Desert Stars & Turtle Shores | Oman in 8 Days: Muscat Markets to Sharqiya Sands
📍 Oman | Guided | All Essentials✅
From Muscat’s souqs to Sharqiya Sands, swim wadi pools, wander Sur’s dhows, and camp under desert stars. Turtle dawn at Ras al Jinz, fort towns and canyon rims—8 days, easy pace, big wow.
Muscat → Muscat
Easy | Ages 12+
Hotels/Desert Camp
200% CO₂ Offset
Tour Overview
Desert Stars & Turtle Shores | Oman in 8 Days: Muscat Markets to Sharqiya Sands
From city spice for canyon light on an 8-day arc from Muscat’s souqs and seaside corniche to wadi pools, desert campfires and turtle-watched shores. Trace the coast to palm-lined wadis and limestone sinkholes, wander old Sur and its dhow heritage, then roll inland for rippled dunes and a Sharqiya Sands sunset under a sky full of stars.
In the interior, step through fort towns and date souqs, climb to mountain rims for vast views, and end each day with Omani hospitality and time to breathe. Expect warm days, relaxed transfers, short guided walks, and a pace that mixes must-see highlights with unhurried moments you’ll remember.
Quick Facts
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Duration/Route: 8 days — Muscat → coast & wadis → Sharqiya Sands → interior → Muscat
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Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level
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Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (warm climate; short walks; optional dune/rim outings)
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Transport: Private vehicles; guided walks; optional desert/mountain add-ons
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Stays: Hotels/guesthouses + one desert camp night (typical)
Trip Highlights
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Muscat moments: souqs, corniche strolls, seaside sunsets
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Coastal wonders: wadi swims and dramatic sinkholes
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Sur heritage: dhow lore and lighthouse evenings
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Sharqiya Sands: dune drives, campfire stars, Bedu hospitality
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Interior icons: fortresses, date souqs, and mountain-rim lookouts
Good to Know
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Heat & hydration: it’s hot—hat, SPF, and water are essential
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Wadi etiquette: wear grippy sandals/shoes; respect local modesty norms
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Desert night: temps drop after dusk—bring a light layer
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Turtle protocol: quiet, no flashes/lights; follow ranger guidance


Open | Live Dates & Availability
Itinerary
Day 1 | Muscat Arrival & Welcome Moment
Arrive at any time in Muscat. In the evening, meet your CEO and fellow travellers at the Welcome Moment—get the trip brief, swap intros, and (optionally) head out for a local meal.
Check the lobby notice or reception for exact meet-up time/place.
Stay:Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat (or similar).
Included meals: None.
Day 2 | Grand Mosque, Museums & Muttrah Souq
Take in Muscat’s highlights: the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum, the historic Muttrah Souq, then continue to Old Muscat to view the Al-Mirani and Al-Jelani forts from outside.
Modesty at the Grand Mosque is mandatory for all. Men: long pants; shoulders covered (cover tattoos). Women: head, arms, and legs fully covered; avoid visible jewellery. Omani outfits can be rented; your CEO will assist.
Included activities: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque visit; Bait Al Zubair Museum; Muttrah Souq; Old Muscat fort viewpoints.
Stay:Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3 | Coast Run: Bimmah Sinkhole, Sur Dhows & Turtle Sanctuary
Leave Muscat along the coast towards the turquoise Bimmah Sinkhole. Continue to Sur to see traditional dhow shipyards, then reach Ras al-Jinz. After an early dinner, visit the turtle sanctuary with a guide to (quietly) witness nesting green turtles by night from a safe distance.
Transport: 4×4 Muscat → Ras al-Jinz (~2 h 27 m • ~246 km).
Included activities: Bimmah Sinkhole; Sur Dhow Shipyards; Ras al-Jinz Turtle Sanctuary night visit.
Stay:Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast.
