day-Trip to Nizwa & Jabal Shams (The Grand Canyon of Oman)

Day 1: Muscat – Nizwa – Jabal Shams (The Grand Canyon of Oman)

The tour starts in the morning as we leave **Muscat** towards **Nizwa**. Nizwa was the capital of Oman during the Al Yaruba dynasty. We’ll visit the famous **Nizwa Souq**, where a wide variety of vendors offer their goods in the streets. Here, you can find vegetables, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, Omani sweets (Halwa), dates, spices, and souvenirs, all sold in authentic old market halls that few places can boast. Especially interesting is the Friday cattle market, when locals come to sell their goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens in a circus-style open marketplace.

Next to the Souq is **Nizwa Fort and Castle**. The Fort was built in 1649 and the Castle in 888. Today, the Fort is a museum and offers splendid views of this ancient town and the surrounding mountains. You can walk around this impressive Fort and Castle with its many passages and rooms. The fort is an architectural testimony to the economic and military achievements of the early Yaruba dynasty from the mid-17th century. It was a military stronghold designed to withstand even the strongest of attacks at the time; even along the corridors, many traps were laid to deter any intruders that might have penetrated the defenses.

Then we drive towards **Jabal Shams Mountain** (The Grand Canyon of Oman). This mountain road drives up to Jebel Shams, at 3009 meters. This mountain is one of the most adventurous mountains in Oman, offering an exciting off-road experience and fantastic views. You’ll reach a canyon view at 2000 meters, where you can stop and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take photos.

Overnight: Jabal Shams (Sama Heights Resort or Similar)
(Note: The provided text does not specify an overnight location, but a 2-day trip implies an overnight. I’ve used a common option for Jabal Shams. Please confirm or provide the correct overnight location if different).

Day 2: Jabal Shams – Muscat

From the Grand Canyon, we drive back to **Muscat**.
(Note: The original content provided only “From the Grand Canyon, we drive back to Muscat” for Day 2. If there are more activities or stops on Day 2, please provide them, and I will add them.)

Starting Time:
08:00 AM

Inclusion:

• Transportation by Air-Conditioned Vehicle 4WD
• English Speaking Guide
• Private Day Trip
• Bottled Water

Pick up Information:

WE PICK UP TRAVELERS FROM ANY PLACE IN MUSCAT:

• Muscat Harbor (For Shore Excursion Passengers)
• Muscat International Airport
• Residence
• Hotels