Experience Oman's unique blend of historic and contemporary sites, along with lunch at the spectacular Grand Hyatt during this full-day tour of the city.
Depart the pier for a drive on Oman's expressway, past the airport and along the Batinah Coast. A visit will then be made to the centuries-old Nakhl Fort, perched on a 200-foot high hilltop with spectacular views. Here, you will view the ladies' sitting room, walis, barzas, majlis, the prison, and split-level terraces and courtyards. You will then visit Nakhl Springs, a tranquil and picturesque area framed by majestic mountains, or jebels, and a dense green oasis.
Next, you will take a drive through the village of Nakhl before proceeding for lunch at the Grand Hyatt. After lunch a photo stop will be made at the Zawawi Mosque, Oman's most exquisite mosque. Leaving the mosque, you will drive on to Muscat's Old Town for a photo stop at the splendid Al Alam Palace, which offers scenic vistas overlooking Muscat Bay. Your tour will continue on to Bait Al Zubair, a private museum housing collections of traditional Omani items that include weaponry, jewelry, clothing, household items, books, photographs, paintings, and maps.
Your tour will conclude with a visit to the colorful Muttrah Souq, where the scent of exotic Arabian perfumes and spices fills the air. Here, a multitude of shops offer Omani daggers, or khanjars, as well as handmade Omani costumes, antiques, traditional silver jewelry and handicrafts made from copper, camel bone, wood and leather.
Please note: Due to Muslim tradition, conservative dress is required for men and women. Legs and shoulders should be covered; shorts, short skirts, beachwear, sleeveless t-shirts or blouses, and revealing outfits are not appropriate. This tour involves negotiating many steps, especially at the Nakhl Fort. The order of the visits may vary.