Alley Escape Travel

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Duration

12 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

1 person

Languages

English, Espanol, Francais, Japanese, Vietnamese, русский

About this tour

Here is a concise, SEO-optimized English version of the itinerary, designed for a blog post or travel website. It focuses on keywords like “Oman Family Trip,” “Self-drive,” and “Musandam.”


Title: The Ultimate 12-Day Oman Family Itinerary: Desert, Mountains & Fjords

Meta Description: Discover the perfect 12-day family road trip in Oman. From the Wahiba Sands desert and Jebel Shams mountains to a dhow cruise in the Musandam fjords. A complete travel guide for 2026.

Target Keywords:

  • Oman family travel itinerary

  • Oman self-drive tour 4×4

  • Musandam dhow cruise

  • Wahiba Sands camping

  • Best wadis in Oman


Trip Overview

  • Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

  • Best Time: February – March

  • Travel Style: Self-drive Adventure & Guided Tours

  • Route: Muscat Loop + Musandam Peninsula (The “Norway of Arabia”)


Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Muscat & City Highlights Arrive in Muscat. Visit the architectural masterpiece Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House. Explore the vibrant Muttrah Souk before checking into your hotel.

Day 2: Coastal Drive & Wadi Shab Hiking Pick up your 4×4 rental. Drive south to Wadi Shab for a family hike and swim in hidden caves (or choose the quieter Wadi Al Arbaieen). Overnight at Turtle Beach Resort.

Day 3: Maritime History in Sur & Ras Al Hadd Explore the dhow shipyards of Sur and the historic Al Ayjah lighthouse. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden beaches of Ras Al Hadd.

Day 4: Wadi Bani Khalid & Wahiba Sands Desert Swim in the crystal-clear pools of Wadi Bani Khalid. In the afternoon, drive into the Wahiba Sands for a 4×4 dune bashing experience and a magical night in a Bedouin desert camp.

Day 5: Green Mountain Villages (Jabal Akhdar) Travel to Birkat Al Mouz to see ancient ruins. Ascend to Jabal Akhdar to explore the cliffside village of Wadi Bani Habib and enjoy cool mountain weather.

Day 6: Nizwa Culture & History Start early at the famous Nizwa Livestock Market (Friday morning essential). Tour the massive Nizwa Fort and Souk. Visit the living museum at Al Hamra.

Day 7: The Grand Canyon of Arabia (Jebel Shams) Drive to the summit of Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak. Hike the spectacular Balcony Walk (W8 Trail) or take a guided village tour in Misfat Al Abriyeen.

Day 8: Off-Road Adventure to Muscat Return to the capital via the thrilling Wadi Bani Awf off-road track (Snake Canyon) or take the relaxed paved route through historic Izki.

Day 9: Flight to the North (Musandam) Fly to Khasab in the Musandam Peninsula. Discover ancient petroglyphs in Wadi Qadah and visit the historic Khasab Fort.

Day 10: Musandam Fjord Dhow Cruise Sail the turquoise waters of Khor Sham on a traditional Dhow. Enjoy dolphin watching, snorkeling at Telegraph Island, and a majestic fjord landscape.

Day 11: Jebel Harim Mountain Safari Take a 4×4 mountain safari to Jebel Harim (The Mountain of Women). Enjoy panoramic views of the Strait of Hormuz and spot ancient marine fossils.

Day 12: Transfer to Dubai Enjoy a scenic coastal drive from Khasab, crossing the border into the UAE for your drop-off in Dubai.


Why This Trip Works for Families

  • Diverse Scenery: Combines beaches, deserts, and canyons in one trip.

  • Teen-Friendly: Hiking, snorkeling, and dune bashing keep adolescents engaged.

  • Comfort: Private 4×4 allows for a flexible pace suitable for all ages.

