Exploring Wonderful Oman with Muscat & Nizwa | Itinerary

On the second day, your adventure kicks off with a visit to the splendid Grand Mosque, a true gem of Muscat. Please note that the Grand Mosque is not open on Fridays and other public holidays, so plan accordingly. This modern marvel, completed in 2001, seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate details, including the exquisite handmade carpets, dazzling chandeliers, and the breathtaking dome in the main prayer room. For visitors, both men and women, it's essential to dress respectfully. Ladies should ensure they are fully covered and carry a headscarf, while men are advised to wear trousers. Following this, we'll take a leisurely drive along the picturesque waterfront Corniche. Our next stop is the vibrant Muttrah Souq, where you can immerse yourself in the local colours and culture.

Our journey continues with a photo stop at the magnificent Al Alam Palace, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. It is flanked by the historic Portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali, dating back to the 16th century. This blend of old and new is a true testament to Oman's rich history and traditions.

To gain more insight into Oman's history, we'll visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits. After a day of discovery, we'll return to your hotel in Muscat, where you can relax and recharge for the night.

On this day, we'll take you away from your Muscat hotel to the Marina for an exciting marine expedition. We'll set sail on a boat in search of dolphins and whales. There's something truly exhilarating about beginning your day by observing wild dolphins in their natural habitat, and if you're particularly fortunate, you might even spot one of the many whale species that grace the waters just a stone's throw away from Muscat's rugged coastline.

While we can't guarantee a dolphin or whale sighting on every trip, we can assure you that the journey itself is a memorable experience. It's an opportunity to enrich your understanding of these magnificent marine creatures. After our sea adventure, we'll head back to the Marina and return to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. As the day turns to night, you'll settle in for another comfortable night at your Muscat hotel.

On the fourth day of the journey, you will set out on a thrilling expedition to Wahiba Sands, a mesmerising desert landscape. You will enjoy this adventure in 4WD vehicles, offering a scenic and rugged coastal route that promises breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, complemented by pristine white beaches.

Your journey will take you past the charming fishing village of Quriyat, and as you follow the path inland, keep your eyes peeled for the chance to spot flamingos and eagles near an enchanting stream. You will make a stop at the picturesque Wadi Arabayeen, where you'll find inviting pools of water nestled among the date palms, creating a captivating oasis.

Next on our itinerary is the remarkable Bimah sinkhole, a natural limestone crater with stunning blue-green waters at the bottom. If we're fortunate enough to have clear, sunny weather, you might even spot sharks gliding through the deep blue ocean or graceful gazelles darting across the landscape as we drive along the coast.

As you reach the coastal town of Sur, you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional dhow factory, immersing ourselves in the rich maritime heritage of the region. Continuing your journey, you will wind through mountainous terrain, treating us to breathtaking vistas of the ocean.

Your adventure culminates as you arrive at the vast expanse of Wahiba Sands, a sea of red and white sand dunes that can reach impressive heights of up to 200 metres (about half the height of the Empire State Building). This pristine desert is not only a sight to behold but also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes offer a paradise for photographers, and you'll get to experience the exhilarating sensation of riding a roller coaster as you traverse these sandy peaks. To round off the day, you will relish a delightful dinner and spend the night at the Arabian Oryx Camp, surrounded by the enchanting desert landscape.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at our camp in Wahiba Sands. This vast desert is not just a land of golden dunes; it's also home to the traditional Bedouin tribe, known for their warm hospitality and deep knowledge of the desert. Today, we have the unique opportunity to visit a Bedouin family in their traditional and humble habitat.

Leaving behind the stark simplicity of the desert, our journey takes us to Wadi Bani Khalid. Nestled in the mountains, this wadi is dotted with charming, small villages, each offering a picturesque glimpse of Omani life. The wadi's crystal-clear, deep blue waters beckon us for a refreshing swim, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

The next destination is Al Jebel Al Akhdar, which is renowned for its breathtaking fruit orchards, carefully cultivated in terraces along the mountain slopes. Natural springs and aflaj (irrigation systems) bless the region, making it a lush oasis in the rocky landscape. As we explore, we'll come across charming villages like Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of old houses), Village Roose, and Al Ain, each offering a unique glimpse into the local way of life. The villages perch on the mountain slopes, providing incredible vistas of dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and winding wadis.

If you happen to visit Jabal Al Akhdar in March or April, you'll be treated to the fragrant bloom of the local roses, filling the air with their sweet scent. The villagers distil rose water in their homes, a tradition that has been passed down through generations.

For this part of the journey, it's advisable to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing, along with sturdy walking shoes. We'll spend the night at the Sama Jabal Akhdar Hotel, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. (B for Breakfast)

Start the day with a delightful breakfast and bid farewell to Jabal Akhdar and you will make your way to Nizwa, the historical capital of the interior and the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa is known for its rich heritage, and the first stop here will be the iconic Round Tower Fort, built back in the 17th century. Although we won't enter, it's a great spot for a photo stop.

The Nizwa Souq is another highlight, famous for its bustling Friday cattle auctions and its exquisite hand carved "Khanjars" (traditional daggers) and ornamental silver jewellery. After exploring Nizwa, we'll head to the Muscat International Airport, where our memorable journey comes to an end