East Salalah Wonders from Taqah to Mirbat
9:00 AM - Hotel pickup
Your guide will meet you in your hotel lobby in Salalah, Hawana Salalah, or Taqah. Settle into your comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a brief introduction to the day's journey from your local guide.
Taqah Village and Taqah Castle
Arrive at the charming coastal town of Taqah. Watch local fishermen at work along the shoreline before stepping inside the beautifully restored Taqah Castle. Built in the 19th century, this historic fort was once home to the regional governor of Dhofar. Explore traditional Omani rooms, antique weapons, and period artefacts that bring ancient Dhofar to life. Optional visits to the Koofan Heritage House and Burj Al Askar clifftop lookout are available for those who wish to explore further.
Wadi Darbat
Drive into the heart of Wadi Darbat, the jewel of Southern Oman. This magnificent valley is home to a stunning natural lake, towering limestone cliffs, and lush green scenery. During the Khareef season, powerful waterfalls cascade dramatically off the cliffs into the sea below. Wander along the water's edge, spot roaming camels cooling off in the canal, and take in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Arabian Peninsula. An optional kayak or boat ride on the canal is available for those who wish to get even closer to the water.
Tawi Attair Sinkhole
Make your way to one of nature's most dramatic creations, the Tawi Attair Sinkhole, also known as the Well of Birds. One of the largest natural sinkholes in the world, this enormous void plunges more than 200 metres into the earth. Stand at the edge and listen to the birds nesting deep within its sheer walls for an extraordinary and humbling experience.
Jabal Samhan Viewpoint
Ascend into the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve, the highest point in Southern Oman, standing at 4,000 feet above sea level. As you climb, watch the clouds roll in against the cliff edges below you. At the summit viewpoint, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the Dhofar mountains and down to the glittering Indian Ocean, one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring vistas in the entire Middle East. Keep an eye out for eagles, wolves, and, if you are very lucky, the endangered Arabian leopard that roams this protected wilderness.
Baobab Trees of Wadi Hinna
Discover one of Dhofar's best-kept secrets, the ancient Baobab Trees of Wadi Hinna. Known as the Tree of Life and iconic across the African continent, these extraordinary trees grow naturally here in Oman, making this one of the only places outside Africa where they are found in the wild. Standing beside these ancient giants, some believed to be thousands of years old, is a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.
Anti-Gravity Point
Prepare to have your senses completely baffled at Salalah's most talked-about curiosity, the Anti-Gravity Hill. At this mysterious stretch of road, your vehicle will appear to roll uphill on its own in neutral, water flows against gravity, and everything your eyes tell you feels impossible. Fun, fascinating, and guaranteed to spark laughter and debate among the whole group.
Mirbat
Your final stop is the legendary coastal town of Mirbat, one of the oldest and most historically significant towns in Southern Oman. Once a powerful frankincense trading port, Mirbat is famous for the legendary Battle of Mirbat in 1972. Explore the old fort overlooking the sea and soak in the ancient atmosphere of this remarkable town. Finish the day at the breathtaking Ad Damar Dunes, where sweeping golden sands meet the mountain backdrop and the Indian Ocean coastline in a scene of pure natural beauty.
5:00 PM - Hotel drop-off
Your guide will drive you back comfortably to your hotel in Salalah, Hawana Salalah, or Taqah, bringing an incredible day to a close.
