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Wander-Lush

17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Oman in 2024

Are you entertaining the idea of visiting Oman ? Read on for 17 of the best places to visit, from wadis and mountains and mud villages and mosques.

In my experience, it only takes a quick flick through photos of Oman to tip the scales in this country’s favour. One look at Oman’s palm-fringed wadis, emerald sinkholes and stunning mosaics and minarets was more than enough to convince me to book a ticket to Muscat. This country is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and cities in the Middle East .

And let me tell you, Oman is a million times more beautiful in person – when you can feel those crystal waters, taste that cardamom coffee and smell that frankincense for yourself!

When planning your Oman itinerary , the first thing you should consider is the must-sees. The good news is that Oman is very easy to get around – if you have your own car, you can see most of what the north-east part of the country has to offer in as little as 10 days.

Read on for the best places to visit across the country, including tourist highlights and off-the-beaten-track gems.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

How to get around Oman

• Hire a car in Muscat: Use Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental .
• Find day excursions from the city: Browse private and small group day tours on Get Your Guide .
• Book a private driver: Organise a car and driver for the day and design your own flexible itinerary .

Best places to visit in Oman this year

Oman’s topography is a revelation, while the country’s natural beauty is only rivalled by its cultural riches. Oman is budget-friendly , family friendly, and overwhelmingly safe for tourists. No wonder this Middle Eastern nation captures the imagination of so many travellers.

Before you make a dash for this stunning country, consider the 17 best places to visit in Oman that are each worthy of a spot on your itinerary .

1. Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most beautiful places in Oman

If I had to choose just one place that epitomises Oman’s natural beauty, it would have to be Wadi Bani Khalid.

If you’re unfamiliar with this natural phenomenon, a wadi is a long, narrow ravine that channels water from the mountains to the lowlands. They are quite literally oases in the desert – a passage for life-giving water to permeate the otherwise barren landscape.

Of all of Oman’s wadis (there are a couple more to come on this list), Wadi Bani Khalid is perhaps the most picturesque. It’s composed of a series of emerald and turquoise pools, each one pressed deeper into the mountain crevice. Frothy waterfalls cascade down giant boulders, creating natural water slides, and dark caves open up within the rock formations, some only accessible by swimming through partially sealed passageways. The wadi forms a green corridor, with date palms rising up from the sandy earth to shade the waters.

Wadi Bani Khalid runs north-south, starting as a thin ribbon before widening into a river and finishing around Al Kamil Wal Wafi. This is a very popular swimming and picnic spot among local families, especially on weekends and holidays. You can find some privacy in the furthest pools, which you can reach either by swimming or by hiking on sandy paths.

Get there: 2.5-hour drive from Muscat. Guided option: Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid private tour from Muscat .

2. Sharqiya Sands (Wahiba Sands), Oman’s Empty Quarter

Spending some time in Oman’s Empty Quarter is a must-do for anyone who wants to feel the pulse of the region’s traditional Bedouin culture . Oman holds the sands of four deserts within its borders – the most famous being the Rub Al Khali or Empty Quarter, one of the largest deserts on Earth and one of our planet’s natural wonders.

The Sharqiya Sands (formerly known as the Wahiba Sands) dominates Oman’s inner-north. As one of the most popular tourist places in Oman, it’s the perfect place to spend a day sand dune bashing before watching the sun sink into the undulating, golden waves.

Overnighting at a desert camp is one of the best things to do in Oman. Whether you choose a luxury tent or a more rustic camp, falling asleep under the stars and waking up in the still of the desert is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Get there: 2-hour drive from Muscat. Where to stay: Desert Nights Camp . Guided option: Sunset tour with lunch from Muscat .

3. Muscat, Oman’s vibrant capital city

An obvious choice for any visitor, Muscat, the capital of Oman, is the main entry point to this desert nation. With the mighty Al Hajar mountain range on one side and the shimmering Gulf of Oman on the other, the landscape could easily have dwarfed the city. But Muscat is charming in its own way and can certainly be counted among the most beautiful places in the country.

Much of Muscat’s beauty is in the details, from the stunning mosaics and wood inlays in the prayer hall at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Oman’s largest and the only mosque that’s open to non-Muslims), to the spice and henna stores inside Muttrah Souq and the vibrant fish market in Muttrah. There’s beauty in the everyday rituals of strolling along the corniche or playing football on the beach at dusk. Mere mention of the name Muscat is enough to send your imagination running wild.

The capital’s world-class museums and galleries offer a perfect introduction to Omani history and culture, priming you for the rest of the country. The traditional Islamic architecture is incredible; even popular tourist attractions such as the Royal Opera House inspire awe with their scale and grandeur.

I recommend spending at least two full days in Muscat.

Get there: Fly into Muscat International Airport. Where to stay: Royal Tulip Muscat . Further reading: The best tours in Muscat for culture, history and food .

4. Musandam Fjords, the ‘Norway of Arabia’

Aptly nicknamed the ‘Norway of Arabia’, the Musandam Peninsula is a landscape that’s reminiscent of the Nordics, largely thanks to the umpteen magnificent fjords that ripple and fold across the Omani coast.

The Musandam Governorate is an enclave enveloped by the United Arab Emirates. To get there, you can drive from Muscat or Dubai, or fly into Khasab Airport. The best way to explore the landscape is on a dhow cruise, while you should also budget time to swim in the cerulean waters of Khasab Beach and Dibba Beach.

The peninsula is quite remote and rugged, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Top activities here include dhow rides, scuba diving, snorkelling and dolphin watching. Don’t miss visiting Khasab Fortress or Telegraph Island just off the coast. The perfect spot for history lovers, Telegraph Island was once a British outpost and still has relics of a war-time wireless system.

Get there: 1-hour flight from Muscat or 4-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. Where to stay: Shams Musandam Motel (Khasab).

5. Al Daymaniyat Islands, an underwater paradise near Muscat

Just off the coast from Oman’s capital city, the Al Daymaniyat Islands (Ad Dimaniyat Islands) can be visited by boat as part of a full day tour from Muscat. A Protected Reserve, there are nine islands in the archipelago surrounded by brilliant blue waters and beautiful corals. This is one of the best places in Oman for scuba diving and snorkelling.

The islands are a valuable nesting ground for sea turtles and migratory birds, making this a sought-after destination for wildlife lovers and birders as well. If you’re here to relax, take a boat out to one of the more remote islands to discover secluded and beautiful beaches.

Entrance to the Al Daymaniyat Islands costs 3 OMR/day for non-Omanis. Prior permission is required from the Ministry of MECA, and this can be organised through a tour agency. If a day trip from Muscat isn’t enough, visitors are permitted to camp on the large islands for up to 5 days for a fee of 10 OMR/night.

Get there: Full-day boat tour from Muscat .

6. Nizwa, Oman’s cultural heartland

Oman’s second-largest city, Nizwa, is also a must-visit. In the 6th and 7th centuries, Nizwa served as the nation’s capital and blossomed as a centre for the arts and an important nexus on Oman’s main trade route.

Separated from Muscat and the coast by the mountains, Nizwa is an ancient city surrounded by palm groves. Because of its inland location, it has a very different feel to the capital – but there are of course some similarities: Nizwa even has its own Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Nizwa’s main attraction is the 17th century Nizwa Fort, a massive sand-coloured complex of towers, stairwells, flat roofs, underground passageways and hidden chambers. In the belly of the fortress you’ll find a terrific museum, while the adjoining Nizwa Souq is a shopper’s paradise, famed for its silversmiths and Friday morning goat market.

You can see the best of the city, including Nizwa Fort, in a day. With more time, you can explore more of the ancient forts in the area, including nearby Jabrin Fort (Jibreen Castle) and Samail Fort, located on the road from Muscat. Nizwa is an ideal base for exploring the Al Hajar mountains.

Get there: 2-hour drive from Muscat. Where to stay: Nizwa Heritage Inn . Guided option: Historic Nizwa day trip from Muscat with audio guide . Further reading: My guide to Nizwa Souq and souvenir shopping in Oman.

7. Bimmah Sinkhole, an otherworldly swimming pool

The perfect place to quench your thirst and cool off on a hot day, Bimmah Sinkhole is one of the most popular day trips from Muscat, a darling of Oman tourism – and absolutely one of the most beautiful spots in the country. Its location is just off the coastal highway, 1.5 hours south of Muscat, making it a perfect pit stop as you drive down the coast.

Known locally as Hawiyyat Najm, the sinkhole is a natural depression with a lake at the bottom (300 feet at its deepest point). It was created when the limestone naturally eroded and collapsed in on itself – but an Omani legend says the sinkhole was formed by a meteorite.

The park surrounding the sinkhole is free to enter and opens daily at 8am. The water is safe for swimming; even if you arrive early enough to have the pool all to yourself, you’ll no doubt feel the presence of tiny fish who like to nibble your toes!

If you’re lucky, you’ll see local teenagers come to test their mettle by jumping feet-first from the lip of the Bimmah Sinkhole.

Get there: 1.5-hour drive from Muscat. Guided option: Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole day trip from Muscat .

8. Wadi Shab, the ultimate desert oasis

Located on Oman’s coast, the spectacular Wadi Shab (AKA Wadi Tiwi ) is more remote than Wadi Bani Khalid but worth the extra bit of time and effort to get to. If you’re driving, pop ‘Wadi Shab Parking’ into Google Maps – this is where you leave your car. From there, it’s a short boat ride costing 1 OMD per person to access the swimming area.

A short uphill hike along the canyon wall to reach the turquoise pools. You can go as deep into the canyon as you like, either by scrambling over the boulders or by jumping into the first pool and swimming up.

The canyon walls contract then widen, creating natural pools and underwater slippery slides on the rocks. If you’re feeling brave, squeeze through the tiny opening in the rocks to find the ‘hidden’ Wadi Shab Waterfall, a beautiful cascade.

Get there: 2.5-hour drive from Muscat. Guided option: Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole day trip from Muscat .

9. Misfat al Abryeen, a traditional mud village

Misfat al Abryeen (Misfah al Abriyyin) is a place where Oman’s natural beauty and cultural elegance blend together seamlessly.

Located on the south-western side of the Al Hajar mountains, this is a traditional Omani village with a very unique kind of architecture: All the houses here are constructed from mud and built atop massive stone boulders. This gives the tiny village a very interesting profile and creates lots of nooks and crannies to explore. No cars are allowed – there’s simply not enough room in the narrow laneways.

Driving everywhere in Oman does get tiring. This is a great place to pause for a few days, lock the car and explore on foot. The village is captivating, especially the irrigation system of elevated water channels and outdoor baths that feeds the thick groves of palms, heavy with golden dates. There are marked trails around the village, or else you can simply wander off and see where your nose takes you.

In the evening, you can enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal before settling in for the night at Misfah Old House.

Get there: 2.5-hour drive from Muscat. Where to stay: Misfah Old House , an incredibly atmospheric guest house located inside an ancestral mud home. Further reading: My experience of visiting Misfat Al Abriyeen .

10. Jebel Shams & Al Nakhur, Oman’s Grand Canyon

The highest peak in Oman’s Al Hajar range, Jebel Shams mountain is a popular place for hiking, especially in the summer months when the temperature sits at an average 20 degrees Celsius.

The W6 Balcony Walk Hike is the most well-known route, leading intrepid visitors along sheer cliffs to the abandoned village of As Sab. The hike takes a couple of hours to complete and is accessible for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Though the views are perilous, the path is wide and safe. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to access the trailhead.

Other more accessible paths lead to hidden lakes and mud villages around Wadi Ghul. There are various other viewpoints plus campgrounds and hotels around the village of Al Hayl.

The undisputed highlight of the Jebel Shams area is the spectacular Jebel Shams Canyon or Al Nakhur Canyon. Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Middle East’, the oval-shaped canyon is only 8km long, but reaches depths of up to a kilometre at some points.

Get there: 4-hour drive from Muscat (or 2-hour drive from Nizwa). Where to stay: Canyon Rest House (near Wadi Nakhr) or Misfah Old House (Al Hamra). Guided option: Al Hajar tour from Muscat with Nizwa and Jebel Shams .

11. Jebel Akhdar, the ‘Green Mountain’

Also part of the Al Hajar range, Jebel Akhdar or the ‘Green Mountain’ is located south-east of Jebel Shams. Known for its wet climate and fertile soil, it’s a complete contrast to the rocky profile of Al Nakhur: Terraced gardens and dense shrubs give Jebel Akhdar the appearance of a glimmering emerald in a desert sea.

The Saiq Plateau is one of the most fertile places in Oman. Once only accessible by donkey, it’s overgrown with peach, pomegranate, apricot and lemon trees. Hiking trails around Wadi Bani Habib lead to yet more ancient mud villages and picture-perfect vistas.

While in the area, be sure to drive through the Sumail Gap, a natural pass that denotes the split between the Eastern and Western Hajar Mountains.

Get there: 4-hour drive from Muscat (or 2-hour drive from Nizwa). Where to stay: Shorfet Al Alamin Hotel (Al Hamra). Guided option: Full-day Al Hajar tour from Muscat visiting Jebel Akhdar and small villages .

12. Bald Sayt, a picturesque mountain village

When it comes to beautiful Omani villages, Bald Sayt takes the cake. One of the most spectacular places in the Middle East , Bald Sayt is nestled deep in the Al Hajar mountains in the shadow of Jebel Shams. As with nearby Jebel Akhdar, it’s all verdant green mountains and beautiful terraces cultivated to support fruit trees, date palms and other crops.

Like other ancient villages in the area, Bald Sayt is extremely remote and was cut-off from the rest of Oman for most of its history, only accessible by donkey trail. Even today, it’s only reserved for the most adventurous tourist as it requires a 4×4 (and an experienced driver) or a long canyon hike to get there.

