Muscat Travel Package Itinerary: Grand Mosque, Dolphin-Watching, and Jebel Akhdar

Commence the day with a hotel pickup and embark on a journey to witness the Grand Mosque, the crown jewel of Muscat's cityscape. Noteworthy is the fact that visits are not feasible on Fridays or other public holidays. Completed in 2001, the Grand Mosque stands as a magnificent testament to contemporary craftsmanship seamlessly interwoven with traditional aesthetics. Its modern exterior belies the preservation of age-old artisanal skills, creating a truly wondrous and evocative atmosphere. The mosque's interior is nothing short of captivating, with its intricately woven handmade carpets, resplendent chandeliers, and the awe-inspiring ceiling of the main prayer room, all of which are absolute must-see treasures. It is imperative to take note that, for the visit, ladies are kindly requested to be fully covered and carry a headscarf, while gentlemen should be attired in trousers.

Embark on a scenic drive along the waterfront Corniche, allowing for a visit to the vibrant Muttrah Souq. Subsequently, you will proceed to Al Alam Palace, a resplendent edifice that serves as the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, elegantly flanked by the Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali, dating back to the 16th century. Your journey continues with a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum, offering a captivating glimpse into the tapestry of Oman's rich history. Concluding your exploratory sojourn, you will return to the sanctuary of your hotel for an overnight stay.

Transfer from your Muscat abode to the Marina, where an enchanting maritime adventure awaits. You will set sail on a boat, embarking on an exhilarating quest to encounter the mesmerising world of dolphins and whales. Witnessing these wild dolphins in their natural habitat is an exhilarating way to commence your day, and for the fortunate few, a sighting of the diverse whale species that frequent the waters just a stone's throw from Muscat's rugged coastline is a possibility. While no guarantees can be made regarding sightings, the journey at sea promises an enriching experience, enhancing your knowledge of these captivating marine mammals.

After the maritime excursion, you will return to the Marina and then make your way back to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to savour at your leisure, allowing you the opportunity to explore the city's charms or indulge in the amenities offered by your hotel. As the day draws to a close, retire for a peaceful overnight stay at your Muscat haven.

We set forth to Nizwa, the interior's capital and the very cradle of Islam within the Sultanate of Oman. Nizwa takes pride in its illustrious Round Tower Fort, an architectural gem from the 17th century, which you will pause to admire through a photographic lens. The Souq in Nizwa is renowned not only for its bustling Friday cattle auction but also for the exquisitely hand carved "Khanjars" (traditional Omani daggers) and ornamental silver jewellery on display.

Your journey continues to Wadi Al Madeen, where you will encounter a checkpoint. From this point, a winding 36-kilometre stretch of road beckons, leading us to the verdant sanctuary of Jebel Akhdar, standing 2000 metres above sea level. This emerald jewel amidst the Al Hajjar mountain ranges is an absolute rarity within the Arabian Peninsula, offering a refreshing mountain climate that invites you to savour its natural beauty. Our evening unfolds at the Sama Jabal Akhdar Hotel for a serene overnight stay.

Al Jebel Al Akhdar is celebrated for its fruit orchards, meticulously terraced along the mountain slopes and nourished by natural springs and aflaj. As you traverse the landscape, you will encounter the picturesque villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib (the village of old houses), and village roose & Al Ain. These settlements offer breathtaking vistas of dramatic peaks, gorges, and wadis. The fragrance of the Jabal Al Akhdar roses fills the air when they are in full bloom, typically in March or April. Within the homes of these villagers, rose water is lovingly distilled, adding to the region's allure. To make the most of this excursion, it is advisable to don light, comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Your journey concludes with a drop-off at Muscat International Airport.