Oman’s mountain ranges, particularly the Al Hajar Mountains, offer breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and serene villages. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a memorable mountain retreat tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Muscat and Transfer to Jebel Akhdar
- Morning: Arrive in Muscat, Oman’s capital. Spend a few hours exploring the city’s key attractions, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Jebel Akhdar in the Al Hajar Mountains, about a 2.5-hour drive from Muscat. Jebel Akhdar, meaning “Green Mountain,” is renowned for its beautiful terraced gardens and cooler climate.
- Evening: Check into your hotel or mountain resort. Enjoy a relaxing dinner with views of the dramatic mountain landscape.
Day 2: Explore Jebel Akhdar
- Morning: After breakfast, embark on a guided trek through Jebel Akhdar’s terraced gardens, learning about the local agriculture, including pomegranates, apricots, and roses.
- Afternoon: Visit the ancient ruins of Birkat Al Mawz at the foot of Jebel Akhdar and explore the old mud-brick houses and the falaj irrigation system.
- Evening: Return to the hotel. Optional: Attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Omani dishes.
Day 3: Journey to Jebel Shams and Al Hamra
- Morning: Depart Jebel Akhdar for Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak, known as the “Mountain of the Sun.” The drive should take about 2 hours.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch and then hike part of the Balcony Walk around the rim of the Grand Canyon of Oman. The views into the canyon are spectacular.
- Evening: Drive to the ancient town of Al Hamra, about an hour away. Check into a traditional Omani guesthouse and explore the 400-year-old mudbrick houses in the evening.
Day 4: Al Hamra and Return to Muscat
- Morning: Visit the Bait Al Safah museum in Al Hamra, a living museum that offers insights into Omani heritage and culture. Then, explore the nearby Misfat Al Abriyeen, a picturesque mountain village known for its ancient irrigation channels and lush palm groves.
- Afternoon: Begin the journey back to Muscat. If time allows, stop at Nizwa to visit its historic fort and bustling souq, famous for its silver jewelry and Omani sweets.
- Evening: Arrive in Muscat in time for a farewell dinner, reflecting on the adventure through Oman’s mountains.
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