
Wild Oman: Journey Through Arabia
Hike Oman’s 'Grand Canyon', snorkel island reefs, plunge into wild wadis, explore Nizwa’s souks and sleep among star-strewn desert dunes
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guidesAll accommodation
6 nights in hotels and 1 night in a comfortable desert campMeals
All breakfasts, all lunches and 5 dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in between plus luggage transfers throughoutEquipment & Permits
All your gear for canyoning, kayaking or SUP and snorkelling, plus all entry fees and permitsSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?










Trek along the rim of Oman’s epic 'Grand Canyon' on the iconic Balcony Walk – a breathtaking trail carved into the cliffs of Jebel Shams
Leap into turquoise pools, scramble through shaded gorges, and follow ancient falaj channels deep into the country’s lush, hidden wadis
Explore souks and ancient mud villages, ride across golden dunes and sleep under starry skies in the heart of Wahiba Sands, Oman’s immense desert
Swim with turtles and colourful reef fish in crystal-clear waters off the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine sanctuary
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Muscat

Fly into Muscat Airport, where group transfers are arranged at set times to take you to your comfortable hotel in the city. This afternoon, meet your guide and fellow adventurers for an (optional) orientation tour to explore some of Muscat’s standout sights. Begin with a stroll through the colourful Muttrah Souq – one of the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world – then follow the scenic Corniche past the Sultan’s Palace and the 16th-century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Return to the hotel to freshen up before heading out for a welcome dinner with your crew. If your flight arrives later, you can head straight to the hotel and either join the group for dinner, or meet everyone the following morning.
Day 2
Journey to the Mountains of the Sun

Hiking
Driving
After breakfast, begin your journey toward Jebel Shams – Oman’s legendary 'Mountain of the Sun'. Before leaving Muscat, you'll stop in at the awe-inspiring Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where you’ll marvel at its vast prayer halls, gleaming marble courtyards, and the world’s second-largest handwoven Persian carpet. Leaving the city behind, the landscape shifts as you wind your way into the Al Hajar Mountains. Stop at the ancient village of Misfat Al Abriyeen – a hillside gem known for its mud-brick houses, falaj irrigation channels, and terraced date plantations. After a traditional Omani lunch, stretch your legs on a short trail through the village’s narrow alleys and shaded palm groves. In the late afternoon, ascend higher into the mountains toward Jebel Shams. Arrive at your lodge in time to walk out to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Oman’s dramatic 'Grand Canyon', just as the sun begins to dip below the cliffs. Return to the lodge for dinner and settle in for a peaceful night surrounded by the cool air and stillness of the highlands.
Day 3
Hike the legendary Balcony Walk & explore historic Nizwa
Hiking
Driving
Wake to the cool mountain air and enjoy breakfast at the lodge as the sun rises over the highlands. Then take a short drive to the trailhead to begin the legendary Balcony Walk – one of Oman’s most dramatic hikes, which traces the sheer rim of Wadi Ghul, often called the Grand Canyon of Arabia. Follow the narrow path carved into the cliffs, with sweeping views of plunging valleys and towering rock faces unfolding around every bend. Your hike leads to a hidden lake near the abandoned village of As Sab, a serene spot to rest and soak in the canyon’s grandeur before retracing your steps back along the same trail. After the hike, refuel with lunch before heading to Nizwa – the historic heart of Oman and its former capital, nestled beneath the Hajar Mountains. When you arrive, you have the option to take a gentle stroll along the restored Al Aqur wall, a beautifully preserved fortification offering panoramic views and a quiet moment to connect with the city’s ancient soul. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a free evening at your own pace, perhaps grabbing dinner at one of Nizwa’s many inviting local restaurants or exploring the lively souk.
Day 4
Into the dunes of the Wahiba Sands