Follow marked paths around the farming village to get views of the vernacular architecture framed by palm plantations and lush greenery. There are no guesthouses or restaurants in town so if you’re visiting independently, make sure you come prepared with enough water and supplies.

Get there: 2.5-hour drive from Muscat (off-road vehicle required). Where to stay: Shorfet Al Alamin Hotel (Al Hamra).

13. Sur, the spiritual home of Sinbad the Sailor

Sur is a small port city 200km from Muscat that many tourists skip through on their way to Ras Al Jinz. The coastal architecture and laid-back vibe makes it one of my favourite places in Oman.

Sur city is a sea of lily white houses. When paired with the iridescent waters of the city’s natural harbour and the brick-coloured rock formations around the coast, it’s an absolute visual delight. There isn’t a whole lot to do in Sur, but it’s lovely just walking along the harbour and admiring the wooden dhows. There’s even a dhow factory where you can see artisans crafting these magnificent boats according to traditional methods (no nails, no glue!).

For a great view of the city and the dhows, climb up Al Ayjah Watch Tower. There is a smattering of lighthouses, castles and of course mosques around the city that you can also visit, including the impressive rose-tinted Bilad Sur Castle. It’s equally pleasurable just wandering the lanes around Makha and Ar Rashah and admiring the painted gates.

Get there: 2-hour drive from Muscat. Where to stay: Turtle Guest House .

14. Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, one of the best places to visit in Oman for wildlife

Sitting at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Ras Al Jinz is a small fishing village. The beaches here are world-famous as one of the most important nesting grounds for the endangered green turtle.

In 1996, the Sultan of Oman established the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Centre to safeguard the nesting grounds and promote ecotourism in the area. The only way to visit the beach is by joining one of the guided tours that depart every night from the Centre.

This is one of the few places on earth where turtles are known to lay 365 days a year. Your chances of seeing both adult females laying eggs and hatchlings making a break for the surf are almost guaranteed. Witnessing one is tremendous – but let me tell you, seeing both within the space of an hour is nothing short of incredible.

Get there: 45-minute drive from Sur. Where to stay: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve .

15. Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

One of the best-protected military forts in Central Oman, this 13th century UNESCO World Heritage Site (one of the country’s five inscribed properties ) is a perfect example of authentic architecture. Visitors have access to the fully restored ramparts and passages which give you an insight into the history of the Banu Nebhan tribe who built this impressive defensive structure and the surrounding vernacular houses.

Bahla Fortress sits at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands roughly halfway between Nizwa and Misfat Al Abriyeen. It’s well worth stopping off for a short walk around the fort and through the rows of mud houses on your way through.

Alternatively, make a day of it by driving the Rustaq Loop and visiting Rustaq Fort and Al Awabi Fort at the same time. You can start and end this historic circuit drive from Barka, just north along the coast from Muscat.

Get there: 40-minute drive from Nizwa.

16. Masirah Island, a dhow boat graveyard

Oman’s largest island, Masirah Island sits in the Arabian Sea off the country’s north-east coast. Daily ferries run from Shannah Port, around a four-hour drive from Sur.

An off-the-beaten-track destination in the truest sense of the term, Masirah is rugged and remote. The sandy beaches may be gorgeous, but watch out for the unforgiving current that toss boats about at their will.

Dozens and dozens of wrecked wooden dhows sit like beached whales up and down the shore – a testament to the ferociousness of these waters. Salt water and intense heat have preserved their structures, turning the wrecks into a playground for photographers and urbexers.

Get there: 1.5-hour ferry ride from Shannah Port. Where to stay: Masirah Beach Camp .

17. Salalah, Oman’s green paradise

Located at the opposite end of the country to Musandam, some 1,300 km south of the peninsular or 1,000 km from Muscat, Salalah has a totally distinct climate and topography to the north-eastern part of Oman.

Tropical banana plantations and a monsoonal climate have led many to compare Salalah with Kerala in South India . If Oman’s desert interior is stark, then Salalah is the land of plenty. It’s the epicentre of the country’s revered frankincense industry – something you can learn about at the Frankincense Land Museum in Salalah city.

Venture west along the coast to discover pristine beaches and rugged coastline. Mughsail Beach, with its ocean blowhole, is beyond stunning. To the east, the historic town of Taqah is home to more sandy beaches and the restored Taqah Castle, with a museum dedicated to Darfour region inside.

Green Wadi Darbat and pockets of baobab tree forest lie inland from Taqah and are the perfect setting for outdoor adventures. If the sea is calling, there is a collection of beach resorts along the coast, with the most popular being around Salalah city,

If you don’t want to brave the 10-hour desert drive from Muscat, you can fly into Salalah’s international airport instead.

Get there: 1.5-hour flight (or 10-hour drive) from Muscat. Where to stay: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara .

Plan your visit to Oman

Is Oman your next travel destination? If you were on the fence before, I hope this round-up of the most beautiful places in Oman has nudged you in the right direction!

If you are planning a trip, here are the resources I used to plan my own travels around Oman. These should come in handy for planning your route and preparing all the logistics.

– As of February 2019, Oman no longer issues visa on arrival. Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist e-visa for Oman and apply for an expedited visa online. – Pre-book a private transfer from Muscat Airport to your hotel . – Find the best hotel deals in Oman on Booking.com or Agoda . – Find the best city tours and day excursions in Oman . Check out my round-up of the best Muscat day tours for more inspiration. – Search and compare car rentals using Discover Cars to find the best value for money. – No car? Book a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Muscat or charter a car and driver instead. – Limited time? This 4-day tour of Oman covers all the highlights. – Pick up a copy of the 2019 Lonely Planet guidebook for Oman .

5 things to pack for Oman

• An anti-theft backpack. As a general rule, Oman is a very safe place and petty crime against tourists isn’t really an issue. Still, a good anti-theft day pack is worth having to keep your valuables safe in the city. If you’re having trouble deciding, here are a few of my favourite minimalist backpack designs .
• A scarf for visiting mosques (women). A lightweight cotton scarf is my number one travel item. In Oman, it will come in extra handy for covering your hair when entering a mosque or for draping over your shoulders when visiting a market or a rural area. This neutral travel scarf goes with anything, and it even has a hidden pocket.
• Walking shoes. Comfy walking shoes are absolutely essential for Oman. I love these ones for women, while my partner lives in these waterproof shoes .
• A reusable water bottle. Avoid single-use plastics whenever you can. I love my S’Well water bottle for warm climates because it doesn’t sweat. Silicone bags , a reusable straw and a portable cutlery set might also come in handy in Oman.
• An Oman guidebook. I recommend the 2019 Lonely Planet guidebook for Oman .

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Places to Visit in Oman

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Oman

Here is the list of best places to visit in oman:.

Nestled by the northwestern edge of the country, As SuwayQ is a quiet coastal town in AL Batinah. The name of the town literally translates to ‘Market’, for the town served as a trading hub for dwellers in the surrounding cities. Once an off grid town, As Suwayq has now remarkably developed into a popular weekend destination in Oman.  Serving both the coast and the mountains within its borders, the scenic countryside that pervades As Suwayq is by far the town’s biggest draw by far. Despite being home to a number of beautiful historical monuments, the natural charm of the town remains quite unparalleled. Among its many historical charms, the forts in As Suways are its biggest attractions. Whether it is the Al Sawaiq Fort, the Al Hilal Fort or the Al Tharmad Fort, tourists at the town will have a splendid time exploring these ancient buildings, some of them now in ruins. As Suwayq is also well known for its souqs or local markets, which sell a wonderful array of locally made handicraft, clothing and accessories. A treat for adventure lovers, the hills and forts at the city are ripe for trekking adventures. Whether you choose to venture out in a group or brave the adventure on your own, the trails here will definitely suit your taste. Having sufficiently exhausted yourself, you could then head over to the beautiful Oman Coast to swim or snorkel through the clear waters here. Dolphin watching cruises are also pretty common at the Coast. The Northern coast of the climate experiences a desert type climate, which means the weather here remains sunny throughout the year. Rainfall is restricted to the winter months, between November and March.

Nestled below craggy mountains, Muscat is one of Oman’s oldest and most picturesque cities. Serving as an essential trading link between the east and the west, this capital city is one of the most popular places to visit in Oman. Presenting pristine beaches on one end and ornate historical monuments on the other, Muscat is an absolute must visit for those desiring to explore Oman’s culture. Although now a fully developed city, the history of Muscat has left an indelible imprint on its culture, and is now manifest through its array of religio-historical edifices. When in Muscat, one must make a point to visit the various heritage spots here. While the marble-clad Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its 50 meter wide dome, promises to dazzle all with its beauty, the rustic Al Jalali Fort by the coastal clifftop promises to leave one enthralled by its charm. While here, one could also take a quick tour of the historical Al Alam Palace, which once held the seat of Sultan Qaboos Alam. Those interested in exploring the history and culture of the town even further can take a quick tour of the many museums here, with the National Museum of Oman, the Bait Al Zubair Museum and the Museum of Natural History being the most popular haunt.  For a luxurious evening out, one could also take a trip to the Royal Opera House, with its theatres delivering the best of Omani cultural performances. Muscat enduring a desert type climate experiences very hot summers and warm winters. The rainfall in the city is restricted to the winter season only, between the months of November and April.

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Nestled in the Ad Dakhiliyah region  of northern Oman, Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in the country. One of the most beautiful places in Oman, Nizwa is equally known for its architectural splendor and natural charm. The city of Nizwa sits on a plain littered with seasonal rivers and palm fronds, imbuing it with an ethereal beauty. Contrasting against its natural wealth is the rustic charm of its ancient forts and centuries old buildings, casting an ancient glow over the place.  The city is best known for the Nizwa Fort, the ancient 17th century fortification that was initially constructed as a defense against invaders. Another prominent tourist spot here is the Falaj Daris. With its date of construction dating back to 2500 BC, this massive Falaj is now a UNESCO Heritage site.  One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Nizwa is to take a short day trip to Jebel Akhdar. Also known as the Green Mountains, these hills are known for their vibrant fruit plantations, and are among the best places to visit in Oman. While in Nizwa, one should also not miss out on the chance to visit the Nizwa Souq, which is known for its unique yet typically Omani craft items. The climate here being the desert type, Nizwa experiences practically no rainfall throughout the year. The summers here are sultry and very hot, while the winters are pleasant and enjoyable.

Nestled by the northeastern coast of Oman, the vibrant beachside town of Barka begs for a visit.  Located in the Al Batinah region, Barka serves as a popular weekend getaway among locals and tourists alike. Straddled by the Al Hajar mountains on one side and the coast on the other, the beauty of Barka ranges quite literally from the mountain to the sea. Whether it is the town’s old school charm that attracts one, or the pristine sands of its beaches, Barka remains one of the most famous tourist places in Oman.  Towering against the skyline of the town, the Barka Fort is the city’s biggest attraction by far. The strange octagonal fort presents an architectural marvel, and is an ideal spot for both trekking and photography. The An Naman castle is another interesting fortification here, and welcomes tourists throughout the year. One of the best ways to spend time in Barka is to explore its various beaches on foot. Whether you take a quick dip in the clear waters, or simply stroll through the glittering sands, one cannot keep oneself from being enchanted by the beauty of these beaches. One could also take a trip to the An Naman Zoo; a top destination for day trips and picnics, this little zoo is home to a variety of birds and animals native to Oman.  The climate in Barka remains hot and sunny throughout the year. Although the summer months, between May and September, remain fairly dry, the town experiences a considerable amount of rainfall during winters.

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Facing the Gulf of Oman, the coastal town of Sohar presents an ideal amalgamation of tradition and modernity. With its skyline dominated by skyscrapers on one side and ancient mosques on the other, the unique charm of Sohar begs to be explored. The beauty of Sohar is quite unique to itself. On one hand, the town is home to some of the most beautiful beaches of Oman, imbuing a natural charm to the place. On the other hand, the vibrant souqs scattered around the city leaves its streets dazzling with light and color. One of Sohar’s biggest attractions, the ancient Sohar Fort is an architectural marvel unto itself. Sitting atop a cliff, this first century Fort is known for its typical Omani designs. The Fort is also home to two expansive parks known as the Silver Jubilee Park and the Sohar Park. The Sultan Qaboos Mosque, located nearby, is known for its elegant marbled beauty and its characteristic green dome. One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Sohar is to take a walk along the Sohar Corniche. Passing by some of the city’s major attractions, this seaside promenade is the ideal place for taking a casual stroll or a romantic evening walk. A visit to the Sohar Handicraft Souq is never a bad idea either. Selling everything between pottery and jewelry, this Souq prides in its array of locally made items. The weather in Sohar remains hot throughout the year. The summers here are long, sweltering, oppressive, arid, and partly cloudy and the winters are comfortable, dry, and mostly clear.

Located on the northeastern edge of Oman, this little fishing city boasts of a typical Omani beauty. Fairly untouched by tourism, the little town is ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway from the busy city life.  Thriving with beautiful landscaped gardens, Seeb is a honeymooner’s paradise. While the Oman Botanical Garden here flourishes with mini forests and flowering plants of all colors, the little waterfalls and Japanese Gardens at the Naseem Park boast of a resplendent beauty of their own. The Zulfa Mosque, standing proudly against the city’s skyline, is a prominent attraction here as well.  While a visit to the Seeb Beach is a must have when in the city, the Corniche by the coast is well suited for scenic strolls and walks as well. Seeb is also famous for its Souqs and local markets. Whether you’re looking for handmade trinkets, gold jewelry, or the delectable halwa that Oman is so well known for, these souqs have it all. Experiencing a desert type climate, Seeb remains hot and dry throughout the year. The summers here are short, extremely hot and muggy, while the winters are longer and more pleasant. The city experiences virtually no rainfall throughout the year.

