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Highlights:
- Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
- Stop by the Royal Opera House for photos or an optional guided tour.
- Stroll along Mutrah Corniche and explore the traditional Mutrah Souq, known for spices, frankincense, and handicrafts.
- Visit Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of His Majesty, and admire the nearby Portuguese forts Jalali and Mirani.
- Optional visit to Bait Al Zubair Museum to understand Oman’s cultural heritage.
Overnight:
- Muscat
Highlights:
- Enjoy a scenic coastal drive along the eastern coast of Oman.
- Hike through Wadi Shab, a lush gorge with freshwater pools and a hidden cave waterfall.
- Visit the Bimmah Sinkhole, a stunning limestone crater filled with turquoise water.
- Continue to Ras Al Jinz, famous for nesting sea turtles.
- Optional nighttime turtle watching experience at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve (seasonal, typically June to November).
Overnight:
- Ras Al hadd or Sur
Highlights:
- Visit the traditional dhow shipyard in Sur to see craftsmen building wooden boats.
- Continue to Wadi Bani Khalid, a popular oasis known for its clear blue pools, palm trees, and gentle hiking paths.
- Enter the Wahiba Sands desert for a peaceful and scenic desert experience.
- Visit a Bedouin home for cultural exchange and enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
Overnight:
- Desert camp in Wahiba Sands.
Highlights:
- Visit the old village of Ibra with preserved watchtowers and mud-brick structures.
- Explore Jabrin Castle, renowned for its painted ceilings and intricate Islamic design.
- Stop by Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive history and architecture.
- Arrive in Nizwa, one of Oman’s most culturally rich cities.
Overnight:
- Nizwa
Highlights:
- Explore Nizwa Fort and its bustling traditional souq, famous for pottery, silverware, and Omani sweets.
- Visit Al Hamra, one of the oldest villages in Oman, with ancient mud-brick houses.
- Take a walk through the terraced village of Misfat Al Abriyeen, surrounded by date palms and falaj irrigation channels.
- Continue driving up to Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in Oman, offering stunning views of the Grand Canyon.
Overnight:
- Mountain lodge or eco-resort in Jebel Shams
Highlights:
- Set out on the Balcony Walk (W6 Trail), a moderately easy trail along the canyon rim, offering dramatic views over Wadi Nakhr, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.
- Reach the abandoned village of As Sab, a remote and scenic spot clinging to the cliffside.
- After the hike, begin the drive back to Muscat, with optional stops along the way for photographs or a final local meal.
🥾 Hiking Details – Balcony Walk (Jebel Shams):
- Trail: W6 – from Al Khitaym to As Sab and back
- Level: Moderate (not technical, but narrow paths)
- Distance: Approx. 7-8 km round trip
- Recommended gear: Comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, water, snacks
Overnight:
- Optional night in Muscat or transfer to the airport for departure
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