8-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Muscat

  1. Day 1: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
    20 minutes (14.1 km) from Muscat International Airport

    Explore the biggest mosque in Oman and see its grand architecture. Remember to dress appropriately.

  2. Day 2: Bimmah Sinkhole
    1 hour 40 minutes (113 km) from Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

    Swim in crystal-clear waters of a limestone sinkhole, surrounded by greenery, and picnic under shady trees.

  3. Day 3: Muttrah Souq
    30 minutes (16.4 km) from Bimmah Sinkhole

    Get lost in narrow alleys of a traditional Arab market and buy souvenirs, spices, and textiles while practicing your haggling skills.

  4. Day 4: Al Mouj Beach
    20 minutes (13.7 km) from Muttrah Souq

    Spend a relaxed day at a white-sand beach with turquoise water and enjoy various water sports, sunbathing, and dining options.

  5. Day 5: Royal Opera House Muscat
    15 minutes (9.5 km) from Al Mouj Beach

    Attend a world-class theatre performance or simply admire the marvelous architecture of this iconic landmark of Muscat.

  6. Day 6: Wadi Shab
    1 hour 30 minutes (131 km) from Royal Opera House Muscat

    Embark on a hike to a waterfall hidden in a canyon and take a refreshing swim in emerald pools. Wear appropriate shoes for trekking and bring plenty of water.

  7. Day 7: Al Hoota Cave
    3 hours (230 km) from Wadi Shab

    Explore an underground wonderland of stalagmites and stalactites on a guided tour through million-year-old caves with bats and blind fish.

  8. Day 8: Muscat City Tour
    2 hours (32.6 km) from Al Hoota Cave

    Visit the highlights of Muscat, such as the Sultan's Palace, the National Museum, and the Corniche, and savor its unique charm.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Bimmah Sinkhole (2 hours, free)
  • Muttrah Souq (2 hours, varies)
  • Al Mouj Beach (4 hours, varies)
  • Royal Opera House Muscat (2 hours, varies)
  • Wadi Shab (5 hours, free)
  • Al Hoota Cave (2 hours, OMR 7 adults, OMR 3 children)
  • Muscat City Tour (4 hours, varies)
  • Total Estimated Costs: OMR 20 adults, OMR 11 children

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a dolphin-watching boat tour at Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, hiking to Jebel Akhdar for sunset views, or trying authentic Omani cuisine at Kargeen Restaurant. If you have less time, skip Al Hoota Cave and spend more time exploring Muscat, or choose either Bimmah Sinkhole or Wadi Shab for a half-day trip. Remember to check up-to-date information on opening times and COVID-19 restrictions.

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