Best of Abu Dhabi

Situated on the eastern tip of Omane, Sur is one of the most important port cities in the country. Once serving an important strategic position in Oman’s maritime past, the City stands testament to the country’ war-torn past.  Characterized by its wide stretches of white sand and glittering blue waters, the beauty of Sur City must be witnessed to be believed. The city is best known for its traditional shows, or shipyard, that still stand large and functioning by its coast. If you’re interested in exploring the working of the traditional shows, then the boat museum here is definitely worth a visit. Apart from these, one can spend a fruitful time in Sur exploring and trekking through the many major Forts here, such as the Bilad, Sinaysla, and Al Ayja. The Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, located a short drive outside Sur, is worth a visit. Priding in its untouched shorelines and golden deserts, the Turtle Reserve is among the most sought after tourist places in Oman. The adventure loving tourist can also spend a day trekking and hiking through the craggy cliffs at the Wadi Bani that borders the city on one side. The weather in Sur remains hot throughout the year. Although the summers here are muggy and oppressive, the winters are rather pleasant.

Nestled in the bosom of the Al Hajar mountains, the historical city of Rustaq is one of Oman’s most prominent landmarks. Once serving as the country’s capital, the city is now flourishing as a prominent vacation spot, dominated by its many forts and hot springs. Rustaq is a city borne of its old world charm. Whether emanating from its gorgeous forts, or its narrow alleyways, the near-artistic beauty of the town is quite unmissable.  Rustaq is often held synonymous to its two major attractions- the Rustaq Fort and the AL Hazm Castle. Both included in the UNESCO Tentative List, these historical forts demand a quick visit. The museum of Bait Al Garbi is another prominent attraction here. One of the most sought after tourist places in Oman, the museum is housed within a 200 year old family home, and houses a vast collection of ancient Omani artefacts. When in Oman, one must make it a point to make a quick shopping trip to the Al Ramani Heritage Shop. Nestled in the Old Market, the shop is run by a passionate collector of trinkets who once sold fruit for a living, with its wares including everything from pottery to ancient coins. One could also choose to take a quick rejuvenative dip in the Al Kasfa Hot Spring, nestled right in the middle of the city. Rustaq enjoys warm and dry weather throughout the year. The summers, between May and September, generally remain warm, sultry and partly cloudy, while the winter months are pleasant and comfortable.

Best of Sharjah

Located a short drive outside of Muscat, Ibri is the perfect spot for day trips and overnight outings. Nestled in the Governorate of Ad Dhahirah, this little town is known for its rustic small town charm. Although generally treated as a stopover point between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, this little town abounds in quite some splendors of its own.  Known as the land of enchanting archeological ruins, Ibri has a lot to say about the history of Oman. From ancient towns, now abandoned, to the various unexplored wadis here, this small town seems to embody the Middle Eastern enigma that Oman is so well known for. A trip to Ibri definitely warrants a visit to the Bat Necropolis, located just on the city’s outskirts. Now a UNESCO World heritage site, the Necropolis is home to a smattering of beehive shaped tombs, built during the time of the Pyramids. One could also spend a day touring the various castles around the city, with the Ibri Castle, the AL Aswad Castle and the Al Sulaif castle being some of the major tourist hotspots here.  One of the best ways to spend your time in Ibri is to navigate the many ‘Wadis’ in the city. A wadi is generally a ravine that floods during the rainy months. Ibri is home to several such unexplored nooks, with the towering cliffs offering a perfect spot for camping, trekking and bouldering. One could also spend a happening day visiting the Old Ibri Souq, with its colorful stores and stalls selling a variety of locally made items. The weather in Ibri remains hot and sultry throughout the year. Although the winter months between November and April experience some rainfall, the summers here are generally dry.

Salalah is the capital city in Oman’s Dhofar province. Regarded as one of the most popular places to visit in Oman, the city prides equally in its natural beauty and its architectural charm. Riddled with glittering beaches, banana plantations and fantastic reefs teeming with life, Salalah is a site for sore eyes. Whether you’re looking for a happening weekend out, or simply a leisurely vacation by the coast, you are sure to find a home in this city. When in Salalah, do make it a point to visit the Frankincense Land Museum. A part of the Al Balid Archeological Site, the Museum details the history of the town in the spice trade. The Site itself is home to several ancient mosque ruins, and warrants a visit. The 21st century Sultan Qaboos Mosque, clad in striking white marble, is another prominent attraction here. Adventure lovers coming to Salalah will spend a day trekking to Ayn Razat, the mountain cave with several springs and fantastic picnic spots. A day spent at the beautiful Dahariz beach is never a bad idea either. During the monsoon season, the rains turn the desert terrain rife with waterfalls that invite a dip and a quick climb. The climate in Salalah remains hot throughout the year. While the summers are insipid and sultry, the winters here are rather pleasant. The monsoon season here lasts between July to August, and is generally considered the best time to visit.

Best of Muscat

Other Attractions

Wadi bani habib.

Nestled in the rugged beauty of Oman, Wadi Bani Habib enchants with its timeless allure. Carved by ancient waters, this wadi captivates adventurers with its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and emerald pools. Lush vegetation thrives in its oasis-like setting, offering a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can hike its trails, soak in its natural pools, and immerse themselves in its tranquil ambiance.

Wahiba Sands

Musandam Fjords

Ras Al Jinz

Jebel Akhdar

Masirah Island

Misfat Al Abryeen

Wadi Darbat

Ras Madrakah Beach

Al Hoota Cave

Dhow Factory

The dhow factory is a hub of craftsmanship and tradition, where skilled artisans meticulously handcraft these iconic wooden vessels.

Khasab Fortress

Taqah Castle

Sumhuram Ruins

Quriyat, nestled along Oman's eastern coast, captivates with its tranquil charm. Surrounded by rugged mountains and the azure Arabian Sea, this coastal town boasts picturesque beaches, traditional souks, and a rich maritime heritage. Dive into its vibrant culture and unwind amidst its natural splendor.

The National Museum Of Oman

Wadi Al Arbeieen

Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Oman's eastern coastline, Wadi Al Arbeieen is a hidden oasis waiting to be explored by adventurous souls. This picturesque wadi enchants visitors with its emerald green pools, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs that rise majestically against the azure sky.

Nizwa Souq, Oman

Nizwa Souq in Nizwa, Oman, is a vibrant marketplace showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Known for its traditional Omani crafts, spices, and silverware, the souq offers a bustling atmosphere where visitors can explore local products, interact with friendly vendors, and immerse themselves in the authentic flavors and crafts of Oman.

Teeq Cave, Oman

Teeq Cave, located in Oman's picturesque landscape, is a natural wonder worth exploring. This limestone cave system features intricate formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, offering a fascinating glimpse into geological history. Visitors can embark on guided tours to marvel at the cave's beauty, learn about its formation, and appreciate the serene beauty hidden beneath the earth's surface.

People Also Ask About Oman

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20 Best Places To Visit In Oman

Posted on Last updated: January 21, 2021

Oman is one of those places that tends to be overlooked by many travellers, but they don’t know what they’re missing out on! Oman is one of the most beautiful and underrated holiday destinations .

With its turquoise seas, copper-coloured cliffs and golden-red sand dunes, Oman is a country with remarkable natural beauty. Unlike the flashier parts of the middle east, Oman is filled with history and tradition.

The people here are also known for their openness and hospitality, and that’s always something I love when I’m exploring a new destination. Don’t be shy to try the local foods or partake in the weekly biddings in the town markets.

If you’re like me and thrilled by exotic natural beauty, epic landscapes, exquisite sunsets and stepping into the unknown, give Oman a chance to show off it’s potential.

With all the beautiful places in Oman, you’re going to want to make sure you don’t miss a thing. In this Oman bucket list I’ve narrowed it down to 20 of the best places to visit in Oman.

• 1.1 Jebel Shams Canyon
• 1.2 Wadi Shab
• 1.3 Wadi Bani Khalid
• 1.4 Wahiba Sands Desert
• 1.5 Misfah Al Albryinn Town
• 1.6 Nizwa Fort
• 1.7 Sur harbour
• 1.8 Bimmah Sinkhole
• 1.9 Jebel Sifah beaches
• 1.10 Fjords cruise & dolphin spotting in Khasab
• 2.1 Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
• 2.2 Mutrah Fort
• 2.3 Mutrah Souq
• 2.4 Kargeen Restaurant
• 3.1 Al Rustaq Fort
• 3.2 Al Kasfah hot springs
• 3.3 Snake Gorge Canyon
• 3.4 Hatt Mountain Road
• 3.5 Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
• 3.6 Nizwa Souq

Views over the sea and Sur from the watch tower behind the Al Ayjah Plaza Hotel

10 beautiful places to visit in Oman

You won’t run out of things to do in Oman. Given that it’s one of the oldest countries in the Sultan region, there are plenty of old forts, mosques, and museums to spend your days browsing at, besides the stunning natural locations.

Here are some of the tourist places in Oman that are on the top of everyone’s list.

Jebel Shams Canyon

Jebel Shams is one of Oman’s highest mountains and one of the best hikes you can do in Oman. It’s not only popular for its height, but also famous for the incredible views it has to offer.

Climb up to the top and you’ll witness the spectacular vertical cliffs that make up the canyon and drop about 500 meters deep.

| READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE JEBEL SHAMS BALCONY WALK GUIDE |

Admiring the views along the Jebel Shams balcony walk

Hiking along the Jebel Shams Balcony Walk

Hiking the Jebel Shams Balcony Walk was one of my favourite things to do in Oman, and one of my favourite hikes ever. Even though it’s one of the largest mountains, it can be hiked by just about anyone.

That’s because you drive to the top, and the Balcony Walk is then along the edge of the canyon with a fairly small elevation gain.

The walk is pretty flat all along the canyon edge, with steep rock cliffs on one side and the drop into the canyon on the other.

For those of you seeking more adventure, you can take a dip in the waterfall at the end of the trail. You can even take a full-day tour through the Jebel Shams Canyon to see it all.

Click here to book your full-day tour through Jebel Shams Canyon from Muscat

This one is a good one if you’re looking to plan a whole day activity. Wadi Shab has a beautiful waterfall and wonderful freshwater pools.

You need to hike around 45 minutes surrounded by steep rock cliffs to reach the main swimming area. From the main pool, you can swim your way through the valley to reach some of the smaller pools.

As well as spending the day at the pools, you can also take some time to explore the caves and rock formations around the area.

There are a few easy walking trails around the canyons that will lead you around the lovely scenery of the valley.

While you’re here, you’ll come across some large, flat stones that are great for setting up camp. Because this is a whole day event, I’d definitely recommend bringing along a picnic and spending the remainder of your time simply relaxing.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING WADI SHAB |

Hiking in the Wadi Shab in Oman

Exploring the Wadi Shab, Oman

Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is a must for anyone visiting Oman .

Oman’s own desert paradise and one of my favourite travel destinations. In the middle of the desert, you’ll find an oasis with an emerald green body of water.

As well as the main pool, the narrow valleys also create some smaller pools. A simple walk along the water will lead you to these pools, which tend to be less busy and more private.

A perk about this particular wadi is that it’s a short 5-minute walk from the parking space. Many of the other pools in Oman require you to walk quite a distance and can sometimes turn into a full day of hiking.

| READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WADI BANI KHALID |

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

We ended up walking for around 30 minutes as we hiked all the way upriver to a more sheltered part of the river, but there are usually locals swimming in the main pool.

We had loads of fun swimming, sliding down natural made slides and cliff jumping into the deep parts of the river.

Wadi Bani can easily be explored, but there are full-day tours through the area that are worth the money!

Click here to book one of the full-day Wahiba Safari day trips from Muscat.

Views from the Wadi Bani Khalid before entering the actual canyon

Swimming in the Wadi Bani Khalid

Wahiba Sands Desert

Drive about an hour from Wadi Bani Khalid and you’ll find yourself in an ocean of golden dunes. With the sands seeming to stretch endlessly into the horizon, the Wahiba Sands desert is a must-see for your time in Oman.

The best way to experience the dunes is by spending the night in the comfort of authentic Bedouin tents, lux camps or a communal boma.

It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of the traditional lives of the nomadic desert travellers of Oman. I stayed at the Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp and loved my experience there.

Exploring the sand dunes of the Al Wasil desert in Oman at sunrise

If you’re spending the night here, start your evening by climbing to the top of the dunes to watch the sun sink beyond the sand.

Follow this by dining on the local cuisine and enjoying the stillness of the desert. The rest of your night can be spent gazing under the stars, away from all the light pollution of the city.

Click here to book your night at the Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp .

The common and dining area of Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp

Sunrise over the sand dunes of the Al Wasil desert in Oman

Misfah Al Albryinn Town

A truly unique experience in Oman is visiting Misfah al Abryinn , Oman’s very own mud village. The village is built into the side of Al Hamra’s mountain range.

It was given the name ‘mud village’ for its incredible architecture (which makes use of hulking boulders).

With all the historic places to visit, it can be quite nice to take some time to explore a local town. It’s well known by tourists and locals because of the quaint narrow streets, rocky buildings, open terraces, and beautiful gardens.

Exploring the cute streets of Misfah Al Abrynn

I’d definitely suggest booking a night or two here . The town will give you a taste of local living, and you can spend your days getting lost wandering around the streets and eating the local dishes. 

I spent a night at Misfah Al Abryinn Inn and loved it. They have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve meals with epic views over the town and surrounding mountains.

Click here to book a night at Misfah Al Abryinn Inn

View from the Al Misfah guest house rooftop

Of all Oman’s forts, Nizwa Fort is the most unique, due to its cylindrical shape and impressive size. It’s easy to spend all day and with air-conditioned rooms that form part of the museum, you’ll find yourself getting lost in a world of history.

It’s great for those wishing to explore what life was really like back in the 9th century. Take a walk around the fort and you’ll find numerous rooms which have been preserved to look as they did a few hundred years ago.

Once your tour of the fort is done, take a walk to the top of the tower for a full view of Nizwa, where you’ll be bale to appreciate the beauty of a desert oasis.

