Fragrance of Muscat

Day 1: Muscat City Tour

Itinerary:

• Pick-up time: 8:00 AM.
• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: The tour begins with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, and the only mosque in Oman open to non-Muslims and expatriates.
• Muttrah Corniche and Souq: After the mosque, drive along the picturesque Muttrah Corniche, and visit the Muttrah Souq, a traditional Arab market under modern timber roofing. Here you can shop for Omani specialties like frankincense, Omani daggers, silver handicrafts, and scarves. Your guide will assist you in bargaining to get the best prices.
• Mina Al Sultan Qaboos Port: Take a moment along the corniche to admire the various cruise ships at the Mina Al Sultan Qaboos Port.
• Bait Al Zubair Museum: Visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum, which offers rich insight into Oman’s culture, traditions, and heritage.
• Al Alam Palace: Take a photo stop at the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, Al Alam Palace, flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali.
• Viewpoint of Gulf of Oman: Proceed to the Qantab region for a majestic viewpoint of the Gulf of Oman for a memorable photo stop.
• Return to Hotel: Head back to the hotel to relax after a day of exploration.

Day 2: Nizwa, Jabrin, and Bahla

Itinerary:

• Pick-up time: 8:30 AM.
• Nizwa Fort: You will be transported to Nizwa, the cultural capital of Oman. Start by visiting Nizwa Fort, known for its massive circular cannon tower, one of the most impressive forts in Oman. The fort offers great insight into Oman’s history and military architecture.
• Nizwa Souq: Next, visit the traditional Nizwa Souq, where you can experience the Friday cattle market, when locals from nearby villages sell donkeys, goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens. After exploring the souq, you’ll have the chance to shop for traditional Omani items.
• Jabreen Palace: Continue to Jabreen Palace, a stunning castle with beautiful hand-painted ceilings and intricately carved door frames, offering a glimpse into Oman's medieval architecture.
• Bahla Fort: The final stop is Bahla Fort, one of four historic fortresses situated at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands. Take a moment to capture the fort’s grandeur with a photo.
• Lunch: Lunch will be served en route during the journey.
• Return to Muscat: After visiting Bahla Fort, you’ll travel back to Muscat, concluding your tour.

Inclusions:

• 1-night accommodation at Jebel Shams Resort or similar.
• 2 days of lunch and 1-night dinner.
• English-speaking guide/driver.
• Daily bottle of mineral water per person.
• All entrance fees.

Exclusions:

• Airfare.
• Visa charges.
• Meals other than those specified in the itinerary.
• Personal expenses.
• Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.

Additional Notes:

• This tour is available on a request basis and can start any day of the week.
• In case accommodation as per the program is unavailable, you will be given the option to operate the tour in reverse.
• Museum and fort visits are subject to change without notice. Museums are usually closed on Fridays, and some forts may be temporarily closed for renovations.
• The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat can only be visited between 08:00 AM – 11:00 AM from Saturdays to Thursdays, and is closed on Fridays and public holidays.