Nizwa Fort and Souq with visit to Al Hamra

A tour of Nizwa Market taking in this ancient city fort, souq markets and streets. Delve into the history of the once-capital of Oman as your guide brings to life existence in the old town. Travel to the village of Al Hamra to see traditional mud houses.

Area

Nizwa

Type

Culture & People

History

Grade

Standard

Who

Adults

Older Kids

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

Half Day

Nizwa is a town steeped in history. Once the stronghold of Islamic conservatism in Oman, it remained a formidable city for its enemies for centuries, flanked by the mighty Hajar Mountains and utilising clever mediaeval technology to keep invaders out. The fort itself has now been carefully restored to its former glory using traditional methods and provides a real insight into the lives of Omanis in previous centuries.

Along with the Fort, Nizwas other main highlight is its Souq, again reconstructed in the traditional style. Items of interest are spices, silver, and pottery, all of which are handmade in the area. On Friday, the souq really comes to life as locals travel into the city to trade. The market is a bustling mix of livestock and handmade goods, and the air is fragrant with spices.

Close to Nizwa is the large village of Al Hamra. One of Oman's oldest and most traditional villages, Al Hamra, is a great place to see the traditional architecture of old Oman: mud construction houses, some hundreds of years old but still standing, and all with intricately carved wooden doors, the signature of the region.

Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

The View

The View was the first Eco Luxe retreat in Oman, complete with 30 rooms, most in individual cabins, located in the hills above the town of Al Hamra, a few hours drive from Muscat and 45 minutes from the ancient city of Nizwa.

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Golden Tulip Nizwa

Nestled in the rugged landscape of the Hajar Mountains, guests can expect a warm welcome at the Golden Tulip. Located only a short drive from Oman's ancient city of Nizwa, the Golden Tulip is a comfortable base for exploring the area.

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Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Opened in October 2016, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort brings the Anantara brand to Oman. Resting on the breathtaking Green Mountain, the resort combines luxury and style with a backdrop of outstanding panoramic views of these fabled mountains.

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Desert Nights Camp

The Desert Nights Camp offers fixed Bedouin style air-conditioned tents in the wondrous Wahiba Sands, only a 3-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Muscat. This is a good option for those who prefer more luxurious surroundings.

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Alila Jabal Akhdar

Alila Jabal Akhdar is perched in a dramatic location up in the Hajar Mountains of Oman, with spectacular views over the valley below. Opened in 2014, it brings a new level of luxury to the area, combining comfort with an eco-friendly outlook.

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Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Al Bustan Palace is a sophisticated and luxurious 250-room hotel, which is set on a stunning stretch of coastline with a dramatic mountain backdrop. It is situated just 30 kilometres from Muscat so is well placed for exploring the city.

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More Experiences in This Area

Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.

Day trip to Nizwa {with the Friday Market}

Nizwa was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th Centuries and is one of the oldest cities in Oman. There is a lot to see here and in the surrounding area including a bustling Friday market, the restored Nizwa Fort and date farms.

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Nizwa Friday Market

Visit the local Friday market in Nizwa.

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Trekking in the Mountains

Today you will go on a trek in the mountains with a private guide.

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