Hiking
Driving
Begin your day at the iconic Nizwa Fort, a 17th-century stronghold that once guarded vital trade routes through Oman's interior. With its towering cylindrical bastion and labyrinthine corridors, the fort offers a vivid glimpse into the country's storied past. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding date palms and mountains, before exploring its historic halls, weapon displays, and ancient defence systems. From the fort, step into the lively Nizwa Souk – a bustling maze of stalls brimming with traditional crafts, fragrant spices and ceramics. Watch master silversmiths at work in tiny shops passed down through generations, then enjoy an early lunch at a local restaurant nestled within the old town. In the afternoon, journey south toward the Wahiba Sands – an immense sea of rolling golden dunes stretching over 200 kilometres towards the Arabian Sea. As the terrain shifts from rocky highlands to endless desert, prepare for a thrilling drive through the iconic red and gold sands en route to your eco‑friendly lodge nestled in a secluded valley. Check in and unwind before heading out on an optional walk with your guide through the dunes at sunset – a peaceful introduction to the desert’s beauty and silence. Return to your camp for a traditional desert dinner and a restful night beneath the stars.
Day 5
Desert, wadis and coast

Canyoning
Driving
Wake up at your leisure and enjoy a hearty breakfast as the desert sun begins to warm the dunes. For those feeling adventurous, an optional sunrise camel ride is available for an extra fee. After breakfast, traverse the golden dunes, keeping your camera ready for those last magical desert photos en route to your next stop: Wadi Hawer, a hidden Omani gem tucked into the eastern Hajar Mountains. Known for its towering cliffs, crystal-clear plunge pools, and shaded walking trails, it’s the perfect playground for canyoning, swimming, or simply unwinding in spectacular wilderness. Spend a few hours exploring, jumping into natural pools, and trekking through rugged terrain. After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your journey to Sur, a charming maritime town famed for its traditional dhow-building yards and laid-back seaside vibe. Check into your hotel, then enjoy dinner either at the hotel or at a local eatery overlooking the harbour.
Day 6
The iconic Wadi Tiwi, the vast Wadi Dayqah Dam and back to Muscat

Canyoning
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Driving
Fuel up with an early breakfast at your hotel, then grab your daypack and head out for a full day of water-filled adventure. Your first stop is the spectacular Wadi Tiwi, a canyon famed for its lush oases, turquoise pools, and dramatic cliffs. Begin with a short hike through banana plantations and along the ancient falaj irrigation channels, surrounded by dense greenery and traditional village life. As you enter the wadi, prepare to scramble across smooth rock formations, swim through emerald pools, and leap into clear waters as you make your way toward the hidden Mibam village tucked deep in the canyon. All safety gear – including helmets and buoyancy aids – is provided for this canyoning experience, with your guides making it accessible and thrilling for all levels. After emerging from the wadi, sit down to a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll savour fresh Omani dishes amidst the dramatic backdrop of the Eastern Hajar Mountains. In the afternoon, begin your drive back to the capital and stop at the scenic Wadi Dayqah Dam, one of Oman’s largest reservoirs. Spend an hour on either a kayak or a SUP paddling across its calm, expansive waters – a peaceful contrast to the morning’s canyoning. Return to Muscat in the early evening and check into your hotel, no doubt ready to drop.
Day 7
Swim and snorkel the Daymaniyat Islands

Swimming
Snorkelling
Boat Ride
Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before a short transfer takes you to the marina. Next, you’ll board a speedboat for an exclusive half-day snorkelling or diving excursion to the pristine Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve – a protected marine sanctuary and one of Oman’s most spectacular underwater playgrounds. This UNESCO-recognised reserve is home to vibrant coral reefs, nesting sea turtles, and an abundance of marine life, including parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, and (in season) reef sharks and rays. You’ll stop at two carefully selected snorkelling sites, where you can explore the kaleidoscopic underwater world in crystal-clear turquoise waters. Keep your eyes peeled for green turtles gliding gracefully through the currents – a regular sight here. After your aquatic adventure, return to the marina and transfer back to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to take a stroll, relax, or begin packing at your leisure. In the evening, gather one final time for a farewell dinner, where you’ll share stories, photos, and highlights from the journey with your fellow adventurers – a celebratory close to an unforgettable week in Oman.
Day 8
Farewell Oman!

