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OMAN

Muscat, Sur, Wahiba, Jabal Akhdar, Misfah, Mussanah

An oasis of calm beauty and the most diverse landscape.

If you are seeking exotic but modern, rugged yet comfortable, gorgeous yet un-photographed, peaceful yet in one of the most misunderstood parts of the world, let us introduce you to Oman. Oman is one of those rare, special places that your friends have never been to because only a few have caught on to how incredible this country is. Here you will find a vast desert with silky dunes, preserved fortresses, high mountain ranges, breathtaking fjords on the turquoise sea and charming fishing villages.

Sure you’ve heard of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. But how about the country the size of Belgium that borders both of them, and sits at the mouth of the Persian Gulf with white sand beaches, deserts that glow orange at sunset and mountain peaks that rival any you’ve seen? Welcome to the very welcoming Sultanate of Oman.

Our Oman photo tour takes in all this and more. We begin in the capital city of Muscat, the port capital of Oman, delicately wedged between mountains and the sea. We’ll walk through and photograph the Mutrah Souq, visit the Grand Mosque and tour the coast as we learn about a country that has literally been built from scratch in the last 40 years. During our trip you will see and photograph magnificent mountains that lift out of the sea, spend sunset and sunrise in the desert dunes as they glow orange and visit ancient markets where bedouins still haggle over the price of a goat. And that’s just the beginning. Checkout the itinerary below for more details.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. Oman is an excellent place to learn a new culture and master your photogenic techniques. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity.

Our Oman photo tour takes in all this and more. We begin in the capital city of Muscat, the port capital of Oman, delicately wedged between mountains and the sea. We’ll walk through and photograph the Mutrah Souq, visit the Grand Mosque and tour the coast as we learn about a country that has literally been built from scratch in the last 40 years. During our trip you will see and photograph magnificent mountains that lift out of the sea, spend sunset and sunrise in the desert dunes as they glow orange and visit ancient markets where bedouins still haggle over the price of a goat. And that’s just the beginning. Checkout the itinerary below for more details.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. Oman is an excellent place to learn a new culture and master your photogenic techniques. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, phone cameras
  • Active and adventurous schedule
  • Travel by private vehicle and jeep
  • Elevation changes to 9,000 ft and lots of walking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

October – Temps 95/79 F | 35/26 C  Sunrise 6:04 | Sunset 5:38 (17:38)

Includes

  • Travel, landscape, seascape and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Local guides and fixers
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • 4-star accommodations
  • Breakfasts
  • 6 meals
  • Airport transfers
  • Local transportation – modern A/C car
  • Entry fees

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Muscat International Airport (MCT)
Note: If you are combining the Dubai Extension, please book your connection flights through Dubai.
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends in the morning on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Muscat – Al Falaj or similar
Sur – Sama Ras Al Jinz Resort or similar
Wahiba – Safari Dunes Camp
Jabal Akhdar – Alila Hotel or similar
Misfah – Misfah Mud House or similar
Mussanah – Millennium Hotel or similar

Oman Prices & Dates


AdventurePriceREGISTER
From: $11,595

Oman & Dubai Prices & Dates


AdventurePriceREGISTER
From: $17,795
Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Lal Nallath

October 12-20/23, 2024

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

OMANDAY PHOTO TOUR

Day 1 | Muscat - Omani Dhow (boat) - Muttrah Souk

We begin in the late morning at our hotel in Muscat. During lunch, we will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve with their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. After we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

In the late afternoon we will drive to the marina to board an Omani dhow (boat) for a sunset cruise along the Muscat coast, and enjoy the amazing views of Muscat city. After, we’ll drive through Sidab, Old Muscat, and Corniche to reach the century old Muttrah Souk for low light photography in the souk. Afterward we’ll enjoy a wonderful “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Sultan Qaboos Mosque - Corniche - Ladies of Sidab

After breakfast we depart for a photo tour of the city of Muscat. We begin with the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a glorious piece of modern Islamic architecture, a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos to mark his 30th year of reign. Next we’ll visit the Opera House — Oman’s premier venue for musical arts & culture. Then a drive along the picturesque Corniche and to Al Alam Palace, the Royal residence of his Majesty Sultan Qaboos, flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali.

