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Combo XMAS Expedition

ΟΜΑΝ
A Journey Beyond Imagination

From the desert dunes to the blue ocean

hike

ATHENS-> MUSCAT

24 December -2 January 2027

5 - 12 people

Multi Activities

Duration

9 Nights

From 2590€ /

Per Person

1 -Easy

This Christmas and New Year will not find us in the snow… but in a world full of contrasts. 🏜️⛰️🌊

Oman is a place full of contrasts. A world where the desert meets the mountains, oases are hidden between canyons, traditional villages stand proud in time and the Indian Ocean offers images that seem unreal.

This Christmas and New Year, we embark on an authentic ComboRide road trip in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. We will explore the secrets of Wahiba Sands and get to know the history, culture and hospitality of the people of Oman up close.

We will stand in front of the largest canyon in the Arabian Peninsula, where vertical rocks and endless views create one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Oman. A unique hike on the famous Balcony Walk will take us to the edge of the “Grand Canyon of Arabia”, offering images that we will remember forever.

We will swim in natural pools and waterfalls, hike in hidden canyons, enjoy sunsets that paint the desert golden and sleep under a sky full of stars, where the silence of the desert becomes an experience.

We will taste authentic Omani flavors, share moments with the Bedouins, discover exotic beaches of the Indian Ocean and welcome the new year on the magnificent Daymaniyat Islands, swimming in waters full of marine life.

Because at ComboRide we don’t just travel to see a destination! 🚙🏜️🏔️🌊

WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE?

HIGHLIGHTS

🏜️ Christmas in the heart of the Wahiba Sands desert with sunset over the dunes, traditional dinner and starry sky!

🎆 New Year in the Indian Ocean, in the exotic Daymaniyat Islands, with snorkeling in one of the most beautiful marine paradises in Arabia!

🚙 Epic 4x4 Road Trip in the Arabian Peninsula, crossing desert, mountains, canyons, oases and traditional villages!

🏔️ Hiking in the Grand Canyon of Oman (Jebel Shams) with unique images of the largest canyon in the Arabian Peninsula!

⛰️ Exploring the "Three Villages" of Jabal Al Akhdar, where time seems to have stopped!

🐠 Swimming and snorkeling in the “Maldives of Oman”, among sea turtles, coral reefs and colorful tropical fish!

💦 Dive into natural turquoise pools and waterfalls, inside impressive canyons (Wadis)!


🧗 Via Ferrata for those who want an extra dose of adrenaline!


🥾 Hiking in hidden canyons, oases and mountains, without technical difficulties but full of images!

🌊 Hidden beaches and turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, with landscapes that reveal a completely different side of Oman!

🏛️ Discovery of historic Nizwa, traditional souks and authentic Arabic culture!

🌴 Oases, palm trees and landscapes that don't resemble a desert, revealing a different side of Oman!

🍽️ Authentic flavors and Omani hospitality, with experiences that bring us closer to local life!


🌅 Sunsets that paint the sand dunes golden and nights under a sky full of stars!

📸 One of the most photogenic trips we've ever planned, with images that look like they came straight out of National Geographic!

OVERVIEW 

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    Day 1 
    Thursday 24 December
    Athens → Muscat
    Arrival in Muscat

    Our adventure begins in Athens, heading to the magnificent Sultanate of Oman. With a short stop at Bahrain airport, we continue our journey to Muscat, where we arrive late in the afternoon. We are transferred to the hotel to settle in and rest.

    In the evening we enjoy our first common dinner, get to know the group better and get a first taste of Arabian hospitality. Tomorrow our real journey begins, leaving the capital behind us and heading to the canyons, deserts and mountain villages that make Oman one of the most special destinations in the Middle East.


    Highlights

    • Arrival in the Sultanate of Oman!

    • Christmas Eve dinner with local flavors!

