An Explorer-in-Residence itinerary featuring the world famous Mikael Strandberg. Mikael is considered as one of the world's 50 most important and famous explorers by The Royal Geographical Society in London. He was born in 1962 in Sweden and started his professional career as an explorer 25 years ago. His expeditions have included; Chile to Alaska by bicycle (27,500 km including the "impassable" Darien Gap), Norway to South Africa by bicycle (33,000 km including pushing across Sahara Desert), New Zealand across Asia to Cairo by bicycle (90,000 km), a year with gauchos in Patagonia (3,000km by horse), a year with the Masai in East Africa (total immersion in the culture), exploration of the unknown Kolyma River in North-Eastern Siberia (3,500 km by canoe and skis - with temperatures below -60C). His Siberia expedition is globally hailed as one of the coldest ever in the history of exploration. Mikael is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, the Explorers' Club, Travellers Club and the Long Riders Guild. Explorers Club in London considers Mikael "the best contemporary explorer in the world" at the present.

Explore the Sutanate of Oman in your private vehicle with English speaking guide. Beginning in Muscat, you will be met at the airport with assistance of clearing customs and baggage retrieval (visa service included). That evening, board your Sunset cruise and take in the splendor of this country's capital city. The following day, enjoy a private city tour of Muscat - visit the Grand Mosque, Souqs of Mutrah, Sultan's Palace, forts of Jalali and Mirani, and end the day with a tour of Bait Al Zubair museum. The next day, travel outside of Muscat to Barka and Nakhl, visiting forts and the famous hot water spring of Nakhl (lunch included). Continuing with day excursions from Muscat, travel via Fanjah, Izki and Nizwa, along the Wadi Nakr (known as the Grand Canyon of Oman). On the return to Muscat, the final stop is at the picturesque village of Misfat Al Abrein.

Start your exploration of the southern tip of Oman with a city tour of Salalah. Visit the musium and experience the history of Dhofar. Drive through the surrounding plantations on the way to Al Hafa, passing the Sultan's residential palace Al Husn en route to the Old Souk. Visit the ancient city of Zufar and the ruins of Al Balid before returning to your hotel (Lunch included with half day tour). Then head inland to the vast "Empty Quarter" desert, empty of human existence and stretching for thousands of kilometers. Spend two days on camel back experiencing the vastness and solitude of Rub al Khali. Return to Salalah for a final night of relaxation on the balmy ocean coast.

Note: Dress code – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers.

Muscat is the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Oman. The city lies on the Arabian Sea along the Gulf of Oman and is in the proximity of the strategic Straits of Hormuz. The rocky Western Al Hajar Mountains dominate the landscape of Muscat. Known since the early 1st century CE as an important trading port between the west and the east, Muscat was ruled by various indigenous tribes as well as foreign powers such as the Persians and the Portuguese Empire at various points in its history. A regional military power in the 18th century, Muscat's influence extended as far as East Africa and Zanzibar. Since the ascension of Qaboos bin Said as Sultan of Oman in 1970, Muscat has experienced rapid infrastructural development that has led to the growth of a vibrant economy and a multi-ethnic society.

Mikael Strandberg was born in 1962 in Sweden, and started his professional career as an explorer 25 years ago. His expeditions have included; Chile to Alaska by bicycle (27,500 km including the "impassable" Darien Gap), Norway to South Africa by bicycle (33,000 km including pushing across Sahara Desert), New Zealand across Asia to Cairo by bicycle (90,000 km), a year with gauchos in Patagonia (3,000km by horse), a year with the Masai in East Africa (total immersion in the culture), exploration of the unknown Kolyma River in North-Eastern Siberia (3,500 km by canoe and skis - with temperatures below -60C). His Siberia expedition is globally hailed as one of the coldest ever in the history of exploration.

Mikael is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, the Explorers' Club, Travellers Club and the Long Riders Guild. Explorers Club in London considers Mikael "the best contemporary explorer in the world" at the present. Mikael has written seven books and numerous articles. He is frequently used by broadcasters for travel and adventure programmes. In Sweden Mikael has become a household name and Swedish Television SVT and National Geographic have made a documentary about his life. He was voted Explorer Hero by the National Geographic 2002. He's an Honorary Ambassador of his native district Älvdalen. He's also an Honorary Ambassador for Cappadocia, Turkey. He was awarded The Determination in the Face of Adversity Medal by the Explorers Club 2005. The King of Sweden and The Travellers Club of Sweden awarded him the prestigious Silver Medal in 2006. Travellers Club in Finland awarded Mikael the prestigious Mannerheim Medal.

You will be met by a Representative at immigration and ushered into the lounge, where you will be served mineral water, Omani coffee, dates etc while your visa is being processed. You'll then be taken through passport control without queuing.

Take an airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide in Muscat.

Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.

The Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*) is located on the sandy beach of Shatti Al Qurm, overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Oman and right in the heart of the diplomatic and government district of the city. The property is one of the largest and most opulent hotels Muscat has to offer. The interior includes many gold and stained glass features and facilities include concierge service, fitness centre, parking, and shops.

Overnight at Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*).

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Spend the morning in the company of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking Guide to explore the wonderful city of Muscat. After being picked up from your hotel, the tour will start with a visit of the Grand Mosque, standing in stately grandeur. A visit to this beautiful piece of architecture is a must for all tourists (open daily for visitors, between 0800–1100 Hrs, except Fridays) Dress code – Women should wear attire covering their arms and legs and should cover their head with scarf. Men should wear normal shirt and trousers), From here move on to the fish and vegetable waterfront markets in Muttrah. Feel free to mingle with the crowd. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new - sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. Then take in the views on the drive past the Corniche and to the capital area before a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Enjoy a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history before being returned to your hotel.

We drive past the Corniche and to the capital area to visit Bait Al Zubair Museum for a fine display of Omani culture and history. We next proceed to take a photo stop at the Sultan’s Palace flanked by the 16th Century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani. Visit the Muttrah Souq where you will find a mix of old and new. Sights, sounds and fragrances are in abundance. From here, we take you to the modern shopping complex zone in Al Qurum. Feel free for some shopping at the popular “Qurum City centre” and enjoy some of the best deals and bargains. Wrap the day by taking a drive along the embassy area which gives a spectacular outlook of the Muscat city with lights.

Overnight at Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*).

The oasis city of Nizwa, the largest in the interior province, was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries. Today it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions with its historical buildings and imposing fort built in the mid 17th century by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'ribi, The town's immense palm oasis stretches for eight kilometers along the course of two wadis. It is famous for its bustling souq where tourists can buy exquisite copper and silver jewellery and other craft items.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Board 4WD air conditioned vehicles and drive along the Batinah Coast. We stop at the camel breeding farm for a while and see the numerous camels that are bred in this farm. From here, we drive to Wadi Bani Awf, one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite.

Wadi Bani Awf is one of the most spectacular wadis in the country and a perennial favourite. As you drive into the wadi, after 1km, a deviation to the right will bring you to an impressive gorge, ‘the Snake Canyon’. The first half kilometres is fun hiking in a narrow section of the canyon. The canyon opens up into a wide wadi and then, the next kilometres and so is easy hiking among boulders. The Canyon narrows to less than 5 meters wide and eventually gives way to a pool. Feel free to enjoy a swim in the pool. Later we drive further to the charming village of Bilad Sayt. After parking the vehicle near the mouth of the narrow “V” shaped gorge, you will set out on foot. The first view of the town will come after you emerge from an improbable canyon cleft. It is like discovering a lost city, or seeing Petra for the first time.

Falaj Daris Hotel is ideally located just about 4km away from Nizwa town. Perfect base to explore the interior and after a tiring day to relax! The hotel is situated 150Kms from Seeb International airport. The hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation and refurbishment. The hotel now has 55 beautifully appointed international standard rooms including 2 suites. Oman is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, a country that combines luxurious comfort and safety amidst rugged mountains, panoramic beaches and striking desert view. Oman offers culture, arts, heritage, nature, sports, adventure, entertainment and knowledge.

Overnight at Falaj Daris Hotel.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Drive to Wadi Ghul in 4WD airconditioned vehicle.

We drive to Wadi Ghul and begin the trek. Here you will see the abandoned village on a ledge of an outcrop where two wadi’s converge. The village is that of Ghul. Up on the right is where the current village lies. The old village goes back to antiquity. Further down is Wadi An Nakhr where we will meet with weavers. Over a cup of “Arabic coffee” (Kahwa) you will get a demonstration of the weaving process. Arrive at the summit of Jebel Shams, also known as the “Al Khatim plateau”. Enjoy lunch near the rim of the Canyon or the Nakhr Gorge. After lunch we continue our trek on an ancient donkey path, which follows the West flank of Wadi An Nakhr known as the “Grand Canyon”, and leads to the abandoned village of As Saab. The walk allows spectacular views into Wadi An Nakhr the “Grand Canyon” and down to Al Hamra.

Overnight at Falaj Daris Hotel.

Muscat is the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Oman. The city lies on the Arabian Sea along the Gulf of Oman and is in the proximity of the strategic Straits of Hormuz. The rocky Western Al Hajar Mountains dominate the landscape of Muscat. Known since the early 1st century CE as an important trading port between the west and the east, Muscat was ruled by various indigenous tribes as well as foreign powers such as the Persians and the Portuguese Empire at various points in its history. A regional military power in the 18th century, Muscat's influence extended as far as East Africa and Zanzibar. Since the ascension of Qaboos bin Said as Sultan of Oman in 1970, Muscat has experienced rapid infrastructural development that has led to the growth of a vibrant economy and a multi-ethnic society.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Drive to Muscat through the Sumail Gap via Izki and Wadi Fanjah.

