Itinerary for Seven Days in Oman
- Dates visited: April 2024
- Time Needed: 1 week
- Areas to Visit: Muscat, Sur, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa
General Information
Oman, one of only two sultanates left in the world along with Brunei, is a Middle Eastern country of 5.2 million people nestled between the UAE, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia. It is one of six countries that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) — the remainder being Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, UEA, and Qatar. Despite its title as one of the safest nations in the world, its tourism industry is only just beginning to develop. This is due in part to its immense growth that occurred over the past fifty years as a result of the progressive actions of its former sultan, Qaboos bin Said. Before he took power in 1970, Oman had just two schools, six miles of paved roads, and a poor telecommunications network. It did have, however, immense potential in its oil production. After expanding the oil business, the sultan used the industry’s profits to create an effective social system, providing free healthcare and education to its people along with other benefits like no income tax, low income housing, and social security. He also instated rights for women. They are free to dress as they please (within conservative bounds), are not required to change their last name after marriage, and can obtain most of the same professions as men — with an early retirement age of 45 compared to a man’s required age of 62! After Qaboos bin Said passed due to colon cancer in 2020, he left a strong economic and social nation to his cousin who has continued his legacy.
Overall, the country offers numerous things to do and see over the course of one week. Keep in mind that this is for groups that love to walk everywhere and remain always on the go. Feel free to alter based on your interests and abilities.
- Day 1: Muscat
- Day 2: Dimaniyat Islands Day Trip
- Day 3: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, Turtle Reserve
- Day 4: Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands
- Day 5: Jabreen Castle, Nizwa Fort
- Day 6: Nizwa Cattle Market & Souq, Jebel Shams, Misfat Al Albriyeen
- Day 7: Wadi Bani Awf, Return to Muscat
Note: The typical work week operates from Sunday through Thursday so this affects hours of operation for certain establishments.
Communication
Sixty percent of the population is Omani, all of whom speak Arabic as their first language. However, because the remaining 40% come from all over the world, the nation has adopted English as its second language in efforts to accommodate this melting pot of cultures. As a result, signs throughout the country are required to be written in BOTH Arabic and English! That being said, few citizens speak English in smaller villages so download the Google Translate app for assistance.
Wifi
WiFi is rarely available except at most hotels across the country and certain restaurants in the capital.
Weather
Being in the Middle East, Oman experiences insanely hot temperatures from June through September so it’s recommended to avoid traveling during this time. The best months to visit are between October and March when the temperature, though still hot, ranges from 60°F to 90°F (and it’s not Ramadan!) Keep in mind that as hot as it gets during the day, it can still get cold at night in the desert.
Travel During Ramadan
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, with its exact dates changing every year. During this time, those that celebrate fast every day from sunup to sundown. In a country that is majority-Muslim, this impacts more than just those that practice Islam. Although shops and tourist attractions tend to stay open, they typically have reduced hours. Most restaurants remain closed until sunset. It is also forbidden to eat or drink in public for everyone — not just muslims — until dark. Respect these customs.
Eid, the holiday immediately following Ramadan that marks the end of fasting, lasts around three days and is filled with eating and celebration. Many establishments are closed or have limited hours during this time. Keep these holidays in mind as it is restricting for travel.
Fun fact: Regardless of whether it’s Ramadan, the Call to Prayer in Oman is always live — never pre-recorded — in every mosque!
Safety
As previously stated, Oman is one of the safest countries in the world, with an insanely low crime rate. It prides itself on staying neutral in global conflicts (hence why it’s rarely mentioned in the media!) and has even made talking about politics illegal in efforts to curb conflict.
In addition, the government provides all needy citizens with their own free and BRAND NEW home to ensure they can be successful in the future. The system goes out of its way to help its people. That being said, there are intense ramifications for begging, pickpocketing, and homelessness including imprisonment and/or deportation. In the government’s eyes, there is no excuse for this type of negative behavior if these vast social programs exist — so ignoring this specific help has its consequences.
Electrical Outlets
Oman uses the same outlet type as those in the United Kingdom.
Transportation
Oman’s main airport is the Muscat International Airport (MCT), which is within fifteen minutes of the city center. OTAXI is the only rideshare app available; Uber is not. Taxis are widely preferred, with the white and orange taxis being far cheaper than hotel-hired transportation. These less expensive vehicles only take cash and it is key to negotiate the fare ahead of time.
Note: Notice that the majority of cars are white? That’s because most drivers prefer that color to avoid reflecting the sun!