Day 4 | Wādī Banī Khālid Pools → Sharqiya Sands Desert Camp
Drive to Wādī Banī Khālid for palm-lined pools and red-rock scenery. Enjoy lunch, free time to explore, an easy walk to waterfalls, or a swim (modesty and grippy footwear advised). Continue into the dunes of Wahiba/Sharqiya Sands for sunset and a traditional dinner at the desert lodge camp. Overnight in comfortable tents with beds and private bathrooms (no A/C in tents).
Transport: 4×4 Ras al-Jinz → Wādī Banī Khālid (~1 h • ~80 km); 4×4 Wādī Banī Khālid → Wahiba Sands (~2 h • ~124 km).
Included activities: Wādī Banī Khālid visit; Desert lodge camp experience (sunset & dinner).
Optional extra: Hiking & swimming at Wādī Banī Khālid.
Stay:Desert Safari Camp (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 5 | Sharqiya Sands → Jabrin Castle → Bahla Fort → Nizwa
Leave the dunes for Ibra, then step into Oman’s heritage at Jabrin Castle (1675; centre of learning and the arts). Continue to UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort, an immense walled complex, before rolling into Nizwa.
Transport: 4×4 Wahiba Sands → Ibra (~1 h 30 m • ~161 km); 4×4 Ibra → Nizwa (~1 h 15 m • ~155 km).
Included activities:Jabrin Castle visit; Bahla Fort visit.
Stay:Al Diyar Hotel Nizwa (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast.
Day 6 | Nizwa Cattle Market, Misfat Al Abriyeen & Jebel Shams Viewpoints
Rise early for the lively Nizwa cattle market (Fridays), then head to Al Hamra to explore the stone-and-mud lanes of Misfat Al Abriyeen and learn how the ancient Aflaj irrigation channels still sustain terraces and hamlets. Return via Jebel Shams for sweeping views over Wadi Nakhr—the “Grand Canyon of Oman.”
Transport: 4×4 Nizwa → Al Hamra (~45 m • ~50 km).
Included activities: Nizwa cattle market; Aflaj overview; Misfat Al Abriyeen village walk; Jebel Shams/Wadi Nakhr viewpoints.
Optional extra:Nizwa Fort visit (approx. 5 OMR).
Stay:Al Diyar Hotel Nizwa (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast.
Day 7 | Wadi Bani Awf Traverse → Muscat
Thread the dramatic gullies of Wadi Bani Awf, taking in steep rock walls and the endpoint known as “Snake Point.” Continue to Muscat for a relaxed final evening.
Transport: 4×4 Nizwa → Muscat via Wadi Bani Awf (~6 h • ~180 km).
Stay:Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat (or similar).
Included meals:Breakfast.
Day 8 | Muscat → Depart
Your adventure ends after breakfast. Depart any time. Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with onward plans or extra nights.
Included meals:Breakfast.
Key Tour Info
Route Map
Food & Accommodation
Where You’ll Sleep
- Hotels (8 nights) — Standard service level: clean, comfortable, character stays. Expect city hotels at the coast and simple guesthouses in the highlands.
- Typical bases along the route:Ubud (arrival): walkable to cafés and markets.Rantepao / Tana Toraja (highlands hub): cooler nights, tongkonan-lined valleys nearby.Sengkang / Lake Tempe: simple riverside-town lodging for the boat day.Makassar (coastal finale): modern conveniences; Fort Rotterdam within reach.
- Rooms & facilities: private rooms, ensuite where available, Wi-Fi common in towns; air-con/fans on the coast, cooler air in the uplands (pack a light layer).
- Group size: small group (max 16, avg 12).
- Transport to/from stays: private vehicle, plane, walking, boat (as per itinerary).
- Solo travellers: My Own Room option available (single room for all night stops, subject to exceptions only if stated on your departure).
What You’ll Eat
- Included meals: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches. Hotel breakfasts most days; selected local Torajan lunches during cultural visits.
