Islands, Wadis, and Muscat: 3-Days Adventure in Beautiful Oman!
3 days
EASY
Explore Muscat, Wadi Ash Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, and Daymaniyat Islands over our unforgettable 3-days Oman Tour Package.
Embark on a thrilling three-day Oman tour package through Muscat, Wadi Ash Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, and the pristine Daymaniyat Islands. Discover captivating landscapes, cultural treasures, and hidden gems with our expert guides on our exclusive Muscat tours. This immersive tour promises unforgettable memories and awe-inspiring moments.
Fun Facts:
a. Daymaniyat Islands is the best place in the world to swim with turtles (you can swim with up to 20 turtles at the same place). Often referred to as the Maldives of the GCC, it is considered the best place to snorkel in the GCC.
b. Wadi Shab was home to a red bull cliff diving World Series, marking the first time Red Bull ever held a competition in the Middle East. Unlike many wadis that dry up in the summer, Wadi Shab typically maintains a year-round flow, ensuring its beauty in every season. It features a cave, a waterfall, an oasis with plenty of date palms on the way, and river bodies.
c. Bimmah Sinkhole has healing properties according to locals who believe that its water offers therapeutic benefits, attracting visitors seeking a natural spa experience. The sinkhole's crystal-clear turquoise waters make it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, earning it the nickname "Hawaiian of Arabia."
d. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque boasts a main prayer hall featuring a chandelier that weighs approximately 8.5 tons and is adorned with over 600,000 Swarovski crystals. The handwoven carpet in the prayer hall covers an impressive area of 4,343 square meters, making it one of the largest carpets in the world. The mosque has a worshippers' capacity of 20,000, and its construction took six years.
Explore these wonders and more with our curated Omani trips and delve into the richness of Muscat's cultural heritage.
Itinerary
Muscat Unveiled: Welcome Lunch & Island Discovery
12:00 pm: Meeting time at Muscat International Airport.
Begin with a welcome lunch at a castle-like Omani restaurant, where you will indulge in a delightful meal.
Following this welcome lunch, we will head to Al Mouj Marina from which we will set sail to the world-renowned Daymaniyat Islands for snorkeling, where shallow coral reefs teem with over 1100 different species.
Offering a wealth of sea life that’s unparalleled in the region, we will see a diversity of marine life such as turtles, honeycomb Murray eel, sting rays (non venomous), schools of fish among a variety of hard & soft corals.
We will then have dinner & check in at our hotel, where we'll prepare for the exciting adventures awaiting us the next day.
Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole - Hike, swim and cliff jumping
Our first destination will be Wadi Ash Shab, an absolute gem among Oman's attractions. This canyon is renowned for its crystal-clear blue water pools and a hidden waterfall concealed within a cave. Here, the freshwater flowing from the mountain peaks converges with the salty seawater along its banks, creating a unique ecological tapestry that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Our second stop will be the Bimmah Sinkhole, a remarkable natural wonder. Local legend attributes its creation to a meteorite impact, reflected in its Arabic name "Hawaiyat Najm," which translates to "The Falling Star." However, geologists have clarified that the sinkhole formed through the erosion of the Earth's upper crust layer, particularly due to the interaction of limestone with water. As a special treat, we'll have the opportunity to enjoy a natural spa experience in the sinkhole's waters, rich with 'red garra fish.'
Following our adventures, we'll begin our return journey to Muscat where we will unwind for the 3rd day.
Muscat Unveiled: A Day of Cultural Discovery and Exploration
Explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, absorbing its intricate Islamic architecture and serene gardens.
Next, venture to Mutrah Fort for expansive views of the city, coastline, and Hajar Mountains. Immerse yourself in Oman's military history as you stroll through the fort's walls and cannons.
Wander through Mutrah Souq, a historic marketplace in Oman. Engage with local vendors, peruse traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Take a leisurely break for lunch at a nearby restaurant, indulging in the rich flavors of Omani cuisine.
