ANCIENT OMAN 2025

ANCIENT OMAN

A Photography Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable photography journey to Oman, where ancient traditions blend with breathtaking landscapes. From the stunning dunes of the Wahiba Sands to the rugged peaks of Jebel Shams, Oman offers diverse beauty at every turn. Capture the vibrant souks, golden sunsets over the Arabian Sea, and the timeless charm of Omani villages. Whether you're framing the intricate details of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque or waiting for the perfect light in the hidden wadis, Oman promises a portfolio-worthy adventure. Pack your camera and your curiosity—this is one trip you’ll want to focus on!

A Journey into the Heart of Arabia

Imagine… stepping into a bustling village souk, where the scent of frankincense drifts through the warm desert air, mingling with the vibrant colours of handwoven textiles and exotic spices. In this hidden corner of Oman, artisans continue traditions that have thrived for centuries, set against the fiery red backdrop of the desert sands.

 Picture… yourself photographing valleys of ancient date palms and terraced farms cradled within dramatic mountain ranges. The soft glow of the desert sun casts long shadows, creating a landscape both rugged and mystical. The air hums with history, as ancient trade routes wind through the mountains, carrying stories from distant lands.

 Feel.. the light and warmth of the sun each morning as you rise to capture the sun's play on craggy peaks and sprawling wadis. You’ll meet Bedouin tribes and village locals, who have lived in harmony with this arid land for generations, learning the rhythms of their daily lives. This is not the Oman of guidebooks—this is the untamed essence of the Arabian Peninsula.

Join renowned photographer Sharon Hickey on an extraordinary adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Ancient Oman. Discover the soul of its people, the beauty of its terrain, and the depth of its culture, all through the lens of your camera. With Sharon’s carefully crafted itinerary, designed to both inspire and thrill, you’ll embark on a journey of discovery while learning from a seasoned professional. Whether it's the vibrant street scenes or the tranquil deserts, Sharon will guide and support you in capturing a stunning portfolio that reflects the heart and spirit of this captivating country. 

OUR TRIP

Over 12 unforgettable days, we’ll journey into the soul of Oman. Eight days will immerse us in the rugged northern landscapes, where ancient fortresses guard mountain passes and time seems to stand still. We’ll explore villages abandoned by time and others perched on hillsides or rugged mountain tops.

 Next, we fly south to the coastal beauty of Salalah in the Central District, known for its UNESCO-listed treasures and coastal wonders. Salalah boasts sprawling white-sand beaches, majestic mosques, and ancient seafaring traditions. Explore its ancient streets, winding alleyways and labyrinthine souks, where exotic goods from across the Arabian Sea await, and let the charm of Omani life unfold around you.

 Beyond its migratory birds, sunken cities, towering mountains, and secluded wadis, Oman is a photographer’s paradise. Each frame captures the raw beauty of the land, whether it’s the sharp contrast of the golden dunes against the azure sky or the vibrant life that thrives in the ancient souks.

 Our southern journey culminates with a night camping in the 'Empty Quarter,' the world’s largest continuous sand desert, where the stories of ancient tribes and traders come alive under the desert sky.

HIGHLIGHTS

Oman: An Off-the-Beaten-Track Photography Itinerary

Discover Hidden Wadis :Explore lesser-known wadis like Wadi Shab or Wadi Bani Khalid. These lush,secluded valleys are perfect for capturing serene waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush oases far from the crowds.

Village Walks & Daily Life: Wander through traditional Omani villages, where you can photograph local residents going about their daily routines. The rustic architecture and authentic interactions offer a genuine glimpse into Omani culture.

Stunning Mountain Ranges: Visit Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” These dramatic landscapes provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography with panoramic views of towering cliffs and deep gorges.

Capture the Ancient Forts and Castles:  Oman is home to numerous ancient forts and castles, like Nizwa Fort and Bahla Fort, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These architectural marvels provide stunning photography opportunities with their intricate designs, towering walls, and dramatic shadows, offering a glimpse into Oman’s rich history and culture

Savor Local Food & Culture:  Enjoy the hospitality of Omani cuisine, experiencing local dishes like shuwa and halwa while capturing the essence of traditional meals, markets, and social gatherings.

Travel with a Photography Expert: Enhance your skills with a guide experienced in photography, ensuring you capture the  perfect shot at the right moment, whether   it's landscapes, portraits, or wildlife.