- Style: classic Indonesian staples (nasi goreng, grilled fish, vegetables, sambal) with Torajan specialities on select days; fresh fruit and coffee are highland highlights.
- Foodie & cultural moments (as scheduled):Local Torajan lunch near heritage sites (e.g., Londa area).Lake Tempe boat day with time to sample local fare.Maros village visit (snacks/refreshments as available).
- Your choice most evenings: ample time to explore night markets and warungs in Ubud, Rantepao, Makassar.
- Dietaries: vegetarian and other common preferences generally accommodated with advance notice; carry favourite snacks for travel days.
- Hydration & hygiene: safe water refills available in towns; bring a reusable bottle and basic hand sanitiser for village days.
What's Included & What's Not
✅ What’s Included
- Small-group trip (Classic | Standard service level): max 16 (avg 12) with a CEO throughout; local guides where it adds value.
- Duration & route: 8 days round-trip Muscat → coast & wadis → Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands → interior → Muscat.
- Accommodation: 6 nights hotels/guesthouses; 1 night desert camp (fixed tents with beds & private bathrooms; no A/C in tents).
- Transport: Private air-conditioned minivan for most journeys; 4×4 vehicles for desert/mountain sections.
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner (desert camp dinner included).
- Guided & included highlights:
- Muscat city tour: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (modesty required), Bait Al Zubair Museum, Muttrah Souq, Old Muscat fort viewpoints
- Bimmah Sinkhole stop
- Sur dhow shipyard visit
- Ras al Jinz Turtle Sanctuary night walk (seasonal; ranger-led)
- Wadi Bani Khalid visit (time to walk/swim, conditions permitting)
- Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands desert camp experience (sunset, traditional dinner)
- Jabrin Castle visit
- Bahla Fort photo/visit stop
- Nizwá cattle market (timed for market day)
- Misfat al Abriyeen mud-house village walk; Aflaj irrigation insights
- Mountain drive via Jebel Shams / Wadi Nakhr viewpoints
🚫 What’s Not Included
- International flights to/from Muscat.
- Airport transfers (arrival/departure) unless prebooked separately.
- Travel insurance (mandatory): must include medical, evacuation & repatriation (min USD 200,000).
- Visas, vaccinations, and entry/exit fees (as applicable to your nationality).
- Meals not listed above, drinks, and personal snacks.
- Optional activities & entrance fees not specified as included (e.g., Nizwá Fort entrance; additional hiking/swimming time at Wadi Bani Khalid, other add-ons your CEO can suggest).
- Tipping (customary): local staff/service providers & CEO gratuity; a shared tipping kitty may be organized on tour.
- Personal expenses: laundry, phone/SIM/Wi-Fi upgrades, souvenirs, gear.
- Single room supplement (“My Own Room”) if requested/available.
- Excess baggage fees and any overweight charges.
Notes: Properties may be low-rise without elevators; modest dress is required (especially for mosques and wadis). Ramadan may affect service hours; travel still operates with cultural sensitivity.
Weather Expectations
Weather Expectations (8-Day Oman Route)
Big picture: Warm-to-hot days, dry air, cool nights inland/desert. The coast (Muscat/Sur/Ras al Jinz) is humid; the interior (Nizwá, Jebel Shams/Wadi Nakhr) runs drier and cooler at elevation. Layers, hat, SPF, hydration are your best friends.
By Region (what it feels like)
Muscat & South Coast (Sur/Ras al Jinz – sea level, humid):
- Oct–Apr: warm/pleasant 24–30 °C days; 18–24 °C nights; occasional showers Dec–Feb.
- May–Sep: hot & humid 32–40 °C+; sticky nights 28–32 °C; seas generally swimmable.
Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands — desert:
- Oct–Apr: warm 24–32 °C days; 12–20 °C nights (chilly after sunset).
- May–Sep: very hot 35–45 °C; nights 25–30 °C; strong sun, afternoon breeze possible.
