Oman > The cattle market of Nizwa

The phone rings before five o’clock—wake-up call. In the dark, I depart for Nizwa to visit the livestock market. First, we drive toward Muscat and turn right at the airport. As soon as I enter Nizwa, I see cars with livestock in their beds.

Oman - Animals being guided around the livestock market of Nizwa

The parking lot is busy as well. Many people already have their new purchases secured in the back of their vehicles. At the livestock market itself, it is crowded. The animals are led in a large circle past potential buyers. On both sides, the animals are inspected, and prices are occasionally negotiated. It is fascinating to watch this process. After the livestock market, I walk into Nizwa and visit the various markets: the fish market, the fruit market, spices, pots, and pans. Everything can be found in the town center. Eventually, I arrive at the entrance to Nizwa Castle. The fort is a massive castle built in 1650 and is the most visited monument in Oman. I walk through the castle, navigating rooms, small staircases, and doorways. Via a narrow staircase, I reach the top of the large round tower.

Oman - The large broad tower of Nizwa fort

From here, I have a beautiful view over Nizwa, including the striking Sultan Qaboos Jama Mosque. I continue on to Tanuf. This old town was bombed during the Jebel Akhdar War, a rebellion against the Sultan of Muscat, in 1959. The town was never rebuilt. I walk among the ruins of the ghost town. The mud-brick houses stand deserted. From here, I proceed to Bahla Fort. Unfortunately, it is Friday, and the castles are closed in the afternoon. I take a short walk around the impressive fort. The nearby Jabrin Castle is also closed. By around one o’clock, I am back in Nizwa. Lunch is right next to a mosque. The Friday prayers have just ended, and numerous Muslims are leaving the mosque. I quickly go inside the restaurant. After lunch, I drive to the hotel. In the afternoon, I relax on a sunbed by the pool, lying there until the sun disappears behind the hotel. In the evening, dinner is a buffet at the hotel, which is included.