Nizwa and Jabal Shams The Grand Canyon Private Full Day Tour

Muscat , Oman

Nizwa and Jabal Shams The Grand Canyon Private Full Day Tour

Active

9h - 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

You'll spend a day exploring some of Oman's history and culture, Nizwa was the capital of Oman 500 years ago, and it was the capital of Islamic culture in 2015, we'll take you on a tour between the ancient market of Nizwa, next to Nizwa Market is Nizwa fort and castle the fort its been build in 1649 and the castle been build in 888, the fort is a museum today.
From there we drove up to Jabal Shams (The Grand Canyon of Oman) 3009 Meters, offering an exciting off-road experience and fantastic view.

Available options

Nizwa and Jabal Shams The Grand Canyon Private Full Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up & drop off

Taxes

Bottled water

Transportation by Air-Conditioned vehicle 4WD

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts in the morning we'll leave Muscat towards Nizwa. Nizwa was the capital of Oman during Al Yaruba Dynasty, we’ll visit the famous Nizwa Souq, a wide variety of vendors offering their goods in the streets of the souk from, here you can find, vegetables, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts Omani sweets (Halwa) dates, spice, and souvenirs which are sold in authentic old market halls that few places can boast. Especially interesting is the Friday cattle market when the locals come to sell their, goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens in a circus style open marketplace.

Stop 2

Next to the Souq is the Nizwa fort and castle the fort been built in 1649 and the castle has been built-in 888. The fort is a museum today and offers splendid views of this ancient town and the surrounding mountains, you can walk around in this impressive fort and castle with many passages rooms, the fort is an architectural testimony to the economic and military achievements of the early Yaruba dynasty from the mid-17th century. It was a military stronghold designed to withstand even the strongest of attacks at the time even along the corridors, many traps were laid to deter any intruders that might have penetrated the defenses.

Then we drive towards Jabal Shams Mountain (Grand Canyon) This mountain road drives up to the Jebel Shams 3009 meters this mountain is one of the most adventurous Mountains in Oman, offering existing off-road experience and fantastic views, you reach canyon view which is 2000 meters stop there and enjoy the view and photo.
From Jabal hams we drive back to Muscat

What's not included

Nizwa Fort entry fees

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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

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