Wakan Village, Nakhal Fort and Rustaq Hot Springs — 2-Day Private Tour
Ancient fortresses, therapeutic hot springs and a mountain village perched 2,000 metres above the western Hajar range.
This Wakan private tour takes you through the Batinah heartland of Oman, combining centuries-old military architecture with natural hot springs and a remote mountain village that few visitors reach. The route is graded easy and suits families, couples and solo travellers with an interest in authentic Omani heritage.
On the first day the journey moves from the imposing towers of Nakhal Fort through a date-palm village to the warm waters of Nakhal Hot Spring, before climbing into the western Hajar Mountains to overnight at Wakan. The second day descends to Rustaq, where a 12th-century fort, a working souk, sulphurous hot springs and the recently reopened Al Hazm Castle round out the experience.
Throughout both days the tour remains private, meaning the pace, stops and depth of exploration adapt to the group. No shared coaches or fixed group schedules are involved, giving a level of flexibility that suits independent travellers who prefer direct access to each site.
Tour Highlights
Walk through Nakhal Fort, a restored 350-year-old fortress with hidden passages and panoramic views over date plantations.
Soak your feet in the warm, sulphur-rich waters of Nakhal Hot Spring inside a lush green wadi frequented by locals.
Explore Wadi Abyad, an accessible freshwater wadi with natural pools, palms and an easy trekking path suitable for all ages.
Overnight at Sama Wakan Heritage, a traditional guesthouse in Wakan Village set 2,000 metres above sea level.
Visit Al Rustaq Fort, one of the largest fortresses in Oman, originally built in the 12th century and open to the public.
Tour Al Hazm Castle with modern electronic guides and exhibits following its recent reopening by the Ministry of Tourism.
Discover Bait Al Ghasham Museum in the village of Al Shal'li, housing archaeological artefacts from the era of Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidi.
Itinerary
Departing after breakfast, the first stop is Nakhal Fort at the foothills of the mountains. After touring the restored rooms and taking in the views, the group walks to Nakhal Hot Spring where the warm river water flows through a small green wadi.
Located in the village of Al Shal'li in the town of Afi, this heritage museum presents archaeological artefacts and an exhibition of artisan crafts alongside a historically significant building from the Busaidi period.
A short drive leads to Wadi Abyad for a relaxed walk alongside freshwater pools and palm groves. The day closes with a steep climb of 700 steps to Wakan Village at 2,000 metres, with overnight accommodation at the Sama Wakan Heritage guesthouse.
After breakfast the group descends and heads to Rustaq to visit the large multi-towered fort dating from the 12th century. The adjacent old souk and its temporary replacement offer locally produced handicrafts, agricultural goods and Omani honey.
The hot springs at Ain Al Kasfah attract visitors who attribute therapeutic properties to the geothermal water. Public bathing cubicles are available on-site, and the sulphur-rich water has historically drawn people seeking relief from skin conditions.
The final stop is Al Hazm Castle, recently reopened with electronic guides and modern interpretive exhibits. The castle is considered one of the most significant examples of Omani military architecture and marks the conclusion of the tour before the return drive.
What Is Included
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver-guide
- 1 night accommodation at Sama Wakan Heritage guesthouse
- Entrance fees to Nakhal Fort
- Entrance fees to Rustaq Fort
- Entrance fees to Al Hazm Castle
- Entrance fees to Bait Al Ghasham Museum
Not Included
- Meals and beverages unless stated
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guide and driver
- Any items of a personal nature
- Hot spring bathing fees if applicable
Important Information
Reserve Your Private Tour
Secure your place on this two-day journey through Oman's mountain heritage, historic forts and natural hot springs with a private vehicle and flexible itinerary.
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