Tired of the usual weekends at home watching TV on your couch?
In the mood for something unique and exciting destination for a weekend getaway?
Then look no further than Oman!
This beautiful country is full of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating culture, and friendly locals. Everything you're looking for when you want a perfect place to recharge and explore.
So pack your bags and go for a weekend adventure! We’ve got 3 awesome suggestions you won’t want to miss out on.
Option A: “Treasures of Oman: Muscat, Nizwa, and Beyond”
Day 1
We'll start by meeting our tour guide at Muscat international airport in the morning. From there, we'll embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Muscat.
First stop: the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Here, you'll see the building's intricate architecture and learn a bit about Islam. Next on the list is the Royal Opera House. This modern cultural center is where you can watch some of the best-performing arts in Oman. After that, we'll visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum for a history and culture tour.
And then we'll explore the local bazaar: the “Muttrah” historic souk. It's the perfect time to shop for early souvenirs or some spices or textiles if you're interested. We'll end the day by viewing 16th-century castles, Al-Mirani and Al-Jelani, just before we head back to our hotel for the night.
Day 2
After a good night's rest, we'll start our adventure early in the morning. On our 2nd day, we'll be heading to the capital of Oman culture, Nizwa.
Our first stop will be the famous “Nizwa Souq.” Like the souk on the first day, this is another bustling bazaar where you can shop for almost anything. From fish, meat, vegetables, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs, there's something for everyone here!
Next, we'll explore the magnificent Nizwa Fortress. Once the seat of power for the ruling Imams of Oman, it's now a museum housing Omani heritage and culture. It's a 17th-century castle surrounded by walls that stood the test of time.
Next is... LUNCH!
After lunch, we'll drive to “Al Hamra” village where we'll discover the famous stone houses of “Misfat Al Abriyeen.” This is also where Oman's ancient water supply system can be found: the Falaj water network. We'll then make our way up to “Jebel Shams” Mountain. This will be a memorable hike as we're going to one of Oman's most famous landscapes. The view at the top will reveal “Wadi Nakhr,” also known as the Grand Canyon of Oman.
As the day comes to an end, we'll return to Nizwa, where we'll spend the night at our hotel.
Day 3
On our final day, we'll start with a delicious breakfast before driving back to Muscat.
Along the way, we'll stop by “Wadi Bani Awf” and several small villages where you'll get to see the beauty of steep mountain cliffs. Our next stop will be the magnificent 350-year-old fortress of “Nakhl” in “Nakhal” city. Here, you can learn about the history of Oman's many forts and their importance in the country's defence.
After all those, we'll be heading back to the airport for our departure. It may mark the end of our incredible journey through Oman but you know there's much more to explore.
Option B: “3-Day Natural Wonders Tour”
If you think the previous tour was a bit limiting to historical tours, don't worry because we got you covered. Let's introduce some nature to your visit! Welcome to Salalah, Oman!
Day 1
We'll begin our adventure with a day full of sightseeing and visiting some of the most impressive sites in the area. First up, we'll head to the stunning Sultan Qaboos Mosque just like the first one. Though this time, let's head next to the Frankincense Land Museum! Learn about the fascinating history of the region's most famous export: Frankincense. Next, we'll explore the Salalah Souk, also known as the "Al Hafa" old market.
And that's day one!
Day 2
The next day, let's start early with a visit to the old fishing village of Taqah. Here, we'll see traditional Dhofari houses and sample some dried sardines.
Afterwards, we'll visit the historic Castle of Taqah which is in the same fishing village. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the palace of the Queen of Sheba. Then we'll head to the stunning Wadi Darbat in the mountains of Qara. It's the perfect place for camel and cow watching!
After a hearty lunch, prepare for a jam-packed tour of the picturesque landscapes of Jabali village, followed by the ancient tomb of the prophet Job, and see the Frankincense trees before enjoying the beautiful Al-Mughsail beach and exploring the Marneef cave.
It's a dense tour for day 2 so prepare ahead!
Day 3
On our short final day, grab some breakfast before transferring to the airport for your departing flight. You can still enjoy the sights nearby before boarding your flight.
Option C: “Salalah Express Tour”
Was the last two tour suggestions too lengthy for you? Or you don't have enough off days to enjoy it? That's not a problem!
We have just the tour for you. A tour you can get even on a whim. A short and sweet 2-day tour.
Day 1
Salalah is where we'll begin again. We'll follow the format of visiting the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, then the Frankincense land museum, and finally Salalah Souk. And for something different, take a trip to the coconut and palm farms and the Al Hosn Palace for a photo stop.
Day 2
This is where the meat of your tour will be.
Start with an early breakfast then head east to the old fishing village of Taqah. Same with the 2nd tour we suggested, visit the Castle of Taqah and Wadi Darbat.
After lunch, head west towards the Jabali villages. Then a visit to the tomb of the prophet Job, sightsee some Frankincense trees and enjoy the stunning Al-Mughsail beach. Its white sand meets deep blue ocean waters from the Indian Ocean. We'll end the day at the Marneef cave.
Sounds familiar? Of course, it is because it's identical to the previous tour. The only difference is you'll be heading back to the airport the same day.
A short and sweet tour it is.
Summary:
To experience the best of the country, be sure to check out our guide that covers the 13 must-visit places in Oman. These destinations offer a unique perspective on Oman's history, culture, and natural beauty.