Our most recommended things to do in Nizwa

From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra Guided Historical Tour

1. From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra Guided Historical Tour

Embark on a historical and cultural tour that gives an insight into Omani life. Visit the impressive Nizwa Fort, haggle a bargain at the local souq, and end the day seeing a traditional village. Start with a spectacular drive through the Hajar Mountains via Fanjah for a photo stop. Then, arrive in Nizwa City to see the Nizwa Fort — the most popular monument of Oman. Next up is a visit to Nizwa souq, the market where you can buy traditional knives, pots and other unique items. Head next to the Al Hamra and Bait Al Safah museum where you can learn about how locals lived in generations past.

Muscat: Full-Day Nizwa Tour with Audio Guiding

2. Muscat: Full-Day Nizwa Tour with Audio Guiding

Get picked up from your hotel and head to the Shatti Al-Qurum hotel where the tour begins. Your driver will show you how to use the audio guide system to benefit the GPS enabled commentary (available in five languages) that follows the tour. Travel towards to Nizwa, Oman’s cultural capital and home to some of its most significant structures. Along the way, stop at a charming ancestral village called Birka Al Mawz, which sits at the base of Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain). In Nizwa, admire the central fort and its giant cannon tower; walk through the traditional souq (market); and, of course, enjoy a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, visit the unique Jabreen Castle, built in the 17th century. It has magnificent plasterwork, carved doors, and painted wooden beams. You'll also see Jebel Shams—one of the most famous mountains in Oman—and one of the oldest towns in the region, Oman Bahla, before heading back to your hotel.

Full Day Private Nizwa Souq, Misfah Al Arbyeen, Jebel Shams

3. Full Day Private Nizwa Souq, Misfah Al Arbyeen, Jebel Shams

Have the opportunity to explore all the diverse aspects of Oman’s rich culture and stunning mountain landscape. You will be able to visit some of the country's most iconic monuments, explore bustling souks and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Jebel Shams Oman's highest mountain, 3009m above sea level. Total Duration: 8 - 9 hours -Nizwa Fort Oman, Nizwa Oman, 1 hour -Nizwa Souk, City Center Close to the fort, Nizwa 611 Oman, 1 hour 30 minutes -Al Hamra, Al Hamra, Ad-Dakhiliyah Governorate, 1 hour -Jebel Shams, Al Hamra Oman, 1 hour -Misfat al Abriyyin, Misfat al Abriyyin, Ad-Dakhiliyah Governorate, 1 hour

From Muscat: 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour

4. From Muscat: 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour

Be introduced to Oman's history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes on this multi-day trip from Muscat. Go on an adventure in the desert, try traditional foods, explore the Nakhl and Nizwa fortresses, and watch the sunset as you camp in the desert on this trip. Day 1 Get picked up from anywhere in Muscat and drive to visit the beautiful Nakhl Fortress. Lying amongst mountain foothills in a small village with extensive date palm plantations, this magnificent 350-year-old fortress rises out of the mountain rock, towering high above the ancient village, as if still warning would-be attackers of its ominous strength. Tour the inside of the restored fortress and visit all the rooms which have been decorated in their original style. Learn about the network of hidden escape routes and secret passages that riddle the structure. Admire an outstanding view from the top of the fortress over the mountains and green date plantations. From there, drive into the Wadi Bani Awf, a picturesque dry valley. Pass by the impressive Wadi Canyons and several small villages on a scenic 1.5-hour drive before continuing up the road leading into the Jebel Shams Mountains. Enjoy the adventurous, off-road drive up the mountain and take in fantastic views of the valley below. Then head to Nizwa where you'll stay for the night. Day 2 Get an early start to visit the famous Nizwa Souq, a traditional market that is among the largest of its kind in Oman. A wide variety of vendors offer their goods in the streets of the souk from 5:00 am to about 10:00 am each morning. Peruse stalls selling fish, meat, vegetables, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs clustered in authentic old market halls. Especially interesting is the Friday cattle market when the locals from nearby villages come to sell their donkeys, goats, cattle, sheep, and chickens in a circus-style open marketplace. Next to the Souq is Nizwa Fortress. The fort is a museum today and offers splendid views of the ancient town and surrounding mountains. Wander around the impressive fortress and visit its many rooms, passages, and towers. Learn how the fort stands as an architectural testimony to the economic and military achievements of the early Yaruba dynasty from the mid-17th century. Imagine how perilous it was to walk the corridors during the times when numerous traps were laid to deter any intruders that might have penetrated the outer defenses. In the afternoon, head out to the Wahiba Sands desert for a relaxing night of desert camping. Go on an adventurous 4x4 sand dune drive and watch the stunning desert sunset from the top of one of the biggest dunes. Finish the day with dinner at the camp and a relaxing evening around a romantic campfire before heading to your tent for the night. Day 3 After a relaxing, slow breakfast in the desert camp, get underway to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the biggest and most beautiful desert valleys in Oman. Spend time swimming, sunbathing, and having a picnic in the scenic wadi canyons. Drive on to Sur for a short city tour before continuing to Ras al Hadd to check in to your accommodation for the night. In the evening, visit the turtle sanctuary at Ras Al Jinz. Go on a beautiful walking tour of the beach under the stars and spot the great sea turtles that stumble onto the beaches of Oman to build nests and lay their eggs. If you are lucky, you might even see baby turtles hatching from some nests. Day 4 On the last day, head to Wadi Shab, an enormous canyon gorge lined with palm trees and impressive indications of the power of the water that periodically rushes down from the mountains. Go on a 45-minute hike through the canyon to reach the first of several crystal-clear water pools. Take a leisurely swim through the warm water from pool to pool until you reach the last one where an opening in the enormous rocks allows you to swim into a narrow cave with a small waterfall. Marvel at the speckles of sunlight that filter in, turning the water a beautiful turquoise blue color, and the water showering down one side of the cave from the Wadi beyond. In the late afternoon, drive back to Muscat.