The three main options for traveling around the entire country are either to rent a car, hire a private guide, or explore with a group. Public transportation is severely limited, even in Muscat, because it is too hot for passengers to wait outside for transportation to arrive and the nation doesn’t have infrastructure in place to provide shade or indoor AC. Most people use their own cars instead. It’s also worth noting that it is very easy and safe to cross the road, even if there is no crosswalk! This is because it’s customary for drivers to see a pedestrian and slow down to let them pass ahead of time. The culture is very respectful!
The options for getting around Oman are listed in more detail below -
- CAR RENTAL: Omanis drive on the right side, similar to in the States, and most roads are incredibly well paved so it is easy to get around. Just be sure to rent a 4x4 vehicle as one is needed to drive through the desert and mountains. Gas stations are widely available, but fuel up whenever you can to play it safe. And take note of speed traps as they’re ubiquitous. Lastly, secure an international driver’s permit before leaving your home country as it is required to legally drive.
- PRIVATE GUIDE: Consider hiring a private guide if you prefer to not drive or join a group. Viator has numerous options within this category, though they are a bit more costly.
- GROUP TOUR: Many companies offer group tours ranging from one day excursions to week long trips. I went with G Adventures on their “Highlights of Oman” tour and could not recommend it more. We traveled with three 4x4 vehicles in a group of eleven multinational guests and had an exceptional time without the hassle of planning. It was also insanely beneficial to have a guide with us along the way who provided detailed commentary of each destination. All English speaking tour guides MUST be Omani by law, as well as the taxi drivers, so you really get the authentic experience. Our guide hailed from Zahara Tours which offers its own tour schedule as well if G Adventures isn’t your speed.
Dining
Most products in Oman are imported due to the intense dry heat conditions in the country. The perk of this is that one doesn’t have to worry about eating raw fruits and vegetables — they are all safe to eat! The one product that is grown locally are dates as they thrive in hot temperatures, so be sure to enjoy plenty. Frankincense and spices are also huge products.
Similar to numerous European countries, Omanis take a siesta from 1–4pm every day. As a result, most shops close during this time, though restaurants remain open. Another interesting fact — when eating, Omanis also tend to eat their entire meal first then consume liquid after.
As for grocery stores — many supermarkets across the country are similar to Europe’s Carrefours. They have everything under the sun and more. The only thing unavailable? Alcohol. As a majority-Muslim country, alcohol is hard to find in stores, very rarely offered in restaurants, and highly taxed to those who do purchase.
Drinking Water
Tap is generally safe to drink in Muscat (not in other towns) but I always prefer bottled water to play it safe. Unfortunately, public fountains are hard to come by, so hauling around a refillable water bottle is often fruitless. Instead, carry cash to purchase water from the omnipresent food stalls.
Alcohol
Because Oman is a Muslim country, alcohol is rarely served in hotels and restaurants. Purchase a bottle of wine at your hotel bar in Muscat if possible (which is expensive as it’s highly taxed!) to bring to the smaller towns and deserts or plan to stay dry most of the trip.
Tipping
Tipping is not assumed but encouraged. Round up to the nearest dollar or with exceptional service, leave 10%.
Payment
The main currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit cards are accepted about 90% of the time in Muscat apart from some stalls in souqs and about 50% of the time in smaller towns. Always carry cash as a safety net.
Note: Most of this outline highlights costs in USD. Know that this is a conversion to make it easier for some readers. Costs vary and everything is charged in the local currency when in person.
Restrooms
The type of bathroom available varies at each establishment across Oman. Some places provide the traditional Western toilet (that flushes), some simply have the Arabic “squat toilet”, and others have both. One can never be sure that toilet paper will be provided, so always carry some on hand. In addition, do not flush the paper down the toilet in most public places as the sewage system cannot handle the additional material. Want to do as the locals do? Use the water sprayer attached to the toilet to clean yourself instead.
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All public toilets do not charge a fee.
Attire
Oman is far more casual than other Middle Eastern nations. In public, women do not need to cover their heads or majority of their bodies, unless in a mosque. They should, however, ensure shoulders and knees are covered with no midriff showing at all times. Men can wear shorts and t-shirts unless in a mosque (then they should wear pants). As for swimwear, women must cover their shoulders, stomach, chest and legs past the knees and men must wear shirts and knee length trunks. No speedos, boys! Overall, although one might see westerners ignoring these rules — don’t be one of those people. Respect the culture.
Accommodations
Muscat
- Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat
- Sheraton Hotel Muscat — Fun fact: To maintain the integrity of Muscat, the late sultan openly frowned upon building skyscrapers. Consequently, it is generally accepted that most places will not be built larger than five stories tall. The exception is this Sheraton. At fourteen stories, the hotel is the tallest building in the nation.