Highlights

  • Rent a Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar
  • The surcharge for excess mileage: US$ 0.28 per km exceeded, which you must pay on site.
  • (Including 2100 km allowance during the full rental period + CDW insurance.)
  • PAI: Insured amounts: OMR. 150
  • - Material damages = max. OMR. 200
  • - Cost of first aid = maximum OMR. 400

Included/Excluded

  • Meet & Assist at the airport after baggage claim by an English-speaking driver.
  • Airport transfers to and from the hotel
  • Delivery and collection of the rental car by a representative of Miracle Oman at the hotel in Muscat.
  • Transport - 4X4 – Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar with Smart Phone + a local sim card with an internet plan + 2100 km in total during the rental.
  • Accommodation in the hotels mentioned and in the standard room categories at each hotel.
  • Meals as mentioned in the program.
  • All local rates for the services mentioned above.
  • The service of an English-speaking driver/guide during the Khasab tours
  • The service of an English-speaking driver/guide during the Muscat tours (Day 01)
  • Return transport from Khasab (Musandam) to Dubai
  • Oman tourist visa (free 14-day visa to enter Oman)
  • Meals and drinks not mentioned
  • International or domestic flights
  • All drinks (except those mentioned in the program)
  • Tips and porterage (if the service is good, we recommend that clients tip the guide 6-8 USD/pa/day and the driver 4-6 USD/pa/day)

Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Muscat around 7:10 am, your French-speaking driver-guide will warmly welcome you at the airport. 
Around 8:00 AM, your exploration of the Omani capital will begin with one of the country's architectural gems: the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (open to non-Muslim visitors from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM). A masterpiece combining grandeur and refinement, it impresses with its majestic dome, its immense Persian carpet woven in a single piece, and its splendid Swarovski chandeliers. You will then continue with a visit to the Royal Opera House , a symbol of the Sultanate's cultural revival and a true architectural masterpiece. Then you will head towards Al Alam Palace , the Sultan's official residence, surrounded by the imposing 16th-century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Although the visit is from the outside, the esplanade and the panoramic view offer an ideal setting for taking magnificent photographs. Your journey will continue with an immersion in the authentic Muttrah Souk , one of the oldest and most vibrant in Oman. Amidst the scents of incense and spices, you will discover colorful stalls of jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts – a perfect opportunity for some shopping and direct contact with local life. In the late afternoon, check into your hotel in Muscat for some relaxation.   Check-in is scheduled for around 2:00 PM. Room category: 1 Deluxe Double Room + 1 Deluxe Twin Room (Double + Extra Bed)  Transportation -  4x4 with a French-speaking driver-guide for your Muscat tour, from the airport to your hotel 
 

Breakfast at the hotel
At 8:00 AM: Delivery of the 4x4 to your hotel in Muscat (with a smartphone, local SIM card, and map) and start of your self-drive tour Proposed program (no entry mentioned below is included in the quote): After breakfast,  You take the wheel of your 4x4 towards Quriyat, a peaceful fishing village nestled between sea and mountain.

Here are the tour options along the road between Muscat and Tiwi: 

🅞 Option 1: Wadi Al Arbaieen + Fins Beach + Relaxation at the hotel

  • Morning : Drive to Wadi Al Arbaieen , a wild and spectacular site, still relatively untouched. This secluded wadi offers total immersion in unspoiled nature, with its steep cliffs, palm trees, and turquoise pools perfect for swimming.
  • Lunch break / Relaxation : Stop at Fins beach , a calm and unspoiled place where you can rest, have a picnic or simply enjoy the Arabian Sea.
  • Late afternoon : Check-in to rooms

✅ Advantages :

  • Less walking, more swimming and wild landscapes
  • Ideal for those seeking tranquility
  • Road accessible by 4x4, not crowded

⚠️ Disadvantages :

  • Less diversity in landscapes
  • No caves or waterfalls accessible on foot

Option 2: Wadi Shab + Fins Beach + Relaxation at the hotel

  • Morning : Departure for Wadi Shab , one of the most famous wadis in the Sultanate. After a short boat trip, you will set off on a hike of approximately 40 to 50 minutes along freshwater pools, leading to a cave where a magical waterfall is hidden.
  • Lunch break / Relaxation : Free time at Fins Beach , perfect for a swim or a relaxing moment by the sea.
  • Late afternoon : Arrival and check-in at the hotel 