Interior & Highlands (Nizwá, Jebel Shams/Wadi Nakhr – up to ~3,000 m):
- Oct–Apr: mild days 18–26 °C; cool/cold nights 8–15 °C (can dip lower on the rim).
- May–Sep: warm/hot 26–34 °C; nights 18–24 °C; drier, clearer air than the coast.
Wadi days (Bani Khalid): Sunny, reflective heat in canyons; water is refreshing year-round. Grippy shoes help on wet rock.
Quick Month-by-Month (impact on the trip)
- Oct–Nov: Goldilocks season—warm seas, clear wadis, comfy desert nights.
- Dec–Feb: Coolest window; bring a light jacket for highland evenings; rare coastal showers.
- Mar–Apr: Warming up; great water clarity; desert still pleasant after dark.
- May–Sep: Peak heat/humidity on the coast; early starts and long siestas recommended. Highlands/desert remain doable with precautions.
Sun, Wind & Rain Notes
- Sun/UV: High year-round—hat, SPF 50, sunglasses mandatory.
- Wind: Desert breezes can kick up sand near sunset—buff/sunglasses help.
- Rain: Generally sparse; brief winter showers possible on the coast/highlands.
What this means for packing
- Light, breathable layers + a warm top for desert/highland nights.
- Modest swimwear (tee + capri bottoms) for wadis; grippy sandals/water shoes.
- 2–3 L hydration capacity on walking days; electrolytes for extra credit.
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What To Pack
What to Pack
Bags & Carry Set-up
- One soft-sided main bag (60–70L max) + daypack (20–30L) with rain cover.
- Small neck wallet/cross-body for passport/cards; luggage locks.
- Space is limited in vehicles—pack light and flexible.
Clothing (modest & breathable)
- Light, quick-dry layers for hot days; 1 warm layer (fleece/light puffy) for desert/highland nights.
- Modesty essentials: shoulders/knees covered in towns; long sleeves + headscarf for mosque visits.
- Wadi swimwear: T-shirt + capri leggings/long shorts (modest).
- 4–6 quick-dry tops; 2–3 long-sleeves; 2 lightweight trousers; 1–2 long shorts/skirts; sleepwear.
- Evenings: smart-casual outfit for Muscat/Nizwá.
- Underwear & socks: 7–9 pairs quick-dry.
Footwear
- Closed-toe walking shoes (wadis/forts/uneven stone).
- Grippy water shoes/sandals for wadi pools.
- Flip-flops for camp/hotel.
Sun, Desert & Wadi Basics
- Wide-brim hat/cap, UV sunglasses, SPF 50 sunscreen + lip balm.
- Buff/scarf (sun/sand), compact umbrella (shade), dry sacks/zip bags for phones/cameras.
- 2–3 L hydration capacity (bottle or bladder) + electrolytes.
Health & Personal Kit (bring what you actually use)
- Personal meds + copies of scripts.
- Compact first-aid: plasters, blister care, antiseptic, antihistamine, anti-diarrhoeal, pain relief.
- Hand sanitiser/wipes, small toiletries (solid soap/shampoo bars travel well).
- Insect repellent (coast/wadis), after-bite.
- Earplugs/eye mask (desert camp/night flights).
Docs & Money
- Passport (6+ months validity) + 2–3 photocopies.
- Travel insurance certificate & emergency numbers.
- Visa/vax proofs as applicable.
- Cards + some OMR cash; keep small notes for markets/tips; backup card.
Electronics
- Phone + power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).
- Universal adapter — Oman uses UK-style Type G; voltage ~230V.
- Camera/GoPro + spare batteries/memory (sand = bring a microfibre lens cloth).
- Headlamp/torch (desert camp, pre-dawn turtle walk).
Laundry & On-the-Go Care
- Small biodegradable detergent, sink stopper, a few pegs/line.
- Stain stick and a tiny sewing kit.
Nice-to-Haves (that pay off)
- Neck pillow/light scarf (long drives).