In the afternoon we will visit the “Ladies of Sidab”, an exclusive social entrepreneurship movement aimed at creating a positive social change. It’s been so successful that it has now begun to take root throughout the rest of the Arabian Gulf. Based in Sidab, a fishing village near Muscat, it consists of a group of 100 women, and has become Oman’s most successful cottage industry. Using the traditional ‘wizar’ art of Oman, the woman create products like calico shopping bags, mobile phone cases, cushion covers, tissue boxes, etc.  (B)

Day 3 | Quriyat - Wadi Tiwi - Sur

After an early breakfast, we checkout and depart by 4WD to the village of Sur, via the scenic and rugged coastal route. This ride offers us breathtaking views of the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman, offset by its pristine white beaches. After a stop at the fishing village of Quriyat, we’ll drive on to Fins Beach, one of the most beautiful white sand beaches. Next we’ll come to Wadi Tiwi. The sight is remarkable with its lush green plantations where water flows all year around. We’ll wrap up the drive with an Arabic lunch at a local Omani house.

Once we arrive in Sur, we’ll check-in and take a short break. After we’ll visit a Dhow Building Yard and learn about ship building. We’ll do a low-light walking tour of Sur to photograph the architecture and the local people. (B, L)

Day 4 | Sur - Wadi Bani Khalid - Wahiba

Today we depart from the coast and head to the desert. Along the way we’ll stop at the old Castle Museum in Al Kamil. Drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, an oasis in the middle of the barren and dry mountains. In the distance, the high sand dunes of Al Sharqiyah will appear.

When we reach the desert, our off-road vehicles will turn turbo as they make their way through the desert – a guaranteed adventure. Our destination is Wahiba – the great Arabian Desert. Here we’ll visit a Bedouin house and family, take a camel ride, and a sand dune drive. We’ll arrive in time for a sunset photography session among the dunes. Once we check-in to our Safari Dunes Camp, we’ll enjoy a wonderful BBQ Dinner under the stars. (B, L, D)

Day 5 | Wahiba - Ibra - Birkat Al Mauz - Jabal Akhdar

We are up before sunrise to capture the sun rising over the dunes. After breakfast be begin our drive to Jabal Akhdar. Along the way we’ll stop at the desert town of Ibra where they experience a unique women-only market for Bedouins from the surrounding Sharqiya Sands. The Ladies Market in Ibra is a fairly recent innovation which opened in 1990 and is only open on Wednesday mornings. It is the only souk in Oman which lends itself totally to the needs of women. Lotions, cosmetics, powders, textiles, perfumes and henna are amongst some of the items available.

Our drive continues to the pretty village of Birkat Al Mauz, where we’ll enjoy a walk through the lush green date plantations. We proceed on to Wadi Al Madeen. From here a stretch of winding road leads us to Jabel Akhdar (6560 ft / 2000 m above sea level). Jebel Al Akhdar is famed for its terraced fruit orchards, planted along the slopes of mountains. Finally we come to the villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (a very old village) & Al Ain. We’ll have dinner and spend the night at the luxurious Alila Hotel, with stunning mountain views. (B)

Day 6 | Jabal Akhdar - Jabal Shams - Bait Al Safah

After breakfast we’ll drive to the village of Al Hamra. This wonderful village is located at the foot of the mountains, with its date plantations, ruined houses and inviting scenery. We’ll make a brief stop at Wadi Ghul, and then continue on to Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun), the tallest peak in Oman at a height of 9875 ft (3010 m). Jebel shams offers us spectacular views of the surroundings countryside and perfect for a panorama. It’s home to weavers of heavy woollen rugs, created in distinctive black, red and brown geometric designs. Along the way we’ll discover small villages hidden in the mountain ranges. And for those interested, we’ll enjoy an optional cliff walk to the abandoned village on the Jabal Shams Plateau. The tour allows for spectacular views of Wadi an Nakhar and Al Hamra.

Lunch will be at Bait Al Safah, home to the historic Palace of Jabrin, one of the most beautiful and interesting buildings in the city. It was originally built, not as a fort, but as a residential castle. Lastly, we’ll explore Bahla, a very impressive clay fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage site. By late afternoon we’ll return to our hotel for dinner. (B, L)

Day 7 | Jabal Shams - Nizwa - Misfah

After breakfast, we checkout and drive to the Friday Market of Nizwa, where locals sell and trade their camels, sheep, goats, donkeys, cattle, and all kinds of poultry. Nizwa was once one of the cultural, religious and economic centers of Oman, and is known for its copper and silver crafts. We’ll capture street photography and portraits at the local market, as well as the city and its impressive fortress tower. After lunch we’ll visit the powerful Nizwa Fort, and later drive to Misfah for the night. (B)