    Accommodation: Muscat

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    Day 2
    Friday 25 December 
    Muscat→ Bidiyah / Wahiba Desert (Sharqiya Sands) Christmas 🏜 

    We depart early in the morning from Muscat and follow the route to the heart of the Omani desert. We arrive at the impressive Bidiyah Desert, on the magnificent Sharqiya Sands, one of the most beautiful and characteristic deserts in the country. Here, the golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a setting of authentic desert beauty.

    In our traditional camp, we will have time to get to know the desert environment and enjoy the tranquility of the landscape. In the afternoon we live one of the most special experiences of the trip: a camel ride at sunset, when the dunes are painted in warm colors and the desert takes on an almost magical atmosphere.

    In the evening we relax at the camp and enjoy a traditional dinner under the starry sky, next to the fire. Through entertainment, storytelling and stargazing, we get to know the traditional Bedouin life and the unique sense of freedom that the desert offers. With a clear sky, there is also the possibility of enjoying the view of the Milky Way.

    Highlights

    • Christmas trip to the heart of the Omani desert!

    • Arrival in the magical Bidiyah desert!

    • Golden dunes and authentic desert landscape!

    • Camel ride at sunset. Let's feel like the Three Wise Men :)!

    • Traditional dinner with camels under the stars!

    • Fire, storytelling and stargazing!

    • We will experience the traditional camp in the desert!

    • Optional additional activities: Camel Ride, Sandboarding, Dune Bashing

    ​​

    Accommodation: Traditional Camp in Sharqiya Sands Desert

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    Day 3 
    Saturday 26 December
    Nizwa → Barkat AlMooz →Jabal Al Akhdar (The Three Villages)
    Via Ferrata

    We leave the magic of the desert behind us and set off early in our vehicles towards Nizwa, the historical heart of Oman. We make a short stop to get to know the atmosphere of the old capital. Leaving Nizwa behind, we continue towards the beautiful Birkat Al Mooz, a traditional settlement built among palm trees and lush green crops. The area is particularly known for its ancient Falaj irrigation system, which is part of the “Aflaj Irrigation System of Oman”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Here we enjoy a short hike among palm trees, traditional falaj and old adobe settlements, before ascending to the imposing plateau of Jabal Al Akhdar (The Green Mountain). The area is known for its gorges, terraces, orchards and traditional stone villages.

    Today's hike follows the beautiful Jabal Al Akhdar trail, passing through the abandoned village known as the "Three Villages". Among terraces, pomegranate and walnut plantations and stone houses that stand untouched by time, we discover a different side of Oman, far from the desert and the coast.

    For those looking for more action, there is the possibility of participating in an optional Via Ferrata experience, crossing vertical rocks in complete safety and enjoying unique views of the gorges of Jabal Al Akhdar.

    In the afternoon we relax at our mountain lodge, enjoying the coolness of the mountain and the magnificent sunset over the peaks of the Hajar Mountains.

    Highlights​

    • 4x4 desert drive to Nizwa and Jabal Al Akhdar.

    • Stop in Nizwa, the historic capital of Oman.

    • Two hikes to the picturesque Birkat Al Mouz and the three villages of Jabal Al Akhdar with a local mountain guide!

    • Introduction to the ancient Falaj irrigation system (UNESCO)!

    • Traditional terraces, orchards and stone villages!

    • Optional Via Ferrata experience!

    • Panoramic views from Jabal Al Akhdar!

    🔹 Hike: 4-6 km (2.5-4 hours)

    Accommodation: Jebal Akhdar

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    Day 4
    Sunday 27 December 
    Jabal Al Akhdar → jabal Shams

    We bid farewell to the impressive plateau of Jabal Al Akhdar and depart by 4x4 to the imposing Jabal Shams, the highest mountain in Oman and one of the most impressive natural sites in the country. There we will walk the famous Balcony Walk (Route W6), a unique path of approximately 8 km, carved into the steep slopes of Wadi Nakhr, also called the "Grand Canyon of Oman".

    The route offers breathtaking views of the gorge, the vertical rocks and the wild mountain landscape, constituting one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences of our trip. After completing the hike, we take the road back to Muscat, where we arrive in the evening to rest at our hotel.