Wandering around Nizwa Fort

The rooftops of Nizwa Fort

Sur harbour

Sur is an ancient city in Oman that used to be the hub for trading, education, and art. Nowadays, the city is pretty laid back and offers a great place to visit if you’re looking for somewhere to wind down.

Walk around the little town and you’ll come across a lovely lighthouse, 2 forts and a small selection of restaurants and resorts. A few watchtowers also line the coastline.

Climb to the top and you’ll have a view of the rocky desert cliffs and white beach houses. Come evening time and things get a little more lively.

Dozens of fishermen set out to sea to fetch their catch and deliver it as far as Muscat and it’s nice to sit back and watch the city do its thing.

Beautiful views over the Sur harbour

Walking along the Sur harbour

Bimmah Sinkhole

Although it’s previously been thought that this was the spot of a meteorite, Bimmah is actually a beautiful example of a naturally formed sinkhole. The water underground has eroded the rock and limestone, leaving a hole in the ground.

The giant hole has now filled with turquoise water, turning it into a water paradise. Many people travel here to take advantage of the natural beauty of the lake, as well as have some fun jumping from the the cliffsides.

The lake is about 20 metres deep, so it’s comfortable to jump in to. And if you’re not keen on getting in the water, you can always set up camp along the shore to admire the natural landscape.

| READ MORE: WHAT TO WEAR IN OMAN |

The Bimmah Sinkhole seen from above

Jebel Sifah beaches

Don’t get me wrong, the beaches in Oman are amazing. But if you’re looking for something a little different, Jebel Sifah is a picturesque escape from the city.

It’s situated along the Omani coast and has recently been turned into a lively tourist destination.

Here you’ll find some luxury hotels, including the Four Seasons, a golf-course and some beach resorts to spend the day at. Think of it as a mini-tropical holiday out in the Middle East.

If you want to stay somewhere really unique, you should try the Sifah Beach & Oasis Camp .

This is a “glamping” camp right on the beach, with big spacious tents and a grill where you can cook your own barbecue and dinner while watching the sunset over the sea.

After spending a night in the desert, spending a night glamping on the beach was an even more unique experience.

Click here to book your stay at Sifah Beach & Oasis Camp!

The beach and mountains in the distance as seen from Sifah Beach & Oasis Camp

Fjords cruise & dolphin spotting in Khasab

Khasab is a bit out of the way, especially when compared to the other must-see places on this list, but it’s one of the most incredible places I’ve ever seen and well worth a visit.

Khasab is known as the Norway of the Middle East, and once you see the fjords it will be easy to understand why.

The Arab Sea is too pretty to miss spending some time out in the water. Take a sailing excursion on the waters of Musandam, where you’ll be able to snorkel and swim. As well as watch the playful dolphins.

The fjord cruise will lead you through the narrow ocean that flows among the breathtaking red and gold cliffs made of ancient rock. The deep warm colours contrasting against the emerald waters is what makes the fjords unique.

As for the dolphin watching, I’m sure this one speaks for itself. When they told me there it was 100% guaranteed that we would see dolphins, I didn’t believe them.

But we spent the day cruising in the traditional Oman boats with dolphins following us for most of it. A day on the sea can reveal so much more of Oman’s potential, and it’s always worth exploring if you’ve got the time.

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4 places to visit in Muscat

Muscat is the capital of Oman, scenically situated between the mountains and ocean. Discover the country’s history by visiting some of the lovely treasures in Muscat.

If you’re starting to wonder where all these spots are on a map, and how to put them together in one trip, be sure to check out my 7-day Oman road trip itinerary .

It’s helpful if you’re travelling here for the first time and don’t really have a set plan.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Found in the heart of the city, the Grand Mosque is one of my top recommendations when visiting Oman.

Tucked away in the city of Muscat, the mosque is an amazing piece of modern Islamic architecture, which is still being used for daily prayers.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman

It’s open daily to visitors (but closes at 11AM), offering you a chance to learn more about the Islamic religion (given that it’s one of the only mosques in Oman open to non-Muslim visitors).

It’s important to remember that you need to respect the culture you’re travelling in.

It’s customary for men and women to dress in long trousers and tops that cover the shoulders when entering the mosque. Women have to cover their heads too.

As well as being a hub for cultural activity, the Mosque has its own unique beauty.

Colourful mosaic patterns, hand-crafted details, and a world record-breaking chandelier made of Swaroski crystals are just a few of the astonishingly beautiful features.

The interior of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat

Mutrah Fort

Built during the 1580s, the Mutrah Fort served as the Portuguese defence against the Ottoman Empire. The fort still stands strong and reflects Oman’s great history. It’s now one of the most popular tourist places in Muscat.

Built out of the rock, the fort was designed to overlook the Arabic sea, and it offers 360-degree views of the scenic mountain landscape and Muscat harbour.

Although it wasn’t intended to be a tourist spot, the fort’s beauty and panoramic views make it a prime place to visit in Oman.

Entrance to the fort is free, but the walk to the top is a little steep so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and bottled water (it can get hot during summer).

The view over the Muscat harbour from Mutrah fort

The view over Muscat from Mutrah Fort

Mutrah Souq

The best way to get a proper feel of a new city is to live like a local. Mutrah Souq is a market embracing the chaotic and lovely Arab culture. It’s one of the oldest markets in Oman, dating back 200 years, and perfect for new travellers.

Mutrah Souq is located a short walk from the Mutrah Fort, so after spending a day admiring the views from the fort, it’ll be worth visiting and picking up some local souvenirs.

The market is filled with traditional items such as vintage gold and precious jewels. You’ll also find frankincense, hand-made textiles, and old war artefacts.

Like with all popular markets, bargaining is part of the fun. Although you can pay with your credit card, bringing cash along helps with the bargaining.

Exploring Mutrah souq in Muscat

Kargeen Restaurant

Because dining in a new country is always a memorable experience! Kargeen is an old Omani word that means little wooden cottage, and it certainly lives up to its name.

The cafe blends traditional eastern style with a slight western culture, leaving the atmosphere cosy and relaxed.

The wooden cafe is finished with wrought-iron features and exquisite decor. Bright and colourful rugs, a jungle of plants and candles offer a lovely opportunity to sit back and enjoy the tasty food.

Whether you’re there for breakfast, snacks or dinner, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how delicious the food is. Cafe specials include refreshing salads, barbequed meats, and shawarmas. As well as traditional Omani and Arab food.

A common occurrence in Oman is to rent a shisha from the cafe and try flavours such as fresh lemon or orange. It’s a social tradition for friends to gather and tell tales around the shisha.

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6 other fun things to do in Oman

Most trips in Oman begin with exploring the best tourist spots, but what’ll really make your time in Oman amazing are the off the beaten track adventures. Mountains in Oman, beautiful forts and wild turtles await you.

Al Rustaq Fort

The Al Rustaq Fort is one of the oldest, dating back to the 13th century. It’s also renowned for being the largest of all the forts in the Sultanate region.

The immaculate fort was built between surrounding hills and near to the city market when Al Rustaq was still the capital of Oman.

One of the turrets in Al Rustaq fort

The view from the walls Al Rustaq fort in Oman

With 3 levels and 4 watchtowers, complete with hidden passages, and vertical stairways, it’s an adventurer’s dream come true. It also has a weapons room, mosque, and even a prison.

Access to the fort costs 500 baisa. The fee also grants you access to an audio tour, which explains the rich history within the fort.

Located about 130 kilometres from Muscat, it’s possible to get there by car. If you haven’t rented a car, there’s also the option of joining a day tour which will take you through to the fort.

Exploring Al Rustaq fort

Al Kasfah hot springs

Locally known as Ayn Al Kasfah, the waters in these hot springs are said to have healing powers. The natural water runs all year round and comes from the nearby Al Hamam falaj.

What makes Al Kasfah special is that the waters here contain sulfur. Sulfur aids in body recovery, for muscle and joint pain (hence the baths’ healing powers).

It can also help the mind relax, improve sleep and the overall well-being of our bodies by releasing positive endorphins.

It’s recommended that you submerge yourself around 3 times in total, and around 10 minutes each time. The main baths next to the big pool are for men only, but there are springs also for women just around the corner.

Al Kasfah hot water spring in Al Rustaq

Snake Gorge Canyon

You’re in Oman, so you have to check out Snake Canyon. It’s a natural haven for water lovers and adventure seekers.

Take a hike through the valley and you’ll discover pools of spring water, colossal desert rock cliffs and naturally formed water slides.

There are some things to keep in mind, though. While this is an incredibly magical hike and the pools are incredible, it’s quite a challenge to do in the scorching sun.

Remember to travel with reliable maps, good hiking shoes and a backpack with all your necessary supplies.

The Snake Gorge Canyon, one of the stops you can do along the Hatt mountain road

Hatt Mountain Road

Looking to see as much as Oman as possible? Well then rent a 4WD and head down the spectacular Hatt Mountain Road. This route zigzags through the rugged scenery and is quite a thrilling way to explore the Hajar Mountains.

There’s so much to see along this pretty mountain range and a few spots to stop at. Going for a hike, exploring natural water pools and barbequing at some of the viewpoints are popular activities with travellers.

The mountain road is a total of 70 kilometres, but given that the roads aren’t paved, it’ll take you about 4 hours to drive. It’s an exhilarating experience, but with the rocky roads along the cliffs, you’ll need to take extra precaution.

A travel & safety tip: Don’t attempt the drive when it’s raining or there’s a prediction of rain. The roads are easily flooded and rocks become slippery.

Driving on the Hatt mountain road, Oman

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Ras Al Jinz is a turtle sanctuary in Oman, renowned for the nesting of the endangered green turtles. Every year, thousands of giant turtles migrate from the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf to lay their eggs on Oman’s beaches.

And Ras Al Jinz is considered one of the most important nesting grounds on the Indian Ocean.

The conservation program here is devised to allow the turtles to thrive in their natural habitat, with little interference with human contact.

But don’t worry, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience the different phases of the egg-laying process. If you’re really lucky, you may even see some eggs hatching!

Tours are available at night, when it’s most likely to see the turtules, either before sunrise or in the evening. You won’t be allowed to turn on your phone or flash camera, the only light will be provided by the guide with a roft red light that doesn’t disturb the turtles.

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Nizwa Souq is divided into different markets, all mainly dedicated to meats, fish, and vegetables. Even though the majority of the market stalls sell food, a few stalls are selling authentic, hand-crafted pottery goods.

This is the perfect time to collect some memorabilia from your time in Oman. Supporting the locals is by far the best way of giving back to the country you’re travelling through.

What makes this souq different is the animal auction. If you’re visiting on a Friday you’ll be able to see experience the auction of goats, and occasionally even a camel!

There are also loads date stalls, a favourite among the locals. With an incredibly wide range, spend your time tasting each type of speciality date. Finish your tasting with a cup of Omani coffee and you’ve got yourself the perfect local treat.

Exploring the souq in Nizwa

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Oman

Don’t let the road less travelled stop you from seeing some of the most beautiful places in the world! Oman stole my heart, and I’m sure it will steal yours too!

Oman really is a nature lover’s dream come true. It’s a chance to explore landscapes that haven’t been altered by the existence of humans.

The naturally occurring swimming pools, sand dunes and healing baths aren’t something you find just anywhere.

I hope this helped you see how great the Oman landscapes and cities can be.

Whether you’re taking a short trip, or planning to spend a couple of weeks here, this list of things to do in Oman is a great starting point to plan your Oman trip.

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How to explore northern Oman’s most famous sites, from Muscat to the remote Musandam Peninsula

From natural to man-made, Oman has a host of spectacular sites including ancient forts, enormous mosques, and its very own Grand Canyon. This ten-day itinerary includes many of the country’s must-visit attractions.

The following itinerary focuses squarely on the north of the country, using Muscat as a jumping-off point for exploring the mighty Al Hajar Mountains then sailing north to the Musandam Peninsula, separated from the rest of Oman by the UAE. This is a swaggeringly beautiful part of Arabia, where age-old landscapes buckle across the map and savage coastlines rise out of the sea. A trip to Oman is about historical cities, delicate cultural customs and a deep sense of tradition — but it’s also about nature running wild. Pack your adventure gear.  

Days 1-2: arrival and Ar Rustaq  

From the unrushed coastal capital of Muscat, your likely entry-point into Oman, the Al Hajar Mountains lie directly to the south. They’re not easy to miss. The rusty-red mountain belt serves as a backdrop to the greater urban area, stretching right across the north of the country, even reaching the national border into the UAE. The highest peaks top out at almost 10,000ft (well over twice the height of the UK’s tallest) and loom over deep wadis, creating a fearsomely good setting for outdoor adventure. Ease into your explorations, however, by delving into the past. Stop first at Nakhal, an hour’s drive from Muscat, where a restored fort and some scenic hot springs give good reason to linger, before continuing to Ar Rustaq. The town was the Omani capital for around 150 years, and the fort here is one of the oldest in the country, with pre-Islamic foundations and a labyrinthine spread of towers and passages.  

Days 3-4: Jabal Shams and the Omani Grand Canyon

Onwards and upwards. A winding three-hour drive from Rustaq brings you to the deserted mountain village of Ghul, where abandoned houses dot the hillside. From here, the driving becomes a little trickier, so if you’re in your own vehicle a four-wheel-drive is advisable — although bear in mind that various tour companies offer Jabal Shams trips from Muscat. Continuing on past Ghul, you’ll head even deeper into the mountains, where the main attraction is the four-hour, out-and-back hike known as the Balcony Walk. Beginning from the village of Khateem, the hike skirts the rim of the so-called Omani Grand Canyon, serving up arguably the most extraordinary scenery in the entire country: vast chasms of craggy rock and silent valleys. If your luck is in, you might even spot eagles soaring on the thermals overhead. The country’s highest point — the 9,842ft bulk of Jabal Shams itself — looms close by, with superb options for abseiling, via ferrata and summit ascents.