Nizwa
Sur
Wahiba Sands
- Desert Safari Camp (no WiFi)
HOW TO BEST SPEND YOUR TIME:
DAY ONE: Muscat
Muscat (“muss-cat”) is the capital of Oman. It is the second cleanest city in the world next to Singapore due to its strict cleanliness and littering laws. Known as the “jewel of Oman,” it has been inhabited for close to 2500 years, is located on the Arabian Sea, and was once a key link to the ancient trade route.
Begin the day by visiting the Grand Mosque, paid for by Sultan Qaboos bin Said as a national gift and one of the only mosques in the country that allows non-Muslim visitors. Made of limestone marble which is humidity-resistant, it fits up to 20,000 worshippers at a time and is home to the largest chandelier on the globe. It also boasts the second largest handmade carpet in the world, made of 21 tons of pure silk which took over four years to make.
All visitors must adhere to a strict dress code. Men must wear long pants and cover their shoulders. Women must wear long pants covering their ankles, a shirt covering the entirety of their arms, and a shawl to cover their head. Nothing can be see-through. Representatives stationed at the entrance ensure there are no exceptions. Rent a shawl before entering if need be and know that AC is provided inside all buildings — so the extra clothing isn’t a huge burden!
Entrance is free. It’s best to hire a guide at the entrance or go with one in general to ensure you receive a full explanation of the complex. Exploring takes no more than ninety minutes. The grounds are open to non-muslims from 8am to 11am from Saturday through Thursday and are closed on Fridays as that is the holy day.
After, because Muscat is NOT a walking city, drive twenty minutes to the Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest marketplaces in the world. It is open from 9am-1pm and 4pm-10pm every day (minding siesta hours). Browse the shops selling frankincense and other spices, cashmere scarves, and numerous trinkets. Don’t purchase without bargaining! Typically discounts can go as low as sixty percent — so do your best to haggle. And remember — no need to worry about pickpockets; Oman rarely has that problem.
Hit Bait Al Zubair Museum next, just a ten minute drive away. This cultural complex consists of five buildings displaying one of the largest collections of heritage art in the country. Spend forty-five minutes browsing the traditional garb, jewelry, weapons, and coins, among many things, and feel free to grab a quick coffee at the museum’s shop. Then drive five minutes to Old Muscat, home of the sultan’s Al Alam Palace. Entering the palace is forbidden so instead walk around the coastal area and snag views of the 16th century Al-Mirani and Al-Jelani forts while taking in the unique Portuguese architecture.
Tomorrow’s itinerary involves a day trip to a remote island, so you’ll definitely need your sea legs! If getting out on the water is a priority, consider also joining Sidab Sea Tours for a two hour sunset sail tonight on a traditional dhow boat. End the day with supper at the middle eastern favorite, Aljood.
DAY TWO: Day trip to Daymaniyat Islands
A collection of nine uninhabited islands on the Gulf of Oman, Daymaniyat Islands are known as the “Maldives of the Middle East.” Just a quick thirty minute boat ride away from the mainland, they offer opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and seaside lounging in a protected nature reserve. The area is also home to gorgeous coral reefs and sea turtles who lay eggs on the shore. To get here, join a six hour tour through one of the numerous companies including Marmar Boat Tours and Sidab Sea Tours. Or, snag a spot on a tour from Seeb, which cuts the trip down to around 4.5 hours and is an easy taxi ride from Muscat. Most tours leave in the morning around 8:30am, though some offer excursions in the early afternoon (around 1:30pm) depending on the number of interested guests. The boat stops at three different islands for snorkeling, including one with a beach for relaxing. Tours includes sandwiches, soft drinks, fruit, and snacks. I didn’t get a chance to do this, but would have loved the opportunity as it comes highly recommended. Send it!
Back on land, enjoy dinner at the Turkish House Restaurant known for its seafood.
DAY THREE: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, Turtle Reserve
Today is an early day, as there is much to see before the sun gets too hot and the crowds are overwhelming. Head first to the Bimmah Sinkhole, an hour and twenty minute drive from the capital. Arrive right as it opens at 8am, free of charge. Local legend says the hole was created by a falling star. Clocking in at 130 feet wide and 215 feet deep, this sinkhole, legend or not, is a spectacular place to take a dip. If no locals are present, feel free to dive in with western swimwear. Omanis tend to visit during the weekend, so that is more likely the time that full middle eastern attire is required.
