Rhapsody Shore & Land Excursions > Salalah - Oman > Frankincense Trail

Frankincense Trail

Dhofar, the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman was known for centuries for its production of frankincense.

Immortalized by one of the three Magi when it was presented as a gift to the newly born Christ, frankincense, an exotic tree resin with a sweet intoxicating smell is used today in places of worship in praise of the divine.

Once traded as a commodity more precious than gold Dhofar's harvest was considered the best in the world.

Now days the remaining trees are found deep in the mountains inaccessible by coach.

Drive on a road winding up a steep incline where herds of camels and cattle can be seen grazing to reach the tomb of Prophet Job.

According to legend, the remains of the Old Testament’s prophet are found here. The place is sacred to Moslems, Christians and Jews alike.

Visit the tomb and enjoy panoramic views of the striking Qara mountains. Continue to Mughsail with its white sands stretching for almost three kilometers creating a beautiful and unspoilt beach.

At the far end of the beach titanic blowholes spew seawater thirty feet high into the air during high tide.

Driving towards Yemen the" hairpin bend" road flanked by sheer white cliffs on either side affords views of deep valleys down below dotted with frankincense trees.

Take a scenic walk to see a frankincense tree up close and smell the 'Holy Incense" before returning to the ship.

 

Special Notes:
Comfortable non slippery shoes recommended.

No shorts, beachwear or sleeveless outfits on the excursion.

Ladies must cover their heads with a scarf when visiting Job’s Tomb.

Toilets available at Job’s Tomb.

There are 34 steps to reach the blowholes at Mughsail Beach.

Path leading to blowholes is over a rocky uneven ground.

Short country walk on uneven rubble path to see a frankincense tree close up.

For assisted persons with limited walking but not wheelchair accessible

 

Tour Timings:

Tours begin at times suitable for the ship's arrival in port. The breakdown of the excursions is as follows:

00hr00 -> Excursion departs from Salalah Port

00hr00 -> 00hr30 Drive to Job’s Tomb
00hr30 -> 01hr00 Visit Tomb
01hr00 -> 01hr30 Drive to Mughsail
01hr30 -> 02hr00 Beach walk viewing blowholes
02hr00 -> 03hr00 Drive on “hairpin” road with a stop to see a frankincense tree
03hr00 -> 04hr00 Drive to the port

 

 

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