Hajar Mountains: Private Day Trip from Muscat

5. Hajar Mountains: Private Day Trip from Muscat

Begin your tour driving through the Hajar Mountains to the township of Nizwa, which is the ancient capital of Oman. Visit Nizwa Fort and the traditional Souk.  Next, travel through the deep Wadi Ghul and arrive at Jebel Shams, Mountain of the Sun, which is the undisputed lord of the mountains. Jebel Shams is the highest peak of the Jebel Al Akhdar mountain range, soaring 3,000 meters above sea level. This is the Grand Canyon of Oman and provides spectacular scenery, ancient rock carvings, and remote villages.  Continue your tour to the beautiful old village of Misfah, perched on the side of a mountain where narrow ancient stone pathways lead you into the valley below. Have lunch at a restaurant where you can savor local delicacies at the top of the mountain. Afterward, explore the ancient labyrinth of the region of Al Hamra before your return trip to Muscat.

From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra with Jebel Shams Night Stay

6. From Muscat: Nizwa & Al Hamra with Jebel Shams Night Stay

In the morning you leave Muscat and we drive to Nizwa, the ancient capital of Oman. At Nizwa you will visit Nizwa Fort and the Traditional Souk. From there you will travel to Al Hamra one of the oldest villages in Oman at the foot of the Hajar Mountains we take a walk around the mud brick houses. After thi tour, we move on to Misfah al Abryeen, a truly pristine village that nestles at the base of Jebel Shams. Here you will get to see the large Falaj water system that supplies water to the nearby vegetation. There are numerous marked footpaths throughout the village that is recommended to take your time and explore. Before continuing our journey onwards and upward to Jebel Shams, stopping on the way for amazing views of the Hajar Mountains and Oman's highest point. Even on the hottest days, it's nice and cool up here. Jebel Shams is the highest peak of the Hajar mountain range, soaring 3,000 meters above sea level. It provides a spectacular scenery, ancient rock carvings and remote villages .Overnight in Mountains

Private Day Tour Nizwa, Jabel Akhdar

7. Private Day Tour Nizwa, Jabel Akhdar

The Nizwa region of Oman is a unique destination for travelers who wish to experience both the traditional and modern aspects of the country. From the centuries-old Nizwa Fort and ancient archaeological sites to the bustling Nizwa Souk and Jebel Akhdar mountain range, visitors are spoilt for choice in terms of sightseeing and activities. During the roses season in March and April and the pomegranate season in October and November, visitors can enjoy remarkable views and special activities like picking pomegranates and exploring the colorful market stalls. Total Duration: 7 - 8 hours -Nizwa Fort Oman, Nizwa Oman, 2 hours -Nizwa Souk, City Center Close to the fort, Nizwa 611 Oman, 1 hour -Birkat Al Mouz Ruins, Nizwa Oman, 2 hours -Jebel Akhdar, Al Hajar Mountains Range, Nizwa 611 Oman, 2 hours

