Muscat’s Mosques and Palaces: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Alam Palace, Royal Opera House
Forts, Oases, and a Fabulous Museum: Birkat al Mouz, ‘Oman across Ages’, Nizwa Fort.
On the fourth day of your itinerary, you’ll start with an early visit to Nizwa Souq, one of Oman’s oldest and most atmospheric markets. If it’s a Friday, you’ll catch the lively livestock market, a chaotic and fascinating glimpse into traditional Omani life. After soaking up the sounds and scents of the souq, you’ll head to Misfat al Abriyeen, a 300-year-old mountain village known for its winding stone alleys, lush terraces, and ancient falaj irrigation channels. From there, you’ll drive up to Jabal Akhdar, where cooler mountain air and dramatic canyon views await – the perfect way to end a day of exploring Oman’s past and present.
I suggest you stay in Jabel Akdar to enjoy the mountain views an atmosphere.
Keeep in mind: Jabal Al Akhdar requires a 4WD vehicle to access its steep, winding roads, and there is a police checkpoint at the base to ensure this rule is followed. If you don’t have a 4WD, you can either rent one in Muscat or Nizwa, or consider hiring a driver to get there. Some hotels and tour companies also offer transfers, which can be a convenient way to reach this stunning mountain region.
Luxury: Anantara Resort. Perched on the edge of a canyon, it offers magnificent views in total comfort. It is the highest 5-star resort in the Middle East.
Wild Camping: For a more budget-friendly option, you can wild camp in Jabal Akhdar. It’s a chance to wake up to the crisp mountain air and in the middle of the panoramic views. But keep in mind that temperatures can drop sharply at night, and you’ll need to bring all your own gear (or rent it), including water and a sturdy tent.
For a Once-in-a-Life Experience: Suwgra Heritage Inn. This is like stepping back in time – this hotel, carved into the mountainside, offers a truly unique experience with its cliffside rooms, panoramic canyon views, and authentic Omani food. It does require a short walk to get to it.
Mid-range: Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar. Once again, superb views with clean rooms and good value for money. It even has a heated swimming pool!
It’s worth getting up early to catch the opening of Nizwa Souq when the stalls come to life with the sounds of traders setting up and the first customers of the day haggling over fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.. Nizwa Souq opens daily, typically starting around 8:30–9:00 AM and operating until approximately 12:30 PM.
If possible, try to plan your Day 4 for a Friday, so you can experience the famous livestock market at Nizwa Souq, where local farmers auction off goats, cattle, and sheep – a tradition that has been part of Omani life for centuries. Auctions in the goat market start around 7.00 AM and will offer you a unique cultural experience. It’s always very crowded with owners parading their animals as locals watch in line and bid.
In the fruit and vegetable market, you’ll notice that the ‘system’ is different than in other markets. Produce tends to be sold in an auction-style way with people bidding. You may also want to wander over to the ‘Firearms market’, right beside the entrance of the Souq. It will give you a chance to see a lot of Omani Khanjar (traditional daggers). You’ll also find a lot of pottery and handicrafts for sale in the Souq.
The drive from Nizwa to Misfat Al Abriyeen typically takes between 40 to 55 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The distance is approximately 47 kilometers (about 29 miles), and the route is fully paved, making it accessible with a standard vehicle—no need for a 4WD.
You will need to park your car in the small gravel lot at the entrance or along the road that leads to Misfat – you can’t drive inside the village.
When you first arrive in Misfat al Abriyeen, you will feel like you have stumbled into a different era. The village is a maze of narrow alleys, shaded by overhanging palm fronds, and its ancient mud-brick houses cling to the mountain slopes. The whole experience (because Misfat IS an experience!) is very peaceful with views over the valley and palm groves that are incredible!
I suggest you have lunch in one of the restaurants in Misfat al Abriyeen. For incredible views and a unique experience climbing up the stone stairs, I would recommend Bun Al Hisn Café, which is at the entrance of the village.
As you will see very quickly, visiting Jabel Al Akhdar is all about slowing down and soaking in the mountain air. The drive up is steep and you’ll need a 4WD to get through the checkpoint – no exceptions – so either rent one or book a tour.
Take some time to check into your hotel and settle in.
If you’re staying at the Suwgra Heritage Inn (see before for recommended accommodation), it will take you about 15 minutes to walk up to the inn. Once you’re there, you may simply wish to take it easy and enjoy the stunning location.
However, if you wish to explore the area, here are some options.
Start at Al Ayn Village
Head to Al Ayn, a small mountain village known for:
Traditional stone houses
Dramatic terraced fields
Rose gardens (best in bloom from March to April)
If you’re lucky enough to visit during rose season, you might spot locals making rose water the traditional way using large clay pots.
Walk the Trail to Al Aqur
From Al Ayn, take the easy walking trail to the nearby village of Al Aqur. It’s a relaxed walk with:
Stunning views over the canyon
Ancient falaj irrigation channels
Quiet moments between orchards and old homes
🟠 Tips: Wear proper walking shoes and carry water. There’s little shade, and it can get hot during the afternoon.
In the evening, have dinner at the hotel and enjoy the stunning sunsets you get in this part of the world. The following video from the ‘Side Trip of a LifeTime’ Youtube channel will give you an idea…
