DAY 1: Flight to Dubai
Arrival either in the evening of Day 1 or early morning on Day 2.
DAY 2: Transfer to Khasab – Start of Sea Kayaking
Morning transfer by minibus from Dubai to Khasab.
(Approx. 3h30 drive, depending on border crossing time between UAE and Oman).
Upon arrival in Khasab, we begin preparations for our kayaking expedition:
In the early afternoon, we load our kayaks and set off for our autonomous journey in Sham Bay.
We paddle along the rocky coastline for about 1 hour (3 km).
Our first camp is set up on a white sand beach. There’s still time for a swim before dinner.
Local dinner is provided.
In these warm countries, we offer the choice to sleep either in tents or directly on mats under the stars.
Kayaking time: approx. 1 hour
Distance paddled: approx. 3 km
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: B, L, D
DAY 3: Kayaking to Sibi Island
At sunrise, we take advantage of the morning calm to begin paddling.
Humsi is a rocky island that rises like a pillar at the entrance of Sham Bay. It’s often here that dolphins gather to hunt, or play in the waves created by passing Omani dhows.
At lunchtime, we look for a pleasant, shaded beach to enjoy a fresh salad buffet.
After lunch, free time for snorkeling. The crystal-clear, shallow waters reveal stunning coral gardens teeming with tropical fish.
In the afternoon, we continue paddling toward Sibi Island, gliding past coastal rock formations where Triassic-era fossils (Griphaea) can be seen.
We also learn how to fish by trolling — maybe we’ll catch something fresh for dinner?
We set up our camp at the far end of Sibi Island.
Kayaking time: approx. 5 hours
Distance paddled: approx. 17 km
Elevation gain: 0 m
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: B, L, D
DAY 4: Kayaking to Sham Island
At sunrise, we walk to the other side of the island to watch the sun rise over calm waters.
The first light of day casts red reflections on the mountains, mirrored perfectly on the sea surface.
We then cross the fjord by kayak and paddle along the coastline to the village of Sibi.
At the foot of ochre limestone cliffs, the shallow bay reveals a surprising underwater world — you might even spot a ray gliding beneath your kayak.
We land in the fishing village of Sibi and refill our water at the mosque, before continuing to our lunch site.
Here, we take a short hike up to a pass at 76 meters altitude. From the top, the panoramic view over Habbalayan Bay is breathtaking.
With luck, you might even spot small reef sharks basking in the shallow waters near the shore.
After lunch, we swim and snorkel among coral gardens before paddling to our next camp on Sham Island, which takes less than 2 hours.
Our camp is set up on a high point overlooking the bay with a stunning 180-degree view.
Enjoy one last swim before dinner.
If conditions allow, we’ll close the day with a night paddle around Sham Island — one of the most magical and memorable moments of the trip.
Hiking time: approx. 45 minutes
Kayaking time: approx. 4 hours
Distance paddled: approx. 13 km
Elevation gain: 76 m
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: B, L, D
DAY 5: Ascent of Sham Island’s Summit
We enjoy breakfast at sunrise, facing the mountains gradually lit by the morning light.
If the tide allows, we paddle into a sea cave before crossing the fjord.
As we exit the bay, we often meet humpback dolphins, fishing in groups.
We paddle another hour to a beach where we’ll set up camp.
This is one of the most stunning snorkeling spots of the trip, home to parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, and more.
In the afternoon, you’ll have two options:
The hike usually starts in early afternoon to reach the summit in time for sunset.
The trail begins steeply but soon becomes more gradual. Each pause is a chance to observe the unique flora and geology of the region.
At the summit, under the glowing red light of sunset, we enjoy a spectacular 360° view of the entire Musandam. On clear days, it’s even possible to see Iran.
We descend at dusk and spend the night on the beach.