Wildlife Encounters: From camels to oryx, there are chances to photograph wildlife in its natural desert habitat, adding an adventurous touch to your portfolio.

Desert Landscapes & People: The sweeping sand dunes of Wahiba Sands or Empty Quarter provide incredible desert photography opportunities. Capture the timeless beauty  of the desert, alongside Bedouins and their traditional ways of life.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and dynamic photography moments that are truly off the beaten  track.

WORKSHOP FORMAT

DATE: 18 Nov - 29 Nov 2025

LOCATION: OMAN 

GROUP SIZE: 4 Min Max 8

PREREQUISITES: To join this workshop you should have the excitement of photography! This trip is for all levels of camera knowledge. For beginners its a perfect way to get experience and for amateurs/and experienced photographers we will be offering you our guidance and direction. Please email us if you have any questions at  info@theapertureclub.com.au.
 
TOUR INVESTMENT: $10500 per person (Deposit $2000 and full payment required 6 weeks prior to the tour.) If minimum quota is not reached your deposit or paid costs will be fully refunded. 

Please note we are running a 4 day add on tour to Abu Dharbi for those interested.

If you are we will arrange a group flight from Muscat to Abu Dharbi for you - this is an extra cost but quite inexpensive.

GETTING THERE

We start off our tour in Muscat on Tuesday 18 Nov 2025. This is an arrival day to relax and unwind depending on your flight arrival. We will meet for a briefing in the afternoon and  a welcome dinner at the hotel. If you wish to arrive a day earlier we can arrange this for you.

ACCOMMODATION:  After a day of shooting and processing, unwind in your own private room.  You will be staying in a motel or guest house and accomodation is very comfortable with your own bathroom amenities. In the desert areas we will be staying in a resort and in the Empty Quarter a Bedouin tent.

A TYPICAL DAY

Days  are long and relaxed.  On a typical day we will be up early for our early morning photo shoot then back to enjoy our breakfast and to chat about the day.  

Once we arrive at a location you will have plenty of time to arrange yourself, shoot, explore and receive individual guidance from your tutor.  If we have an early start we will eat breakfast before or return to the accomodation for breakfast.

We will then be on the road visiting sites and making our way to the next location.

Lunch will be out and about on route.

In the afternoon, feeling refreshed after our rest, we will wander out to experience the last rays of the golden hour.  We will return home under starry skies for dinner, evening discussions and valuable group critique sessions.

All of the shoots are optional and locations are open to discussion based on the conditions and the flow of our group.  Our itinerary will vary depending on the light and the group – when the light is perfect we might even pack our morning tea, afternoon tea and lunch and spend the whole day in the field.  

WALKING AND WEATHER

This is a gentle trip, which requires an average level of fitness.  There will be walking to and from some of the shooting locations, occasionally on uneven surfaces with steps and inclines.  If you have any doubts about your ability, please let us know so we can work with you and discuss this.. There is always an alternative. Good walking shoes is a must.

When you book you will receive a detailed packing list to help you plan for your trip. 

MEALS

Most of your meals will be supplied where indicated on the itinerary. 

If you have any dietary needs, please let us know in advance.

TRANSPORT

Included is all transport in the form of mini bus or similar and includes 1 return internal flight from Muscat to Salalah.

Everyone will need to make their way to the meeting point in Muscat. We are happy to help you with this if needed.

WHAT TO BRING

Tripod

Wet weather clothing

Travel and medical insurance + Ambulance cover for duration of tour

Day pack/camera pack

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• 11 nights accommodation
• Private room
• 12 days tuition and learning - Tour officially starts 18 Nov and finishes night of  29 Nov.
• All breakfasts, lunches and dinners where indicated. 
• Qualified, experienced guide and driver.
• One-on-one instruction and guidance by a professional photographer
• Plenty of time to shoot at each location. 
• Calm, relaxing atmosphere, encouraging engagement and connection with the landscape
• Participate in group lessons and critique sessions  so that you can apply new skills and techniques to your practice the next day
• Gain valuable insights into computer processing software that will make your photos sing
• Suitable for all levels from absolute beginners to professionals

NOT INCLUDED

• Miscellaneous drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Travel insurance (required). 
• Flights to and from Muscat
• Tips for driver and guide.