Fly to Muscat.
On arrival, morning transfer to Park Inn (or similar) for 2-night stay in Muscat. Remainder of day at leisure. (B)
Full-day tour of Muscat with local guide. (B)
Morning delivery of self-drive vehicle, followed by a 150km drive to Nizwa, stopping at Nakhal Fort and Wadi Bani Awf en route. Stay for 2 nights at the Golden Tulip (or similar). (B)
Visit the massive fort of Nizwa, view Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak, or drive through magnificent mountain scenery. (B)
Head 230km into the desert. Meet your guide at the entrance to Sharqiya Sands to be shown to an overnight desert camp*. (B, D)
Drive 375km towards Sur through the eastern Hajar mountains, stopping at Wadi Bani Khalid, a picturesque river valley. Stay overnight at the Sur Plaza, with an evening trip out to the green turtle nesting site at Ras al Junaiz beach. (B)
Take the coastal road back to Muscat, perhaps stopping at the palm-fringed lagoon of Wadi Shab, or Qalhat, an ancient city visit ed by Marco Polo. Stay overnight at the Muscat Holiday Hotel. (B)
Last morning in Muscat, then return your vehicle at the airport. Fly from Muscat to your next destination.