Nizwa, Oman: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Nizwa was once the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries and remains the cultural heartbeat of the country? This historic city, nestled at the foot of the majestic Hajar Mountains, is home to Oman’s most visited national monument and serves as the gateway to some of the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes. As the second most visited destination in Oman, Nizwa offers a perfect blend of ancient history, traditional markets, and breathtaking mountain scenery that captivates travelers from around the world.

Getting to Nizwa & Planning Your Journey

Nizwa is located approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Muscat, making it an easy day trip or an excellent base for exploring central Oman. Most travelers arrive in Oman through Muscat International Airport and then make their way to Nizwa.

From Muscat to Nizwa

There are several options to reach Nizwa from Muscat:

• By car: The drive takes about 1.5 hours on a well-maintained highway. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
• By bus: Mwasalat operates public buses (routes 53 and 54) from Azaiba Bus Station near Muscat Airport to Nizwa. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
• By taxi: A private taxi from Muscat to Nizwa costs around 40 OMR ($104 USD).
• By tour: Many tour operators offer day trips or multi-day excursions to Nizwa from Muscat.

Best Time to Visit Nizwa & Weather Tips

Recommended Seasons

The best time to visit Nizwa is during the cooler months from October to March when temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During this period, daytime temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), making it comfortable to explore the fort, wander through souqs, and hike in the nearby mountains.

Seasons to Avoid

Summer months (May to September) can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). If you must visit during summer, plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and spend the hottest part of the day in air-conditioned museums or shops.

Special Events

If you’re interested in local culture, consider visiting on Friday morning to witness the famous Nizwa Goat Market, a traditional weekly auction that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Ramadan can affect opening hours of attractions and restaurants, so check the Islamic calendar when planning your trip.

Getting Around Nizwa

Nizwa’s compact old town center is easily explored on foot, with the fort, souq, and old city walls all within walking distance of each other. However, to visit attractions in the surrounding areas, you’ll need transportation.

Transportation Options

• Rental Car: The most convenient option for exploring Nizwa and its surroundings. Most attractions around Nizwa are accessible with a standard 2WD vehicle, but a 4WD is necessary for mountain areas like Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams.
• Taxis: Available in Nizwa but not as plentiful as in Muscat. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
• Tour Operators: Many hotels can arrange guided tours to nearby attractions.

Where to Stay in Nizwa

Nizwa offers a range of accommodation options from international chain hotels to traditional guesthouses. Most hotels are located a short drive from the historic center, while a few heritage inns can be found within the old town itself.

Dining & Local Cuisine in Nizwa

Omani cuisine reflects the country’s trading history with influences from India, Persia, East Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. In Nizwa, you’ll find everything from traditional Omani dishes to international options.

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Shuwa: Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves or palm fronds, then cooked in an underground sand oven.
• Majboos: Spiced rice dish with meat similar to biryani.
• Omani Halwa: A sweet gelatinous dessert made with starch, ghee, sugar, and flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts.
• Dates: Nizwa is known for its date production with over 120 varieties available at the souq.
• Kahwa: Traditional Omani coffee served with dates and often flavored with cardamom.

Recommended Restaurants

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Nizwa

1. Nizwa Fort & Castle

Oman’s most visited national monument, Nizwa Fort dates back to the 17th century and features an impressive circular tower measuring 36 meters in diameter and 30 meters in height. The fort served as both a defensive structure and the seat of the Imam (religious leader). Inside, you’ll find a fascinating museum with exhibits on traditional Omani life, weaponry, and historical artifacts. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Nizwa and the surrounding mountains.

Entry fee: 5 OMR ($13 USD)
Opening hours: Saturday-Thursday 8:00 AM-6:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM-11:30 AM and 1:30 PM-6:00 PM

2. Nizwa Souq

One of the oldest markets in Oman, Nizwa Souq is divided into several sections selling everything from dates and spices to pottery and the famous Omani silver khanjars (ceremonial daggers). The souq is particularly known for its silver craftsmanship, with intricate designs passed down through generations. Don’t miss the date market with over 120 varieties of dates, or the opportunity to sample Omani halwa, the national sweet.