Enjoy a private transfer to Marina Bandar Rawdha and embark a traditional Omani Dhow for a 2 hours Dhow Cruise. While on board, you can enjoy some Kahwa and dates. On the cruise, you will pass the Yacht club of Muscat and fishing village of Sidab. Pass by the harbor of historic Muscat, the Sultan’s Palace flanked by Jalali and Mirani forts and then sail past Al Bustan Palace, Oman’s premium hotel. From here you go by Qantab and at Bandar Jissah you can have a glimpse of the Shangri-la Resorts before returning to Muscat where you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Pick-up at your hotel and transfer to Bin Ateeq Restaurant (Omani Restaurant) for a sumptuous Omani Dinner. Bin Ateeq is acclaimed for serving some of the finest Omani cuisine in Muscat. Diners congregate on woven rugs at low tables and cushions to savour the finest Omani food in private rooms. After dinner return transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at Grand Hyatt Muscat (4*).

Salalah is the capital and seat of the governor or Wali of the southern Omani province of Dhofar. Salalah is a city of antiquity, boasting both the ruins of the fortified town Sumharam, an important port from 100 BC – AD 400, and the alleged resting place of Job in nearby Jabal Gadu. The city is a popular destination for tourism due to the natural attractions of the nearby mountains and abundant stands of frankincense trees lining mountain wadi courses. Around the city and into the mountains the countryside is lush and green during the monsoon period with the vegetation supporting herds of cattle. The climate supports wildlife often more commonly associated with East Africa, such as leopards and hyenas.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Take your flight from Muscat to Salalah.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Enjoy a half day private city tour which will give you a variety of old and modern culture of the region. Drive through the greenery of coconuts, Banana and Papaya plantations. A visit to the Museum will give an introduction to the history and culture of Dhofar. In the Heritage Souk, you can find different types of Omani crafts and incense burners. A visit of the New Souk will give you an exact view of the Arabian market. Drive to the Gold souk which offers modern and traditional style Dhofari ornaments. On the way to Al Hafa, you can see some typical Dhofari houses with caravan windows and doors. Walking past the Sultan’s residential palace Al Husn, you'll reach the Old Souk where Frankincense, Dhofari traditional clothes and cosmetics are available. Before returning to the hotel, visit the ancient city of Zufar, the ruins of Al Balid, which was visited by Ibn Batuta and Marco Polo, describing it as a ‘beautiful, large and noble city’.

The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah is situated in 45 acres of lush tropical garden, overlooking the Indian Ocean and on a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The resort enjoys an ideal location being just 10 minutes drive from the Salalah International Airport, 8 minutes from the city center and 15 minutes from the Port of Salalah. All 153 rooms including 9 suites and the 19 three-bedroom family villas are stylishly appointed and equipped with private bathroom, radio, International direct dial telephone, voice mail, interactive television including satellite channels, and mini-fridge. The Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah boasts of the only 'Green' 9 holes Par 3 Golf Course in Oman.

Overnight at Crowne Plaza.

The Rub' al Khali, which translates as Empty Quarter in English, is one of the largest sand deserts in the world, encompassing most of the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula. The desert is 1,000 kilometres (620 mi) long, and 500 kilometres (310 mi) wide, and is neither inhabited nor traversed by the Bedouins. Between 1946 and 1950 Wilfred Thesiger crossed the area several times and mapped large parts including the mountains of Oman. Summer temperatures of nearly 55 °C (131 °F) and dunes over 330 metres (1,100 ft) make Rub' al Kali one of the most forbidding environments on Earth.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.

Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.

Spend the night in your private desert camp. Guests are treated to traditional Arabian hospitality, with typical, home-cooked Omani food, Arabic coffee and dates. In the evening the colours of the desert landscape are particularly beautiful, and guests sleep out under the stars on mattresses among the dunes, or in tents if it is cold. An al fresco breakfast is served at first light.

Overnight at Desert Camp.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.

Overnight at Desert Camp.

Salalah is the capital and seat of the governor or Wali of the southern Omani province of Dhofar. Salalah is a city of antiquity, boasting both the ruins of the fortified town Sumharam, an important port from 100 BC – AD 400, and the alleged resting place of Job in nearby Jabal Gadu. The city is a popular destination for tourism due to the natural attractions of the nearby mountains and abundant stands of frankincense trees lining mountain wadi courses. Around the city and into the mountains the countryside is lush and green during the monsoon period with the vegetation supporting herds of cattle. The climate supports wildlife often more commonly associated with East Africa, such as leopards and hyenas.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Explore the alien landscape of Rub al Khali as the ancient nomadic traders and herders used to do – on the back of a camel. Built for the harsh realities of the desert environment, these gangly creatures actually provide a comfortable ride across the endless sands and arching blue skies.

Drive in 4WD air-conditioned vehicle.

Overnight at Crowne Plaza.

Enjoy the insights and anecdotes of your world famous Explorer-in-Residence.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

Take your flight from Salalah to Muscat.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).