- Collapsible day tote (souqs, beach stops).
- Reusable cutlery/cup (picnics, eco-wins).
Do Not Forget (region-specific)
- Mosque attire: long sleeves + headscarf for women; long trousers for men (tattoos covered).
- Wadi grip: water shoes and a small dry bag for electronics.
- Desert night: light jacket—temps dip after sunset.
Leave Behind (or limit)
- Heavy hard-shell suitcases, multiple pairs of jeans, high heels, bulky hair tools (most hotels provide dryers).
- Excess valuables—keep jewellery minimal and use hotel safes.
Local Insights
Local Insights
Big-picture vibe: Welcoming, proud, and refreshingly unhurried. Oman blends deep tradition with modern ease—smiles in the souq, frankincense in the air, and coffee/dates offered often.
Respect & etiquette
- Modesty matters: shoulders/knees covered in towns; long sleeves + headscarf for mosque visits.
- Greetings: a friendly “As-salāmu ʿalaykum” goes far; handshakes are light and may be gender-sensitive—follow your host’s lead.
- During Ramadan: don’t eat/drink/smoke in public daylight hours; many venues adjust hours.
Useful phrases (Arabic)
- Hello: Marḥaba / As-salāmu ʿalaykum
- Please / Thank you: Min faḍlik • Shukran
- How much?: Kam ath-thaman?
- Excuse me / Sorry: ʿAfwan / Āsif
- Water (no gas): Mā’
- Where’s the bathroom?: Ayna al-ḥammām?
Money & paying
- Currency: OMR (Omani rial). Cards widely accepted in cities; carry small cash for markets and rural stops.
- ATMs common in towns; some prefer Visa over other networks—have a backup card.
Tipping norms
- Restaurants: ~10% appreciated if not included.
- Local staff/drivers/guides: your CEO may run a tipping kitty for simplicity.
Safety quick-takes
- Low crime; keep valuables discreet.
- Use seatbelts; desert/mountain roads can be winding—trust driver guidance.
- Turtle protocol (Ras al Jinz): quiet voices, no flash/white lights, follow rangers.
Dress & swim etiquette
- Towns/mosques: conservative dress (see above).
- Wadis: opt for modest swimwear (tee + long shorts/capris).
- Beach resorts are more relaxed, but keep a cover-up handy when leaving hotel areas.
Transport quirks
- 4×4 used for dunes and mountain passes; routes may flex with conditions.
- In wadis, rocks are slick—grippy water shoes help.
Connectivity & power
- Good LTE in towns; patchy in desert/mountain stretches. WhatsApp is common.
- Plugs: Type G (UK-style), ~230V. Bring a universal adapter and power bank.
Photography & drones
- Always ask before photographing people.
- Drones have restrictions near military/official sites and protected areas—assume no-fly unless clearly permitted.
Food & drink
- Try shuwa, mishkak, dates with qahwa (cardamom coffee).
- Tap water varies—stick to bottled/filtered; hydrate often.
Souq smarts
- Bargaining is polite and low-key; a smile and “Could you do a better price?” works better than hard haggling.
- Frankincense, silverwork, pottery, and halwa make classic keepsakes.
Festivals & closures
- Fridays: slower mornings; Nizwá cattle market is the big exception—arrive early.
- Religious holidays can affect hours—your CEO will steer timing.
Sustainability
- Refill bottles where possible; pack out litter in wadis and dunes.
- Respect wildlife and fragile canyon environments—stick to signed paths.
CO₂ Footprint Report
CO₂ Footprint
Results Summary (Topline)
- Estimated per guest (8 days): ~0.55 tCO₂e
- Estimated per tour (assumed 16 guests): ~8.8 tCO₂e
- Counter-impact applied: 200% (targeting ~1.10 tCO₂e per guest)
- Method note: DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and Radiative Forcing (RF) = 1.9 for aviation; +10% uncertainty uplift applied. Conservative throughout.