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and take some time to pack up at your own pace. Group transfers to the airport will be arranged to align with departure times. All great adventures must come to an end, but the memories of Oman’s mountains, wadis, and warm hospitality will travel home with you.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Muscat International Airport (MCT), Oman
Any time on Day 1 (before 15:00 recommended)
Ends
Muscat International Airport (MCT), Oman
Any time on Day 8
Transfers
On Day 1, scheduled group transfers will be provided from Muscat International Airport to your hotel in the city. Travellers arriving at similar times will be grouped together and your host will endevour to minimise wait times. To make the most of your first day – which includes an afternoon walking tour of Muscat’s highlights and a welcome dinner – we strongly recommend arriving on a morning or early afternoon flight. If you’re landing later in the day, you’re welcome to join the group directly for dinner or head straight to the hotel to rest – your guide will brief you the following morning so you’re fully up to speed.
On Day 8, group transfers will be arranged to Muscat International Airport based on the most common departure times. If you plan to arrive early or extend your stay, your host can assist with private airport transfers and additional nights of accommodation. See Optional Extras for pricing and details.
Travel options
There are frequent international flights to Muscat International Airport from a variety of global hubs. From the UK and Europe, direct flights are available from cities such as London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Zurich, Istanbul, and Paris, operated by airlines including Oman Air, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Air France. Connecting options via Doha, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai are also widely available through Qatar Airways, Etihad, and Emirates. From North America, there are no direct flights to Oman, but smooth one-stop connections are available from major cities like New York, Toronto, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Vancouver – typically routed through Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines). We recommend checking flight times carefully and, where possible, arriving on a morning or early afternoon flight on Day 1 to take advantage of the included activities. Alternatively, consider arriving a day early for a more relaxed start to your adventure.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?

Sitting at the crossroads of ancient trade routes between East Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a true melting pot of cultures – and its cuisine reflects that beautifully. From roadside grills to home-style restaurants and coastal seafood stalls, you’ll find a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and East African influences in both traditional dishes and modern fare. Expect to enjoy a mix of authentic Omani cuisine and broader Middle Eastern dishes throughout the trip, alongside more international options in hotels and city restaurants. Rice, grilled meats, fresh seafood, herbs, spices, dates, and tropical fruits form the base of many meals. When it comes to traditional Omani dishes, be sure to try mashuai (grilled kingfish served with lemon rice; a favourite in coastal towns like Sur), majboos (a spiced rice dish made with saffron, cardamom, and often chicken or lamb) and kahwa (Omani coffee; gently spiced with cardamom and traditionally offered with plump Omani dates as a gesture of hospitality). You’ll also find mezze-style dining, flatbreads, hummus, falafel, and rich lentil stews widely available, making vegetarian and vegan meals both accessible and satisfying.
Your host can cater to a wide range of dietary requirements, allergies, and preferences – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options. Please just request this on your passenger information form, and your guide and host will ensure that suitable meals are arranged throughout the trip. Please note that while remote desert and mountain locations may have more limited menus, your team will always do their best to accommodate your preferences. If you have severe allergies, we recommend bringing relevant medications.
What is the accommodation like?

Muscat
On the first and last two nights of the trip you’ll stay at the Golden Tulip Muscat, a modern 4-star hotel located in the central Al Khuwair district. You’ll sleep in twin-share rooms by default (king-sized beds available for couples, on request), each offering air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and free WiFi. The hotel features an onsite restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a spa for post-adventure relaxation. There’s plenty to explore nearby – including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Avenues Mall, and local cafés serving up Omani coffee and dates.

Jebel Shams
You’ll spend one night at Sama Heights Resort, located at the foot of Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain. Accommodation is in stone-built mountain chalets or eco-friendly tents, each with raised beds, private bathrooms, and basic modern comforts. The resort includes communal dining areas, outdoor seating, and panoramic views across the surrounding highlands – a peaceful base to rest and recharge before or after exploring the legendary Balcony Walk.

Nizwa
You’ll spend one night at Ihyaa Inn, a charming heritage-style guesthouse located in the heart of Nizwa’s old town, just a short walk from the iconic Nizwa Fort and Souk. Rooms are simple but atmospheric, designed with traditional Omani touches and with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and comfortable bedding. Shared spaces include a rooftop terrace and lounge where you can unwind with views of the old city. A traditional Omani breakfast is served on-site or nearby in a partner café, offering local flavours and fresh fruit. With its great location, warm hospitality, and authentic charm, Ihyaa Inn makes an ideal base for exploring Nizwa’s cultural highlights on foot.