Kayaking time: approx. 3 hours
Distance paddled: approx. 7 km
Hiking time: approx. 5 hours
Elevation gain: 800 m
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: B, L, D
DAY 6: Return to Khasab
We wake up slowly and take one last swim before crossing the fjord by kayak.
We land on a beach for lunch and some final sunbathing.
A short 30-minute paddle takes us back to Khasab port.
We help load the gear and return to our accommodation at Esra Apartment Hotel.
Dinner will be served at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Omani cuisine.
Kayaking time: approx. 2 hours
Distance paddled: approx. 7 km
Accommodation: Esra Apartment Hotel
Meals: B, L, D
DAY 7: Hiking in Wadi Qada — or Free Day / 4×4 Safari
Today, you have three activity options. Your guide will help you decide based on your preferences.
Option 1: Free day in Khasab
Some travelers may prefer a relaxing day: enjoy the hotel pool, visit the local museum, or simply rest after the kayak expedition.
A map of Khasab and a rental car will be available for those who want to explore the surroundings at their own pace.
Option 2: Hike through Wadi Qada Canyon
This hike is challenging and optional, as it involves some rocky terrain and narrow ledges. Good footing is required, and it is not suitable for people with vertigo.
A 20-minute transfer by minibus takes us to Wadi Tawi, where we begin our ascent.
We climb through a dramatic limestone canyon, eventually reaching a high plateau.
Along the way, your guide will explain the fascinating geology of the Musandam.
At the top, we arrive at Al Harat, a now-abandoned traditional mountain village.
Life here was once extremely harsh for the Shihuh tribes, who built intricate stone irrigation channels and walls to catch and store rare rainwater.
Though abandoned for years, some families have started returning to this ancestral land.
The descent follows a spectacular cliffside path — it’s over 2 meters wide and totally safe — offering sweeping aerial views of the region’s stark, rocky beauty.
The hike ends in Qada village, where we explore the lush palm groves fed by abundant spring water — a striking contrast to the arid mountains.
Hiking time: approx. 5 hours
Elevation gain: 420 m
Accommodation: Esra Apartment Hotel
Meals: B, L, D
Option 3: 4×4 Safari to Jebel Harim (The Mountain of Women)
This scenic drive takes you to the highest peaks of Musandam aboard a 4WD vehicle, accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.
The name “Mountain of Women” dates back to times of tribal conflict, when women sought refuge in these remote highlands.
The journey to the top takes just over an hour via a dirt road, offering breathtaking panoramas along the way.
At 1100 m, we stop in Sayah village, known for its terraced fields.
We continue to the summit at 1600 m, where we take in sweeping views of the Musandam Peninsula — a perfect photo opportunity.
Your guide will point out fossils of fish, trilobites, and shells, embedded in the exposed Cretaceous limestone — dating back over 100 million years.
The excursion lasts 3 to 4 hours.
Cost: 50–60 OMR per vehicle (to be shared among participants)
In the evening, we gather for a barbecue in the garden, followed by a film screening about Dubai’s history.
DAY 8: Transfer to Dubai – Cultural & Modern City Tour – Return Flight
In the morning, we board our minibus for the drive back to the dazzling metropolis of Dubai — the city of superlatives.
We begin with a tour of historic Dubai, where we learn how this small fishing port became a global crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe.
We wander through the colorful spice souks, breathe in exotic aromas, and stroll the bustling narrow lanes of the old merchant quarters.
At the harbor, traditional wooden dhows still unload goods by hand, just as they have for centuries.
We cross Dubai Creek in a traditional Abra boat and stop for lunch on a terrace overlooking the water.
In the afternoon, we dive into the futuristic side of the city — the Dubai of the 2000s, full of extravagant skyscrapers and architectural marvels.
We pass iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab (7-star hotel) and the incredible Palm Jumeirah island with its mythical Atlantis Hotel.
In the evening, we visit the Dubai Mall and its giant aquarium, before gathering for a farewell dinner at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
Transfer to the airport follows later in the evening.