Opening hours: Saturday-Thursday 7:00 AM-1:00 PM and 4:00 PM-9:00 PM, Friday 7:00 AM-11:30 AM and 4:00 PM-9:00 PM

3. Nizwa Goat Market

Every Friday morning, locals from surrounding villages gather near the souq for the traditional livestock auction. The goat market is a fascinating cultural experience where you can observe age-old trading practices as sellers parade their goats, sheep, cattle, and sometimes camels around a circular area while buyers bid on them. The market is busiest between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM.

When: Friday mornings, 7:00 AM-10:00 AM
Tip: Arrive by 7:30 AM to see the market in full swing

4. Falaj Daris

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Oman’s largest falaj irrigation systems, dating back over 1,500 years. The ingenious water channel system brings water from underground sources to supply the city and irrigate the surrounding date plantations. You can walk alongside portions of the falaj and observe how this ancient technology continues to sustain agriculture in the region.

5. Harat al-Aqr (Old Nizwa)

Behind Nizwa Fort lies the ancient quarter of Harat al-Aqr, a 1,400-year-old fortified city built of mud brick. Wander through the narrow alleyways to get a glimpse of traditional Omani architecture and lifestyle before modern development. Though some structures are crumbling, restoration efforts are underway to preserve this important historical area.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

Nizwa’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Oman’s most spectacular natural and historical sites. Here are the top day trips from Nizwa:

1. Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain)

Just 60 km from Nizwa, Jebel Akhdar is part of the Al Hajar mountain range and rises to about 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level. The cooler temperatures support unique agriculture, including famous rose terraces used to make Omani rosewater. Visit traditional villages like Al Ayn and Ash Sharayjah perched dramatically on the mountainside. The area is known for spectacular hiking trails with canyon views.

Note: A 4WD vehicle is mandatory and checked at a police checkpoint before the ascent.

2. Jebel Shams & Oman’s Grand Canyon

Oman’s highest peak at 3,009 meters (9,872 feet), Jebel Shams offers breathtaking views of Wadi Ghul, often called the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” The popular Balcony Walk trail follows the rim of the canyon to the abandoned village of As Sab, with dramatic drops of over 1,000 meters. The area is about 86 km from Nizwa and makes for an unforgettable day trip.

3. Bahla Fort

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Oman’s most impressive fortifications, dating back to the 12th-15th centuries. Located just 40 km from Nizwa, the massive fort with its 12 km wall was built to protect the oasis of Bahla. The fort is known for its distinctive architecture and historical significance as the capital of the Banu Nebhan tribe.

Entry fee: 4 OMR ($10.40 USD)

4. Jabreen Castle

Often considered the most beautiful castle in Oman, Jabreen is located 42 km from Nizwa. Built in the late 17th century, it served as a center of learning rather than defense. The castle features stunning painted ceilings, intricate woodwork, and secret passages. Audio guides provide excellent historical context.

Entry fee: 3 OMR ($7.80 USD)

5. Misfat Al Abriyeen

This picturesque mountain village, about 55 km from Nizwa, features traditional stone houses built on the steep mountainside. Wander through narrow lanes past terraced gardens and date palms irrigated by ancient falaj systems. Several guesthouses offer the opportunity to stay overnight in restored traditional homes.

Outdoor Activities & Adventures

The diverse landscapes surrounding Nizwa offer numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts:

Hiking & Trekking

• Balcony Walk: This famous trail along the rim of Wadi Ghul offers spectacular views of Oman’s Grand Canyon. The 6 km round-trip hike takes 3-4 hours and leads to an abandoned village and a hidden pool.
• Jebel Akhdar Rose Valley: During rose season (March-May), hike through terraced gardens where damask roses are grown for rosewater production.
• Wadi Qurai: A less-visited gem with a moderate 45-minute hike leading to clear blue pools.

