Epic Family Road Trip from Muscat to Sur: Castles, Mountains & Sands

Day 1: Arrival in Muscat

Muscat, Oman

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Urban House

Kickstart your journey with a hearty breakfast at The Urban House, known for its delicious pancakes and local coffee.
Located in the heart of Muscat, easily reachable by car.
OMR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Explore the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world, with stunning architecture that will inspire awe in the family.
Use a taxi for a quick ride, taking approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Angham Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Omani lunch at Al Angham, featuring local dishes in a beautiful setting.
A short drive from the mosque, around 10 minutes.
OMR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Mutrah Souq

Wander through the bustling Mutrah Souq, where you can find delightful souvenirs and local crafts.
Located close to the restaurant, about a 10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Al Falaj Hotel

Settle into the comfortable Al Falaj Hotel for a relaxing night.
A quick 15-minute drive from the souq.
OMR50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Bait Al Luban

Savor local Omani cuisine with dinner at Bait Al Luban, where traditional flavors create a memorable dining experience.
Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
OMR15, 2 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Nizwa

Nizwa, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a generous buffet breakfast at Al Falaj Hotel to fuel up for the drive ahead.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nizwa

Depart for Nizwa, a historic city known for its fort and souq.
Take Route 21, about a 1.5-hour drive.
OMR10 (fuel), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Nizwa Fort

Explore the iconic Nizwa Fort, which dates back to the 17th century and offers splendid views of the surrounding area.
Located in Nizwa city center, easily accessible.
OMR5, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Maisan Restaurant

Indulge in a meal at Al Maisan, famous for its Middle Eastern dishes and inviting atmosphere.
A short drive from the fort.
OMR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Nizwa Souq

Stroll through the vibrant Nizwa Souq, where you can shop for handicrafts and local produce.
Adjacent to the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel

Relax at the Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel, known for its family-friendly amenities.
A short 5-minute drive from the souq.
OMR60, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Al Makan Restaurant

Experience a delightful dinner featuring traditional Omani dishes that will tantalize the whole family’s taste buds.
Located within the hotel premises.
OMR12, 2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Jabreen Castle

Near Nizwa, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a filling breakfast at the hotel.
At Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Jabreen Castle

Journey to nearby Jabreen Castle, renowned for its exquisite architecture.
A scenic 30-minute drive.
OMR2 (fuel), 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Jabreen Castle

Explore the castle's fascinating history and beautiful art within its walls.
A short walk from the parking area.
OMR3, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Al Jabrin Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at Al Jabrin, a restaurant offering traditional Omani and international cuisine.
Close to the castle, about a 10-minute drive.
OMR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Jebel Shams

Depart to Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in Oman, perfect for stunning views.
Approximately a 1.5-hour scenic drive.
OMR10 (fuel), 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Jebel Shams Visit

Arrive at Jebel Shams and embark on a family-friendly hike along the Rim Walk for unforgettable views.
Access via a local road post the national park entrance.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Jebel Shams Resort

Unwind at the Jebel Shams Resort, which offers family accommodations and a unique mountain experience.
About 20 minutes drive from the hike start point.
OMR70, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at the Resort Restaurant

Rejuvenate with dinner at the resort’s restaurant, featuring a variety of local and international dishes.
Located within the resort.
OMR15, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Adventuring at Jebel Shams

Jebel Shams, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy breakfast at the beautiful Jebel Shams Resort with stunning mountain views.
At the resort.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Grand Canyon of Oman

Take a family-friendly hike with views of the Grand Canyon of Oman, known for its dramatic cliffs.
Access the hiking trail via the resort.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Drive down towards the village for lunch at a local eatery offering mountain specialties.
A 30-minute drive to the nearby village.
OMR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Ruins near Jebel Shams

Discover ancient ruins and traditional villages found on the mountain slopes, perfect for family exploration.
Around a 20-minute drive from the eatery.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Resort for Relaxation

Head back to the resort for some leisure time at the pool or terrace.
20-minute return drive.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Resort

Savor your last dinner at the Jebel Shams Resort with a cozy family ambiance.
Located at the resort.
OMR15, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Wahiba Sands Adventure