✅ Advantages :

  • Spectacular landscapes, a diverse mix of water, rock and greenery
  • Ideal for walking and nature lovers
  • Possibility of swimming in natural pools

⚠️ Disadvantages :

  • Hiking required (approximately 3 km round trip, some sections on rocks)
  • Less suitable for people with walking difficulties

In both cases, the day will end in the tranquility of the Turtle Beach Resort, nestled in front of the sea, for a relaxing evening in a preserved natural setting.  Please let me know which option best suits your pace and preferences! Room category: 1 Hamoor DBL Room + 1 Hamoor TPL (DBL + Extra Bed) Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar

 

Breakfast at the hotel
Proposed program (no entry mentioned below is included in the quote) After breakfast, you will begin your day by exploring Sur , an iconic coastal city in Oman, once famous for the construction of dhows, those traditional wooden boats that were the pride of the country's maritime heritage.  A walk through the city will allow you to discover its charming port, its lighthouse and its peaceful traditional neighborhoods. You will then continue to Al Ayjah , the historic district of Sur, with its whitewashed houses, carved wooden balconies and watchtowers overlooking the sea.  It's the perfect place to feel the soul of Oman's maritime past and capture beautiful photos by the water. In the late morning or early afternoon, you will head towards Ras Al Hadd , a peaceful seaside resort renowned for its golden sand beaches and tranquil atmosphere.  You will have the rest of the day to relax on the beach , enjoy a swim in the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman or simply savor a moment of calm facing the endless horizon. It will be a gentle and balanced day, between cultural heritage and seaside relaxation , ideal for reconnecting with the sea and the serenity of Oman's coastal landscapes. Room category: 1 Hamoor DBL Room + 1 Hamoor TPL (DBL + Extra Bed) Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar
 

Breakfast at the hotel.
Proposed program (no entry mentioned below is included in the quote) After a delicious breakfast, you will set off for one of Oman's most beautiful natural gems: Wadi Bani Khalid . Upon your late morning arrival, you will be amazed by the striking contrast between the crystal-clear turquoise waters , the orange rocks , and the verdant palm trees .  Here, everything invites you to relax: swimming in natural pools, a short hike to the Muqal cave, or a moment of calm with your feet in the water in the shade of the falaj trees, to fully enjoy the gentle Omani atmosphere. In the early afternoon, head towards the town of Bidiyah , where a 4x4 vehicle will be waiting for you around 2:40 pm to escort you through the first dunes to a traditional Bedouin camp , nestled in the heart of the Wahiba Sands desert .  Upon your arrival around 3:00 pm , you will discover a magnificent landscape: golden dunes as far as the eye can see , some reaching over 100 meters in height, bathed in the warm light of the afternoon. After settling into your comfortable tent , several optional activities will be offered to fully experience the desert: 🌟 Optional activities:

  • Camel ride at sunset : romantic and peaceful, ideal for admiring the nuances of the sand at dusk.
  • Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles , for thrill-seekers.
  • Photo shoot in the dunes , to capture the magic of the desert together.
  • Introduction to the art of henna or Omani culinary workshop (depending on availability on site).
  • Tasting of Omani tea and coffee , accompanied by dates and local stories around the fire.

As night falls, you will enjoy an Omani dinner under the stars , in a friendly and authentic atmosphere. The silence of the desert and the starry sky will provide an unforgettable setting to end this unique day.

