Salalah Discovery Tour

Highlights:

• Taqah Castle

• Sumharam (Khor Rori) Ruins

• Bin Ali Mosque

• Mirbat Port & Old Town

• Wadi Darbat

Detailed Experience:
The day begins with a scenic drive eastward. Pass by the Royal Farm and Maamoura Palace en route to the charming village of Taqah, known for its sardines and natural fertilizers. Visit the Taqah Castle, a small but fascinating fortress with insights into traditional Omani life.

Next, explore the ancient port of Sumharam (Khor Rori)—once part of the Frankincense Trail and believed to be the legendary palace of Queen Sheba. Continue along the coastal road to Mirbat, a historic fishing town that once thrived in Arabian horse trading and the slave trade.

After a photo stop at the 14th-century Bin Ali Tomb, explore the old merchant homes of Mirbat, recognized for their unique architecture with curved windows and wooden doors.

The journey returns via scenic countryside inhabited by Jebbali tribes, famous for their livestock and mountain lifestyle. Finally, arrive at the lush Wadi Darbat, a paradise of greenery, waterfalls, and a natural lake—offering incredible views and photo opportunities.
Overnight stay in Salalah.

• Highlights:

  • Zig Zag Road

  • Frankincense Trees

  • Panoramic Beach View

  • Marneef Cave & Blowholes

  • Mughsail Beach

  • Bird Sanctuaries

  Detailed Experience:
  Drive into the majestic Qara Mountains via the winding Zig Zag Road, offering panoramic views and a true sense of Dhofar’s rugged beauty. Along the way, stop at Wadi Afoul to see natural Frankincense trees, unique to the Dhofar region. Inhale their sacred aroma and learn their ancient uses.

  Descend to the coastline to discover Mughsail Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand surrounded by limestone cliffs. Visit the dramatic Marneef Cave and witness the powerful blowholes—natural sea geysers that shoot water up to 30 meters high, creating a spectacular display.

  Drive further along the scenic road toward the Yemeni border for breathtaking views of the Secret Beach, where jagged cliffs meet turquoise waters. Visit local bird sanctuaries and spot native and migratory species before heading back.
  Overnight stay in Salalah.

• Highlights:

  • Taqah Plateau

  • Tawi Atair Sinkhole

  • Jabal Samhan Viewpoint

  • Tiq Cave

  • Qara Mountain Ranges

  • Wadi Darbat (Khareef View)

  Detailed Experience:
  After breakfast, venture into the Dhofar Mountains for a full-day safari. Begin with a stop at Taqah Plateau for sweeping views over the coastal village. Continue to Tawi Atair, home to one of the world’s deepest sinkholes (211 meters), surrounded by wild bird calls—earning it the name “Well of Birds.”

  Ascend to the breathtaking Jabal Samhan plateau, nearly 1700 meters above sea level. The viewpoint offers a grand panoramic sight over the eastern coastline and the vast Qamar mountain range, often likened to Oman’s own Grand Canyon.

  Visit the intriguing Tiq Cave, a mystical geological site wrapped in folklore. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst this spectacular landscape.

  In the afternoon, descend through picturesque Jebbali villages and drive into evergreen Wadi Darbat, often draped in lush vegetation during Khareef (monsoon) season. Take a relaxing stroll through the wadi, encountering herds of camels, goats, and cattle. During monsoon, witness the 100-meter waterfall cascading into natural lakes.
  Overnight stay in Salalah.

• Highlights:

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

  • Frankincense Museum & Al Baleed Archaeological Park

  • Al Husn Palace (exterior)

  • Hafa Souk & Gold Market

  • Coconut & Banana Plantations

  Detailed Experience:
  Today’s tour showcases the cultural highlights of Salalah city. Begin with a visit to the majestic Sultan Qaboos Mosque, known for its pristine architecture and spiritual ambiance.

  Pass through lush coconut and banana plantations, stopping for fresh sugar bananas and coconuts—a Salalah specialty. Then visit the Al Baleed Museum, located within an ancient UNESCO archaeological park, offering fascinating insights into Oman’s maritime and trading history.

  Drive to Al Hafa district, where you’ll see traditional Dhofari-style homes with wooden windows. Walk by the historic Al Husn Palace, the Sultan’s former residence, and browse the vibrant Hafa Souk, famous for frankincense, silver jewelry, handmade crafts, and perfumes.

  End with a photo stop at Al Hafa Beach, known for its serene setting and white sands framed by coconut palms.
  Return to your hotel.
  Overnight stay in Salalah.

Departure