Oman Road Trip: Mountains, Fortresses and Desert Tour

Ringed by majestic mountains and the ocean, Muscat is an ancient port city that justly means ‘safe anchorage’. Check out 16th century Portuguese forts like Al Jalali and Mirani that perch on clifftops, while looking out on the bustling harbor below. Browse through Omani arts and artifacts at the Bait Al Zubair Museum where the country’s cultural heritage comes alive. The marble-built Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, on the other hand, is a modern marvel, topped by a 50-meter dome that dominates the city skyline. Spend lazy afternoons lounging on white sandy beaches or chasing sea turtles in picturesque lagoons just outside the city. Watch the last rays of the sun slant into exquisite gardens of the Royal Opera House and if possible, catch a show in this elegant arts complex. As the dusk spreads across the desert sky, the glittering lights of its shopping malls and restaurants invite you to sample Muscat’s bustling nightlife.

Explore the major attractions that Muscat city has to offer on an afternoon trip. Meet your local guide and chauffeur for the day at your hotel lobby and drive to the Grand Mosque. Take some memorable photographs of the structure from the outside, especially when it is lit up in the evening. Drive on to the old town of Muscat to visit the popular Corniche, which stands near the old souk and the main port of Oman. Walk through the colorful souk and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this traditional marketplace that is laden with spices, ornaments, foods, apparel, handicrafts and more. Enjoy the bustle and the pretty lighting that brings the souk alive after dark. Then, head to the waterfront and see the twinkling lights of the ships and vessels at the harbor. Look for His Majesty the Sultan’s personal yacht. Leave the harbor behind and visit the famous Bait Al Zubair Museum. Browse the exhibits on traditional Omani culture and heritage to get a better understanding of the country’s people and their lives. Then stop at the Sultan’s Palace, guarded on both sides by the medieval forts, Jalali and Mirani, which were originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th-century. Drive back to your hotel and pass the old town of Muscat. (Duration: half day; Time: 1600 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Please wear comfortable shoes; In the afternoon Tour the Grand Mosque will only be visited from outside. Grand Mosque & Museum visit not available on Fri & public holidays; Best time to travel: Oct-Mar)

Sur, the capital city of Ash-Sharqiyyah South Governorate, is located along the coast of the Gulf of Oman. This ancient port city makes for a pretty picture with the azure sea on one side and the majestic Hajar Mountains in the backdrop. Once a hub of dhow-building, the city is now a popular tourist destination given its sandy beaches and bustling souqs. Ancient forts, a lighthouse, and a splendid corniche add to the charm of the place. With a modest selection of cafes and restaurants, it’s easy to soak up the local vibe while savoring authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Exotic sweetmeats from cozy bakeries make for the perfect end to a delicious meal! The turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz and the attractions of Tiwi are just an hour’s drive away. Only a 45 minute drive away is Ras Al Jinz, with its dramatic cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches. Apart from the lure of its sun-drenched shorelines, the possibility of watching endangered sea turtles nesting up close is what draws visitors to the region. The turtle reserve here is a protected site and entry of visitors is restricted to escorted groups with a limited number of people. An ancient castle and a museum that underscores the love for turtles dating back decades are the main attractions in this laidback region. That apart, soaking in the sun on the picturesque beach and a refreshing dip in the waters of the Arabian Sea are must-do activities in Ras Al Jinz!

The Wahiba Sands is an undulating expanse of shimmering sand that seems to stretch endlessly along the eastern part of Oman. Situated in the Ash-Sharqiyyah region, the beautiful sand dunes promise you a desert experience like no other. Exciting off-road safaris in 4x4 vehicles across the shifting dunes guarantee an adrenaline rush. Guided walks across the soaring dunes and leisurely camel rides as the sun goes down make for cherished memories. Remote villages amid the arid landscape offer a glimpse into the traditional Bedouin way of life that is fast becoming a rarity. Overnight camping trips under the starry sky, be it in indulgent desert camps or in rustic tents, leave you with the experience of a lifetime. Those short on time can have just as much fun with a sumptuous picnic at one of the camps. Top it off with live cultural performances for the ultimate desert holiday!