Exceptional option: Hot air balloon ride at sunrise (the following morning)

To experience an exceptional moment, you can participate in a hot air balloon ride , departing from the camp around 4:30 am . 🎈 Flight duration : Approximately 1 hour 🌄 Highlights :

  • Sunrise seen from the sky, in absolute silence
  • 360° view of the endless dunes
  • Hot drink upon landing
  • An unforgettable photo shoot

This poetic and spectacular experience must be booked in advance and is weather dependent. Room category: 1 VIP Tent for 5 people (Al Sarmadi Camp)  Ou 2 Sheikh Standard Tent ( 1000 Nights Camp ) Or 2 Deluxe Eco Tents (Twilight Dunes Camp)  Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar

 

Breakfast at the hotel.
Proposed program (no entry fees mentioned below are included in the quote) Your day begins with the discovery of Birkat Al Mouz , one of the most beautiful traditional villages in the Sultanate. Nestled at the foot of the Jabal Akhdar mountains, this picturesque site is home to the remains of abandoned mud-brick houses and an impressive "falaj" irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A short walk will immerse you in local history, amidst lush orchards. Then, you'll travel to the Jabal Akhdar plateau , literally the "Green Mountain," famous for its mild climate and terraced fields. A stop is planned at the charming hilltop village of Wadi Bani Habib , known for its spectacular ruins clinging to the mountainside. You can stroll among the old stone walls, staircases carved into the rock, and apricot and pomegranate orchards. 🚶‍♂️ Recommended option: hiking with a local guide For those who love hiking and off-the-beaten-path landscapes, a 3-hour trek with a local guide is available. This trek will take you through the rugged trails of Jabal Akhdar, passing through abandoned villages and cascading agricultural terraces . You'll enjoy breathtaking panoramas and a complete immersion in rural and authentic Oman. (Moderate level – bring good shoes and water.) In the late afternoon, return to your accommodation in the Jabal Akhdar mountains. Enjoy the cool mountain air , breathtaking views , and a well-deserved rest in a peaceful setting. Depending on the establishment, you may also be able to relax by the pool or savor a local herbal tea while watching the sunset. A day combining culture, nature and adventure, in one of Oman's secret gems. Room category: 1 Deluxe Double Room + 1 Deluxe Twin Room (Double + Extra Bed)  Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar
 

Breakfast at the hotel.
Proposed program (no entry fees mentioned below are included in the quote) Your day will begin very early, at 6:00 a.m. , with a visit to the Nizwa livestock market (open until 8:00 a.m.). This unique experience will immerse you in a centuries-old tradition: herders, dressed in their white dishdashas, ​​present goats, cows, and camels in a lively and authentic atmosphere. It's a vibrant and colorful scene, a true window into Omani culture. After this immersion, you will discover one of the most emblematic monuments in the country: the Nizwa Fort . A masterpiece of defensive architecture, it impresses with its massive circular tower, its turrets and its secret passages, while offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and palm groves. Just a short walk away, the Nizwa souk unfolds its lively alleyways: stalls overflowing with fragrant spices, fresh dates, incense, silver jewelry, and local crafts. A perfect opportunity to stroll and pick up some typical souvenirs. You will then take the road to Al Hamra , one of the oldest villages in the Sultanate, renowned for its mud-brick houses, some of which are over 400 years old. There, you will visit Bait Al Safah , a living museum where the village women perpetuate traditions: preparing Omani bread, roasting coffee, distilling date oil, and crafting other items. An immersive and welcoming experience that will plunge you into the heart of everyday Omani life of yesteryear. Arrive and settle into your hotel in Nizwa. Room category: 2 Deluxe Rooms (1 Double + 1 Single)  Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar
 

Breakfast
Proposed program (no entry fees mentioned below are included in the quote) After breakfast in Nizwa, you will drive towards the mountains to reach Jebel Shams , the highest point in the Sultanate of Oman, known for its spectacular views of the "Grand Canyon of Arabia". Along the way, several options are available to you depending on your preferences:

  • Option 1: Agricultural tour in Misfat Al Abriyeen with a local guide:  Before heading up to the peaks, you can stop at the picturesque village of Misfat Al Abriyeen for a guided agricultural tour with a local resident . This special moment will allow you to discover the cultivated terraces, the ancient irrigation system (falaj), and the agricultural traditions still practiced today.
  • Option 2: Balcony Walk (4-5 hours) with a local guide: For hiking enthusiasts, embark on an adventure along the famous Balcony Walk (trail W8), which follows the spectacular cliffs of the Wadi Ghul canyon to the old, abandoned village of Sab Bani Khamis . This trail, accessible to those with a good level of fitness, will offer breathtaking panoramas and an immersion in the region's magnificent natural beauty.