The Beauty of Nizwa City Private Tour

8. The Beauty of Nizwa City Private Tour

Embark on a historical and cultural tour that gives an insight into Omani life. Visit the impressive Nizwa Fort, haggle a bargain at the local souq, and end the day seeing a traditional village. Next up is a visit to Nizwa souq, the market where you can buy traditional knives, pots and other unique items. Head next to the Al Hamra and Bait Al Safah museum where you can learn about how locals lived in generations past. - Nizwa Fort 2 Hours - Nizwa Market 2 Hours - Al Hamra 1 Hour - Bait Al Safa 1 Hour

From Muscat: Full-Day Nizwa Souq, Nizwa Fort & Jabel Akhdar

9. From Muscat: Full-Day Nizwa Souq, Nizwa Fort & Jabel Akhdar

The Nizwa region of Oman is a unique destination for travelers who wish to experience both the traditional and modern aspects of the country. From the centuries-old Nizwa Fort and ancient archaeological sites to the bustling Nizwa Souk, Birkat AL Mouz & Jebel Akhdar Al Hajar Mountains Range, visitors are spoilt for choice in terms of sightseeing and activities. During the roses season in March and April and the pomegranate season in October and November, visitors can enjoy remarkable views and special activities like picking pomegranates and exploring the colorful market stalls. Total Duration: 7 hours -Nizwa Fort Oman, Nizwa Oman, 2 hours -Nizwa Souq, City Center Close to the fort, Nizwa 611 Oman, 2 hour -Birkat Al Mouz Ruins, Nizwa Oman, 2 hours -Jebel Akhdar, Al Hajar Mountains Range, Nizwa 611 Oman, 2 hours

Muscat: Nizwa Oasis Full Day Tour with Lunch

10. Muscat: Nizwa Oasis Full Day Tour with Lunch

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or port in Muscat and travels to the enchanting ancient city of Nizwa. Upon arrival, explore the sights of the city’s historic fortifications, noted for numerous mosques and old buildings. Learn about the fascinating history of Nizwa from your experienced guide, as you drive towards one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the fort. Explore the fort with your guide, then proceed to the Nizwa souk, embellished with silver jewelry, antiques and traditionally carved daggers. Afterwards, head to Bahla, a UNESCO World Heritage listed town which is home to some of the oldest fortresses in the country. Enjoy a photo-stop here amongst a backdrop of pottery craftsmen and clay forts. Finally, head to the Jabrin Fort, that has stood since 1675, and admire its stunning interior architecture before heading back to Muscat.

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What people are saying about Nizwa

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 130 reviews

If you are watching this review, trust me and please try best to arrange your Nizwa trip to Friday for joining this guided tour.(Since it Specialised for Friday Morning Market). You won’t be regret for your lifetime. Abudullah, the real Omani tour guide, he is the best guide I have ever met. Friendly, knowledgeable and has the decent English, you can know Oman’s culture and lifestyle very well by following a local master’s footsteps. I am very lucky to join this tour rather than the audio guided one. Thanks god. The morning market is absolutely a sugar of Nizwa, imagining serval hundred years activity is displayed before you, what a magical moment. The old village museum is also a must visit point, many interactive events is shown before you and let you riding on the Time Machine. The relics and terrain is also great to visit. This is a super cool stuff to immerse yourself to the Arabian world. This tour is absolutely a hidden gem of Oman!

Very friendly guide, Fahad, who spoke at length about the culture and history of Oman, and Nizwa in particular. His English was excellent, and with his university degree, the explanations were very varied and interesting. We were given ample time to take beautiful pictures and he helped us by giving tips. Definitely recommended.

This tour was a great way to start my Oman trip. The guide spoke amazing english and was very knowledgeable about the history of the area

Very experienced tour guides and great trip arrangements to show us the broad history of Oman and Omani traditions! Highly recommend!

Our Guides were knowledgeable, efficient, and kind. Nizwa fort an amazing view! Highly recommended.