Change to hiking gear in the park’s restrooms then drive thirty minutes to Wadi Shab. “Wadi” is Arabic for “valley,” and this valley is beautiful, despite the parking lot’s location under a shaded overpass. Hop on a small boat for 1 OMR cash round trip and cruise one minute across the way to the hiking trail. Proceed to trek through the valley and along the river, climbing around rocks and sand before ending at a waterfall where swimming is welcomed. The trail lacks consistent shade, so pack accordingly while also being culturally respectful, donning conservative attire like pants past the knee for women and covered shoulders for both male and females. The hike takes around two hours round trip (3.5 miles) so also consider bringing a small picnic to enjoy at the top.
Note: This hike, due to its lack of shade and climbing requirements, can be a bit strenuous. The parking lot tends to fill up quickly as well. This is why it’s recommended to arrive in the morning right after the sinkhole, even if the boats are available for hire (from 6am) until 5pm. If traveling with G Adventures, the group only hikes in for forty-five minutes each way to ensure every guest can participate as the difficult portions are towards the end. If on your own, do the full excursion!
Drive another forty minutes to Sur, a town referred to as the “mother of the mosques.” Seventy thousand people live here. Visit the Dhow Shipyard, the only place in the country where the historic dhow sailboats are made. Larger ships run as much as $800k USD and can take over two years to build! Guides are not provided onsite and neither are placards with information, so I’d only stop by if traveling with a guide. Later, check into your hotel. I recommend the Sur Plaza Hotel which has an outdoor pool great for cooling off.
Leave around 7pm for the Ras Al-Jinz Turtle Reserve to arrive by 8pm. Tours, only held after dark, begin between 8:30pm to 9pm with a waiting system. Those that arrive first will start their tour sooner — there’s no option to reserve slot times in advance. Arriving earlier ensures you don’t wait all night for your turn. (An alternative is to participate in the tour around 4:30am; though this is tough for most people due to the early wake up call!) Tuesdays are often the busiest as that’s when most tour buses stop in. Mondays are the quietest. The tour showcases the endangered green turtle laying its eggs on the shore in its nature reserve that spans over 75 square miles. It’s the only legal place to view this process in Oman. For those that are lucky, it’s a sight to see.
Tourists also have the opportunity to stay overnight at the turtle reserve and have first access to tours, but my guide did not recommend it due to poor insulation and the loud noise that carries through to the rooms as a result of it.
Keep in mind that turtles won’t always be present, so if that’s the case, tours won’t run. Guides will wait for the creatures to come ashore until around 10:30pm. If none are spotted, the tours are canceled on the spot. Nesting season is from May through September, where close to 700 turtles nest at one time. I visited in April and my tour was eventually canceled that night due to turtle no-shows so manage your expectations if traveling outside the main season.
DAY FOUR: Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands
It’s time to get back in the water. Wake up early to avoid crowds, a “Tetris” parking lot, and heat, and drive an hour to Wadi Bani Khalid, which is open 24/7. “Bani” means “son of” in Arabic so the translation is “Valley of the Son of Khalid.” This freshwater oasis is nestled between brilliant limestone formations in the East Hajar Mountains. Locals visit every day, so it’s imperative to wear proper and conservative Middle Eastern bathing attire. From the parking lot, walk five minutes along a clear but rocky path to a large area of spring pools, some as deep as forty feet. Hop in immediately (with lifeguards in neon green ready to help if needed) or walk less than a mile each way to the Muqal Cave. The path leading to the cave is more exciting than the small, anticlimactic cave itself — with bubbling pools and rocks to jump across. The trek is a bit more challenging for the average person, so tread lightly and bring shoes with solid traction.
Back in the main area, treat yourself to a complimentary “nature pedicure.” Stand still in the water for no more than five seconds before scores of tiny fish will begin to nip at your feet, engulfing the dead skin. Some people may, understandably, hate this — so just move about and the fish will flee. I, however, paid for this type of “spa” in Prague and was excited to get the treatment for free! Just try to contain your laughter as the fish tend to tickle.
Hungry or thirsty? Grab a quick bite to eat at the cafe overlooking the oasis and take in the views. Change in the bathrooms behind the cafe before walking back to the car. Travelers tend to spend anywhere from one hour to several in this wadi.
Now drive forty-five minutes to the famous Wahiba (“wah-hee-bah”) Sands Desert, surrounded by camels and gorgeous orange dunes as tall as 330 feet. If driving your own car (in which a 4x4 is required), deflate your tires at an auto shop or gas station in the nearby town of Bidyah. And if hesitant to drive through the desert on your own, especially as WiFi is limited, many camps offer to meet at the edge of Wahiba to drive alongside you and show the way. Fees for this are around $50 USD.