Purpose
Provide a clear, conservative estimate of the greenhouse-gas footprint for this 8-day Oman itinerary and the scope of the 200% counter-impact.
Tour Header
- Tour: Desert Stars & Turtle Shores | Oman in 8 Days
- Countries: Oman
- Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level
Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)
- Guest travel to/from tour: Single official feeder hub → Muscat (start/end) on an open-jaw equivalent (here: return).
- On-tour transport: Private vehicles/4×4 transfers, short guided walks.
- Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses + one desert camp night (HCMI-style proxies).
- Meals: All meals across 8 days (included + own-expense) via a conservative per-meal factor.
- Activities: Small allowance for higher-impact elements (e.g., dune drive).
- Excluded: Long-haul beyond the feeder hub; shopping; extraordinary add-ons not typical for this route.
Feeder Hub — Single Origin City
Dubai (DXB) selected as the reporting hub for consistency across Gulf-region programs.
Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults
- Aviation (short-haul, economy): effective ~0.30 kgCO₂e/pax-km (includes RF 1.9 + WTT).
- Ground/4×4 mix: ~0.10 kgCO₂e/pax-km (smaller vehicles, mixed terrain; WTT incl.).
- Accommodation proxies: ~12 kgCO₂e/night (hotel/guesthouse average; camp night kept same for conservatism).
- Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e per meal (production + prep).
- Activities allowance: ~30 kgCO₂e per guest, once.
Activity Data (applied)
- Aviation (hub): DXB ↔ MCT ~680 km total → ~0.204 tCO₂e
- Ground (combined): ~1,200 km coastal/wadi/desert/interior loops → ~0.12 tCO₂e
- Accommodation: 7 nights × 12 kg → ~0.084 tCO₂e
- Meals: 8 days × 3 = 24 meals × 2.5 kg → ~0.060 tCO₂e
- Activities allowance: dune drive/spot elements → ~0.030 tCO₂e
Results — Per Guest (rounded)
- Aviation: ~0.204 tCO₂e
- Ground: ~0.120 tCO₂e
- Accommodation: ~0.084 tCO₂e
- Meals: ~0.060 tCO₂e
- Activities: ~0.030 tCO₂e
- Subtotal: ~0.50 tCO₂e
- +10% uncertainty uplift: ~0.05 tCO₂e
- Total (communicated): ~0.55 tCO₂e per guest
Results — Per Tour (assumed 16 guests)
- Estimated total: ~8.8 tCO₂e
Assumptions (key)
- Single-hub model fixed to Dubai (DXB); other hubs (e.g., AU/EU) materially change aviation.
- Ground factor set high for 4×4 segments and desert/mountain terrain.
- Meals counted in full (included + own-expense) to avoid underestimation.
- One activities allowance included even if some guests skip it (keeps estimate conservative).
- +10% uplift covers variability (weather, routing, idling, load factors).
Versioning
- Method: Zero Trace Standard v1.9 (DEFRA-aligned; WTT included; RF 1.9 for aviation).
- Date: 21 October 2025.
- Preparer: Zero Trace (marketplace methodology; not the tour operator).
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Measure Your Co2Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be?
It’s Light (2/5). Expect short guided walks (wadis, forts, souqs), occasional stairs, warm temps, and some time on 4×4 tracks. A basic walking habit is enough.
What kind of accommodation is included?
6 nights in Standard hotels/guesthouses and 1 night in a Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands desert camp (fixed tents with beds and private bathrooms, no A/C in tents).
What meals are included?
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Most other meals are at your choice so you can try local spots your CEO recommends.
What’s the dress code, especially for mosques and wadis?
Modest dress is essential: cover shoulders and knees in towns; long sleeves + headscarf for women when entering mosques. For wadi swims, wear a T-shirt and long shorts/capris.
More FAQ's
Will this run during Ramadan?
