Day 01: Arrive Salalah

Upon arrival at Muscat connect with a flight to Salalah, the gateway to the Frankincense Trail where we are met and transferred to our hotel. Known as Dhofar in ancient times, the Salalah region used to export frankincense all over the world. According to legend, one of the three wise men who travelled to honour the birth of infant Jesus, travelled from Dhofar carrying frankincense! The ancient ruins of Al Baleed belong to the trading port of Zafar. From here Frankincense was shipped to India in exchange for spices. Little is known about the port’s demise, but the excellent on-site Museum of the Frankincense Land charts the area’s settlement since 2000 BC and illustrates the nation's maritime strength, including its recent renaissance. The site includes several Kms of landscaped paths and the adjoining reed beds make for good birdwatching. An electric vehicle takes us on a 20-minute drive, viewing the extensive grounds. There's also a handicrafts shop and cafe on site.

Overnight: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Salalah (3 nights Garden View Rooms) (B)

Days 02 & 03: Two full days exploring Salalah

Over the next 2 days, we will visit the old fishing village of Taqah, famous for its traditional Dhofari houses. Here, we explore the century-old Taqah Castle, former official residence of the governor of the region. We continue on to see the ancient city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri)*. This city was the easternmost outpost of the Hadhramut Kingdom (in today’s Yemen) on the ancient incense route between the Mediterranean Sea, the Persian Gulf and India. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, a picturesque drive leads us to Mirbat, the ancient capital of Dhofar. Stroll through the streets lined with ancient Omani mud houses and visit from outside the twin-domed Bin Ali’s Tomb.

On our way back to western Salalah, we explore the natural spring of Ayn Razat, beautifully situated against the backdrop of lush mountains. It offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature's beauty. As we proceed to the Qara mountains, we wind up the steep incline and see herds of camels and cattle. Here, we visit the ancient tomb of Prophet Job, where we learn about his Biblical story against backdrop of the rural Dhofari beauty.

We will also see the stunning white sand beach of Mughsail, particularly breathtaking during high tide when waves burst through natural blow holes. We see frankincense trees growing in their natural valley habitat. A short walk into the valleys will allow us to immerse in the fragrant aroma of the Holy Incense! To culminate our Oman experience, we stroll at the Haffah Souq, a traditional market renowned for its high-quality frankincense and other traditional souvenirs. As we wander through the market's streets, we encounter shops filled with incense boxes, clary incense burners adorned with traditional patterns, and more. The air will be filled with aromatic scents as you immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural experience. (B, B)

Day 04: Full day excursion to Ubar

Day free to explore the many optional attractions Salalah offers. A not to miss exploration is to explore Ubar also known as the "Atlantis of the Sands." On this exploration we go on a 4x4 adventure through the Qara mountains, offering spectacular views along the way. Ubar is a legendary lost city that is believed to have been destroyed by a natural disaster or as a punishment from God, according to popular mythology.

The search for Ubar gained popularity after the release of the book "Atlantis of the Sands – the search for the Lost City of Ubar" by Ranulph Fiennes in 1992. The city is also known by various names such as Ubar, Wabar, or Iram, apart from the English name coined by T. E. Lawrence popularly known as Lawrence of Arabia. As we traverse the desert landscapes, we will be immersed in the rich history and legends associated with Ubar, making it a truly captivating experience. (B)

Day 05: Depart Salalah

Breakfast at our hotel. After an incredible journey going back into “where it all began”, we bid farewell to this incredible part of history. Depending on your flight timing, you will be transferred from your hotel to Salalah Airport. Hotel checkout time is 1100AM.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

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Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 10 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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