    Highlights​

    • Departure from Jabal Al Akhdar to the imposing Jabal Shams.

    • Hike the famous Balcony Walk (W6) with a local mountain guide!

    • Explore the impressive Wadi Nakhr, the "Grand Canyon of Oman".

    • Panoramic views of the steep cliffs and mountainous landscape.

    • Return to Muscat for overnight stay.

    🔹 Hike / Tour: 3.5 - 5 hours

    Accommodation: Muscat

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    Day 5
    Monday 28 December 
    Muscat | Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole & Evening Walk on the Corniche 

    We set off for the most famous natural attractions of Oman, known for its impressive canyon walls, turquoise freshwater pools and a hidden waterfall in a cave. Our first stop is the magnificent Wadi Shab, where we will enjoy a beautiful tour of the impressive landscape, hiking among rocks, natural peaks and lush green banks, in an environment that combines adventure and relaxation.

    Then, we will finish the famous Bimmah sinkhole, a unique natural phenomenon with turquoise waters and impressive geomorphology, an ideal spot for photos and a short stop.

    In the afternoon we return to Muscat where we will have time for a leisurely walk in the city. Our day ends with a visit to the beautiful coastal avenue (Corniche), to enjoy the view, the atmosphere of the capital and a peaceful evening tour.


    Highlights​​

    • Tour of the impressive Wadi Shab!

    • Visit the Bimmah Sinkhole!

    • Relaxing evening stroll in Muscat!

    • Stroll along the Corniche!

    🚌 Activities: Wadi Shab excursion & visit the Bimmah Sinkhole

    🏙 Evening program: Relaxing stroll in Muscat and the Corniche

    Accommodation: Muscat

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    Day 5
    Tuesday 29 December
    Muscat 
    → Bar Al Hikman  

    Today we leave Muscat behind and embark on a unique road trip to one of the most isolated and authentic corners of Oman. We will arrive at the magnificent Bar Al Hikman, a place often called the "Maldives of Oman". Here is the largest natural sandy strip in the Middle East, within a vast coastal wetland ecosystem that extends over thousands of square kilometers, creating a stunning landscape of white sand, turquoise lagoons and the open Indian Ocean.


    After settling into our glamping camp, the exploration of this truly wild and unexplored area begins. We will walk on the endless sandy beaches and natural sandbars that are revealed at low tide, enjoy swimming in the calm, crystal clear waters of the lagoons and have time for snorkeling near the shore. The area is also an important stopover for migratory birds, with flamingos, herons and other seabirds creating a unique natural setting. As night falls, away from any light pollution, we will enjoy the desert and ocean sky full of stars, and if we are lucky and the conditions allow it, we may even witness the magical phenomenon of plankton bioluminescence illuminating the waves.

    Highlights​

    • 🌴 Bar Al Hikman – The “Maldives of Oman” – A unique landscape with white sand, turquoise lagoons and the open Indian Ocean.

    • 🏕️ Glamping – Stay in a secluded natural environment, with the ocean literally outside our tent.

    • 🦩 Flamingo and migratory bird watching – Explore one of the most important wetland ecosystems in the region.

    • 🏊 Swimming & snorkeling in crystal clear waters – Relax and explore the shallow lagoons and marine life.

    • 👣 Walking on the largest natural sandy strip in the Middle East – A landscape that constantly changes depending on the tide.

    • 🐢 Exploring the wildlife of the coast – With the possibility of encountering sea turtles and other species of the region.

    • 🌌 Starry sky & possible bioluminescence – A magical night away from the lights of civilization, under a sky full of stars.


    Accommodation: Overnight in Glamping

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    Day 6
    Wednesday 30 December
    Choose your own
    marine adventure 🌊

    Today you have the opportunity to choose between two unique experiences, with a common destination of one of the most impressive coral reefs in Oman. Whether you prefer to approach the island by hand or by boat, a day full of crystal clear waters, tropical fish and unique images awaits you!

