Nights and days: 8 days, 7 nights
Minimum Ages: 18+
Level: Medium-Difficult
Season: March-November
Inclusions: 4x4 transport, experienced Husaak guides, safety equipment, entry fees, meals mentioned, accommodation mentioned
Highlights:
· Traditional dhow cruise
· Muscat, historical city of Nizwa
· Jabreen Castle
· UNESCO Bahla Fort
· Misfat al Abriyeen
· Snake Canyon adventure
· Daymaniat Islands snorkeling/diving
· Sunset cocktails
· Jebel Shams Summit hiking and camping
Day 1:
Arrive in Muscat and get picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend some time in the hotel to rest and refresh before setting out for a sunset dhow cruise.
Embark on a stunning 2-hour sunset trip on an Omani traditional dhow, in which you will marvel at Muscat from an entirely different and magical perspective. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Oman’s coastline over the pristine waters of its capital area with breathtaking views of some of its landmarks.
Following this magical experience, you can either return to your hotel to dine in one of the in-house restaurants or get dropped at a restaurant of your choice around the city.
Taxis can be booked at the reception of the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2:
Have breakfast at your hotel and check out.
Get ready for a day of exciting adventures, starting off with a visit to the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where you'll be captivated by its iconic architectural beauty, shimmering marble floors, and the intricate Persian carpet that adorns its interior. This spiritual sanctuary sets a serene and inspiring tone for your day ahead.
From here, head towards the Royal Opera House, a masterpiece of Omani cultural elegance. Wander through this grand venue, where every detail reflects a blend of sophistication and artistry.
You will now begin your journey towards Nizwa, a city steeped in history and culture. Your first stop is the vibrant Nizwa Souq. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, offering traditional handicrafts, exquisite silver jewelry, and aromatic spices. Sample local delicacies, soak in the lively ambiance, and perhaps find the perfect souvenir to take home.
Savor lunch in the area.
Next, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the ancient Al Aqur Wall that encircles the old town of Nizwa, taking in magical views of the surrounding areas.
Take time to leisurely explore the alleyways of Nizwa along with its quaint cafes, art stores, and nooks. The area truly stands apart from anywhere else in Oman and perfectly reflects the rich history and culture of the country.
Check into your hotel for the night and have dinner at a restaurant of your choice at your own convenience.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3:
Have breakfast at your hotel and grab your day bags as you get ready for another exciting day of exploring. Your adventure begins at the iconic Nizwa Fort, a majestic 17th-century stronghold that once safeguarded this vital city along ancient trade routes. Its towering cylindrical battlements stand as a proud reminder of Oman’s glorious past. As you wander through its halls and corridors, imagine the fort in its heyday—protecting Nizwa's people and treasures, and serving as a symbol of power and resilience.
From here, you will head off to explore the magnificent Jabreen Castle, a palace unlike any other. Built during a time of peace by a ruler who valued art and science, Jabreen is often regarded as the most beautiful historic castle in Oman. Its graceful architecture and richly decorated rooms will leave you spellbound as you walk through a space once echoed with the footsteps of scholars and poets.
Next, you’ll pause for a photo stop at the impressive Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a monumental tribute to Omani ingenuity and resilience.
Your journey continues towards Misfat Al Abriyeen, a picturesque mountain village where ancient terraces and lush palm groves create a serene backdrop.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant in Al Hamra, where you can savor authentic Omani flavors.
As the day unfolds, journey up to Jebel Shams, the highest peak in Oman, where you’ll set up camp.
Gather around a campfire, sharing stories under the starlit sky as a fresh BBQ is prepared for you.
Savor dinner and relax before tucking in for the night.
Day 4:
Awake around 5 AM to the fresh mountain air and enjoy breakfast at the camp. Prepare for the exhilarating summit hike ahead by packing a day bag with essential gear and plenty of water.
Starting your ascent on rugged terrain, you’ll encounter stunning viewpoints that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Al Hajar mountain range. With every step, the thrill of reaching the summit builds, rewarding you with panoramic views that make the challenge worthwhile.
Pause for a refreshing packed lunch at the summit, surrounded by awe-inspiring vistas.
After soaking in the beauty of the mountains, begin your hike back to base camp, where you can relish the sense of accomplishment.
Savor dinner at camp and rest for the night.
Day 5:
Wake up to the crisp, cool mountain air and embrace the surrounding sights and sounds.Have breakfast at camp.
Today, you will embark on an unforgettable adventure through Snake Canyon, nestled within the stunning Wadi Bani Awf region.
Enjoy a scenic drive to the entrance of the canyon, where your epic journey begins.
Upon arrival, you’ll kit up and receive a safety briefing before diving into the adventure that awaits.
Snake Canyon offers a thrilling combination of canyoning, caving, and hiking, where you'll navigate through a narrow crack between towering mountains, carved by rushing water over millennia. The smooth, colorful rock walls provide the perfect setting for an exhilarating day.
Over the next 3–4 hours, explore this open-top canyon, where scrambling, sliding, and swimming are just part of the fun. Jump into crystal-clear turquoise pools and scramble through narrow gorges, guided by experienced professionals.
After completing your exciting canyoning journey, exit at the charming village of Zama, where you’ll be treated to a local lunch amidst the serene beauty of the village’s farms.
From here, head toward your campsite for the night. Arrive, set up camp, and soak in the tranquility as you enjoy a well-deserved rest after your action-packed adventure.
A fresh BBQ dinner will be prepared for you as you exchange thrilling stories and memories from the adventures of the day. When ready, tuck in for the night.
Day 6:
Enjoy breakfast amidst nature before loading up the vehicles and begin a scenic drive back to Muscat.
Arrive in the city and check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to rest and relax or explore the charming city on your own.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 7:
Have breakfast at the hotel.
Start your adventure with a short transfer to the marina for a breathtaking snorkeling tour to the Daymaniyat Islands. This group of nine pristine islands is renowned for vibrant coral reefs, colorful marine life, and graceful sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Since 1993, these islands have been a protected marine reserve, offering an untouched snorkeling paradise.
Enjoy a picnic lunch served on board.
Diving excursions are also available.
At 1:30 PM, return to the marina and get dropped back to your hotel.
You have the afternoon free to rest and relax before getting ready for your onward adventures.
You will first head towards the scenic Muttrah Corniche, soaking in the coastal charm and historic ambiance.
Capture unforgettable photos at the historic Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali, steeped in Oman’s rich history.
Continue to the bustling Muttrah Souq, where over two centuries of heritage come alive through vibrant textiles, antiques, and unique artifacts.
As the day draws to a close, indulge in sunset cocktails. Savor expertly crafted drinks while the sun paints the horizon, creating the perfect setting for a luxurious end to your day.
You can either dine back at your hotel or in one of the many restaurants around the city.
Taxis can be booked at the reception.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 8:
Wake up, have breakfast at your hotel, and pack your bags. All good things come to an end.
With phones full of pictures and a heart full of memories, get dropped to the airport for your departure back home.