Days 5-7: moving on to Musandam  

Drive back to the coast via the oasis city of Nizwa, known for its centuries-old fort and one of Oman’s oldest souks — expect everything from silver and saffron to live goat auctions. The drive back to Muscat via Nizwa takes around two and a half hours. Back in the capital, stay for a day to soak up must-see sights like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before catching the ferry along the coast to the Musandam Peninsula. You’ll be dropped at the port of Khasab, in the very far north, meaning the voyage treats you to some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the Gulf before you’ve even disembarked. Musandam’s high-sided inlets, known as khors, draw regular comparisons with the fjords of Norway — unsurprising when you consider that some of the cliffs tower hundreds of metres above the Strait of Hormuz.    

Musandam has been dubbed the ‘Norway of Arabia’ for its khors (rocky inlets) and dramatic mountain roads.

Photograph by Getty Images

Days 8-10: making the most of Musandam  

Parts of the peninsula are only around 90 miles from the razzle-dazzle of major cities, but the attraction here is all about getting active. From its kayaking, cliff-climbing and mountain safaris to its dolphin-watching, diving and fishing, the Musandam exclave has outdoor potential by the dhow -load. The classic choice is a cruise from Khasab into Khor Ash Sham, the longest and most imposing of the inlets, where mountains soar overhead and isolated hamlets stud the shoreline. Cruises tend to be either half-day or full-day, and on the latter you’re likely to make a lunch stop at Telegraph Island — once home to a British telegraph station — for swimming and snorkelling. The inlet also gives a strong chance of seeing dolphins. Back on land, take a tour in a four-wheel-drive vehicle to Khor Al Najd, one of the few spots along the coast reachable by motorised transport — the views are sensational. There are some upscale hotel options in Musandam, but try to spare at least one night for beach camping, which can be arranged either independently or through local operators. When your time here comes to a close, catch the ferry back down south to the capital city — ideally rounding things off with a slap-up Arabian meal overlooking Old Muscat’s port.  

Getting there & around Oman Air flies direct from Heathrow to Muscat International Airport. For the mountain leg of the trip, it’s simple enough to hire a vehicle from Muscat, either from the airport, your hotel or a rental outlet. Alternatively, various operators offer trips similar to those outlined above.  

When to go October to March are the peak months, when much of Oman has a summer-in-the-Med climate.  

For more information on the country as a whole, visit experienceoman.om

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The top things to do in Oman are out of this world

Jan 2, 2022 • 11 min read

Oman is a land of desert adventures and surprises © Westend61 / Getty

Oman is the third-largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, famed for its endless miles of coastline, high mountain ranges, rugged canyons, lush oases and vast deserts. It's also noted for the warm welcome given to visitors.

With its remarkable diversity of landscapes, Oman has been attracting intrepid travelers for years, but the relaxing of visa rules has opened this desert sultanate up to a wider audience. Beyond Oman’s natural beauty, you’ll find strong traditions, rich heritage and cities that blend history and tradition with a modern outlook.

Looking for an epic adventure? Here are the top experiences in Oman that you shouldn’t miss.

Stroll the Mutrah Corniche in Muscat

Oman’s capital, Muscat , is probably the closest you'll come to stepping back in time on the Arabian Peninsula. While its glitzy neighbors Dubai and Riyadh are known for their glass-and-chrome-laden skyscrapers, tall buildings are prohibited by law in this historic port city. Instead, you'll find whitewashed, lowrise buildings with unobstructed views of the jagged Hajar Mountains that flank the city to the south.

A walk along the Mutrah Corniche – the wide promenade that stretches alongside the Gulf of Oman on the northern edge of Muscat – is an excellent way to get a feel for the city’s scenic waterfront. On the way, you can explore the stalls at the Mutrah Souq , pause for cups of the sweet cardamom tea known as karak chai and marvel at the striking Masjid Al Rasool Al Adham, a blue-domed Shia mosque from the 15th century. 

Be humbled by Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Oman’s soaring mosques are notable exceptions to the country’s “no tall buildings'' laws. In the heart of Muscat, surrounded by manicured gardens and a network of intricate archways, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and its 91m (300ft) minaret dominate the city skyline.

The mosque opened in 2001 to commemorate the 30-year rule of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, the ruler who propelled Oman into modernity after the discovery of extensive oil reserves in the 1970s. The Grand Mosque used to be home to the world’s largest Swarovski chandelier and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, but these titles were recently snatched by the chandelier and carpet at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi .

Snorkel with whale sharks in the Damaniyat Islands

Just a short drive and boat trip away from Muscat, Damaniyat is a chain of nine uninhabited islands just off the Gulf coast. Dotted with calm, shallow coves and pristine beaches, the islands host a stunning array of wildlife both above and below the water.

Sea turtles, sharks, migratory birds and ancient coral reefs all thrive at Damaniyat, making this protected archipelago a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. September to November is the peak season for spotting whale sharks – an unforgettable encounter.

Stop for fresh fish in Qurayyat

The small fishing village of Qurayyat is a must-stop on the way to the eastern coastal city of Sur to experience the fishing culture of the Omani coast. Year-round, fishermen land a vast array of fish from the Gulf and the Arabian Sea, including grouper, snapper, yellowfin tuna and mackerel. 

The busy fish market in the village center is the place to look over the catch of the day, and any fish you buy can be grilled at a nearby roadside cafe. Travelers may soon have more reasons to make an extended stopover in Qurayyat, as an ambitious development project aims to add new restaurants and hotels to the waterfront.

Float in the Bimmah sinkhole

One of Oman’s most beautiful natural sights, the Bimmah sinkhole plunges to 65ft (20m), creating a serene spot for swimming and cliff-diving just inland from the shore on the way to Sur. Some locals credit the sinkhole’s origins to a meteorite strike in the area, but geologists believe this underground channel formed through the more down-to-earth process of erosion as water ate away the limestone bedrock.

Freshwater mixing with the salty waters of the Arabian Sea gives Bimmah its stunning turquoise shade. Getting a free pedicure from the army of Garra Rufa fish that inhabit the sinkhole is an added benefit.

Discover the history of boatmaking in Sur

Oman’s rich seafaring traditions date back to at least the 3rd century BCE – Sumerian records mention Omani ships transporting copper from the kingdom's ancient capital, Sohar, to markets in Mesopotamia. Historians have speculated that the famed voyager, Sinbad the Sailor, could have hailed from Oman, but even if Sinbad was just a legend, there's ample evidence that Omani explorers crisscrossed the busy waters of the Indian Ocean for the better part of two millennia.

At the height of its glory, the Omani trading empire stretched from modern-day Pakistan to Zanzibar , and the coastal town of Sur was the epicenter of its slave and spice trade, supplying the sultanate with long wooden boats called dhows. The tradition of dhow-building is still very much alive in Sur’s dhow-making shipyards and visitors can drop by to see the boat-makers in action.

Watch turtles hatching at Ras Al Jinz

Witnessing sea turtles nesting and hatchlings emerging on Oman's remote beaches is an experience not to be missed. Five of the seven sea turtle species can be found in Oman, and the endangered green turtle comes to nest on the beaches of Ras Al Jinz , the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula and one of the largest turtle nesting sites in the Indian Ocean.

While turtles visit Omani waters year-round, summertime is when these giant turtles emerge from the sea to dig their nests in the sand. A few months later, tiny hatchlings crawl back to the water, making the most perilous journey of their lifetimes. Turtle-watching at Ras Al Jinz is a wonderful family activity, enhanced by a stay at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve , an eco-lodge with tented accommodation and a scientific center devoted to marine research.

Have a swim and a picnic in Wadi Bani Khalid

Etched into the eastern flank of the Hajar Mountains, Wadi Bani Khalid is one of Oman’s most picturesque wadis (ravines). A veritable oasis, this shallow valley is famed for its emerald waters, abundant waterfalls, spectacular rock formations, lush vegetation and colorful villages.

Unlike most other river valleys in the Sultanate, Wadi Bani Khalid and its natural splash pools have a constant flow of water, making this an extremely popular picnic and swimming spot year-round, particularly at weekends and holidays. Hiking to the farthest pools of the wadi offers a more private experience.

Haggle for halwa at Nizwa's Friday market

Nizwa is Oman’s ancient capital and its most vibrant cultural center, and the Friday cattle market by the walls of Nizwa Fort is a local institution. The market operates much as it did centuries ago, when buyers and sellers from surrounding villages congregated under a circular tent to trade cattle, goats, sheep, camels and the latest gossip.

By mid-morning, the cattle market gives way to the bustling Nizwa Souq where you can find treats like Omani halwa, a staple dessert made with saffron, cardamom, rose water and nuts. It's also a good place to shop for a khanjar, the curved ceremonial dagger worn by many Omani men.

Find traditional pottery in Bahla

The clay-rich soil of Bahla transformed this desert outpost into Oman’s main center for the production of pottery in ancient times. Earthenware has been discovered here dating back to the 4th millennium BCE. The traditional art of pottery making is dwindling today, but a few workshops remain in the backstreets of Bahla’s bazaar district, where you can bargain for pots made for keeping water, honey, dates and coffee.

Go fort-hopping in Al Dakhiliyah

Surrounded by the dramatic Hajar Mountains in the north and empty desert terrain in the south, the Al Dakhiliyah region in northern Oman played an important role in the country’s history. Successive rulers built fortified outposts here to protect trading links from the coast to the interior plains and highlands.

Today, the time-worn remnants of centuries past pepper the region. The Unesco-listed Bahla Fort , whimsical Jabreen Castle , popular Nizwa Fort and the more obscure Bait Al Radidah fortress are all within convenient driving distance of Muscat, 

Hike Oman’s Grand Canyon

If you have time to see only one natural wonder in Oman, make it Wadi Ghul , often described as Oman’s Grand Canyon. There are spectacular views into Wadi Ghul from 3009m (9833ft) Jebel Shams , Oman’s highest peak, which towers over the western Hajar Mountains.

There are multiple trekking paths, including a demanding multi-day hike to the top of Jebel Shams. Less ambitious but still daunting, the Balcony Walk is a 9.6km (6-mile) round trip hike to an abandoned village that offers dizzying views into the deep ravine below. Post-hike, the Jebel Shams Resort is a good spot to relax and steady the nerves.

Explore the mud village of Misfat Al Abreyeen

The mountain village of Misfat Al Abreyeen on the western slopes of the Hajar Mountains is so tiny that no cars are allowed to enter its narrow alleyways. Mudbrick homes huddle together on giant boulders and irrigation canals known as aflaj crisscross the multi-leveled streets, watering lush terraces of dates, pomegranates, bananas and other crops.

Unlike many other villages in Oman, Misfat Al Abreyeen is still inhabited, offering a fascinating glimpse of Oman's traditional system of desert agriculture. For a special treat, stay at the Misfah Old House , a traditional guesthouse where guests sleep on mattresses and pillows spread on the floor and eat meals provided by local families.

Learn about ancient irrigation systems in Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) is a remote area in the central Hajar Mountains, where arid outcrops rise to an expansive plateau. Because of its high elevation, Jebel Akhdar receives enough precipitation to support a green oasis, giving the plateau its name.

A 5000-year-old system of aflaj irrigation channels brings water to verdant terraces bearing pomegranates, apricots, peaches, figs, almonds and saffron. Perhaps the most prized crop in Jebel Akhdar is the Damask rose, harvested in March and April and distilled to make world-famous Omani rosewater.

Stay with the Bedouin in Sharqiya Sands

Covering nearly 10,360 sq km (4000 sq miles) of desert, Sharqiya Sands (formerly known as Wahiba) is the perfect spot for a family adventure. Rising as high as 100m (300ft), its shifting sand dunes are a playground for off-roading, and a popular place for young Omanis to show off their driving prowess.

For a change of pace, the region’s Bedouin camps present an opportunity to get to know the culture of Oman's desert-dwelling nomads, before it gets replaced by the comforts of modern living. Women here take a more active role in tourism than in other parts of Oman, welcoming travelers to their desert tents, where they paint henna tattoos and share treats of halwa and coffee with visitors.

Explore the Land of Frankincense in Salalah

In the Omani desert, summer temperatures soar above 45°C (113°F), but the wild frontier region of Dhofar transforms into a tropical idyll with the arrival of the annual khareef monsoon. From June to September, moist winds from the Arabian Sea bring cooling rains and pleasant temperatures to this remote region on the border with Yemen.

The region’s capital Salalah is flanked by the stunning Mughsail Beach on one side and the grassy canyon of Wadi Darbat on the other. Nearby, ancient frankincense groves at Wadi Dawkah are part of the Unesco-protected Land of Frankincense ; local people still harvest the prized tree resin that put this area at the center of ancient trade routes.

Try the national dish of Oman

A fragrant combination of rice and spiced lamb or goat meat, shuwa is as quintessentially Omani as dates and halwa. Slow-cooked over a fire pit for as long as two days, this communal meal is prepared for holidays, festivals and other celebrations, and it's a must-try if you're in Oman at the right time.

Families serve it on one large platter and eat with their hands, encircling the shuwa as they help themselves. More than just a dish, shuwa is a symbol of Omani hospitality; to be invited to a family’s shuwa meal is one of the highest honors a guest can receive.

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before traveling during Covid-19 .

You may also like: Travelers from more than 100 countries can now visit Oman without a visa Why you should make a stopover in Qatar Baby it's cold outside: where to honeymoon in winter

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Oman

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on November 3, 2023

On the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, you’ll find the Sultanate of Oman. Often overlooked by travelers, Oman is an exotic destination filled with incredible attractions and cities. The capital of Muscat is by far the most popular destination, but it only contains a small part of what makes Oman great.

