Nizwa Heritage & Jebel Shams Canyon – Private Tour from Muscat
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Pick-up is available from your hotel or any location within the Muscat area.
Your journey begins with a visit to the historic Nizwa Fort and the bustling Nizwa Souq, followed by a stop at the charming Al Hamra village. From there, you'll head up to Jebel Shams, known as the Grand Canyon of Oman, where you’ll enjoy a scenic photo stop at the top (no hiking involved). After taking in the breathtaking mountain views, you’ll drive back to Muscat.
Please note: The Jebel Shams tour is the longest day trip in Oman, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country.
Available options
Nizwa Heritage & Jebel Shams Canyon – Private Tour from Muscat
Pickup included
What's included
Transportation 4WD Vehicle
Pick up and Drop off anywhere in Muscat area
Omani Tour Guide English Speaking
water
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up anywhere in Muscat area then drive from Muscat to nizwa will take around 2 hours
2
Stop 2
Nizwa Souq, a local marketplace that offers a variety of goods including jewelry, pottery, fish, and meats. The list goes on! After, we take off to Al Hamra to visit the village where we get to experience how the locals create a lifestyle in the older times. After this quick tour, we move on to Misfah al Abryeen, a truly pristine village that nestles at the base of Jebel Shams. Here you will get to see the large Falaj water system that supplies water to the nearby vegetation. There are numerous marked footpaths throughout the village that is recommended to take your time and explore.
3
Stop 3
We depart Muscat to Nizwa, the old capital of Oman. We pay a visit to the famous Nizwa Fortress. Today, the fort is a museum that showcases the history of the fort and surrounding area. Walking through the fortress you get to see amazing views of the ancient town and the nearby mountains. This impressive fortress was a base used in the military to hold off the hardest attacks and seiges.
4
Stop 4
From al hamra village you'll head up to Jebel Shams, known as the Grand Canyon of Oman, where you’ll enjoy a scenic photo stop at the top (no hiking involved). After taking in the breathtaking mountain views, you’ll drive back to Muscat.
Please note: The Jebel Shams tour is the longest day trip in Oman, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country.
5
We then drive to the Jebel Shams Mountain. Next, we will take you on a small tour in a small museum in the small ancient village of AL Hamra. The locals will show you the traditional Omani lifestyle in the village amongst other routines.
6
After the trip, enjoy a scenic drive back to Muscat, which takes approximately 3 hours.
What's not included
Lunch
Nizwa Fort Entrance Fees 5 OMR per person
All personal things
Available languages
Audio guide
AR
EN
Guide guide
AR
EN
Written guide
AR
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
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Tripadvisor
5.0
40 reviews
5★
40
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our guide/driver he will contact the clients with the signing board
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
