Nizwa & picturesque foothills

In the morning meet with the driver at the hotel lobby and proceed on the tour.

First, we will visit the town of Nizwa, which was once the capital of Oman. Visit ancient Nizwa Fort whose history dates back to the 12th century. It was built by Sultan Bin Saif Yaruba, the first imam of the Yaruba Dynasty. The fort is famous for its massive circular cannon tower, antiques, and silver jewelry. When inside the fort, you’ll be thrilled to pass through its ancient doorways, narrow staircases and corridors, high-ceiling halls, and a maze of rooms. As Nizwa is a town that is surrounded by date palms, one can enjoy an amazing view of the entire town and its date plantation from the top of the tower. 

Next to the fort is Nizwa Souq. Here we will visit Fort 7 traditional market. The Nizwa Souq is among the largest of its kind in the country. Here you can find fish, meat, vegetables, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs which are sold in authentic old market halls that few places can boast. Especially interesting is the Friday cattle market. 

Lunch at the local restaurant.

After we will continue to the small village of Al Hamra. This venerable village at the foot of the Hajar Mountains is one of the oldest in Oman, and it is interesting for its well-preserved row of two- and three-storey mud-brick houses built in the Yemeni style. There are many abandoned houses in the upper parts of the village, which make for an atmospheric stroll, especially at sunset when the honey-colored buildings appear to melt into one. Walk in the oasis. 

On the way back we will make a stop near Tanuf city ruins.

Back to Muscat.