In the early afternoon, you will arrive at Jebel Shams , where you can settle in and relax in an exceptional natural setting , at an altitude of over 2000 meters.  Enjoy the peace and quiet, fresh air and breathtaking scenery to recharge before a peaceful night in the mountains. Let's finish with a walk on Jebal Shams, relaxing in Sama Heights Resort Room category: 1 Standard Chalet Tent (1 DBL + 1 TPL) (Sama Heights Resort)  Ou 2 Private Chalets  ( 1 DBL + 1 TPL ) ( Jebal Shams Resort ) Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar

 

Breakfast
Journey from Jebel Shams to Muscat – two possible routes depending on your driving preference After a night at the summit of Jebel Shams, two superb routes are available to reach Muscat, each with its own charms and specific features: Proposed program (no entry fees mentioned below are included in the quote):

Option 1: For drivers comfortable off-road

After breakfast overlooking the majestic mountains, you'll take the spectacular track that descends from Jebel Shams to the secluded village of Bilad Sayt , nestled in a picture-perfect mountain cirque. This traditional hamlet, with its terraced fields, palm trees, and stone houses, seems frozen in time. A short walk allows you to soak up its serene and authentic atmosphere. You will then continue along the famous Wadi Bani Awf track , one of the most impressive in Oman. This 4x4 journey through steep canyons, towering cliffs, and verdant valleys is an unforgettable adventure, reserved for experienced drivers. Thrills guaranteed throughout the descent! On the way, stop in the peaceful village of Al Awabi , known for its gardens and relaxed atmosphere, before rejoining the main road to Muscat , where you will arrive at the end of the day. A well-deserved rest awaits you at your accommodation in the city. ⚠️ Route not recommended for people who are not comfortable on stony tracks, narrow passages and steep inclines.

Option 2: Comfortable route via the main road

For a more relaxed journey, you can take a fully paved road. After breakfast, descend to Al Hamra , a charming traditional village with earthen houses and terraced gardens. A short stop allows you to appreciate its authenticity. The road will then take you to Izki , one of the oldest cities in Oman. If you wish, you can stop there to explore its ruins or enjoy a traditional lunch in a small local restaurant. Finally, you will join the highway leading directly to Muscat , with a smooth, safe and pleasant journey through the Omani landscapes. 🕒 Estimated journey time: approximately 4 hours including breaks ✅ Advantages :

  • Easy to drive, accessible to all
  • 100% paved road
  • Possible cultural breaks
  • A smooth arrival in Muscat, without fatigue

Before 6:00 PM, please return the keys to the 4x4 to one of our representatives at the Royal Tulip Hotel. Room category: 2 Superior Double Room Transport - 4X4 Toyota Prado TXL (Automatic – 4L) or similar

 

Early in the morning, at 
5:20 am , transfer from your Muscat hotel to the international airport for your 7:40 am Oman Air flight WY931 to Khasab , capital of the spectacular Musandam region . This mountainous enclave, nicknamed the "Norway of Arabia," is famous for its majestic fjords, turquoise waters , and timeless atmosphere. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and then depart directly for a guided tour of Khasab (from 10:00 to 13:00, in a group with an English-speaking guide). On the agenda:

  • City tour : discover the old and new souk, where local crafts, spices and everyday products mingle.
  • Khasab Fort (exterior visit): a perfectly preserved 17th-century Portuguese building that testifies to the strategic importance of the region in the maritime history of the Gulf.
  • Wadi Qadah & Tawi village : a walk through an enchanting landscape, with the discovery of petroglyphs over 2,000 years old . These rock engravings depict warriors, ships and animals, offering a fascinating journey into the pre-Islamic past of the peninsula.