I stayed at the Desert Safari Camp and couldn’t recommend it enough. It boasts newly renovated stone “cabins” with AC and electricity, making the desert experience a bit less archaic. Not to mention, the traditional food is delicious.
Hike or take the car up the dunes for sunset, gazing at the vast span of sand for miles. Smell the ocean? Odd, right? That’s because it’s not too far from Wahiba (relatively speaking), with the wind bringing its recognizable smell across the land. Spend time running around the dunes and basking in the beauty of the area before the sun disappears and the temperature begins to drop.
DAY FIVE: Jabreen Castle, Nizwa Fort
Enjoy breakfast at the camp before hopping back into the car and heading 2.5 hours to Jabreen Castle. Built in 1670 AD, it’s one of the best preserved castles in Oman. It boasts thirty-five rooms, scores of bats (don’t worry, they’re innocent), and holes in the ceiling where soldiers would dump boiling date sugar on their enemies below. Hiring a physical guide or renting an audio guide is imperative when walking around this complex as things are not labeled. Visitors typically take no more than an hour to explore.
Then drive thirty minutes to Nizwa Fort. Built in the mid 1600’s and surrounded by a wall that’s 1200 years old, this castle is the most visited monument in Oman. Having a guide is important here as well as — you guessed it — explanations are lacking. Audio guides are not available. Spend one hour browsing. Be sure to stop by the garden on your way out to feed the deer and goats onsite and/or grab a quick coffee at the castle’s modern cafe.
Note: In between Jabreen and Nizwa is the option to stop at Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site over two thousand years old. Personally, doing all three was a bit repetitive so I’d skip this if tight on time or interest, especially because the fort also lacks explanations.
Check into Al Diyar Hotel in Nizwa then enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant. If interested, grab a drink at one of the only places selling alcohol — the Falaj Daris Hotel. It is worth noting that it’s safe to walk along the busy road from your hotel to Falaj Daris; so don’t be afraid!
DAY SIX: Nizwa Cattle Market & Souq, Jebel Shams, Misfat Al Albriyeen
Wake up early to get a good spot for the free 7:30am Nizwa Cattle Market, located at one end of the Nizwa Souq. Goats are the main prize, with over hundreds of locals attending to sell and buy these animals for around $100 USD each. This only occurs on Friday, so if this is important to you, plan accordingly. Then bop around the souq itself which is open every day until 10pm (but closes for the 1–4pm siesta). Don’t forget to bargain!
Note: Both the cattle market and souq are closed during Eid, the holiday directly after Ramadan. As a result, I didn’t get to visit but heard they are both spectacular to see.
Drive two hours to the Omani Grand Canyon — Jebel Shams — an Arabic term that translates to “Sun Mountain” as it’s the first place in Oman that sees sunlight each day. At 9,800 feet high, it is also the highest peak in the GCC and provides gorgeous views of Wad Nakhr. Grab a coffee at the cafe and spend twenty minutes taking in the scenery.
Enjoy lunch at Reem Al Yamen Restaurant and Kitchen before popping over to see the stone houses of Misfat Al Albriyeen. This is a 450 year old community that was built mostly on top of rocks. Parking is tight so secure a spot on the outskirts of the little village then walk down the irrigation canal to glimpse beautiful surroundings. This is another place that’s best to visit with a guide as they can explain the village’s key interest point, the Falaj network, which is an ancient water supply system.
End the day with a quick stop at a viewpoint of Al Hamra, a mostly abandoned village of 300 year old mud houses.
DAY SEVEN: Wadi Bani Awf & Return to Muscat
If tight on time, opt to drive the 90 minutes back to Muscat. If time is on your side and the weather is nice, consider taking the day to explore Wadi Bani Awf. Note that these roads are unsafe to drive in high winds and any type of rain. Even in good weather, a 4x4 car is required. The trip through the valley can take anywhere between three to four hours depending on the state of the roads and the number of stops. Pop out of the car to walk through Snake Canyon (locally called Seer Al Zamah), the main canyon in Wadi Bani Awf named for its snakelike form. This gorge is the stretch between the Al Zamah and Balad Sayt villages. The hike can be short or as long as fifteen miles, as described more in detail here. Choose your destiny. Just keep in mind that the area is known for flash floods — so always be alert!
Regardless if hiking or not, stop for a pick me up at Yolo Coffee in the remote Balad Sayt village. Although the views along Wadi Bani Awf are gorgeous, I’m not sure I would dedicate over three hours to this ride if hiking isn’t on the agenda. Roads are long and winding so it’s easy for passengers to get car sick. Once out of the valley, drive ninety minutes back to Muscat to either catch your flight or spend the final evening in the capital.
