Nizwa and Oman's Historical Gems Tour
Active
7h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Oman’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture with this group tour from Muscat, offering five unique options:
Option 1: Nizwa Friday Market & Al Hamra – Visit the traditional livestock market, Nizwa Fort, and the historic mudbrick village of Al Hamra.
Option 2: Nizwa, Bahla & Jabreen – Explore Nizwa Fort, the UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort, and the beautifully decorated Jabreen Castle.
Option 3: Nizwa & Oman Across Ages Museum – Discover the past and future of Oman at Nizwa Fort and the award-winning interactive museum in Manah.
Option 4: Nizwa & Jebel Akhdar – Enjoy the cool mountain air as you visit Nizwa Fort, Birkat Al Mouz village, and the panoramic heights of Jebel Akhdar.
Option 5: Nizwa & Jebel Shams – Take in dramatic scenery with stops at Nizwa Fort, Al Hamra, and the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Oman at Jebel Shams.
All tours include pick-up/drop-off from Muscat, transport, and a professional guide.
Available options
Nizwa Friday Market & Al Hamra
Nizwa Friday Market & Al Hamra: Visit Nizwa’s vibrant Friday market and discover the charm of Al Hamra’s traditional village.<br/>Pickup included
Nizwa, Bahla, and Jabreen Tour
Nizwa, Bahla, and Jabreen Tour: Explore Nizwa Fort, Bahla’s UNESCO-listed heritage, and the historic Jabreen Castle.<br/>Pickup included
Nizwa and Across Ages Museum
Nizwa and Across Ages Museum : Discover Nizwa Fort’s history and experience Oman’s cultural evolution at the Oman Across Ages Museum.<br/>Pickup included
Nizwa, Jebel Akhdar Group Tour
Duration: 10 hours<br/>lunch included<br/>Nizwa, Jebel Akhdar Group Tour: Explore Oman's cultural & natural beauty on a group tour to Nizwa Fort and Souq, the village of Birkat Al Mouz, Jebel Akhdar.<br/>Pickup included
Nizwa & Jebel Shams Group Tour
Duration: 11 hours<br/>Nizwa & Jebel Shams Group Tour: Discover ancient forts, traditional markets, and breathtaking views of Oman’s Grand Canyon on this group tour. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Exploring the Nizwa Souq is one of the top things to do in Oman.
It is one of the oldest markets in the country and you will find fruit, meat, sweets, pottery, souvenirs and antiques...
There is a lot to discover as you stroll through in the middle of the locals.
Below is my guide to help you plan your visit.
2
Stop 2
The fort in Nizwa dates from the 17th century, during the Al Ya’rubi dynasty, and was built on top of the ruins of a 9th-century castle. The massive structure has been nicely restored, with many rooms set up to look as they did when the fort was in use; you'll see interesting historic tidbits offered in various displays in many rooms. Be sure to check out the prisoner room and read about the wartime use for the local dates, which were turned into a deadly weapon in the form of a cauldron of boiling date syrup. The views from the central tower are spectacular and worth the climb.
3
The Falaj Daris is the biggest falaj in Oman, and one of the five collectively listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2006. Nizwa’s former prosperity was due to its plethora of water supplies, with over 134 aflaj (plural for falaj) in the Nizwa wilayat (village). One hundred of these are still in use today.
4
This quirky museum is more open house than historical display. Three ladies accompany guests around their traditional house in the aged and crumbling village of Al Hamra. They demonstrate the culinary arts of juniper-oil production, Omani bread-making and coffee-bean grinding, and there's an opportunity for a photo shoot in traditional regional costume. Sitting cross-legged in the majlis (reception room), surrounded by photos of local sheikhs, sampling coffee and dates, and exchanging sign language with the ladies is an experience not to be missed.
5
The product duration includes transfer time between locations.
What's not included
Nizwa Fort Oman
Al Hamra
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.2
5 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Muscat
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and strategic location along the Gulf of Oman. With a unique blend of traditional Omani culture and modern development, Muscat offers visitors a mix of historic forts, luxurious resorts, and vibrant souks.
Top Attractions
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
One of the most stunning landmarks in Muscat, this mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Omani heritage.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free (guided tours may have a fee)
Mutrah Souq
A traditional market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The souq is a great place to experience Omani culture and haggle for bargains.
Market/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for goods
Royal Opera House Muscat
A world-class venue for opera, ballet, and other performing arts, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness of Oman.
Cultural/Entertainment
2-3 hours (depending on the performance)
Varies by event (moderate to expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shuwa
Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves.
Dinner
Not vegetarian
Harees
A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, often served during Ramadan.
Dinner
Not vegetarian
Halwa
A sweet dessert made from sugar, ghee, and spices, often served with tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wadi Shab
Dune bashing in the desert
Beach relaxation at Qurum Beach
Spa treatments at luxury resorts
Exploring Mutrah Souq
Visiting the Royal Opera House Muscat
Swimming in Bimmah Sinkhole
Boat tours in the Gulf of Oman
Best Time to Visit
November to March
The best time to visit Muscat is during the cooler months from November to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This period also sees the highest number of tourists.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, Urdu, Balochi
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Omani Rial (OMR)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Muscat is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and follow local customs and laws.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
- • Keep valuables secure
Getting there
By air
- Muscat International Airport • 30 km from city center
By bus
Muscat Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and connects key points in Muscat. However, it may not be as extensive as in other major cities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Mutrah
Al Khuwair
Shati Al Qurum
Day trips
Nizwa
160 km from Muscat • Full day
Nizwa is a historic city known for its fort, souq, and traditional Omani architecture.
Wadi Shab
90 km from Muscat • Full day
Wadi Shab is a stunning natural area with waterfalls, pools, and hiking trails.
Bimmah Sinkhole
120 km from Muscat • Half day
A natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and photography.
Festivals
Muscat Festival • January to February
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depends on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Explore Mutrah Souq in the evening when it's cooler and more lively
- Try traditional Omani coffee and dates at a local café
- Book a guided tour for day trips to learn more about the history and culture
- Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in the summer
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
