From Cost to Cost: 6 Days and 5 Nights

Day 1: Muscat, Barka Fish Market, Al Hazm Fort, Rustaq Fort, Sohar

Depart from Muscat and head north along the coast to Barka, a traditional fishing village where life remains deeply connected to the sea. Visit the local fish market, where fishermen bring in their daily catch, including shimmering tuna, kingfish and prawns, and auction them in a lively, authentic setting. A vivid glimpse into Oman’s maritime heritage.

Continue to Al Hazm Fort, one of the most distinctive and well-preserved forts in the country. Built in the early 18th century, it stands out for its unique architecture. No wooden ceiling beams, with roofs supported by stone columns, a rare design in Omani fortifications. The elegant courtyards and intricate ventilation system reflect both strength and sophistication.

Next, visit Rustaq Fort, one of the oldest and largest forts in Oman, with origins dating back over 4,000 years, long before the arrival of Islam. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it served as a royal residence and military stronghold, offering panoramic views of the surrounding oasis and mountains. Arrive in Sohar, an ancient port city once famed for its role in the incense trade and shipbuilding. Check in to your hotel and relax after a day rich in history and coastal culture. Overnight in Sohar. (Meals included: B, L, -)

Day 2: Sohar, Ibri, Bat, Al Ayn, Jabal Shams

After breakfast, journey southeast through the interior towards Ibri, crossing arid plains and traditional villages.

Arrive at Bat, Al Ayn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves some of the oldest man-made structures in the Arabian Peninsula. Here, you’ll find beehive tombs dating back to the 3rd millennium BCE. Circular dry-stone burial structures built over 5,000 years ago. These silent monuments offer a powerful connection to Oman’s prehistoric past.

From here, head into the rugged western Hajar Mountains with a scenic off-road drive towards Jabal Shams, the “Mountain of the Sun” and the highest peak in Oman, 3,009 meters. As you climb, the landscape transforms from desert to dramatic cliffs and deep wadis.

Arrive in the late afternoon and check in to your mountain accommodation. Overnight in Jabal Shams. (Meals included: B, L, -)

Day 3: Jabal Shams, Al Hamra, Misfat, Bahla, Jabreen, Nizwa

Begin the day with panoramic views from the edge of the “Grand Canyon of Oman”, a vast chasm carved by time and wind.

Descend into the heart of the Hajjar Mountains, stopping in Al Hamra, one of the oldest villages in the region, known for its traditional mud-brick houses and quiet charm.

Continue to Misfat Al Abriyeen, a picturesque village clinging to the mountainside. Walk through narrow alleys, past ancient Falaj irrigation channels, lush palm groves and homes carved into the rock. A living example of sustainable mountain life.

Next, visit Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most imposing mud-brick forts in Oman. Surrounded by a 12-kilometre wall, it was once the seat of the Nabhani dynasty and remains a symbol of Omani engineering and resilience.

Then, explore Jabreen Castle, often considered the most beautiful castle in the country. Built in 1675, it features exquisitely painted ceilings, ornate wooden grilles and a sophisticated ventilation system. It also served as a centre of Islamic learning.

Arrive in Nizwa, the cultural heart of Oman, in the late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening in this historic town. Overnight in Nizwa. (Meals included: B, L, -)

Day 4: Nizwa, Wahiba Sands

After breakfast, explore Nizwa Fort, a masterpiece of Omani military architecture. Climb its massive cylindrical tower, wander through underground tunnels and learn about its ingenious water cisterns.

Then, stroll through the Nizwa Souq, renowned for its handcrafted silver jewellery, khanjars, the traditional curved daggers of Oman, and local pottery. A perfect place to find a meaningful souvenir.

From Nizwa, journey eastward into the vast Wahiba Sands, a sea of golden dunes stretching over 180 km. As you enter the desert, the landscape transforms from rocky plains to towering dunes, some rising over 100 meters.

Arrive at your desert camp, nestled among the dunes. You’ll be welcomed with Omani coffee, Kahwah, and dates, a gesture of traditional Bedouin hospitality. As the sun sets, painting the sky in warm hues, enjoy dinner under a star-filled sky.

Overnight in a comfortable desert camp. (Meals included: B, L, D)

Day 5: Wahiba Sands, Wadi Bani Khalid, Sur

After a peaceful desert dawn, depart for Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most beautiful oases. Surrounded by palm trees and rugged mountains, this wadi features natural turquoise pools fed by underground springs. Perfect for a refreshing swim in the desert heat.

Continue along the coast to Sur, a historic port town once famed for its dhow shipbuilding. In the afternoon, relax at your hotel or explore the old town.

In the evening, visit a protected stretch of beach to observe green sea turtles in a conservation area. Depending on the season, from November to March, you may witness nesting turtles coming ashore. A rare and moving experience. Overnight in Sur.

(Meals included: B, L, -)

Day 6: Sur, Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, Muscat

Begin the day with a scenic drive to Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most iconic natural attractions. After a short hike through palm groves and rocky paths, reach the crystal-clear pools and waterfalls hidden deep within the valley. For the adventurous, a swim through a small cave leads to a hidden waterfall. A true highlight of any visit to Oman.

Next, stop at Bimmah Sinkhole, a stunning natural depression filled with vivid turquoise water, surrounded by limestone cliffs. A perfect spot for photos and a refreshing dip.

From here, return to Muscat, where your journey through the diverse landscapes of Oman comes to an end. (Meals included: B, - , -)

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Suggested Hotels:

Sohar: Mercure Sohar

Jabal Shams: Jabal Shams Resort or similar

Nizwa: InterCity, Heritage Inn, Al Diyar or similar

Wahiba: Desert Rose Camp or similar

Sur: Sur Plaza or similar