Wahiba Sands
You’ll spend one night at Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp, in the heart of Wahiba Sands. The camp offers a range of accommodation, including stone-built chalets and traditional Sultan tents, all featuring private ensuite bathrooms, seating areas, bed linen, a desk, and free toiletries. Some rooms also include fans for added comfort. You'll aslo find a restaurant buffet, along with communal dining areas, an outdoor lounge, and a shared indoor lounge for relaxing between desert adventures. A tour desk is available to help organise optional activities like camel rides. This is a unique opportunity to experience the tranquillity of the desert with modern comforts and authentic Omani hospitality.

Sur
You’ll spend one night at the Sur Grand Hotel, a seafront property located along the coastal road in the eastern city of Sur. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms by default (king beds available for couples, on request), each featuring air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, free WiFi, and TVs. Many rooms also offer views of the Arabian Sea. The hotel includes an on-site restaurant serving international and local dishes, as well as a rooftop swimming pool and sun terrace – ideal for a refreshing dip after a day of adventure. With its convenient location, you’ll also be within easy reach of Sur’s dhow shipyard, harbour, and beachfront corniche for a sunset stroll.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This trip has been designed to give you a front-row seat to Oman’s most awe-inspiring and diverse landscapes in a single, unforgettable week. No prior experience is needed for any of the activities – your expert local guides will provide full briefings, support, and all necessary safety equipment for canyoning, snorkelling, and kayaking. That said, being comfortable in water and the ability to swim are essential if you want to partake in the canyoning and snorkelling days. The water-based activities involve swimming through natural pools and the open sea, but they’re beginner-friendly and always supervised.
On land, the hiking terrain includes rocky paths, uneven surfaces, sandy dunes and occasional exposed sections – particularly along the iconic Balcony Walk on Jebel Shams. While it’s not technically difficult, a good level of agility and balance is helpful, especially when navigating wadis or scrambling over rocks. You’ll be hiking at altitudes around 2000m at Jebel Shams; and while the air is cooler and drier, altitude-related effects are minimal and no acclimatisation is required. Whilst none of the activities last longer than 3-4 hours, it is important to note that being in a hot and humid environment is more demanding on the body.
The trip moves at a fairly fast pace to pack in Oman’s highlights. Expect daily activities and regular hotel changes, with single-night stays from Day 2 through to Day 6. You’ll travel by comfortable 4x4 jeeps most days. Drives are never longer than 4 hours and are usually broken up with scenic stops, activities or lunch breaks to keep things comfortable.
What if i need to skip an activity?
No problem at all – this trip is designed to be flexible. While we encourage everyone to join the included activities (they’re what make the adventure so special!), you’re always welcome to sit one out if you prefer to rest or take it easy. Your guide will let you know in advance what each day involves, including any physical demands, and will help suggest alternatives where possible. For example, if you choose to skip a canyoning or snorkelling session, you can relax nearby or enjoy a quiet moment in nature. Please note that some activities take place in remote areas, so if you do opt out, there may be limited options during that time.
What will I need to carry?
You’ll just need a daypack or small rucksack to carry your daily essentials — things like water, sun protection, swimwear, a change of clothes, snacks, a camera, and any personal items you may need during hikes or excursions. Your main luggage will be transported separately by support vehicle or jeep throughout the trip, so you won’t need to worry about carrying it between locations. Each evening, you’ll be reunited with your bags at your accommodation.
This trip runs from October to April, when conditions are generally most comfortable for outdoor adventure. You can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, though humidity and temperatures vary significantly by region.
In Muscat and along the coast, temperatures typically range between 25–36°C, with humid conditions that persist into the evenings – there’s little to no drop in temperature overnight, especially in October and November.
In Jebel Shams (at around 2000m above sea level), the mountain air is cooler and drier. From November to February, daytime temperatures sit between 10–22°C, while evenings can dip below 10°C – warm layers are essential, especially for the canyon rim hike and sunset viewpoints.
In the desert of Wahiba Sands, daytime temperatures vary by season:
• In October and April, expect 28–36°C during the day and 20–30°C at night.
• From November to March, daytime highs range from 25–35°C, with cooler nights between 10–16°C.
Warm clothing is necessary, particularly for overnight stays in the desert camp.