Off-Road Adventures

The mountains and wadis around Nizwa offer some of Oman’s most spectacular off-road driving routes. With a 4WD vehicle, you can explore:

• Wadi Bani Awf: One of the most dramatic mountain passes in Oman.
• Snake Canyon: A challenging route through narrow gorges (best with a guide).
• Wadi Tanuf: An accessible wadi drive with beautiful scenery.

Rock Climbing & Canyoning

The limestone cliffs of the Hajar Mountains provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing and canyoning. Snake Canyon offers one of the most thrilling canyoning experiences in Oman, with abseiling, swimming through pools, and navigating narrow passages. These activities are best done with experienced guides and proper equipment.

Cultural Experiences & Festivals

Immerse yourself in Omani culture with these authentic experiences in and around Nizwa:

Cultural Demonstrations

Nizwa Fort hosts regular cultural demonstrations, particularly on Friday mornings. Watch traditional sword dances, musical performances, and handicraft demonstrations. Local women often make traditional bread on site, which visitors can sample.

Craft Workshops

Several places in Nizwa offer workshops where you can learn traditional crafts:

• Silver jewelry making
• Pottery
• Weaving
• Traditional perfume (bukhoor) making

Seasonal Festivals

If your visit coincides with these events, they offer unique insights into Omani culture:

• Eid celebrations: Following Ramadan and during Eid al-Adha, Nizwa comes alive with festivities.
• Rose harvest festival: In April, Jebel Akhdar celebrates the damask rose harvest with demonstrations of traditional rosewater distillation.
• Date harvest: In August, various celebrations mark the important date harvest season.
• Muscat Festival: Though centered in Muscat, this January-February festival often includes cultural events in Nizwa.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, respecting local customs is important, especially in more traditional areas like Nizwa.

Dress Code

Nizwa is more conservative than Muscat, so modest dress is particularly important:

• Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees
• Women should avoid tight or revealing clothing
• Consider carrying a light scarf for women to cover hair when visiting religious sites

Religious Customs

Oman is a Muslim country, and Nizwa has particular religious significance:

• Non-Muslims cannot enter mosques except those specifically open to visitors
• During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
• Prayer times may affect opening hours of shops and attractions

Social Etiquette

• Ask permission before photographing locals, especially women
• Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving or receiving items
• Remove shoes when entering someone’s home
• Accept offered coffee or dates as a gesture of hospitality

Practical Travel Tips for Nizwa

Opening Hours

Be aware of Oman’s unique schedule:

• Most attractions, shops, and restaurants close for an extended afternoon break (typically 12:30-4:00 PM)
• The weekend in Oman is Friday and Saturday
• Friday is the Muslim holy day, so expect limited morning hours and possible closures
• Government offices and some businesses may close early on Thursday

What to Pack

• Modest, lightweight clothing with layers for cooler evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring forts and souqs
• Hiking boots if planning mountain treks
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Reusable water bottle
• Small gifts from your home country if visiting local homes

Experience the Heart of Oman in Nizwa

Nizwa offers a perfect blend of Oman’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From wandering through the historic fort and haggling for silver in the ancient souq to hiking dramatic mountain trails and exploring traditional villages, Nizwa provides an authentic Arabian experience that feels worlds away from the region’s more commercialized destinations.

As you plan your journey to this cultural gem, remember that the true magic of Nizwa lies in its preserved traditions, warm hospitality, and the timeless rhythm of life that continues much as it has for centuries. Whether you’re watching goats being traded at the Friday market, sipping cardamom-infused coffee with locals, or gazing at star-filled skies from a mountain village, Nizwa will leave you with memories of an Oman that few travelers truly discover.

Ready to wander through ancient forts and bustling souqs? Start planning your Nizwa adventure today!