    🛶 Option 1 | Coral Reef Adventure with SUP or Kayak

    We start by driving to the access point and from there we board a Stand Up Paddle (SUP) or Kayak for a unique journey on the calm turquoise waters to Coral Reef Island.

    Arriving on the island, we put on masks and flippers and explore an impressive coral reef approximately 5 km long and 3 km wide, full of colorful corals and exotic marine life. An experience that combines exercise, exploration and contact with nature.

    🚤 Option 2 | Coral Reef Boat Experience

    For those who prefer more relaxation, we board a boat to the beautiful Coral Reef Island.

    On the island, a shady area awaits us where we can enjoy fresh fruit, tea, coffee and water, before or after diving with a mask. The rest of the day is dedicated to snorkeling in the clear waters of the coral reef, a true paradise for underwater lovers.

    Highlights​

    🪸 Snorkeling in one of Oman’s largest coral reefs

    🐠 Exploring a colorful underwater world

    🛶 Choice of SUP or Kayak approach

    🚤 Alternative boat trip

    💎 Crystal clear, turquoise waters

    🏝️ Relaxing on secluded Coral Reef Island

    🍉 Fresh fruits and drinks by the sea

    📸 Unique landscapes and unforgettable photos

    ​​

    Accommodation: Muscat

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    Day 7
    Thursday 31 December 
    Daymaniyat Islands 🐠 🐢
    & New Year's Eve
    The last day of the year is dedicated to all of us!

    In the morning we board a boat bound for the protected archipelago of the Daymaniyat Islands, one of the most important marine reserves in the Middle East.

    The crystal clear waters, coral reefs and rich marine life create the ideal conditions for snorkeling. With a little luck we will swim next to sea turtles, rays and colorful tropical fish.

    After a relaxing day at sea we return to Muscat, where we enjoy the group's farewell dinner, celebrating all the unique experiences we had in Oman.

    🚤 Activity: Boat Trip & Snorkeling

    🏄🏻‍♂️OPTIONAL: Optionally, for those who crave adrenaline, you can do water sports such as kite surfing, windsurfing and diving

    🤿 OPTIONAL: Scuba Diving for beginners & advanced – choose diving in the Daymaniyat Islands or exploring the impressive Al Munassir Wreck!

    In the evening we all gather together for the farewell dinner and welcoming the new year, celebrating the New Year with the team and reminiscing about the unique moments we experienced on this special adventure.

    Highlights

    • UNESCO Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve

    • Snorkeling

    • Scuba Diving

    • Coral reefs.

    • Sea turtles.

    • Farewell dinner.

    • New Year's Eve with the team.

    Accommodation: Muscat

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    Day 8
    Friday 1st January 
    Muscat - Free Day

    After an unforgettable adventure-filled journey, our last day in Oman is more relaxed and flexible. The day is free, giving everyone the opportunity to rest, enjoy the hotel or discover more sides of Muscat at their own pace. 🌴

    For those who want to continue exploring, ComboRide will suggest and organize optional activities and short excursions, depending on the interests of the group. You can visit the traditional Mutrah Souq for your last minute shopping, explore the Oman National Museum and the country's history, enjoy a dolphin watching cruise, visit Al Mirani Fort, walk the impressive Sidab Coast Trail or choose a more active experience, such as kayaking in the Bandar Jissah area.

    A last day with more freedom, but with the ComboRide team by your side and with options for every mood - whether you want relaxation, culture, the sea or even a little adventure before we say goodbye to Oman. 🐬🏛️🥾🛶

    No alarm clocks. No specific schedule.
    One last day to experience Oman exactly the way you want!

    Accommodation: Muscat

    Airplane Wing View

    Day 8
    Saturday 2nd January

    We transfer early in the morning to Muscat airport for the return flight, with a stopover in Bahrain.

    We leave behind a country full of contrasts, where imposing mountains, turquoise canyons, endless deserts and secluded beaches make up one of the most authentic exploration destinations in the world.