After a day of cultural immersion, you have flexible options. For those flying out of Muscat, a drop-off at the airport will be available at 5:50 pm. Alternatively, you can choose to extend your stay independently in Muscat for a few more hours or an extra day, providing the opportunity for additional exploration and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this trip cover?
Arabian Wanderers’ three-day programme combines the Daymaniyat Islands, Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole and Muscat sightseeing. It includes both nature activities and city visits, rather than only a boat trip or a single wadi excursion.
Is this the same as the Islands, Wadis & Turtles trip?
Not quite. The turtles trip includes a day dedicated to turtle watching, with the possibility of seeing hatchlings, instead of Muscat sightseeing. It also runs during the hotter months of the year.
Are flights or a bus from Dubai included?
No, our guests come from across the region and around the world, so we give them the flexibility to choose and book the flight to Muscat International Airport that works best for them.
Where do we meet, and which flights should I book?
The group meets at Muscat International Airport. You can book any flight as long as it arrives before the meeting time and departs after the trip’s end time, allowing enough time for check-in and airport procedures.
Can I drive to Muscat instead of flying?
Yes, absolutely. Just make sure you check the border regulations before travelling to Oman. Depending on the vehicle’s ownership and whether it is financed, you may need an NOC from the owner or bank, relevant vehicle travel documents and insurance covering Oman. Confirm the requirements with your vehicle registration authority and insurer before travelling.
What is included in the price?
The Arabian Wanderers Muscat trip includes accommodation, meals, transport within the programme, a great local guide, the Daymaniyat boat trip, snorkelling equipment, the Wadi Shab boat crossing and more! Flights and visa fees are not included.
Will I share a hotel room?
Our standard trip option is based on twin-sharing accommodation with another traveller of the same gender, whom we will pair you with. You can also opt for a single-room supplement if you prefer to have a room to yourself.
How difficult is the Wadi Shab hike?
It is a beginner-friendly hike that is mostly flat, with some rocky and uneven sections. No hiking experience is required, but you should be comfortable walking outdoors. The views and natural scenery make it a beautiful and rewarding experience.
Can I join if I cannot swim?
Yes, you can join the trip, but let us know in advance if you cannot swim. At the Daymaniyat Islands, you can either enter the water with a life jacket, subject to the guide’s assessment and sea conditions, or stay on the boat. At Wadi Shab, you can enjoy the hike without swimming and skip the swimming section. If you would like to enter the water with a life jacket, discuss this with the guide first.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?
Yes, we provide the snorkelling equipment needed for the Daymaniyat Islands.
Will we definitely see turtles?
There is a good chance of seeing turtles while snorkelling around the Daymaniyat Islands. However, they are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Do I need hiking shoes or water shoes?
Hiking shoes are recommended for the hike, and water shoes are useful for getting on and off the boat at the Daymaniyat Islands, as well as swimming and walking in Wadi Shab. You do not necessarily need specialist hiking shoes, but comfortable footwear with good grip is strongly recommended.
What should I wear for the mosque visit?
Pack modest clothing covering your arms and legs. Women should also bring a headscarf. It is best to bring your own suitable clothing and scarf rather than rely on availability at the mosque.
Can I join alone?
Yes, solo travellers are more than welcome. We have lots of solo travellers on Arabian Wanderers trips.
Can you cater for vegetarian or vegan guests?
Yes, we cater for both vegetarian and vegan guests. Just let us know your dietary requirements when booking.
Do I need an Oman visa?
This depends on your nationality and residency status. Some travellers qualify for visa-free entry, while others need a visa. A valid UAE residence visa may affect your eligibility, but it does not automatically guarantee entry.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months. Double-check the latest requirements through the Royal Oman Police before travelling and apply in advance if required.
Can I arrive early, stay longer or request only part of the trip?
You can definitely arrive early or stay longer. We can help arrange an extra private tour if you would like, or you can relax and do your own thing. Unfortunately, joining only part of the trip is not possible.
