5-Day Family Friendly Foodie Itinerary with Desert Adventure in Oman

Day 1: Exploring Muscat

Muscat, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kargeen Caffe

Kickstart your day with a traditional Omani breakfast featuring delicious bread, fresh dates, and aromatic coffee at Kargeen Caffe.
Central location in Muscat, easily accessible from most hotels.
OMR 5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Following breakfast, head to the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to admire its stunning Islamic architecture.
Just 15 minutes drive from the cafe, take Sultan Qaboos Street towards the mosque.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bin Ateeq

Indulge in local Omani cuisine like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) and grilled seafood at Bin Ateeq restaurant.
A short 10-minute drive from the mosque, located in the bustling city center.
OMR 10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Mutrah Souq

Stroll through the vibrant Mutrah Souq, discovering traditional Omani products, spices, and captivating handicrafts.
Just a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

4:00PM

Royal Opera House Visit

Experience the elegance of the Royal Opera House, learning about Oman’s rich cultural scene.
A quick 15-minute taxi ride from the souq.
OMR 3, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Bait Al Luban

End the day with a delightful dinner at Bait Al Luban, where Omani dishes are served in a charming, traditional setting.
About 20 minutes from the Opera House.
OMR 15, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Experience in Nizwa

Nizwa, Oman

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet at your hotel in Muscat, fueling yourself for the day ahead.
Breakfast included in the hotel; check out and prepare for departure.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nizwa

Take a scenic drive to Nizwa, the cultural heart of Oman, and appreciate the stunning landscapes along the way.
Approx. 1.5 hours drive via the route to Nizwa.
Fuel cost OMR 5, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Nizwa Fort

Explore Nizwa Fort, an impressive 17th-century fortress with amazing views from its top.
Located in the center of Nizwa, easy to find.
OMR 5, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Al-Madbah

Dine at Al-Madbah, where you can enjoy a mix of traditional Omani dishes in a cozy environment.
A short walk from the fort for lunch.
OMR 10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Nizwa Souq

Post lunch, explore the lively Nizwa Souq, known for its silver jewelry and authentic handicrafts.
Adjacent to the fort, easily accessible.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Jabrin Castle

Head to the beautiful Jabrin Castle, known for its intricate ceiling paintings and cultural significance.
A 30-minute drive southeast from Nizwa.
OMR 5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Hoota Cave Restaurant

Complete the day at Al Hoota Cave Restaurant, enjoying local delicacies nestled in a stunning natural setting.
A short drive from Jabrin Castle; situated near the caves.
OMR 12, 2 hours
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Day 3: Desert Adventure in Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your exciting desert adventure.
Partake at your hotel in Nizwa.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wahiba Sands

Embark on a thrilling drive to Wahiba Sands, a pristine desert known for its stunning dunes.
Approx. 1.5 hours drive southeast from Nizwa.
Fuel cost OMR 5, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Desert Safari Experience

Enjoy an exhilarating dune bashing experience in a 4x4 vehicle, feeling the thrill of the desert landscape.
Organize through local safari companies upon arrival.
OMR 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Desert Camp

Dine in a desert camp surrounded by the tranquility of the Arabian sands, enjoying traditional dishes.
Lunch is typically arranged as part of the safari tour.
OMR 10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Camel Ride Experience

Experience the traditional way of desert travel through a relaxed camel ride along the dunes.
Available at most desert camps.
OMR 10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Desert Exploration and Sandboarding

Explore the dunes further, enjoying activities like sandboarding for an unforgettable experience.
Organized through the camp, equipment typically provided.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Stargazing

Return to the desert camp and enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner, followed by stunning stargazing under the clear desert sky.
Dinner is included in the camp experience.
OMR 15, 2 hours
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Day 4: Coastal Charm in Sur

Sur, Oman

7:30AM

Breakfast at Desert Camp

Enjoy a traditional breakfast at the desert camp before heading to Sur.
Included in your stay at the camp.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sur

Take a scenic journey to Sur, where the mountains meet the sea.
Approx. 2.5 hours drive via the coastal road.
Fuel cost OMR 5, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Dhow Shipyard

Explore Sur’s famous Dhow Shipyard, where traditional wooden boats are handcrafted.
Located centrally in Sur, easy to navigate.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Ameer

Savor delectable fresh seafood at Al Ameer, a local gem offering an authentic dining experience.
Located near the town center.
OMR 10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Al Ayjah Lighthouse

Enjoy a leisurely stroll to Al Ayjah Lighthouse for splendid views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Discover the wonders of Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, with the chance to witness nesting turtles (seasonal).
About a 30-minute drive from the lighthouse.
OMR 8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al-Maha

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Al-Maha, featuring a delightful menu of Mediterranean and local dishes.
Conveniently located in Sur.
OMR 15, 2 hours
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Day 5: Back to Muscat

Muscat, Oman

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Sur, reflecting on your adventurous days.
Included in stay; partake before check-out.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Muscat

Embark on a scenic drive back to Muscat, relishing the landscapes one final time.
Approx. 2 hours drive via the coastal road.
Fuel cost OMR 5, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Muscat City

Spend your last day exploring any areas you may have missed in Muscat, perhaps visiting local cafes and shops.
Flexible, based on final preferences.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Beachfront Café

Savor lunch at a beachfront café, enjoying fresh juices and light meals with fabulous sea views.
Located along the seaside near the hotels.
OMR 10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Bait Al Zubair Museum

Visit this cultural museum showcasing Omani heritage through traditional artifacts and engaging exhibits.
A short 10-minute drive from the café.
OMR 3, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Final Dinner at The Bread Bar

Conclude your Omani adventure with a final dinner at The Bread Bar, featuring a mix of local and international cuisine.
Centrally located in Muscat for convenience.
OMR 12, 2 hours
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