternoon exploring another virally famous wadi, Wadi Shab, for some thrilling river tracing? Wadi Shab is one of Oman's most famous wadi. We'll first take a ferry to the entrance and then a light hike. The emerald green waters nestled within the canyon will surely wash away the heat! The ultimate adventure here is swimming through the waterway into a hidden cave, where waterfalls cascade from the ceiling. Diving or diving is a delightful experience, like playing an outdoor escape room.
丨 Outdoor hiking and river tracing precautions:
1. Please wear professional river trekking shoes. Slippers and sandals are not allowed. Please prepare waterproof bags, sunscreen, towels, spare dry clothes, etc.
2. Please follow the guide's instructions, wear your life jacket, and do not jump blindly into unknown waters. Act as a team, maintain distance but keep each other in sight, and help each other through difficult areas.
3. When moving sideways on slippery rocks, take small steps and avoid raising your center of gravity too high. When facing waterfalls or deep pools, choose to go around them instead of climbing or jumping over them.
4. Replenish energy in time and avoid soaking in water for a long time. Dry your body quickly after getting out of the water and add more clothes.
After rafting down the rapids, we'll drive back to Muscat, where we'll visit the cenote. Legend has it that it was formed by a meteorite fall, with a diameter of about 40 meters and a depth of 20 meters. The emerald green water is connected to the underground ocean, and is as clear as a dream.
Finally check in to the hotel and rest.
Day 9 Muscat
All day
Itinerary Presentation ※ Wild Fun丨Carnival Beyond the Land of Oman
丨Setting Sail/Dolphin Encounter and the Filter-Free Jelly Sea
Today is a day away from land. After breakfast at the hotel, we chartered a boat for the whole day to start the carnival outside the land of Muscat.
First, embark on a unique [Dolphin Watching Tour (Shared Boat)]. Muscat offers exceptional dolphin-watching conditions, with crystal-clear waters with visibility exceeding 20 meters, year-round calm weather, and a dolphin-friendly area located very close to the port, making it the "world's easiest dolphin-watching experience." Located at the confluence of the Indian and Arabian Oceans, the currents provide abundant food, making it a buffet for bottlenose and spinner dolphins.
Note: Wildlife sightings are probabilistic, so there is no guarantee that you will see dolphins. If you do not see any, there will be no refund.
We then chartered a boat to the Dimaniyat Islands, which were not open to the public until 2013. Part of a UNESCO marine reserve, they retain the pristine nature of hidden islands and boast one of the best diving and marine life resources on the Arabian Peninsula, home to endangered green turtles, hawksbill turtles, migratory birds, and a variety of marine life.
We will enjoy snorkeling here, unlocking the uninhabited glass island diving experience, coral gardens blooming under our feet, and schools of tropical fish passing through our fingertips like shooting stars. If we are lucky enough, we can even swim with cute little turtles!
Note: According to official regulations, landing on the island is prohibited from May to October each year, but snorkeling is not affected, please understand!
Day 10 Muscat★Disbandment Day
All day
Itinerary Presentation ※ Farewell丨Middle East Chapter Ends
Today is our disbanding day. Everyone will go to the airport according to their own flights. Thank you for choosing to participate in our Explore the World Season 3 Vientiane Oman trip. We look forward to seeing you next season!