Walking time: approx. 1 hour in Dubai
Accommodation: None (night flight)
Meals: B, L, D
Transfers: approx. 180 km to Dubai + 90 km during city tour
DAY 9: Flight – Return to Europe
International return flight.
You’ll arrive back home with unforgettable memories of Musandam’s fjords, coral gardens, and Dubai’s modern marvels.
Note: This itinerary is provided as a guideline only and may be modified depending on weather or sea conditions.
1 / What’s Included
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All transfers and transportation as described in the itinerary
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Full board during the stay in Oman (except meals in Dubai)
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Accommodation in double rooms in hotel and double occupancy in tents
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The services of a French-speaking guide, specialist of the destination
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Camping gear (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag) and cooking equipment
2 / Not Included
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International roundtrip flight Europe–Dubai (departures from other cities may be possible with supplement)
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Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
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Oman visa fees and UAE exit taxes (approx. €20)
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Personal expenses: drinks during meals, phone, tips, etc.
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Optional insurance: trip cancellation, repatriation, travel risks (offered upon registration)
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Transportation to/from your home to the airport
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Single hotel supplement (on request)
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Extra nights in Dubai before or after the tour (on request)
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Additional expenses due to changes or cancellations of international flights beyond our control (accommodation, meals, transfers, etc.)
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Meals in Dubai (approx. €50)
3 / Group Size
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Groups from 6 to 14 participants
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2 people per kayak
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Departure is guaranteed from 6 participants
If the group is smaller, the trip may be cancelled by 80 Jours Voyages.
4 / Activity Level
Easy, but active. Expect multiple activities each day.
Weather can be unpredictable, especially during the heart of winter.
The coastline is sometimes steep and does not always allow for easy landings, which means we may kayak for up to 3 hours without breaks.
No previous kayaking experience is required, but knowing how to swim is essential.
5 / Daily Routine & Timing
Even in winter, the midday sun can be intense.
To enjoy the best light and cooler hours, we follow the rhythm of the sun:
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Wake-up: between 5:30 and 6:30 depending on the season
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Morning departure: around 8:30
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Mid-morning break: around 10:30, with time for a swim, followed by another hour of paddling before lunch
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Lunch is often followed by a short walk or rest
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Afternoon kayaking: from 3:00 to around 4:30 PM (depending on the stage)
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Total activity per day: 2 to 5 hours
Sunset: around 6:00 PM
Lights out: around 9:00 PM
Hiking
The terrain is rugged and there are no marked trails.
In some areas, we have carved basic footpaths into the mountainsides to ease the ascent.
While not technically difficult or vertigo-inducing, you should feel comfortable on uneven terrain.
On the Water
You’ll have time to enjoy snorkeling, fishing, or watching dolphins, reef sharks, and eagle rays near your kayak.
Your guide knows the coastline intimately and will help you find the most beautiful coral spots and wildlife areas.
6 / Flights
Flight schedules generally fall within the following time frame:
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Arrival in Dubai (Day 2): between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM
(Some flights may arrive around 10:00 PM on Day 1 depending on availability)
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Return from Dubai (Day 9): between 11:00 PM (Day 8) and 4:00 AM (Day 9)
7 / Accommodation
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In Khasab, accommodation is at Esra Apartment Hotel: a family-run residence offering twin rooms with two bathrooms per apartment.
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Pool access is available.
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During the expedition: nights are spent in tents, or under the stars (optional), with mats and tents provided.
8 / Meals & Alcohol
Meals are mostly made with fresh products and supplemented with the catch of the day.
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Lunch is served buffet-style with fresh salad ingredients.
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Dinner is a hot meal prepared on site.
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Alcohol is not prohibited in Oman, but it is not available for purchase locally.
Bring your own in plastic containers if you wish to enjoy a drink.
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We also invite you to bring a local specialty from your region to share with the group!
9 / Tour Leadership
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