This morning set off for the historic and cultural capital of Oman. En route, there will have stops for photo opportunities at the villages of Fanja and Birkat al Mauz. At Bahla, the mystical village, known for its Arabian potteries, you will visit one of the pottery making units. (closed on public holidays and Fridays).

Later you drive onwards to visit Jabreen Castle, built in 17th century. There is no other fort or castle in Oman boasting the magnificence and splendour of Jabreen. The plasterwork, wooden carvings, painted ceiling makes this castle amazingly different.

Later you proceed to Al Hoota caves; the second largest natural caves in the world and  Al Hamra, one of the oldest villages and up to 400 years old. Its mud houses are still occupied. You also visit the Al Hamra Falaj system.

You then proceed to Jabel Shams the highest point of Western Hajar Mountain range known as the great canyon of Oman. The view from here is spectacular. Return back to Nizwa.

After breakfast at the hotel set off to visit Nizwa Fort with its famous round tower, probably one of the best in Oman. Your visit is followed by an exploration of Nizwa souq, where Arabian pottery, imported spices, gold and silverware are sold. If in Nizwa on a Friday, the traditional cattle market is very interesting.

Next you head to the Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white sand which is also host to a variety of flora and fauna. The ever-changing patterns of the dunes are a photographers delight. You will visit a Bedouin house in this wilderness.

In stark contrast to this is the Wadi Bani Khalid, which comprises of small pretty villages embedded in the mountains; the wadi has clear deep blue water. You then head for Sur where you spend the night.

After breakfast at the hotel you will have short orientation tour of Sur.

Once, this coastal town was famous for dhow building - the famous Arabian sea-going ship of old - trading and seafaring. You will visit the dhow building shipyard before driving back to Muscat along the scenic coastal route. The road winds along the rugged coast, through beautiful valleys and past white sandy beaches with breathtaking views.

Before arriving back in Muscat you will see the ruins of Bibi Miriam’s Tomb at the village of Qalhat, whilst the pretty village of Wadi Tiwi provides a surprising contrast with its lush green wadi and plantations. You will also stop at the beautiful Fin’s Beach before reaching Bimah Sinkhole, a spectacular limestone crater with blue green water at the bottom.

While driving along the coast one might spot fleet-footed gazelles sprinting across the landscape. A picnic lunch will be served at convenient place and we will return to Muscat by 17:00 hours approximately.