Nizwa Fort is one of the most popular and well-preserved forts in Oman. The structure, striking with its massive circular cannon tower, was originally built in the 17th century and has played a pivotal role in the history of Oman. A visit to Nizwa Fort offers a deep dive into the country's rich history and culture. As you wander through its many rooms, terraces, and museum exhibits, you'll learn about traditional Omani life, the fort's defense mechanisms, and its historical significance. The fort also provides excellent views of the surrounding Hajar Mountains and Nizwa city. Climbing up to the top of the fort’s tower presents a unique opportunity to capture panoramic photos of the ancient city and its grand mosque.
The Nizwa Souq, adjacent to Nizwa Fort, is a traditional market that offers a sensory overload with its vibrant array of textiles, pottery, silver jewelry, and local foods. The souq retains much of its historical charm and is divided into separate areas for meat, fish, vegetables, and dates. One of the intriguing aspects of the market is the silver souq, renowned for its intricately crafted Khanjars (Omani daggers) and Bedouin jewelry. The souq is also the location for the lively goat and cattle market held every Friday morning, where farmers and traders haggle over livestock. Exploring the market is an ideal way to immerse yourself in local customs and practice your bargaining skills.
While not directly in Nizwa, Bahla Fort is located approximately 40 kilometers away and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This pre-Islamic fort dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries and is a testament to the area's historical defense and social organization. Touring the fort allows you to admire its impressive walls made of mud brick and the striking view it offers of the town of Bahla and its palm groves. Restoration work in recent years has made it possible for visitors to explore the fort’s diverse rooms, towers, and architectural details up close, providing a fascinating glimpse into Oman’s ancestral building techniques and cultural heritage.
Jebel Akhdar, meaning 'The Green Mountain,' is part of the Al Hajar Mountain range and is famous for its agricultural terraces and cool climate. The area is lush with vegetation, making it a stark contrast to the arid terrain commonly found in Oman. Trekking in Jebel Akhdar requires a four-wheel drive to reach the starting points of various trails, but it’s well worth the effort. There are routes suitable for both casual walkers and experienced trekkers. The paths lead through pomegranate, rosewater, and apricot terraces, small villages, and offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Travellers can witness traditional Omani rural life and enjoy the cooler microclimate of the highlands.
Al Hoota Cave, situated at the foot of Jebel Shams, Oman's highest mountain, is a popular natural attraction. Discovered more than 1500 years ago, the cave boasts a rich ecosystem with an array of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear lakes home to the rare blind fish (Garra barreimiae). Guided tours of the cave allow visitors to explore the lit pathways and marvel at the incredible geological formations that have been formed over millions of years. The serene atmosphere of the cave's subterranean environment provides a cool respite from the heat and an educational experience about the region's natural history.
The historical ruins of Tanuf are a compelling sight located between Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar. They speak of Oman's past, particularly the Oman–British conflicts in the mid-20th century. Visitors can wander among the remnants of houses, a mosque, and other structures pockmarked from aerial bombings of that era. These ruins offer unique photo opportunities and a sobering reminder of the resilience of the Omani people. Although less frequented than other historical sites in Oman, Tanuf Ruins provide a poignant window into the region's tumultuous past and the drive towards modernization and peace.
Birkat Al Mouz, which translates to 'Banana Pool,' is a picturesque village known for its UNESCO-listed falaj irrigation systems and lush date plantations. The ruins of the old mud-brick village with its ancient houses and imposing watchtowers are nestled against the backdrop of Jebel Akhdar. Visitors can take a casual stroll through the falaj paths, observe the ingenious water channels, and explore the atmospheric ruins that have borne witness to the ebbs and flows of Omani history. The village is also an excellent spot to learn about Omani agriculture and enjoy the natural beauty of the date palms and banana groves.
Jebel Shams is the tallest mountain in Oman and a hiker's paradise. Known as the 'mountain of the sun,' Jebel Shams offers visitors the chance to take the adventurous trek to its summit for an unparalleled view of the Grand Canyon of Oman. The trek known as the W4 trail or the Balcony Walk, is a moderately challenging hike along a path that contours the edge of the canyon, leading to an abandoned village. Along the way, you are treated to breathtaking views of the dramatic landscape. Experiencing sunset or sunrise from Jebel Shams is particularly mesmerizing, as the play of light and shadow over the rugged terrain is simply spectacular.
Al Jabreen Castle is a testament to Omani architectural ingenuity. Situated in the heart of the inland town of Jabreen, not far from Nizwa, this 17th-century edifice served as a palace for Omani imams and as a beacon of education and the arts during its heyday. Distinguished by its finely detailed woodcarvings, ornate ceiling paintings, and intricate lattice windows, the castle is a relic of a prosperous era in Omani history. A tour through the various halls, courtyards, and rooms of the castle provides insight into the opulent living conditions of the time, as well as the strategic defensive design that was characteristic of Omani fortifications.
Falconry is an integral part of traditional Arabian heritage and is still practiced in Oman today. Experiencing falconry in Nizwa offers a unique perspective into this ancient sport and its importance in desert culture. Local falconers demonstrate the training, care, and impressive hunting techniques of these majestic birds. Visitors have the chance to witness the strong bond between falconer and bird, learn about the different species of falcons used, and even handle the birds under expert supervision. The experience is not just about the thrill of seeing falcons in flight; it also imparts a deep appreciation for the conservation of these incredible creatures and the traditions that surround them.
