Things to do in Nizwa and the Jebel Akhdar Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Nizwa and the Jebel Akhdar Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Nizwa and the Jebel Akhdar region's storied fortifications and castles, built to guard ancient trade routes and oases.
Nizwa Fort
A towering 17th-century fortress overlooking Nizwa, with commanding walls and a museum inside.
Jabrin Castle
A beautifully ornate 17th-century fortress with intricate ceiling paintings and palace rooms.
Bahla Fort
A UNESCO-listed adobe fortress set in the desert landscape, with watchtowers and dense walls.
Museums
Learn about Omani life and historical crafts through curated displays in the Nizwa region.
Nizwa Heritage Museum
Displays that showcase traditional Omani village life, crafts, and daily routines.
Bahla Archaeological Museum
Exhibits artifacts from the Bahla area, highlighting its ancient fort and trade history.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture from the region, including historic mosques and sacred spaces.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Nizwa and the Jebel Akhdar Highlands. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Stunning mountain scenery and protected landscapes offering dramatic viewpoints and strolls.
Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain)
The lush mountain plateau known for terraced farms, cool air, and dramatic viewpoints.
Saiq Plateau
A high-altitude area with pine-backed trails and sweeping panoramas over the Jebel Akhdar.
Birkat Al Mawz Oasis
A palm-dotted oasis village with historical falaj irrigation and hillside terraces.
Neighborhoods
Explore traditional villages and historic quarters that give a sense of everyday life in Oman.
Nizwa Old Town
A maze of narrow lanes, markets, and traditional architecture around the fort and souq.
Al Hamra
A village of mud-brick houses perched on the mountainside, with winding lanes and heritage charm.
Misfat al Abriyeen
A hillside village famed for its lush terraces, stone houses, and quiet coffee stops.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the natural beauty and traditional ambiance of Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar without an entry fee.
Wander Nizwa Souq and Old Town streets
Stroll the bustling lanes, watch traders, and soak up local life.
Diana's Point and viewpoints along Jebel Akhdar road
Take in sweeping canyon and village views from famous overlooks.
Scenic drive along Jebel Akhdar roads
Enjoy dramatic mountain scenery and photo stops along the switchback routes.
Walk terrace trails in Misfat al Abriyeen
Experience the green terraces and traditional irrigation paths on a self-guided stroll.
Gastronomy
Taste classic Omani flavors and regional specialties during your visit.
Omani Majboos (Machboos)
A fragrant rice dish with meat or chicken, seasoned with spices.
Omani Halwa
A rich, sticky sweet made from sugar, rosewater, and nuts, a local favorite.
Dates and coffee at a traditional Omani cafe
Sample locally grown dates and bold, spiced coffee in a relaxed setting.
Nightlife
Evening atmospheres and starlit skies showcase the region after dark.
Stargazing on Jebel Akhdar
Clear night skies offer excellent conditions for stargazing from high slopes.
Evening coffee at Nizwa Old Town cafés
Relax over coffee and dates in historic lanes after sunset.
Traditional music evenings at Misfat al Abriyeen guesthouses
Occasional cultural evenings with local musicians in village settings.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and performances you might come across during a visit.
Falconry demonstrations at desert camps near Jebel Akhdar
Learn about this iconic Omani tradition with live displays.
Storytelling evenings in Nizwa Old Town
Occasional cultural talks and stories around traditional settings.
Craft demonstrations in Al Hamra
Watch artisans practice pottery or weaving in village workshops.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the rugged landscape and outdoors.
Hiking on Jebel Akhdar
Follow scenic trails with panoramic views over terraced valleys.
Rock climbing and canyoning in Wadi Bani Awf / Snake Canyon
Trek and scramble through dramatic rock fissures and canyons.
Mountain biking on Saiq Plateau trails
Ride through cool high-altitude landscapes and pine-fringed paths.
Off the Track
Hidden village routes and lesser-known natural wonders for adventurous explorers.
Misfat al Abriyeen terrace walk
Explore the iconic green terraces and stone houses on a gentle hike.
Birkat Al Mawz oasis hike
A shaded palm oasis framed by cliff faces and terraced fields.
Wadi Bani Habib canyon overlook
A lesser-visited wadi with dramatic views and rocky trails.