Yes, departures operate. Expect adjusted opening hours and a more conservative vibe. Please avoid eating/drinking/smoking in public during daylight.
What about the Ras al Jinz turtle walk—any rules?
It’s ranger-led, seasonal, and done at night. Keep voices low, no flash/white lights, and follow all guidance to protect nesting turtles.
How hot does it get—and what about the mountains/desert at night?
Coast is warm to hot (often humid); wadis and desert are sunny; highlands are cooler, especially after dark. Bring light, breathable layers plus a warm top for evenings.
What sort of transport is used?
Private, air-conditioned minivan for most segments; 4×4 vehicles in desert and mountain areas (some bumpy tracks).
How much luggage can I bring?
Space is limited. Bring one soft-sided main bag and a daypack. You’ll handle your own bags at hotels and camps.
Is tipping expected?
Yes—tipping is customary. Your CEO may coordinate a tipping kitty for local staff/services. CEO gratuity is separate and discretionary.
What about money, ATMs, and cards?
Currency is OMR. ATMs are common in cities; smaller shops/markets can be cash-only. Carry small notes; bring a backup card.
Is the water safe to drink?
Stick to bottled/filtered water. Hydration is crucial—carry a refillable bottle (2–3 L capacity recommended for hot days).
What plug type and voltage does Oman use?
Type G (UK-style) sockets; ~230V. Bring a universal adapter and a power bank.
Can solo travellers join easily?
Absolutely. You’ll be room-shared with a same-sex traveller unless you book My Own Room.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes—mandatory with medical, evacuation & repatriation coverage (min USD 200,000). Bring your policy details.
Will we visit the Nizwá cattle market?
Yes, the itinerary aims to include the Friday market when timing permits. Exact sequencing can shift due to local conditions.
How flexible is the itinerary?
There’s built-in flexibility. On-ground conditions (weather, access, seasonal timings) may prompt adjustments—your CEO will optimize for the best experience.
Any packing must-haves I shouldn’t forget?
Sun protection (hat, SPF 50, sunglasses), grippy water shoes for wadis, light rain/wind shell, a warm layer for desert/highlands, and a headlamp for the turtle walk.
- 0 – 2t | Low
- 2 – 4t | Moderate
- 4 – 6t | High
- 6 – 8t | Very High
- 8t+ | Extreme
(T = tonnes CO₂e)
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Good to know
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After your booking is confirmed
- Cancellations follow the operator’s cancellation schedule (varies by trip and how close you are to departure).
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How to cancel
- Email us your booking reference, names on the booking, and a one-line request (“Please cancel”).
- We’ll reply with the exact penalties/refund or credit per your operator before proceeding.
If the operator cancels or significantly changes your trip
- You’ll be offered an alternative date, a travel credit, or a refund according to that operator’s policy. We’ll advocate for the best outcome for you.
Good to know
- Refunds are returned to the original payment method; bank/FX fees aren’t usually recoverable.
- Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
- The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.
Can I change dates or transfer my booking?
Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.
Date changes
- We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
- If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
- The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.
Transfer to another person (name change)
- Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
- Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).
Instant-confirmation bookings
- If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.
How to request a change
- Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
- We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.
Pro tips
- Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
- Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
- Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.
Are you accredited / is my money protected?
Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.
Our business safeguards
- Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
- Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
- VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.
Operator-level protection
- We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
- When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.
How your payment is handled
- All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
- If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.
Your legal rights
- Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.
Extra peace of mind
- Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
- We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).
Do you offer price matching?
Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.
Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.
Do I need travel insurance?
Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it
Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).
When it’s required
- Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.
What good cover includes
- Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
- Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
- Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
- Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
- 24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.
When to buy
- At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.
How to share proof
- Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
- If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.
Are departures guaranteed?
Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.
How it works
- Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
- When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
- Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking
If a trip is under-subscribed
- We’ll contact you with clear options:
Move to another date (same tour)
Switch to a comparable trip
Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)
- Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.
If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)
- First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
- If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.
Our promise
- Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
- No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
- Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.