If you’re thrilled by desert landscapes, incredible mountain ranges, historic forts and warm beaches throughout the year, then make Oman the next destination on your travel bucket list. An overview of the best places to visit in Oman:

10. Misfat al Abryeen [SEE MAP]

While larger cities in Oman can appear very contemporary, smaller villages like Misfat al Abryeen help capture a more traditional atmosphere. This mountain village is made up of stone buildings in shades of orange and brown, and it can look more like an Italian mountain village than something you might expect to find on the Arabian Peninsula.

Misfat al Abryeen, however, is a beautiful example of mountain life in Oman. A steep road leads up the mountain, and you can walk among the buildings to admire banana trees and lush greenery. There’s an ancient watchtower above the village that you can climb to see Misfat al Abryeen as well as the surrounding fields and dams filled with water.

9. Masirah Island [SEE MAP]

Just off the coast of Oman is Masirah Island, a unique destination for travelers in search of sun, beaches, wildlife and history. Masirah Island is home to an Omani air base, but the towns are relatively small. That means few crowds and lots of secluded spots to explore.

Regular ferries are available to get you to and from the mainland. On Masirah Island, the top pastimes include swimming, checking out the abundance of shipwrecks just off the coast and watching the more than 30,000 turtles that appear annually in hatching season.

8. Bahla [SEE MAP]

Another incredible destination in Oman is the city of Bahla, located in Northern Oman. Bahla is a kind of oasis in the desert, and it has been a stopping point of travelers for centuries. Bahla is just 40 km (25 miles) from Nizwa, and it also boasts a spectacular and historic fort.

The Bahla Fort dates back to the 13th century, when it was widely under the control of the Banu Nebhan tribe. In addition to exploring the fort of Bahla, you can see the walls of the city, which are made from adobe and stretch for nearly seven miles in length. If you’re in the market for souvenirs, Bahla is widely known for its impressive selection of local pottery.

7. Salalah [SEE MAP]

In Southern Oman is Salalah, a destination sometimes known as the second city to Muscat. Salalah is particularly important today because it is the ancestral home to the Sultan Qaboos, the reigning sultan in Oman since 1970. On a visit to Salalah, you can admire the incredible Qaboos Palace, and you can appreciate older architecture in the Old Town, known as the Haffa.

Step even further back in time by visiting the Al Baleed Archaeological Site. Salalah is known for its frankincense trade, so be sure to pick some up as a souvenir from the souk in the Haffa. From June to August, monsoon clouds from India bring a constant rain to the area and, as a result, the coastal region around Salalah is transformed into a green oasis with seasonal waterfalls and streams.

6. Jebel Akhdar [SEE MAP]

Jebel Akhdar can be translated to Green Mountain, and it is a part of the Al Hajar Mountains. Don’t expect a traditional mountain top, and don’t let the green misnomer fool you. The Jebel Akhdar region is a primarily limestone, and contains the highest point in the entire country of Oman.

While not covered in lush forests, the elevation makes for cooler temperatures and more agricultural growth than in the desert below. The area is now protected, and you can hike through beautiful terraces and even spot trees laden with fruit. Hiking might not seem like an appealing activity in the deserts of Oman, but it is the perfect pastime in Jebel Akhdar.

5. Ras al Jinz [SEE MAP]

On the easternmost tip of Oman is Ras al Jinz, a turtle reserve that helps to populate and protect the sea turtles of the Indian Ocean. If you visit during the summer, or between the months of May and October, you can see turtle nests along the beach and even watch the baby turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean.

Visiting the turtle reserve is possible as a day trip to Muscat, but most visitors opt to spend the night at the resort and check out other attractions like the Turtle Visitor Center and Museum.

4. Musandam Fjords [SEE MAP]

The Musandam Peninsula is the northernmost portion of Oman, and it is separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. Parts of this region are very isolated, and they have long served as the home to residents in mountain villages and coastal communities. The Musandam Fjords stretch north and offer spectacular views.

If you visit the Musandam Fjords, the highlights can include things like boat trips to explore the coasts and peaks rising up from the water, spotting dolphins from a Dhow, or traditional Omani boat, and scuba diving out at sea. Population is sparse and wildlife in abundant, making this region one of the best places to visit in Oman for nature lovers.

3. Wahiba Sands [SEE MAP]

In the center of Oman, desert dunes stretch for miles and create what is called the Wahiba Sands. This is where the Bedu people live, and it is a popular travel destination for those in search of the true, authentic and traditional Oman.

Experience the nomadic way of life in the Wahiba Sands by joining a tour that lets you ride on the back of a camel and camp in the desert under the stars. The city of Ibra serves as the major gateway to the Wahiba Sands, and this is where many guided tours begin.

2. Nizwa [SEE MAP]

In the sixth and seventh centuries, the city of Nizwa served as the capital for Oman. Today, the city is best known for its incredible fort, which was built in the 17th century under the direction of Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’ribi. However, some parts of the fort date all the way back to the ninth century. The highlight of the Nizwa fort is the enormous cylindrical tower.

The fort also has some interesting defense mechanisms, including honey traps and unusually shaped windows for shooting approaching enemies. The fort is also a museum, showcasing 17th century life in Oman. While you’re in Nizwa, you can also check out the souk, or outdoor market, as well as the unusual goat market held two days each week in the city center.

1. Muscat [SEE MAP]

If you only visit one place in Oman, it is likely to be Muscat. This city is home to forts, palaces, museums and markets, offering something for everyone. While you can’t visit the interior of the Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace, you can head to the harbor to get a close view of the amazing structure.

Standing guard over the palace are the twin forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani, which have been converted to museums and are open to the public. Non-Muslim travelers can also visit the breathtaking Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque on most mornings, admiring features like an enormous crystal chandelier, marble wall panels and the second largest Persian carpet in the world.

Map of Oman

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The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide

Updated March 2024,  The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide was originally written in April 2018

Oh Oman, the gem of the Arabian Peninsula. Easy to travel, overwhelmingly safe, absolutely beautiful sceneries, and a strong culture. Oman is often overlooked by most travelers to the region who typically head to more glitzy destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

For those that have never visited a country in the Middle East, I highly recommend Oman as it’s clean, safe, friendly, and gorgeous. As many of you know, I traveled in  Yemen  and fell in love with the country in 2014 (and again in 2019 and 2020) which was what initially sparked my interest in visiting Oman.

The countries are drastically different, yet share many similarities, so for those interested in getting to Yemen (I get several emails about it per week), and have concerns about safety, I highly recommend travel in Oman for the time being.

If you’re starting to plan your Oman travels, I recommend picking up a copy of Bradt’s Oman guidebook .

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Oman?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial. The current exchange rate is 1 OMR = $2.60 USD as of February 2024 .

The official language of Oman is Arabic. With that said English speaking travelers will have no problem getting around the country without knowledge of Arabic as many Omanis speak English quite well. Many road signs are written in English and Arabic.

The government of Oman doesn’t keep official stats on religion in the country. With that said most Omanis follow the Ibadi sect of Islam. The remaining population is mostly Muslim of Sunni or Shia sects with a small number of Hindus and Christians.

What To Wear In Oman

Conservative dress is recommended out of respect to the locals.

Women : Long trousers and shirts that at least cover the shoulders are recommended. Always carry a headscarf with you for the impromptu mosque visit. If you want to swim somewhere, swimming in clothing is what local women do. Of course, if staying at a western resort anything goes.

Men : Long trousers and covered shoulders are best. Make sure knees and shoulders are covered when entering mosques.

View this post on Instagram Some photos don’t need too many words, but if you have a spare 1000 read on … I’ve teamed up as a judge with @TravelexUK and @PenguinBooksUK as they hunt out the ‘Next Great Travel Writer’ – Do you have an awesome travel tale? Enter in the bio link and you could win £1500 + a mentoring session *UK/USA only #NGTW A post shared by Daniel James (@danflyingsolo) on Jan 22, 2017 at 1:51am PST

How Long To Visit Oman

1-2 weeks is a common amount of time to visit the country for travelers. 2 weeks is a good amount of time for those wanting to quickly explore both the north and south of the country. A month will offer you the flexibility to hit the highlights and see some off the beaten path destinations in Oman. 

Check out my one week in Oman itinerary and travel guide

When To Visit Oman

Oman can get unbearably hot in summer. It is not recommended to visit in June, July, and August. The best months for visiting are November-April.

Getting around in Oman is easiest by renting a car and self-driving. Driving in Oman is quite easy unless you want to go off the beaten path which will involve off-roading. For those wanting to explore the Wahiba Sands and the mountain roads of the country, you should rent a 4×4.

Compare car rental prices on Expedia

• It is illegal to drive around with a dirty car in Oman. Fines are 10 OMR, but usually police will just tell you to get it washed.
• There are speed cameras all over the place. Always try to stay at or under posted speed limits.
• Public buses connect most major cities in the country. Those wanting to travel by bus will have difficulty reaching most places of interest for visitors.
• You can get around in cities by taxi.

You can enter Oman by flight or by road.

Flights : Most international flights arrive in Muscat. There are a few international flights that arrive at Salalah Airport as well.

Road : There are several border crossings with the UAE which is how virtually all tourists arriving by road will come from.

There is a border crossing with Yemen in western Oman. It is difficult to get across, and you’ll need to arrange this trip well in advance and it is not unheard of for border officials will turn you around, even if you have a valid visa.

Travel to Yemen is not recommended right now for obvious reasons at this time. There are intrepid travelers that have managed to cross here more recently. Note that solo females travelers have been denied to cross this border in the past.

Oman does share a long border with Saudi Arabia. There are no official crossings and it’s not advisable to enter Saudi Arabia from Oman as it requires you to cross the Empty Quarter.

• Leave your drugs, guns, and porn at home- they’re all prohibited in Oman.
• You can bring in 2 liters of alcohol per person if flying into the country, though you cannot bring in alcohol if you enter the country by road.

Several countries are now eligible for an e-visa to enter Oman. You can apply for your e-visa  here . Most single entry, 30-day e-visas will cost 20 OMR.

There is a loophole to get into Oman for free without a visa, it’s called the  Dubai-Oman Common Visa . You will be eligible to travel in Oman for up to 21 days so long as you have a valid visa or stamp from the Dubai Airport in your passport and are one of the eligible nationalities.

You must travel directly from Dubai to Oman via Al-Wajajah land crossing, Muscat airport, or a seaport. It will not work with other border crossings or at other (Salalah) airports. Read more about to Dubai-Oman Common Visa  here .

Note that Israeli passport holders will be denied entry.

Omani food has a lot of Arabic influence from its neighbors, however, it is a lot less spicy. Thanks to Oman’s long coastline there’s plenty of seafood to eat.

The dates in Oman are among the best in the world and Omani halwa (a delicious sweet) is one of their best-known sweets. With that all said, Omani food is hard to come by in restaurants but if you look hard enough you’ll find it. Some local dishes to try are:

Otherwise, you’ll find dishes served up from other parts of the Arabian Peninsula, Lebanon, Turkey, India, and Pakistan. In bigger cities, you’ll be able to find the typical American fast-food restaurants.

Omani Qahwa ( coffee ) and sweetened shai ( tea ) accompany most meals.

Accommodation

This is where you’ll either blow your budget or save heaps. Most accommodations geared toward tourists are high-end and come with a high price tag. With that said you can find budget-friendly options around the country. Better yet- you can camp freely in many parts of Oman.

If you’re planning to free camp in Oman, don’t f*** it up for everyone else. Don’t leave waste behind ( human, rubbish, or otherwise ), and do not camp in places where it is prohibited such as Ras al-Jinz.

Use the search box below to find accommodations in Oman!

Things To Do In Oman

Oman is blessed with rugged mountains, massive sand dunes, stunning coastline, historic fortresses, and a vibrant culture.  Click here to check out my One Week In Oman Roadtrip Itinerary  for ideas. Here are just a few highlights of the country:

Bustling City Souks : Souks are a great place to head to get a taste of Omani culture, and get some shopping done as well. Spice souks are always a fave with the exotic smells filling the air. Nizwa Souk, Muttrah Souk in Old Muscat, and Ibri Souks are some of the most well-known and interesting ones.

Trekking In The Jebel Shams : Jebel Shams is a 3,009m peak situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range, located about 240km from Muscat. There are a number of treks that can be done in the area, and it’s spectacular at sunrise.

View this post on Instagram ‘Camping on top of Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in #Oman was an adventure in itself. Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, this popular destination sits within the Al Hajar Mountains range. As soon as we arrived local campers called us to join them for fresh fruit, dates and coffee as goats milled around by the cliff edge precariously. The hospitality, warmth and kindness we experienced that day summarises the Omani people and culture to me; it was one of the safest and most welcoming countries I have visited.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 28, 2017 at 3:08am PDT

Cruise The Musandam Fjords : The word  fjord  doesn’t usually come to mind when you think of a country on the Arabian Peninsula. Sure enough, Oman has fjords! At the northern end of the Oman Peninsula, not far from the UAE exists such a place. Take a dhow boat and go explore the beautiful landscapes for a day or three.

Visit The Desolate Masirah Island : With a desolate interior and a rugged coastline, Masirah Island is begging to be explored. It’s only recently been open to tourists, and in the few short years, it’s attracted mainly kitesurfers. Reach the island by ferry from Shannah, check out the ferry schedule  here .

Get Historical At Fortresses & Ruins : If you manage to visit Oman without seeing a single fortress I’d be impressed, but more confused than anything else. There are heaps of historic fortresses scattered all over the country. Some well maintained, and some in ruin, but either way they’re completely fascinating. Some will have entrance fees while others do not.

Explore The Wadis : Oman is home to more wadis than you’ll know what to do with. To fill you in- wadi is the Arabic word for canyon. Some of Oman’s most beautiful wadis are filled with crystal clear turquoise water and the occasional palm tree oasis.