Climb golden sand dunes and meet wandering Bedouins on this adventure in Oman. The Wahiba Sands, or Ramlat al-Wahiba, is a vast sand sea that covers 4,800 square miles in Eastern Oman. Here the dunes can rise over 400 feet and change color from pale gold at noon to a coppery orange when the sun starts to set. Set out in a 4x4 vehicle to cross the sands. Try your hand at sand boarding - surfing the dunes as if they were waves in the ocean - or simply shoot down the sides of the dunes on makeshift sliders. As you explore the landscape, you may come across Bedouin families that still live here. On the way back, stop at Wadi Bani Khalid Pools & Cave for a refreshing dip in the water. (Duration: full day; Self explore activity; No guides; No transfers; Meals and entrance fees are not included; Fitness level: easy)

Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain at about 10,000 feet (3,000 m), is situated north of Al Hamra town. Set close to Jebel Akhdar, it offers stunning views of Wadi Ghul, also known as Oman’s Grand Canyon, as well as Al Nakhr canyon. The high altitude and cool climate make it a popular getaway with locals and tourists seeking to escape the desert heat. Hikes along the rugged terrain and rides in four-wheel drives top the list of popular outdoor pursuits here. Those looking for a complete experience could try camping overnight while picnics are ideal for visitors in a hurry. Day trips to Nizwa fort and remote villages in the area are perfect for a peek into local culture. Besides the sweet dates sourced from local plantations, the Jebel Shams region is known for its colorful rugs made of goat hair and natural dyes.

The former capital city of Oman, Nizwa continues to bustle with the commercial significance of an ancient trading center. Indeed it was to defend the city's position on a major trade route that Nizwa Fort, a castle marked by an imposing cylindrical tower, was built in the 17th century. Learn more about the city’s past at historic sites like Bahla, Jabreen, and the ruins of Tanur. Past rugged highland routes, Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams make for truly spectacular views of the Al Hadar mountain range. Serenade the nature lover in you with a ramble through palm groves in the oasis and the lush environs of Falaj Daris Park. Spend a vibrant afternoon at the high-walled Nizwa Souk that pulsates with the sights, sounds, and aromas of local produce like hand-woven fabrics, pottery, and livestock but is best known for the Omani silver khanjar or traditional curved dagger.

Discover the old world charm of the ancient city of Nizwa at your own pace. Explore the majestic fort that sits perched above the heart of town. Enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings from vantage points within the citadel. Make your way to the bustling souk or market with its diverse collection of colorful wares. Browse the displays of handicrafts, pottery, and fresh produce among others. If you are in Nizwa on a Friday, then you could stop by the cattle market, where people from surrounding villages come to buy and sell domestic animals in an open space. One of the oldest cities in Oman, Nizwa is also home to plenty of mosques. You could capture stunning images of the mosques before turning back. (Duration: Half Day; Self-exploring Activity; No Guide & No Transfers; Entrance Fees and Meals are Not Included.)

Ringed by majestic mountains and the ocean, Muscat is an ancient port city that justly means ‘safe anchorage’. Check out 16th century Portuguese forts like Al Jalali and Mirani that perch on clifftops, while looking out on the bustling harbor below. Browse through Omani arts and artifacts at the Bait Al Zubair Museum where the country’s cultural heritage comes alive. The marble-built Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, on the other hand, is a modern marvel, topped by a 50-meter dome that dominates the city skyline. Spend lazy afternoons lounging on white sandy beaches or chasing sea turtles in picturesque lagoons just outside the city. Watch the last rays of the sun slant into exquisite gardens of the Royal Opera House and if possible, catch a show in this elegant arts complex. As the dusk spreads across the desert sky, the glittering lights of its shopping malls and restaurants invite you to sample Muscat’s bustling nightlife.

Set out to sea for an exciting snorkeling and dolphin-spotting session on this half day tour. Enjoy the feeling of being on the water as the sea breeze calms you. If you are lucky, you’ll get to spot the magnificent dolphins and whales of Oman. Then, get into your snorkeling gear and dive into the sea to view the colorful tropical fish. Marvel at the stunning coral on the sea bed, home to the rich ocean life. (Duration: 3 hrs; Shared Activity with Transfers; Included: Guide; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring your swimwear, sunglasses & hats; Don’t forget to bring your camera.)