Magical Muscat
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port
Muscat, Oman
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activityLevel
Easy Activity
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excursionType
All
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$100
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
Your Omani experience begins with an outside view of the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque -- a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture. With its shimmering lines of white marble, five minarets, archways and courtyards, the Grand Mosque is the pride of Muscat.
Continue with a drive along the elegant Corniche, lined with old merchant's houses, en route to the enticing Muttrah souq (market). A series of small lanes and alleyways, the souq is a hub of activity where you can mingle with the locals and enjoy a hot cup of Omani tea at a café (at your own expense). Stroll past tiny shops selling old silver jewelry, rare spices from India, silks from China, sandalwood and myrrh, and the famous Omani khanjars, or daggers.
Visit the Bait al Zubair Museum, housing Oman's largest and finest private collection of artifacts. Offering insight into the culture and traditions of the country, the museum has more than 5,000 specially selected pieces spanning several centuries and regions. The collection includes traditional Omani weaponry, jewelry, clothing, furniture, photographs, coins, stamps, musical instruments, manuscripts and books.
Before returning to Port Qaboos, you’ll stop to snap photos at Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace where Sultan Qaboos bin Said met with his official visitors and ministers. Painted an eye-catching turquoise blue and gold, and nestled between steep rocky hills, Al Alam faces picturesque Muscat Bay, and is flanked by the medieval fortresses Al Mirani and Al Jalali (Photo Stop).
Please note:
Grand Mosque will be visited from inside. Dress code to be strictly followed. Conservative attire is required. Tour does not operate on holidays, or during VIP visits. Dollars are accepted in the souq. No photography inside Bait Al Zubair Museum. On Friday's the Grand Mosque is closed and will only be viewed from the outside. If your visit falls during Ramadan, you cannot eat, drink or smoke in public.