Explore Muscat in Style with a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour
Are you visiting Muscat and want to experience the best of its popular attractions? There’s no better way to discover the city in style than with a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour. Make sure your trip includes all the hotspots, steps back in time, and off-the-track gems of Muscat. This article explains what’s included in a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour, the cost, and why it’s worth your time and money.
What is Included in a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour?
A 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour typically includes heritages sites, such as forts and castles, UNESCO World Site ruins, mosques and traditional houses, souq skirmishes, bartering for bargains, catacombs and tombs explorations, and city tours from UNESCO-listed sites to bustling town squares.
Starting with a guided tour of Mutrah Souq in the old Muscat, you’ll be able to browse through a centuries-old marketplace and witness traders plying their goods. You can also find traditional jewelry stores flourishing here, apart from contemporary items. Naqal Gallery is a must-visit place during your adventure. The entire Mutrah Souq commercial center transforms into a romantic night market after sunset and you can wind up your long day by sampling street food and capturing the bright lights of the souq with your camera.
Your second day of the tour will lead you to Nizwa – once the capital of Oman. You’ll be taken to Bahla Fort, Nizwa’s formidable stronghold from the 12th century perched atop an iconic hill. The fort is a considerable historical site preserved untouched since its construction. From here you will pass for Oman’s most popular destination – Jebel Shams, the Mountain of Sun. An expert driver will take you to the top of one of the highest mountains of Oman and you can witness an aerial view which will be etched onto your heart forever. Spend the evening in Muscat, the vibrant capital of Oman.
On the third day, you will visit Old Muscat to start your journey with a chance to explore its iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and magnificent corner towers. Do not miss visiting The National Museum of Oman on your way, which houses artifacts from all eras of Oman’s heritage, from Iron Age arms and ibex statues to antique tiny gold weights from Songea that date back as far as 500BC. Apart from artifacts, the museum also features dazzling traditional costumes and permanent caligraphy exhibit.
Wrap up your fourth day with an exploration of Mutrah Corniche – a 1.5 kilometer stretch along the coast that offers unbeatable city views. From the beach here, you can enjoy watching dhow boats sailing through the harbor ready for evening fishing or pearl diving expeditions. Finish your tour on a high note at Mutrah Fish Market filled with vibrant decorations, locals washing fish, interacting with fish traders, and exploring endless varieties of seafood at this colourful market – it’s a perfect end to an unforgettable Muscat trip!
How Much Does a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour Cost?
The average cost of a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour is around $650 – 800 per person. This amount includes food, accommodations (mostly 4-star hotels or resorts), transportation (modern air-conditioned cars or SUVs), an English-speaking guide, and tickets to popular sites like UNESCO World Heritage sites and forts.
Is a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour Worth It?
A 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour offers you myriad experiences for an affordable price! Even if you plan your own experiences and travel budget-style, the cost would add up pretty quickly due to expensive flight tickets, overnight stays in hotels (if available), transportation within cities, and tickets to popular sites. However, with a professionally guided 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour, you don’t have to worry about any hidden costs while exploring Muscat as everything is already arranged for you. Plus, you’ll also get tips and advice from your experienced guide that will enrich your entire experience! So yes, this tour is definitely worth it and will ensure that you truly enjoy your four days full of history in Muscat!
To experience all that Muscat has to offer in style within four days of your holiday, why not book a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour with GetYourGuide today? Booking a 4-Day Oman Highlights Tour will make sure that all your needs are taken care of professionally so that you continue to explore Muscat with ease and comfort!
An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Muscat, Oman
Welcome to Muscat, Oman, a city that seamlessly merges modernity and tradition. As an avid traveler, I am delighted to share with you some insider tips and recommendations on how to make the most of your trip.
Hidden Gems of Muscat
Apart from the clichéd tourist spots, Muscat boasts of many hidden gems that only the locals know about. The Mutrah Corniche, for instance, is a picturesque waterfront with several cafes and restaurants to enjoy the Arabian Gulf’s stunning views. Another spot that you cannot miss is the Muscat Fish Market, showcasing a wide variety of freshly caught fish, lobsters, and crabs. Also, visit Al Alam Palace, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. It’s truly a stunning structure adorned with gold and blue ornaments.
Dining in Muscat
Muscat’s cuisine is famous for its unique blend of flavors like traditional Omani rice, spiced meat, and local vegetables. If you want to enjoy a cultural dinner experience, try the Shuwa, a traditional Omani dish that consists of slow-cooked lamb or goat in an underground oven for several hours, creating a tender meat delicacy. Visit Bin Ateeq, where you can enjoy authentic Omani cuisine along with a Bedouin-style seating arrangement.
Cultural Experiences in Muscat
Oman is historically and culturally significant, and Muscat has maintained that legacy to this day. Visit the Bait Al Zubair museum, which showcases Omani heritage, history, and culture. Also, head to the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and appreciate the Islamic architecture and design. If you’re in town during the National Day celebrations, don’t miss the parade or the firework show. It’s an excellent way to experience Omani culture with locals.
The History of Oman
Muscat’s history is rich and fascinating. While the Sultan’s Palace on Al Alam Street looks stunning, it has a significant history. The palace was originally built during the reign of Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Ya’ribi back in the 17th century. Other historical sites worth visiting include Bahla Fort, one of Oman’s most ancient forts inhabited from 5000 BC and Nizwa fort, which has stood the test of time for over 800 years.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you’re looking for something unique and memorable, Muscat won’t disappoint. Take a sunset dhow cruise in the gulf of Oman. Or head up to Al Jabal al Akhdar, which translates to “the Green Mountain” and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the city from the top. Visit the Al Rustaq hot springs, which offer natural hot springs and mud baths. And if you’re feeling more adventurous, go sandboarding in the Wahiba Sands.
In conclusion, there’s a lot to marvel and discover in Muscat, Oman, from its rich culture and history to its modern architecture and hidden gems. Use these insider tips to explore Muscat in style with a 4-day Oman highlights tour, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime!
Table of Contents