    We return to Greece full of images, experiences and stories from a journey that revealed to us the most authentic face of the Arabian Peninsula.

    Completion of the Combo Expedition Oman with the memories of a unique adventure!

  • Packed Travel Suitcase

    TIPS

    • 📄 Passport & Visa
      A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry is required.
      For stays up to 14 days, Greek citizens do not need a visa.

    • 💰 Currency
      The currency is the Omani Rial (OMR).
      Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is advisable to have some cash for small purchases or remote areas.

    • 🔌 Electricity
      A type G (British type) adapter is required.

    • 📶 Internet
      Wi-Fi is generally available except in the desert and Bar Al Hikman
      An eSIM or local SIM is recommended for easy internet access.

    • 👕 Clothing
      Oman is a modern but conservative country.
      Prefer comfortable clothing that covers shoulders and knees in cities and villages.
      For beaches and snorkeling, we use regular swimwear.

    • 🌡️ Weather
      The weather is ideal for exploring at Christmas, with temperatures around 22–30°C.

    • 🚙 Transportation & Activities
      Transportation is done by 4x4 vehicles, as we explore deserts, canyons and remote beaches.
      All necessary equipment is provided for snorkeling and no experience is required.

    • 🙏 Respect for culture
      Oman is renowned for its hospitality and safety.
      We respect local culture, ask permission before photographing people and follow local customs.

    The air tickets

    They are with 1 hand luggage up to 6 kg (56x45x25) and checked baggage up to 25kg,

    Any modification will not change the program

    We will organize a meeting about a month in advance at our office (Agias Theklas 13, Psirri) to get to know each other and give you even more detailed information about our trip.

  • Hikers With Poles

    The Equipment You Will Need 🎒

    🥾 Hiking & exploring
    ✔️ Hiking shoes with good traction
    ✔️ Small daypack (20–30L)
    ✔️ Water bottle or hydration pack (at least 1L)
    ✔️ Trekking poles (optional, for those who use them)
    ✔️ Hat or sun buff

    🏜️ Desert & beach
    ✔️ Comfortable lightweight clothing for warmth
    ✔️ Swimsuit
    ✔️ Microfiber towel (ideal)
    ✔️ Water sandals or shoes that can get wet (useful in wadi & snorkeling)
    ✔️ High-protection sunscreen
    ✔️ Sunglasses

    🤿 Snorkeling
    ✔️ Mask & snorkel (optional – equipment provided)
    ✔️ UV shirt or thin sun shirt (optional)

    📱 Useful
    ✔️ Power bank
    ✔️ Waterproof phone case
    ✔️ Headlamp (optional, useful for camping/desert)
    ✔️ G-type power adapter
    ✔️ Personal first aid kit (basic items)

    🏕️ For the stay in the desert
    ✔️ Light warm layer for the night (fleece or thin jacket)
    ✔️ Sleeping bag

    No special equipment needed

    The trip is designed for travelers with normal physical condition. Basic equipment for snorkeling and activities is provided by us.

  • WHAT IS INCLUDED?

    Air tickets Athens – Muscat – Athens, in economy class

    Hand luggage up to 6 kg and checked baggage (Up to 25 kg)

    E-visa services

    All transportation during the trip, as well as fuel, tolls, parking and other travel expenses

    Local guides and 4x4 support for special routes and activities

    Local English-speaking tour guide during the excursion where mentioned in the program

    All hikes and activities mentioned in the program

    Greek-speaking guide & Experienced Team leader throughout the trip

    Experienced local English-speaking tour guide, where provided by the program

    Traditional Omani hospitality with tea, Arabic coffee and fresh dates during the trip (where provided by the program)

    Boat excursion to the protected islands Daymaniyat, with time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the marine park. Light lunch, water and soft drinks, full snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket) are included,

    Bar Al Hikman - Coral reef tour by stand-up paddleboard (SUP) - or kayak - or boat ride