Inland areas such as Wadi Hawer and Wadi Tiwi offer shaded gorges and natural pools. Daytime temperatures here typically sit around 24–30°C, making swimming, hiking, and canyoning especially enjoyable during these months. Sun protection and hydration are essential year-round.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Itinerary Activities
- Guided orientation tour through Muscat’s Old Town, including entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Guided village hike through the terraced farms and ancient alleys of Misfat Al Abriyeen
- Guided hike along the legendary Balcony Walk in Jebel Shams, Oman’s 'Grand Canyon'
- Guided cultural visit to Nizwa Fort and time to explore Nizwa’s bustling souk
- Guided desert exploration with optional sunset walk among the dunes of Wahiba Sands
- Guided canyoning adventure through the emerald pools and palm-filled trails of Wadi Tiwi
- Guided canyoning adventure in the remote oasis of Wadi Hawer
- Guided kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding session at Wadi Dayqah Dam
- Snorkelling excursion in the Daymaniyat Islands Marine Reserve
Guides
- Expert, local, English-speaking guide plus specialist local guides for all activities
Accommodation
- 3 nights in a modern 4-star hotel in central Muscat
- 1 night in a stone-built chalet or eco-tent at Sama Heights Resort, nestled beneath Jebel Shams
- 1 night in a charming hotel near the historic heart of Nizwa
- 1 night at Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp, in a traditional chalet or tent deep in Wahiba Sands
- 1 night in a comfortable seafront hotel in Sur, overlooking the Arabian Sea
Meals
- All (7) breakfasts
- All (6) tasty lunches
- 5 dinners in local restaurants
Transfers
- Group arrival transfer at set times from Muscat Airport
- Group departure transfer at set times to Muscat Airport
- All transfers by spacious and comfortable 4X4 Land Cruisers throughout the trip
Equipment
- All your gear for canyoning, kayaking or SUP, and snorkelling
Permits
- All your permits and entry fees
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Meals
Two dinners are not included in the trip cost, giving you the flexibility to choose from a la carte menus and explore local dining at your own pace. We recommend budgeting approximately $50-60 (USD) in total for these meals (excluding drinks).
Tips
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion, but there is an expectation to tip for good service in Oman. Your host can help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
- $50 (USD) per person for the main tour guide
- $30 (USD) per person if you have extra guides/driver
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travellers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield, both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
What's included?
- Canyoning gear (life jacket, drybag and helmet)
- SUP or kayaking gear (drybags plus life jackets)
- Snorkelling gear (snorkel and fins)
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
Soft duffel bag or rucksack
Daypack (25+ litres) for personal belongings while hiking
CLOTHES
Lightweight down jacket
Fleece or warm mid-layer
Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts for canyoning
T-shirts
Underwear and socks
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sunhat/cap
Something to sleep in
Buff or scarf for the desert
Hiking boots (worn-in) with ankle support, plus ideally a pair of light 'wet shoes' with decent grip
Flip flops or sandals (for around camp)
When visiting a mosque, it's important to show respect by dressing appropriately, even in the heat. Women should cover their arms and legs and wear a headscarf; trousers or a long skirt are recommended. Men are required to wear trousers and long-sleeved shirts.
OTHER
Universal travel plug adapter
Power bank or solar charger (optional)
Passports (and visas)
Travel insurance documents
Earplugs
Suncream
Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
Quick-dry towel
Alcohol hand-gel
Headtorch or torch
Reusable water bottle (x2 litre)
Biodegradable wet-wipes
Energy bars and snacks
Additional Night in Muscat Single/Twin/Double Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Muscat Single/Twin/Double Room
… Per night
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
…
Private Arrival Transfer Muscat Airport - Hotel (1-3 pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private Arrival Transfer Muscat Airport - Hotel (1-3 pax)
…
Private Departure Transfer Muscat Hotel - Muscat Airport (1-3 pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure Transfer Muscat Hotel - Muscat Airport (1-3 pax)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 765kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets, but you’ll need cash for small shops, local eateries, and in more remote areas like wadis and villages. ATMs are easy to find in Muscat and major towns.
For Omanis, wadis are the country’s life force: dramatic river canyons carved through mountains and deserts, often hiding lush oases, flowering palms, and deep pools of turquoise water perfect for swimming. These natural corridors are a blend of geology and greenery, and they offer a unique way to experience the country’s wild, untouched beauty. You’ll explore two different wadis on this trip, each offering its own flavour of adventure:
