10-nights in Oman: Mountains, Desert and the Arabian Sea

Oman is one of the Middle East’s most quietly compelling destinations. Less showy than its neighbours, it rewards travellers with dramatic landscapes, deep-rooted culture and a sense of authenticity that feels increasingly rare. This 10-night journey moves through the country’s most striking regions, from the coast and capital to the mountains, desert and the lush southern shores of Salalah.

It is a journey of contrast, combining adventure with refined luxury, and designed to reveal Oman at a relaxed, unhurried pace.

Days 1 to 3: Muscat

Stay: The Chedi Muscat

Your journey begins in Muscat, a capital city framed by rugged mountains on one side and the Gulf of Oman on the other. Unlike many cities in the region, Muscat has resisted overdevelopment. Low-rise white buildings, historic forts and palm-lined roads give it a calm, almost timeless feel.

You will stay at The Chedi Muscat, Oman’s first contemporary luxury hotel and still one of its most elegant. Set within manicured gardens along a private stretch of beach, the hotel offers a serene introduction to the country. Days can be spent drifting between the spa, the long lap pool, and beachfront dining, easing gently into Omani life after your flight.

A full-day guided city tour introduces Muscat’s highlights in depth. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its vast prayer hall and handwoven carpet. Continue to the Royal Opera House, a symbol of Oman’s cultural investment and love of the arts. Explore Mutrah Souq, where narrow alleys are filled with frankincense, spices and silver jewellery, before passing the historic forts of Mirani and Jalali and the striking Al Alam Palace.

Days 3 to 5: Jabal Akhdar and Nizwa

Stay: Alila Jabal Akhdar

From Muscat, the landscape changes dramatically as you ascend into the Al Hajar Mountains. The air cools, the roads wind, and sheer cliffs open onto vast valleys. This is Jabal Akhdar, the Green Mountain, named for its terraced agriculture and seasonal blooms.

Your base is Alila Jabal Akhdar, perched dramatically on the edge of a canyon. Built using traditional stonework and local materials, the resort feels deeply connected to its surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terraces offer uninterrupted views across the mountains, while the spa and infinity pool provide moments of stillness between explorations.

From here, explore the historic city of Nizwa, once Oman’s capital and still one of its cultural anchors. Walk the ramparts of Nizwa Fort, with its enormous circular tower, and wander the souq where traders sell dates, pottery and traditional Omani khanjars. Visit Birkat Al Mouz, an abandoned mudbrick village surrounded by date palms, and learn about the ancient falaj irrigation system that has sustained communities here for centuries.

One of the highlights of this region is the Three Village Walk, a guided trek through remote mountain settlements. Paths wind past stone houses, terraced orchards and quiet mosques, offering insight into a way of life shaped by isolation, resilience and deep connection to the land.

Day 5: Wahiba Sands Desert

Stay: Desert Nights Camp

Leaving the mountains behind, travel into the vast expanse of the Wahiba Sands, where dunes roll endlessly in shades of gold and rust. The desert feels both dramatic and deeply peaceful, a landscape that invites reflection.

Spend the night at Desert Nights Camp, the most established luxury desert camp in Oman. Located deep within the sands, the camp offers Bedouin-style tents with modern comforts, set far from any sense of civilisation. On arrival, enjoy traditional Omani coffee and dates before heading out for desert experiences such as dune driving or a camel ride at sunset.

As darkness falls, the desert becomes silent and vast. Dinner is served under the stars, and the night sky, unpolluted by light, feels endless. It is a short stay, but one that captures the spirit of Arabia in its purest form.

Days 6 to 10: Salalah and the Arabian Sea

Stay: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Fly south to Salalah, a region that feels worlds away from northern Oman. Influenced by the seasonal monsoon, the landscape here is greener, softer and framed by long beaches and coconut palms. Historically, this region was central to the frankincense trade, connecting Oman to Africa, India and beyond.

Your base is Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, set between a private white-sand beach and a tranquil lagoon, adjacent to the UNESCO-listed Al Baleed Archaeological Park. The resort combines coastal luxury with subtle references to Oman’s fortified architecture, creating a calm and refined atmosphere.

These days are deliberately unstructured, allowing you to slow down and enjoy the setting. Relax by the infinity pool, walk along the beach, or visit the nearby Museum of the Land of Frankincense to understand Salalah’s historic importance. Optional activities include dolphin watching, snorkelling, fishing, desert and mountain excursions, or spa treatments inspired by local ingredients and traditions.

Day 10: Return to Muscat

Stay: The Chedi Muscat

Return to Muscat for a final night at The Chedi Muscat. This last evening offers time to revisit a favourite restaurant, enjoy a final swim in the Gulf of Oman, or simply reflect on the journey you have taken across the country’s varied landscapes.

A Journey with Meaning

This itinerary reveals Oman in layers, from coastal cities and ancient forts to remote mountain villages, sweeping deserts and tropical shores. Each region offers a different rhythm and perspective, yet together they form a cohesive and deeply rewarding journey.

This itinerary costs from £3,600 per person, including accommodation on a breakfast or half board basis, domestic flights and all transfers & activities. Activities and experiences can be tailored to your preferences, and final pricing will depend on the time of year and the level of accommodation chosen.