This visit includes:

  • Return transport from your Khasab hotel
  • The services of an English-speaking guide
  • Access to major cultural and historical sites

Late morning, you will be transferred to your hotel to settle in and enjoy a free afternoon, perfect for resting after this first cultural immersion. ✨ This day marks the beginning of an unforgettable discovery of the preserved beauty and rich heritage of Musandam. Room category: 2 Deluxe Sea View DBL Room (1 DBL + 1 TPL)  Transportation - car with driver from the airport to the hotel in Muscat / transportation for the Khasab city tour

 

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today, embark on an unforgettable cruise in a traditional dhow through the majestic fjords of the Musandam Peninsula.  This excursion takes place from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm , with pick-up and drop-off included from your hotel . Departing from the port of Khasab, you will sail on board a comfortable wooden boat towards the splendid Khor Sham fjord , aptly nicknamed the "Norway of Arabia".  This spectacular stretch of sea, bordered by arid mountains and secret coves, is also known to be home to a community of dolphins which, with a bit of luck, will come and swim near the boat to the delight of the passengers. During the cruise, two stops are planned for swimming and snorkeling : Telegraph Island , a historic and picturesque location  Seebi Island , a true marine gem, is ideal for exploring coral reefs and observing underwater life. Life jackets and snorkeling equipment will be provided for your safety and comfort. Lunch will be served on board , accompanied by cold drinks, so you can fully enjoy this day at sea in a relaxing setting. In the late afternoon, return to your Atana Khasab hotel , where you can rest and enjoy the end of your day at your own pace.  This free time will allow you to savor the tranquility of the region or to contemplate the sunset over the surrounding mountains. A memorable experience, between wild nature, turquoise waters and Omani hospitality. Room category: 1 Deluxe Sea View Double Room + Extra Bed Transportation: Shared shuttle service between the hotel and the dhow and vice versa
 

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today, embark on a day of adventure in a non-private 4x4 , from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm , discovering the spectacular landscapes of the mountainous region of Musandam.  This excursion will take you to the famous Jebel Harim , or "Mountain of Women", the highest point of the peninsula, at over 2,000 meters altitude . This intriguing name originates from ancient stories: the women of the village used to take refuge in natural caves to protect themselves from pirates and enemy tribes, while their husbands were at sea fishing or trading.  This place steeped in history now offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains, the city of Khasab, and on a clear day, as far as the coast of Dibba. As you climb, you will pass through arid landscapes, sculpted by wind and time, punctuated by marine fossils millions of years old – witnesses to a time when these mountains were covered by water.  Your guide will explain the origin of these fascinating traces of prehistory. The safari includes several stops to admire the panoramas and take spectacular photos, including at viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the Strait of Hormuz . picnic lunch is included, served in a peaceful natural setting, in the heart of the mountains. In the late afternoon, you will be taken back to your Atana Khasab hotel for a well-deserved relaxing evening. Take the opportunity to have a quiet dinner at the hotel or relax after this day full of discoveries and sensations. Room category: 1 Deluxe Sea View Double Room + Extra Bed  Transport: by 4x4 (maximum 4 people per 4x4)
 

After a final
breakfast at the Atana Khasab Hotel , your driver will pick you up at 9:30 am for a private road transfer to Dubai International Airport. The approximately 3.5-hour journey will offer you splendid panoramas: the road winds between the steep mountains of Musandam and the sparkling shores of the Gulf of Oman, before crossing the border and reaching the United Arab Emirates . Upon your arrival in Dubai, you will be taken directly to your residence, where you will meet up with your friends. We hope that this trip to the Sultanate of Oman has left you with a mosaic of unforgettable memories : authentic encounters, immersion in a millennia-old culture, preserved natural landscapes and unique moments of escape. ✨ We wish you a very safe journey home , and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon to the heart of Arabia Felix . Transportation: Comfortable car for 5 people with a local driver 
 

Durations

12 Day
12 days

Languages

English
Espanol
Francais
Japanese
Vietnamese
русский

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