Wadi Tiwi is a lush canyon framed by banana plantations, ancient villages, and emerald pools. You’ll take a short hike through agricultural terraces and traditional falaj irrigation systems before scrambling, swimming, and jumping your way through narrow channels and natural rock slides. It’s an immersive and active canyoning experience – adventurous, but beginner-friendly.
Wadi Hawer, by contrast, is more remote and less frequented, giving it a serene, hidden-gem feel. The hike here is lighter but still adventurous, with opportunities for swimming and relaxing among smooth boulders and shaded pools, surrounded by wildflowers and the occasional palm-fringed trail.
Expect a mix of light hiking, scrambling over smooth rocks, and wading or swimming through water. While the terrain is manageable for most fitness levels, a sense of adventure (and balance) goes a long way. You'll wear a life vest and will be led by an experienced and safety-focused guide. Expect to be in and out of water a lot, negotiating obstacles, and jumping off rocks into deep blue pools. Some of the water jumps are up to 3m high, but are optional.
What to bring:
- Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy trainers that can get wet
- Quick-dry clothing or swimwear suitable for hiking and swimming
- A light towel and change of clothes for after the wadi
Drybags and buoyancy aids will be provided, along with all health and safety gear required.
As you will be travelling with a vehicle, your luggage will need to travel with you so we advise keeping it reasonably small and light.
Oman is a conservative but welcoming country, and modest dress is appreciated in public and cultural spaces.
For women: in public areas, it’s advisable to wear light clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Short-sleeved tops, knee-length shorts, leggings, and long skirts or trousers are all acceptable. At places of religious significance, such as mosques, women must cover their hair and wear clothing that covers arms, legs, and torso completely.
For men: T-shirts and shorts are fine for most settings, but long trousers and a shirt are required when visiting religious sites like mosques.
Swimwear: you can wear a bikini at private beaches in large hotels and resorts, but at public beaches, small family-run hotels or wadis, it’s respectful to swim in a one-piece suit or cover up with a T-shirt and shorts or leggings. A lightweight cover-up or sarong is handy when walking to and from the water.
Oman has strict alcohol regulations, but alcohol is available in licensed hotels and some restaurants, mostly in major cities like Muscat. Outside of these, including in wadis, villages, and desert camps, alcohol is generally not served nor permitted. It is illegal to drink in public, and bringing alcohol into Oman is restricted (usually 1-4 litres per adult, only from duty-free). We recommend respecting local customs and enjoying the experience for what it is – there’s no shortage of natural highs on this adventure!
This trip is scheduled to take place outside of the Ramadan period, so you won’t be affected by the typical restrictions that are in place during the holy month. Ramadan is a significant religious observance for Muslims, during which many locals fast from sunrise to sunset. When travelling during this time, it’s common for: some restaurants and shops to operate reduced hours, public eating and drinking during daylight hours to be discouraged, a more subdued pace in day-to-day activities. However, since your trip does not overlap with Ramadan, you can expect normal restaurant and café availability, no changes to sightseeing, meals, or trip logistics, the usual welcoming and vibrant atmosphere Oman is known for. You’ll still be visiting a deeply cultural and respectful country, so modest dress and cultural awareness are always encouraged – but your travel experience won’t be impacted by the fasting period.
Yes – all accommodations provide private ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, including the desert camp. You’ll be staying in hotels, eco-lodges, and well-equipped camps that offer modern comforts.
This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme highs, with limited shade and high humidity sometimes adding to the challenge. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but staying well-hydrated, wearing suitable clothing and using sun protection are essential.
Before travelling, consider your ability to be active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns, particularly if you have cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two before the trip may also help you adjust gradually to the heat.
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks, to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
Much Better Adventures operate trips in line with the British FCDO travel advice and also consult with security advisors, both of whom have confirmed that trips are safe to run. We continue to receive real-time updates from the FCDO and our local host in Oman will also inform us immediately should anything change locally. You can view the latest FCDO advice for Oman here.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.


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DEPARTURE DATES
Sunday 8th February 2026
to Sunday 15th February 2026
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