Day 8 | Misfat Al Abreein - Wadi Bani Awf - Mussanah

On our last full day, we are up early to catch the morning light in the alleyways of Misfat Al Abreen. After breakfast, we’ll drive to Mussanah via the famous Wadi Bani Awf, considered by many to be the most spectacular drive of any of Oman’s mountain drives. The sparkling white stones scattered about the ground are natural quartz. As we drive through this spectacular mountain range, we’ll be stopping along the way to capture photographs. A lush swathe of date palms, and a patchwork of terraced fields accentuate the scenic opportunities beyond its natural beauty. Surrounding us will be impressive mountains, all part of the Jebal Shams mountain range. From deep within these mountains emerge crystal streams of water that eventually feed the village’s two main falaj. These streams nurture the area’s lush heritage of date palm gardens and farms. The overflow ends up in the wadi that skirts the Bilad Sayt and meanders on for about 4.3 miles (7 km), cutting a deep swathe through the surrounding mountains.

Once we arrive in Mussanah, we’ll check into our hotel and take a much needed rest. In the evening we will celebrate our wonderful photo adventure with a “Farewell Dinner” fit for a Sultan. (B, D)

Day 9 | Mussanah - Muscat

On our last morning, we will enjoy a lovely breakfast, and review our past week’s photos. After we trade contact information we sadly bid you farewell. We will begin our transfer to Muscat Airport. If you are traveling on to our extended Dubai Photo Adventure, we will depart together. If not, we encourage you to extend your stay in the Middle East, or elsewhere and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

DUBAI 4 DAY ADD-ON

Day 1 | Bastakiya Historical District - Burj Khalifa

After our arrival and hotel check-in in Dubai, we will visit the Bastakiya Historical District where we will enjoy a late lunch. This historic district is located near Dubai Creek. Its narrow streets and wind towers provide old world charm in an otherwise space-age, super modern city. Visiting the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood is a great way to get acquainted with Dubai’s old way of life, as well as an introduction to this impressive city. Next we will visit Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building which soars over the city at an impressive 2,716 feet (828 meters) and boasts 200 stories. We will photograph Burj Khalifa as we walk through the gardens and fountains below. At sunset we will move to the top floor of a neighboring building to capture a breathtaking panoramic cityscape.

We end the evening with a wonderful “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite restaurants in Dubai. (D)

Day 2 | Burj Al Arab - Dubai Marina - Jumeirah Mosque - BoxPark

We begin our day with a sunrise shoot of Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious 7 star hotel. This iconic hotel sits on an artificial island 920 feet (280 meters) from Jumeirah beach and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. The shape of this unique structure is designed to mimic the sail of a ship, making it one of the most photographed buildings in Dubai. After breakfast we will take a stroll through Dubai Marina which is encircled by a magnificent collection of modern skyscrapers. Bring your wide and ultra-wide lens.

In the late afternoon we’ll visit Jumeirah Mosque. One of the most beautiful landmarks in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque is large enough to hold up to 1,200 worshippers. It’s grand size and fine details lend to some very impressive architectural photography. After sunset we will dine at BoxPark, a unique mall where shops and 20 cafés and restaurants are located in shipping container structures. At night these containers are colorfully lit, which makes for some wonderful night photography. The cool, hip, urban crowd can also lend to street photography opportunities. (B, D)

Day 3 | Desert Falconry Safari - Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

We begin our day very early with a sunrise pickup by Jeep, and head to the desert. Upon arrival we will meet with our Desert Falconry Expert who will be waiting for us with falcons, a hawk and owls. We will be given in-depth introductions on the ancient sport of falconry and techniques used in training and hunting with the falcons, as well as the opportunity to create great photographs. We’ll return to Dubai by the late morning.

After lunch we will visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, home to more than 500 flamingos and 20,000 birds of 67 species. Located in Dubai Creek, this saltwater wetland is dotted with lush mangroves and surrounded by salt and mudflats. This unique wetland of unspoiled nature is a dream come true for the photographers. Situated close to the city center, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal place to spot some rare species of birds amidst the natural beauty. A visit to Ras Al Khor offers a rare glimpse of the unseen Dubai which is vastly different from the glamorous side of Dubai.

In the afternoon we will relax back at our hotel, and in the evening we will enjoy a well deserved “Farewell Dinner”. (B, D)

Day 4 | Departure

On our last morning, we will enjoy a lovely breakfast and review our photos. After we trade contact information we sadly bid you farewell. We encourage you to extend your stay in the Middle East, or elsewhere and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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