Experience The Hospitality That Knows No Bounds : I know I say this about many places in the Middle East and Central Asia, but I wouldn’t keep repeating it if it wasn’t true. Omani people are incredibly welcoming and friendly. From the group of coworkers out enjoying an afternoon at Wadi Ghul inviting us for qawa and snacks, the troop of friends having lunch on a beach who completely took over our tire change and sent us for a swim, halwa, tahini & date given to us Nizwa Souk, a keffiyeh wrapping lesson in the middle of a busy market, to those Bedouin ladies who stopped to make sure we were okay and to offer us sweet shai in the Wahiba Sands- Omanis will be the biggest and best-lasting impression of your trip.

Where To Go In Oman

Northern Oman

Delightfully authentic for a change from the over-the-top capital cities of its gulf neighbors. Muscat is the capital of Oman and likely your first stop in the country.

With a backdrop of rocky slopes and buildings required to reflect traditional Arabian architecture you really feel you’re in Arabia. Muscat is actually three towns that seem to have overgrown and connected over time.

The area referred to as Old Muscat is the walled city, home to the royal palaces. Mutrah, which is home to the famed Mutrah Souk and was originally a fishing village. And finally, Ruwi which is where commercial things go on, and is the main transport hub for the city.

With that said, Ruwi is a good area to head for cheaper eats and shopping.

Top sights recommend to visit in Muscat

• Sultan Qaboos Mosque
• Mutrah Souk
• Muscat Royal Opera House
• Al-Jalali Fort & Al-Mirani Fort
• Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque
• Sultan’s (Al-Alam) Palace
• Oman National Museum

Where To Sleep In Muscat

• Budget:  Mutrah Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Levatio Hotel Muscat |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Shangr-La Al-Husn Resort & Spa |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Muscat Tours

Check out this  half-day guided tour of Muscat . Want to see the city by night? Have a look at this  Muscat by Night tour . Want to see both Muscat and the surrounding areas such as Seeb and Quriyat?  Click here  to read about this full-day tour.

If you want to experience an Omani town without trailing too far from Muscat, head to Seeb. It’s about a 30 minute drive northwest of Muscat, not far from the airport. There isn’t much in way of attractions in Seeb, but for those looking to get a feel for Omani culture without much travel time, this is the place to go.

View this post on Instagram The past weekend I took over the @LonelyPlanet Instagram account to share some of my favourite times in #Oman – if you haven’t considered visiting head over and take a look, I think it will surprise you… Have you been? #BestInTravel #arabia #Mosque A post shared by Daniel James (@danflyingsolo) on May 30, 2017 at 2:06pm PDT

Recommended Sights In Seeb

• Al-Zulfa Mosque
• Seeb Beach & Cornich Park

Where To Sleep In Seeb

• Budget:  Muscat Royal Suites |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Remas Hotel Suites | Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  There are no luxury hotels in Seeb, but you can head to Muscat for them.

A lovely little fishing village an hour’s drive headed east from Muscat. Quriyat was once an important Omani port but now is just a sleepy village. Makes for a great day trip from Muscat with a stop at Mazara to check out the Wadi Dayqat Dam. There are no accommodations in Quriyat.

Sights To See In Quriyat

• Quriyat Fort
• Quriyat Beach
• Quriyat Watchtower

Bandar Khayran

Bandar Khayran also makes for a good day trip from Muscat, or as a stop for those headed south along the coast. Comprised of a series of Khors ( inlets ) it’s a great place to check out beaches, snorkel, watch fisherman casting for catches, and watch the sandstone reflections in the water in the late afternoon. There are currently no accommodations in Bandar Khayran, there are places you could wild camp.

Bandar Khayran Tours

Take a day trip from  Muscat by boat to explore the Bandar Kharyan area  and to view wild dolphins.

The gateway to the Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul, and Jebel Akhdar, and home to one of Oman’s best fortresses and souks. During the 6th and 7th centuries Nizwa was the capital of Oman.

Make sure to tour around the Nizwa Fort ( 0.500 OMR admission ) and make a lap around the Nizwa souk in search of antiques and delicious halwa.

What To See In Nizwa

Where to sleep in nizwa.

• Budget:  Bait al Aqr |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Nizwa Heritage Inn |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar |  Booking.com  |

Tours In Nizwa

There are a number of tours in and around Nizwa, and even ones that include surrounding areas such as Jebel Shams, Bahla, and Jebel Akhdar.  Click here to shop tours to Nizwa .

Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul & The Al-Hajar Mountains

Jebel Shams is Oman’s Highest Mountain at 3,075 meters situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range. With that said, Jebel Shams isn’t well known for the peak itself, but the sometimes nerve-wracking views down into Wadi Ghul. Wadi Ghul is known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.

Several treks can be done in the mountains and wadis, but do come prepared with enough water. Jebel Shams can be visited as a day trip from Nizwa or even Muscat, but it’s highly recommended to camp up here for a night especially for those wanting to catch the sunrise over the rugged landscape.

What To Do At Jebel Shams

• Purchase a locally made carpet

Where To Sleep In Jebel Shams

Sleeping up in Jebel Shams itself is not a cheap endeavor if looking to stay at a hotel. I highly recommend wild camping at Jebel Shams. Sama Heights Resort has a great lunch buffet available for a fee to those not staying there.

• Sama Heights Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Jebel Shams Villa |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Jebel Shams Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Sunrise Camp |  Booking,com  |  Hotels.com  |
• There are more and cheaper accommodation in nearby Al-Hamra,  shop rooms here

Jebel Shams Tours

For those not wanting to drive themselves and dedicate a night out in the mountains, you can take day tours to Jebel Shams from Muscat. Check out this Jebel Shams day tour  here .

Jebel Akhdar

The ‘Green Mountain’. This area isn’t known for the mountain itself but for the plateaus around it. With cooler weather and more rainfall its home to fruit gardens all over the upper and lower plateaus. You’re only allowed to make your way to Jebel Akhdar in a 4×4.

What To Do At Jebel Akhdar

• Diana’s View Point
• Wadi Bani Habib

Where To Sleep

• Budget:  Salassel Al-Jebel Al-Akhdar Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Jebel Akhdar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Alilia Jebel Akhdar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Jebel Akhdar

Click here  to book a tour of Jebel Akhdar and Nizwa in one day.

Bahla & Jabrin

Known for it’s fort of the same name and it’s pottery. The Bahla Fort is one of the best walled cities in the world to explore. You can combine a visit to Bahla with nearby Jabrin to explore the less impressive yet well preserved fort. Admission to both Bahla Fort and Jabrin Castle is 0.500 OMR.

What To Do In Bahla

• Shop For Pottery
• Visit The Old Souk
• Jabrin Castle

Where To Sleep in Bahla

• Budget:  Jibreen Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Bahla Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Go to Nizwa

Bat & Al-Ayn

Nearby to the Buraimi border crossing with the UAE and worthy of a stop for those entering or exiting Oman here. Bat and Al-Ayn are home to strange beehive tombs that dot the hilltops.

What To See in Bat & Al-Ayn

• Check out the beehive tombs
• Go off-roading to the nearby mountain villages

Search Al-Buraimi Hotels here

Musandam Peninsula

The Norway of Arabia because of its stunning Khors ( fjords or inlets ). Separated from the remainder of Oman by the UAE.

Khasab is the capital of the tiny province and exclave. Khasab is where you’ll want to base yourself for trips around the Musandam Peninsula. Be sure to explore the Khasab Fort, Khmazera Castle, and souk while back in the city.

What To See Around Khasab

• Khasab Fort
• Khasab Souk
• Khmazera Castle
• Organize dhow boats to explore the Khors

Where To Sleep In Khasab

• Midrange:  Khasab Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Atana Musandam Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Khasab & Musandam Peninsula Tours

From city tours in Khasab to dhow boat trips around the khors, there’s probably a tour to suit just about everyone.  Click here  to check out Khasab city tours and dhow trips.

The Musandam Khors

Hop on a dhow boat or organize a tour of the Musandam Khors and explore this fascinating area. Visit the fishing villages with inhabitants so remote that they speak a dialect that those from Muscat cannot understand, eat freshly caught seafood cooked up on your dhow, and take in the amazing scenery.

What To See & Do In The Musandam Khors

• Visit Telegraph Island & Khor Ash-Sham
• Camp on the bay of Khor An-Najd
• Cruise the sea by dhow boat
• See wild dolphins
• Visit remote villages

Musandam Peninsula Tours

Check out this  2 day tour of the Musandam Khors  including a night on a dhow boat. Just looking for day tours? Shop dhow day trips from Khasab  here . You can also book a 4×4 day trip to Khor An-Najd as well as Jebel Harim  here .

Jebel Harim

A great day trip by 4×4 from Khasab to Jebel Harim, the ‘Mountain of Women’, littered iris and geranium flowers and views of the Rawdah Bowl Below.

Jebel Harim Tours

You can visit Jebel Harim along with the beautiful Khor An-Najd by 4×4 Day Tour,  click here to read more .

The believed home to Sinbad and Ahmed bin Majid- two very famous sailors. Most come to enjoy the sandy beaches and archeological fixtures such as the Sohar Castle.

What To Do In Sohar

• Sohar Castle
• Sohar Beach
• Fish Market

Where To Sleep In Sohar

• Budget:  Atlas Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Radisson Blu Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

A popular day trip from Muscat as it’s only an hour’s drive from the city. Home to a nice sandy beach and a scattering of islands. Visiting the watchtower on Sawadi Island and snorkeling is what most who do visit come for.

What To Do In Sawadi

• Sawadi Beach
• Island hopping
• Sawadi Watchtower and Sawadi Island

Central Oman

Sur & ayjah.

Nice beaches, two castles, and a corniche are the attractions in Sur, just southeast of Muscat. It’s also a great base or jumping-off point for adventures into  Wadi Shab , Wadi Tiwi, Ras al-Jinz, and Ras al-Hadd.

Admission to castles is 0.500 OMR. Ayjah, which can be seen just across the water from the Sur Corniche is worth a trip to explore the tiny village’s fort and lighthouse. Ayjah and Sur are connected by Oman’s only suspension bridge.

What To See & Do In Sur

• The Corniche
• Sunaysilah Castle
• Ayjah Lighthouse
• Suspension Bridge

Where To Sleep In Sur

• Budget:  Al Jumhour Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Resort Sur Beach Holiday |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Head to Ras al Hadd, or back to Muscat

Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)

Just off the highway as you make your way down the coast from Muscat to Sur.  Bimmah Sinkhole  is most definitely worthy of the stop.

Local legend says the sinkhole was created by a meteor strike- hence the local name of Hawiyat Najm, meaning falling star. But in reality, it’s believed to just be a depression that fills with seawater as the ocean is only 600m away and freshwater that collects in there.

Bimmah Sinkhole is incredibly beautiful with its crystal clear vibrant turquoise waters. It’s easy to access as Bimmah Sinkhole was designated a park and they’ve built a staircase down into it. If visiting in the more popular months ( November-March ), I recommend visiting early in the morning if you want to beat the other tourists to it.

You can visit Bimmah Sinkhole along with nearby Wadi Shab by day tour from Muscat for those not interested in making the journey on their own,  click here  to read more about the tour and book.

Plan your visit:  Everything you need to know to visit Bimmah Sinkhole

Steep canyon cliffs, turquoise pools, and even a secret waterfall await those who make the trip to  Wadi Shab , one of Oman’s easiest to reach and most beautiful destinations. Wadi Shab is located right off the Muscat-Sur Highway. From the parking lot under the highway bridge, you’ll need to take a boat across to the other side ( 1 OMR roundtrip ).

Once across, follow the path and prepare to be amazed. You will eventually reach the upper pools where you are allowed to swim. From here you can swim through a narrow slot a little further up the river to enter a giant cave where you can cliff dive into the waters below from the edge of a gushing waterfall.

• It is possible to hike even further to reach villages higher up the wadi.
• Camping and fires are not allowed in Wadi Shab.

Check out my  ultimate guide to Wadi Shab

Just a short distance from Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi is a must-see especially in the springtime when the bottom of the canyon is carpeted in lush green foliage. It’s preferred by locals for travelers to visit the 9 villages in the wadi on foot. A two day trek can be done from Wadi Tiwi to Wadi Bani Khalid.

Ras Al-Jinz & Ras Al-Hadd

Ras al-Jinz is the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula famous for the thousands of female green turtles that return to this beach year after year to lay their eggs.

Green turtles are endangered and Oman is dedicated to their conservation and has strict punishments for those that harm turtles or their eggs. I’ve learned that the only way to visit Ras al-Jinz for turtle viewing is by organized tour, however, when I visited Oman we were given permission by the men working at the reserve to go in search of turtles.

We did find a massive female laying eggs in the sand which was a great experience. The workers at the reserve even gave us a brief tour of their facilities and let us watch them at work ( finding baby turtles that were confused and heading away from the ocean and putting them in a small kiddy pool that they would take down to the water to set free into the ocean when it got too crowded ).

Ras al-Hadd is the nearby fishing village in which it is possible to camp ( camping is not permitted at Ras al-Jinz for obvious reasons ).

• If you do plan to come to Ras al-Jinz to see the turtles either don’t bring a flashlight/headlamp or bring a headlamp with the red light on it. The red light doesn’t stress and confuse the turtles, but the normal lights will.
• Turtles don’t come to the beach during the day, so the best time to see them is on a night tour.

What To Do In Ras al-Jinz

• Visit Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve in search of the endangered green turtle
• Spend the night just back off the beach at the Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel

Where To Stay In Ras al-Jinz

• Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve , with rooms starting at 40 OMR per night

Where To Stay In Ras al-Hadd

• Budget:  Ras al-Hadd Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Turtle Beach Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Ras al-Jinz Tours

Join a 4×4 tour down from Muscat and back to view the green turtles at Ras al-Jinz,  click here  to read more and to visit the booking page. A cheaper option is to book a visit to the reserve through your hotel in Sur or Ras al-Hadd.