    Wadi Shab - Transfer by local boat to Wadi Shab (mandatory river crossing to the start of the hike)

    Photography coverage with our own professional equipment

    Trivial liability insurance

    Airport taxes & 24% VAT

    OVERNIGHT STAYS 
    (9 Nights)

    Six (6) nights in Muscat – Muscat Express Hotel or similar (with breakfast)

    One (1) night in Desert Camp at Wahiba Sands (with breakfast & dinner)

    One (1) night in Jabal Al Akhdar Grand Hotel or similar (with breakfast)

    One (1) Night Stay in Seaside Glamping at Bar Al Hikman (Breakfast & Dinner Included)

    WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

    Anything not explicitly mentioned in the program or mentioned as optional or recommended

    Optional activities, such as:

    Via Ferrata in Jabal Al Akhdar
    Camel ride
    Sandboarding
    Kite surfing - Wind surfing

    Personal expenses, shopping and gratuities.

    Travel insurance (optional and provided extra)

    Entance Fee to Nizwa Fort.

  • PARTICIPATION COST & PAYMENT METHOD

    A unique ComboRide Christmas & New Year Expedition in Oman, with 9 nights and a packed program that combines desert, mountains, canyons, oases, the Indian Ocean and some of the most impressive landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula.

    It's not just a trip. It's a whole exploration experience, designed to get to know Oman the way ComboRide travels: out of the ordinary, with adventure, nature and authentic experiences.

    🔥 EARLY BOOKING

    2,590€ / person

    Valid for bookings until October 8, 2026

    🏷️ REGULAR PRICE

    2,790€ / person

    Valid from October 9, 2026.

    Book early and save 200€ / person.

    💳 PAYMENT PLAN

    A deposit of €500 is required to confirm your participation, while the remaining amount can be paid gradually, in easy installments until departure.

    1️⃣ Reservation

    €500

    Paying the deposit confirms your participation in the ComboRide Oman Expedition.

    2️⃣ Second installment

    €700

    Until October 8, 2026

    3️⃣ Third installment

    €700

    Until November 8, 2026

    4️⃣ Final payment

    €690 for the Early Booking price

    €890 for the regular price

    Until December 8, 2026.

    🤝 DO YOU PREFER TO COME FROM THE OFFICE?

    Booking and payments can be made at the ComboRide office, where we will have the opportunity to meet face to face, answer any questions you may have and discuss all the details of the Expedition together.

    We recommend it! It is a beautiful way to get to know each other better before such a special trip and to organize every detail together.

    📍 Address: Agias Theklas 13, Psirri (Just a 4-minute walk from the “Monastiraki” Metro station).⏰ Hours: Every Tuesday & Thursday, 19:00 – 21:00.

    🏦 Can’t come to the office?

    No problem.

    There is also the option of paying via bank transfer / e-banking.

    🌴 OMAN IS CALLING...

    9 nights. Desert. Mountains. Wadis. Oases. Ocean.

    A different Christmas & New Year Expedition in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

    🔥 EARLY BOOKING until October 8 - €2,590 / person

    Oman is not just a destination.
    It is an adventure worth living.

  • CANCELLATION POLICY

    Upon confirmation of participation, ComboRide initiates the necessary reservations and prepayments for the trip.

    In the event of cancellation by the participant, the refund is calculated according to the time of cancellation and the actual non-refundable expenses incurred up to that time.

    Until October 24, 2026:
    The amount not committed to non-refundable reservations or expenses is refunded.

    From October 25, 2026:
    With the purchase of airline tickets and the completion of basic reservations, non-refundable expenses may arise, which are deducted from the refund amount.

    As the departure date approaches, the possible cancellation costs increase accordingly.

    In case you are unable to travel, please contact us first. If possible, a participant can be replaced by another person, limiting the financial burden.

    For this specific trip, we strongly recommend travel insurance with cancellation coverage.

  • LAST DETAILS

    An even more detailed program will be sent to participants a few days before the trip.

PHOTOS

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