Whether an extended weekend, stopover or short city break, three days in Oman can deliver lasting memories and build anticipation for your next visit.
DAY 1
SUR
Located less than two hours from Muscat, Sur is a great place to visit thanks to its rich cultural heritage.Sur is home to the last remaining Dhow yard in Oman, where visitors have the unique chance to witness how traditional Dhows are made by hand.Close to the Dhow factory, the Sur Maritime Museum focusses on the city’s maritime history as trading and Dhow building centre.Travelling in the direction of the lagoon, visitors can see Al Ayjah and its lighthouse overlooking the sea.
DAY 2
ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS
Head towards Sharqiyah Sands and the town of Bidiyah, which is a great place to start a desert excursion.Local tour operators offer day-long excursion into the desert by 4WD vehicle or camel. Truly an unforgettable experience.
DAY 3
NIZWA
Home to Nizwa Fort and Souq – both of which are attractions in their own right.With its massive circular watchtower and interior living spaces, this is a great example of an Omani fortification. The fort is surrounded by a sprawling souq, where visitors can spend hours bargaining for local pottery, handicrafts and jewellery.The wadi and village of Tanuf is a 20-minute drive away from Nizwa Fort. Here you can explore old ruins and walk along the river before setting out for your return to Muscat.
DAY 1
DAYMANIYAT ISLANDS
The Daymaniyat Islands are a beautiful marine reserve off the coast of Muscat.There is nothing better than spending the day exploring coral reefs and watching turtle and colourful fish swim past in the azure waters of the islands. The island is also a host to migratory and indigenous birds.The islands are a great location for camping, with the peak camping season being from October to February.
DAY 2
ASH SHARQIYAH SANDS
Located about a three-hour drive from Muscat, the Sharqiyah Sands are a beautiful expanse of desert.This region in Oman is very popular for desert safaris, quad biking and more. What better way to explore the desert than on the back of a camel or in the comfort of a 4WD vehicle…End the day by setting up a campsite or booking a desert camp where a night under the glittering night sky is always a special experience.
DAY 3
JEBEL AL AKHDAR
As one of Oman’s highest points, Jebel Al Akhdar offers a day of fun exploration in a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula. Enjoy the cool climate up in the mountains.Jebel Al Akhdar has numerous hiking trails, some passing mountain villages, others through wadis and abandoned settlements which overlook a spectacular landscape of dramatic terrace, peaks, gorges and wadis.
DAY 1
BIG BUS CITY TOUR
Double decker busses are always fun, especially if they offer a hop-on- and hop-off service that stops at most Muscat landmarks. Stops include the Sultan’s Palace/The National Museum, Shatti Al Qurum close to Qurum Beach and other attractions.
DOLPHIN WATCHING
The afternoon can be spent watching dolphins frolic in the sea, followed by a beautiful sunset Dhow cruise starting from Marina Bandar Al Rowdah or Al Mouj Muscat.
DAY 2
MUSCAT TO KHASAB
A high-speed ferry travels from Muscat to Oman’s northernmost region – Musandam. Take the opportunity to sit back and relax. Alternatively, flights are available.
KHASAB
Once in Khasab, this port town is just the starting point for a number of fun-filled activities, including mountain biking in the surrounding mountains or a Dhow cruise.There is no better way to explore Musandam’s many fjords and attractions, such as Telegraph Island, than by boat, which also gives one the opportunity for dolphin watching, snorkelling and swimming.The coastal village of Kumzar is best reached by boat and has its own language – special permission is required to stop here.
DAY 3
KHASAB TO MUSCAT
Return to Muscat using the high-speed ferry or by air and relax on the way.Once you arrive, take the opportunity to visit Old Muscat, the area of Muttrah, where you can walk the picturesque corniche and purchase souvenirs from the traditional souq.
