Muscat , Oman

Day Trip: Wadi Shab and Bimah Sinkhole

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this tour visit, Quriyat Village (Fish Market and Fort), Bimah Sinkhole, Trek in Wadi Shab and see the ruins of Bibi Miriams Tomb.

Available options

Day Trip: Wadi Shab and Bimah Sinkhole

What's included

Private tour

Professional guide

Bottled water

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Lunch

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

What you'll see

You will be picked up from the hotel for a journey down the coast. First of all you will stop at the fishing village of Qurayat and then proceed to Bimah Sinkhole, a geological feature and a scenic wonder. Further on is the white sandy beach of Mokhalla in Fins. From there it is a short drive to Wadi Shab that can be done as a day hike from Tiwi village. Needless to say, prepare to get very wet! The Wadi Shab hike takes about 2 hours before you hit reach the “end-point”.

Next and last, Visit the ruins of Bibi Miriam’s Tomb at Qalhat. As the only standing remains of the once thriving port city of Qalhat, Bibi Miriam’s Tomb is probably one of the most photographed ancient relics in Oman. Believed to have been built by Bahauddin Ayez, King of Hormuz in honour of his wife, it stands on the hill just outside the village of Qalhat. The rest of the port city, destroyed by the Portu-guese in the early 16th century, is gradually being reconstructed by an international team of archaeologists; if you visit between October and March you’ll be able to see them at work and ask questions first hand.

You will then return to Muscat.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

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