Anastasia Smith
The beautiful city of Nizwa lies in the heart of Oman and holds a treasure of culture, history, and thrilling adventure for all who seek such pleasures. From the ancient monuments and forts to the bustling souks, Nizwa has many activities and adventures for all. This is a comprehensive guide to help you select the best things to do in this enchanting city.
An excellent place to start your adventure is at the Nizwa Souk. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and network with friendly locals. The Nizwa Souk is a bustling marketplace that adheres to age-old traditions while seamlessly blending with modern-day commerce. As you wander through the maze of alleyways, you'll find them adorned with colourful stalls. These stalls offer a wide selection of goods and services, ranging from beautifully woven textiles with intricate workmanship and traditional handcrafted objects to exotic fruits and aromatic spices across the world. Local vendors often encourage a healthy amount of haggling as well.
An old and traditional way of the people of Nizwa is to auction off livestock. This method of transaction is popular even today, and you can easily attend such an event. The local breeders and farmers sell and buy camels, goats, and cattle for the highest prices. Witness the lively spectacle of auctioneers showcasing their prized animals while buyers engage in spirited negotiations. This event can also provide insight into the dominant role of animal husbandry in the Omani culture, it is an experience not to be missed among the many things to do in Oman.
No visit to the city of Nizwa is complete without indulging in the rich and flavourful Omani cuisine. Enjoy traditional food like Shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish complemented with a marinade of spices, or machboos, a fragrant rice dish topped with tender meat and aromatic herbs. Many local eateries and restaurants will be happy to accommodate your requests for Omani cuisine. Even the hotel you are staying in will be more than willing to provide scrumptious delicacies on demand. Establishments like Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, which promise a luxurious stay at affordable prices, will go above and beyond to cater to your culinary requirements.
Hike to the Grand Canyon of Oman, known as Wadi Ghul. Escape the hustle and bustle of the crowded city with an adventure that will be unforgettable. Wadi Ghul is home to sheer cliffs, rugged terrain, and breathtaking landscapes that will be ideal for hiking and offers endless opportunities to explore for hiking enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Wander on the ever-winding trails and aimlessly walk through ancient villages, towering peaks, and beautiful forests, and be rewarded with panoramic views that will leave you amazed.
A must-try on any Arabian desert is a camel safari. Mount this majestic and tall beast and embark on a leisurely ride across the golden sands around Nizwa. You will have a guide who will direct your camel through the path as well as share interesting facts and stories of Bedouin lore and desert traditions. Whether it's a sunset excursion or a moonlit adventure, a camel safari is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Nizwa.
