The Sultanate of Oman is rife with expansive natural landscapes, architectural wonders and sparkling blue ocean to top it off. It is a complete package for any tourist. While a five-day trip is not enough to enjoy the true Oman experience, we at Business Live have created an itinerary that will reap maximum benefits of this quaint gem of the Arabian Peninsula.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Day 1 – Muscat

The capital of Oman, Muscat has a great number of experiences to offer. The first thing any tourist must do once they land at Muscat International Airport is head to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Open to visitors from 9 am to 2 pm, and 4 pm to 9 pm, to non-Muslims, the ottoman style interiors are a sight to behold. The beautiful gardens surrounding the mosque are just the cherry on top.

Then, head on over to The Royal Opera house Muscat, the first of its kind in the Gulf, the Musical performances, along with the grandiose are sure to sway you. A must visit, the Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House will ease you into the experience that you are in for.

Following the visit, drive over to the sea line of the Shatti Al Qurum beach to unwind. Filled with commercial stores and restaurants, one can opt to either indulge in an Arabic dinner or any other cuisine based off of the variety offered.

Muttrah Souq

Day 2 – Muscat

Start the second day off with a walk along the Muttrah corniche. Surround yourself with the corniche’s still water and wafting salt air. Then make way towards the Alam Palace, one of the six royal residences of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. While not permitted to enter the main palace, visitors are permitted to walk around the palace grounds. It also makes for great pictures. Following that, take a 2-minute walk opposite the Alam Palace to Oman’s National Museum. Displaying numerous artifacts, the museum is the best way to learn, albeit concisely, the interesting history of the Sultanate.

Then, head back to Old Muscat and the breathtaking Muttrah souq to purchase great Omani souvenirs – and don’t shy away from haggling, it is an experience in itself.

Jabal Shams

Day 3 – Nizwa

After two days spent admiring architectural wonders, dedicate the third day to quiet retrospection and natural beauty. Travel to Nizwa, one of the oldest cities of the Sultanate, located 158 km from Muscat. Start off by going to the Jabreen Castle and Al Hoota Cave to sate the history buff in you. Then visit the Nizwa Souq, and mingle with the locals known for their famously warm hospitality. Following this, drive to the highest peak of the country – Jabal Shams, or Jabal Akhdar, relax at the beautiful resorts and watch the glorious sunset cast its orange dye across the landscape.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Day 4 – Wadi Bani Khalid

On your fourth day, wake up to the mesmerizing sunrise at the peak and then drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, located 221 km from Nizwa. Covered with lush green pastures, cooling waterfalls and caves, the wadi will appease to thrill-seekers. Rock climbing, hiking, swimming, and high diving are a few of the many adventures one can partake in. Then, head to Sur, Oman’s port city. The turtle beach, that owes its name to the sea turtles that lay eggs on the beach, is a one-of-a-kind experience. Watch the turtles lay eggs early in the morning after a night spent at the resort adjoining the beach.

Wadi Darbat – Salalah

Day 5 – Salalah

Though Salalah deserves a separate five-day trip of its own, catch a flight to Salalah to visit the essential spots at the least. Surrounded by misty fog, light drizzles and greenery, Salalah is the Sultanate’s little piece of paradise. Visit the Blowhole and White beaches of Salalah in the morning and reserve your afternoon and evening for Wadi Darbat and the Haffa Souq. A one day visit to Salalah will surely have you coming back for more.