Wadi Shab is a stunning canyon filled with turquoise water and rock formations. After a short hike and swim, enjoy lunch nearby. Next, visit the Bimmah Sinkhole, a massive limestone crater filled with crystal-clear blue-green water. Bring your bathing suit for a refreshing swim.
Descend into the majestic Al Hoota Cave to see stalactites, stalagmites, and freshwater pools. After lunch, drive to Jebel Shams, Oman's highest mountain peak, and hike a scenic trail with stunning views of the surrounding canyons.
Discover ancient Omani history at the Nizwa Fort, a 17th-century castle with a museum and breathtaking views of the city. Afterwards, visit the Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its solid buildings made of mud bricks and its strategic location as a trading hub.
Watch sea turtles crawl ashore and lay their eggs on the beach at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve at sunrise. After breakfast, drive to Sur, a picturesque coastal town famous for its dhow shipyards and vibrant souq selling spices, textiles, and ceramics.
Explore the majestic dunes of the Wahiba Sands on a thrilling 4x4 drive with a local guide. Afterwards, cool off at the Wadi Bani Khalid, a lush, palm-filled canyon with crystal-clear natural pools to swim in.
Take a drive up the stunning Jebel Akhdar, Oman's "Green Mountain," and explore the lush terraced farms and picturesque villages. After lunch, drive back to Muscat and visit the Royal Opera House or go shopping in Muttrah Souq.
Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a breathtaking piece of modern Islamic architecture with ornate interiors and beautiful gardens. Explore the Bait Al Zubair Museum to learn about Omani history, culture, and traditions. In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat.
It is best to rent a car for this itinerary, as public transportation is not widely available in Oman outside of Muscat. Expect to spend around £50-80 per day for a rental car, depending on the size and type of vehicle. Be aware that driving in Oman can be challenging, especially in mountainous areas, so it is important to be cautious and allow plenty of time for your journeys.
If you have more time, spend an extra day in Muscat to see more of the city's landmarks and museums. If you have less time, consider skipping Al Hoota Cave or Wahiba Sands to make the itinerary shorter. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, as Oman can get very hot during the daytime.
Muscat International Airport (MCT) is the main gateway to Oman, located approximately 20km from the city centre. Taxis are readily available from the airport, with fares starting at around £10-15 depending on your destination. Other airports in Oman include Salalah Airport (SLL) in the south and Sohar Airport (OHS) in the north, but these are less frequently serviced and may require a connection through Muscat for international travelers.