Wahiba Sands, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your exciting desert adventure.
At the resort.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Wahiba Sands

Depart for Wahiba Sands, famous for its stunning dunes.
A scenic 2-hour drive.
OMR10 (fuel), 2 hours

11:30AM

Camel Ride at Wahiba Sands

Experience a real desert adventure with a family-friendly camel ride into the dunes.
Arranged by local tour operators in the area.
OMR20 (for family), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Desert Camp

Enjoy a traditional Omani lunch at a desert camp, where you can relax in a true desert setting.
Organized as part of the camel ride tour.
Included, 1 hour

3:00PM

Sandboarding in the Dunes

Try out some exciting sandboarding for a thrilling family experience.
Equipment rental is available through local operators.
OMR15 (rental), 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at 1000 Nights Camp

After a fun desert day, check-in at 1000 Nights Camp for a unique desert camping experience.
A short drive within Wahiba Sands.
OMR60, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Camp

Savor a delicious BBQ dinner while stargazing in the magical desert night.
Included as part of your stay.
Included, 2 hours
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Day 6: Journey to Sur

Sur, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Camp

Enjoy a traditional breakfast at the camp before heading out to Sur.
At 1000 Nights Camp.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Sur

Depart towards Sur, famous for its coastal charm.
About a 2-hour drive.
OMR10 (fuel), 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Sur Plaza Hotel

Settle into Sur Plaza Hotel, which offers family accommodations with a lovely pool.
Located near Sur’s city center.
OMR55, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at the Hotel Restaurant

Have a relaxing lunch at the hotel, offering a mix of local and international cuisine.
In the hotel.
OMR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sur’s Dhow Shipyard

Explore the traditional dhow shipyard where artisans craft wooden boats, an impressive sight for the entire family.
Within a short drive from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll Along the Beach

Enjoy a leisurely family stroll along the beach, soaking in the relaxation of offshore breezes.
Easy access from the shipyard.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Al Aqqal Restaurant

Indulge in fresh seafood at Al Aqqal Restaurant, popular among locals and tourists alike.
Just a short drive from the beach.
OMR15, 2 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Sur

Sur, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin your day with breakfast at Sur Plaza Hotel, refreshing and hearty.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Travel to Ras al Jinz to see the marine turtles nesting, a magical experience for the kids.
About a 30-minute drive.
OMR5 (entry fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Turtle Reserve Café

Enjoy lunch at the on-site café at Ras al Jinz, exploring local flavors again.
In the reserve.
OMR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Return to Sur and Relax at the Hotel

Head back to your hotel and enjoy some family time at the pool.
Drive back to Sur.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Old Town of Sur

Explore the historic streets of Sur and its charming buildings, offering a peek into the past.
Short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Al Muheet Seafood

Savor an unforgettable dinner at Al Muheet Seafood, a popular spot praised for impeccable service and fresh seafood.
Nearby the Old Town.
OMR15, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Muscat

Muscat, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at Sur Plaza Hotel before the drive back to Muscat.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Muscat

Make your way back to Muscat, reflecting on the memorable journey.
A 3-hour drive on Route 23.
OMR15 (fuel), 3 hours

12:30PM

Check-in at Hotel in Muscat

Arrive at your hotel in Muscat for refreshment before heading out again.
A short drive from the main highway.
OMR55, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at The Beach Restaurant

Dine at The Beach Restaurant, where you can relish delicious seafood with a view.
Located along the coast.
OMR15, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Hotel Pool

Spend the afternoon at the hotel pool, allowing the family to unwind.
Onsite at the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Dunes Restaurant

Celebrate your road trip with dinner at The Dunes, known for its international selection and beautiful ambiance.
Within the hotel area.
OMR25, 2 hours
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Day 9: Departure from Muscat

Muscat, Oman

8:00AM

Final Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Oman at your hotel, reflecting on the amazing experiences.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Prepare for Departure

Pack up and check-out from your hotel as you prepare for your journey home.
At the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Muscat International Airport

Make your last drive to the airport for your departure.
A short drive from your hotel.
OMR5 (fuel), 30 minutes
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