A small fishing village with two beaches on either side of it that are nice for a picnic in the afternoon. Al Ashkara is the jumping-off point to the Wahiba Sands and also the main supply point for the communities that live out there.

One of the nearby beaches is where we stopped for lunch and to change a tire and a group of friends hanging out at the beach quickly took over the task.

Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

Worth a stop for those bound for the Wahiba Sands, Wadi Bani Khalid or Ibra from Al Ashkara or further south. Bani Bu Hassan and Bani Bu Ali sit side by side and are home to forts, ancient plantations, and watchtowers.

What To See In Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

• Bani Bu Ali Fort
• Bani Bu Hassan Fort
• Jami Al Hamoda Mosque
• Explore the plantations

Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya)

At the village of Al-Ghabbi on Highway 23 ( not far from Bani Bu Hassan & Ali and Ibra ) turn off and you’ll quickly arrive at the village of Al-Mintirib that sits right on the edge of  Wahiba Sands .

Al-Mintirib is the gateway to exploring the wild desert of Oman. Carefully follow the jeep tracks out of town and into the great abyss. There are a number of desert camps out here, but it’s entirely possible to camp on your own.

For those wanting to interact with Omani women, Wahiba Sands is your best bet as the local Bedouin women have a more outward role in their society than in other parts of the country. They are also expert drivers and often rescue tourists stuck in the sands.

Whether you camp on your own or you head out to a luxury camp, make sure you look up at night and catch the stars under the clear dark sky.

• It’s advisable to bring shovels and sand mats if you self drive, in case you get stuck out here.
• Make sure to have plenty of water if driving yourself out here.

What To Do In The Wahiba Sands

• Haul ass down desert jeep tracks and up and down through orange sand dunes
• Camp under the stars
• Keep your eyes peeled for camels and Arabian Oryx running around
• Meet Bedouin women and watch their driving skills

Read my guide to  spending the night in the Wahiba Sands

Where To Stay In The Wahiba Sands

• Desert Wonders Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Arabian Oryx Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Desert Bedoua House |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Safari Dunes Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Wahiba Sands

Don’t want the stress of driving a 4×4 yourself through mountains of sand with the fear of getting stuck in the middle of nowhere? There are several tours offered to the Wahiba Sands ranging from day trips to overnight trips and more.  Click here  to browse different desert tours to the Wahiba Sands.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Beautiful emerald and turquoise pools await at Wadi Bani Khalid. You’ll wind high-up in the Eastern Hajar Mountains to eventually arrive at a parking lot.

From here it’s a short walk to the pools and a little further to Moqal Cave. This is about as touristy as it gets in Oman as well- there’s a restaurant at the lower pools and there is a concrete path there from the parking lot.

You can swim in the pools here, but you should swim in clothes like many Omanis here visit here do as well. For those not claustrophobic, continue along the trail past the restaurant ( the trail quickly turns to rocks ) and you can climb inside the cave. There are spots where you’ll find local boys cliff diving as well.

Tours To Wadi Bani Khalid

Some tours that visit from  Muscat to the Wahiba Sands include a stop at Wadi Bani Khalid . You can also self drive here, or contact local Omani tour agencies to arrange trips here.

Ibra is an ancient city, so old it predates the calling of the prophet. Ibra is also the gateway to the Wahiba ( Sharqiya ) region from the north. These two factors make a stop off here worthy of your time when traveling to or from the Wahiba Sands and beyond.

Try to arrange a visit on a Wednesday morning to see the local souk at its busiest and the women’s souk is active. The women’s souk is for women buyers and sellers to barter and trade, and men are not welcomed here.

Make sure and walk to the Old Ibra Village ( walk toward Al-Munisifeh from the souk area ) to explore ancient and crumbling buildings.

What To Do In Ibra

• Visit the souk, espeically on Wednesday mornings
• If you’re a woman, visit on Wednesday mornings to get a glimpse into local women’s lives at the Women’s Souk
• Wander crumbling mud-brick buildings in Old Ibra and Al-Musinifeh

Where To Sleep In Ibra

• Budget:  Al Sharqiyah Sand Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Tafadal |  Booking.com  |

Masirah Island

Come here for rugged coastlines and the wild interior that have been attracting kitesurfers out here for the last few years. Take a ferry over from Shannah to this desolate island out in the Indian Ocean.

Camping and exploring by 4×4 is the best way to experience Masirah Island.  Click here  to view the National Ferry Company of Oman’s schedule. There are a few hotels on the island now in the town of Half for those not wanting to camp.

What To Do On Masirah Island

• Visit the small town of Ras Al Hilf
• Explore the rugged coastline and search for dhow boat wreckages
• Find camels wandering around as you traverse the island

Where To Sleep On Masirah Island

• Midrange:  Maan Hotel Apartment |  Booking.com  |
• Higher End:  Masirah Island Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Southern Oman

The capital of the Dhofar Region and famous for its frankincense.  Salalah  is a bit more colorful than other cities in Oman thanks to its ties to East Africa. Make sure to visit the beaches, pay a visit to Sultan Qaboos Mosque, and wander into the Museum of Frankincense Land.

What To See In Salalah

• Fruit Plantations
• Museum of Frankincense Land
• Al-Husn Souk
• Visit the nearby Al Fizayah & Al Mughsail Beaches

Plan your visit:  The Salalah Travel Guide

Where To Sleep In Salalah

• Midrange:  Belad Bont Resort|  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Salalah Gardens Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Hotel Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Fanar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Millennium Resort Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Super Luxury:  Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours In Salalah

Take a half day Salalah City tour , or take a tour of  East Salalah to Taqah  and other sights, or a  tour west of Salalah  to head towards the Yemeni border and visit valleys of frankincense trees, visit the Mughsail Bay, and to the fishing village of Dhalkut.

This fishing village sits on the other side of a nice white sand beach from Salalah. Come here to visit Taqah Castle ( 0.500 OMR ).

Just a few kilometers east of Taqah sits a lovely little bay called Khor Rouri. You can sit and watch animals like flamingos and camels here. Khor Rouri was also an important port along the Frankincense trading route about 2,000 years ago. Little is left behind from those times aside from the Sumhuram Ruins ( 1 OMR to enter ).

You can reach Wadi Dharbat from Khor Rouri and visit its waterfall and lake.

Mughsail Bay

A drive 48km east of Salalah will bring you to the beautiful Mughsail Bay that trails off into giant cliffs that continue on to the east. Nearby the Marneef Cave is with a stop as well.

View this post on Instagram ‘The #Oman coastline is over 1600km long and touches three seas. Driving along the dry rugged coastline and climbing down rocks to empty beaches were common pit stops on my road trip. One morning, after a night spent camping on a beach, we woke early and visited another to watch sea turtles laying their eggs. By early evening we had arrived in the desert and were surrounded by camels. The diversity in wildlife for such a small country is one of the reasons Oman captured my heart.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 27, 2017 at 10:02am PDT

Oman Travel Budget

It’s not a secret that Oman is not the cheapest destination, but for those willing to get a little dirty and sleep under stars you can stretch your money a lot further here. With that said, the sky is the limit in Oman with its plethora of luxury resorts.

13 OMR/$35 USD Per Day

Splitting the cost of renting a 4×4 with a group of 4, camping each night and preparing most your own meals

27 OMR/$70USD Per Day

Staying in budget accommodation (2 persons), eating at low key restaurants, and car rental

60 OMR/$150 USD Per Day

Sleeping in midrange hotels, dining at a combination of cheap eateries and nice restaurants, and car rental

120 OMR/$300 USD Per Day

Taking guided tours, staying in resorts, and eating at upscale restaurants

Oman Packing List

Remember that respectful dress is the best for traveling in Oman. Pack light, breathable fabrics. For those planning to adventure in the mountains do bring some layers as it can get chilly out there in winter, especially at night. The Bradt Oman guidebook is a handy tool for travel planning.

Recommended Gear For Those Planning To Wild Camp, Trek, & Adventure In The Desert

• Inreach Explorer+
• Solar charger
• External battery pack
• Lightweight Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking Boots
• Lightweight cooking camp set
• Water Purifier
• Trekking Poles
• Prescription & Over the counter medications
• Sand Plates

Internet & Mobile

Hotels in Oman will usually have wifi. If you’d like to buy a SIM card to stay connected they are easy and quick to purchase. Look for Omantel and Nawras shops and kiosks. Omantel has plans starting at 2 OMR and Nawras at 3 OMR.

Health & Safety

Oman is an incredibly safe country in regard to crime and violence. The most dangerous thing in the country is the heat.

• Always have some water with you, especially when venturing out into the desert or hiking in the mountains
• Don’t go off roading alone in case that you do get stuck and need help getting out. It’s best to travel in a convoy with others
• Take caution while driving. Oman does have a relatively high car accident fatality rate. Things to look out for are other drivers, camels in the road and falling asleep at the wheel
• Take maps and GPS if planning to off road through the desert and mountains, or trek in the peaks and wadis
• Always take sunscreen with you, the Omani sun is relentless

Important Notes

• Acts of aggression and insulting others are punishable in Oman. So no road rage exists here. One instance you’ll see this is when taking taxis in Muscat- if your driver gets cut off ( more than likely it’ll happen on your way in from the airport ), rather than honk and flip the offender off, they’ll drop their right hand down low near the shifter and slap it back and forth. This is the Omani f*** you.
• With Oman having outlawed insults and aggression, it’s led to the population being quite sensitive. What you may think of as a joke making fun of someone, a place, or so on may come off as very offensive. So definitely think before you blurt things out.
• Be prepared to be stared at. Omanis will stare at you, only because you’re foreign and they’re curious.
• Especially outside of the larger cities of Muscat and Salalah avoid smiling at members of the opposite gender as it is usually always perceived as flirting. Oman is still a fairly segregated country in regards to gender. I never had any issues when we were traveling the country speaking with men we met in various places, but I did visit Oman immediately after leaving Central Asia. After traveling Central Asia for over two months I had the co-ed interactions in the Islamic world down pretty well.
• Homosexuality is punishable in Oman, although not as severely as in neighboring countries. You could land yourself in jail for up to 3 years if caught in some sort of homosexual act. This doesn’t mean LGBT travelers cannot travel in Oman, but if you do so just make sure to not display affection in public. It’s easy enough to tell people you meet that you are friends if traveling with a romantic partner. Note that in Oman, like in much of the Middle East and Africa it’s not unusual for friends of the same gender to hold hands.

Have More Questions That Aren’t Answered In This Oman Travel Guide?

Ask in the comments below!

More Posts from Oman:

What It Was Like To Camp In The Wahiba Sands, Oman

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Wadi Shab, Oman

Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah

Dubai-Oman Common Visa

The Yemen-Oman Border Crossing

One Week in Oman: A Self-Drive, Budget Itinerary

Visiting Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman: Everything You Need To Know

12 Best Things To Do In Oman

The Best Road Trips In The World

Oman Tour: To The Empty Quarter & Dhofar

18 thoughts on “the ultimate oman travel guide”.

Dear friend superb guide you covered almost everything a traveler should look into. I’ve been thinking lately that I would love to visit I am glad to read your blog about your travel experience very interesting thanks. Your personal experiences and vivid descriptions truly bring the city to life, making me feel like I’m right there with you on this incredible journey. Your blog is a wonderful source of inspiration for fellow adventurers looking to explore the magic of. Keep sharing your stories and insights – they’re a delight to read! Sreenandhana from Kerala tourism.

HEy Nicole! This guide is amazing – thank you so much!

Thank you for this wonderful article. It is new information for me.

Nicole, being a Local Omani, I am impress with your knowledage about Oman. No doubt, you’ve written an informtive, well-researched and impressive guide on Oman.

Thanks for this great blog! Your pictures give a great insight to the country. Which camera are you using?

Thanks, I mostly shoot on a Canon 5DSR and sometimes a 5DMIII

Impressive article, enjoyed reading it. Thanks for the info.

Thanks a lot, the article is so perfect

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Oman again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Nice post. Thank you for sharing such informative information with us.

Hi, First, I would like to thank you for sharing the useful guide on Oman Tours. As Oman is the best destination for traveling & tours and has lots of amazing places to visit. As per my experience, Salalah is also a very good destination for spending holidays. I have read your blog and I found that your tips and guide will be very helpful for visitors.

Thanks for the information even if I am planning to come to Oman. through e-visa this is very needful information

Nice post, Thanks for sharing!

Salalah is very beautiful tourist city and I loved to visit again

Salalah is a great place, greetings from Salalah.

Regards Beautiful Salalah Tours The best travel operator in Salalah

Thanks Salma, Salalah is just lovely. I’d love to return!

Hello lovely Nicki, I want to say you have a great article here about Oman. We offer desert tours in UAE and to the Musandam Peninsula from Dubai, hope to see you there one day Inshallah.

Thanks, I hope to be back one day too!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Oman

Oman can easily be called one of the Middle East’s most underrated gems. It’s a country with abundant natural beauty, including beautiful beaches and wadis , dramatic mountains and deserts, historical monuments, museums, a rich culture, and a generally welcoming population.  

Plus, with its developed tourism infrastructure and many tourist places in Oman, it’s also fairly easy to get around both independently and by road, making it a great place for a road trip .  

How long do you need in Oman?  

There is an abundance of beautiful places in Oman. It is a country where your family can easily fill a 10-day to two-week holiday (or even longer) with a variety of activities.  

If you don’t necessarily have lots of time, Muscat is a nice place to spend a few days, with plenty of options for nearby day trips .  

Due to the travel distances involved, to completely see and experience the country, you’d want to allow 3 weeks.

So with that in mind, here are some of the best places to visit in Oman:  

Explore Muscat, Oman’s Capital  

Oman’s seaside capital Muscat has plenty to explore and discover . Set along the Arabian Sea, hemmed in by terracotta mountains, it’s a picturesque city with whitewashed buildings, dramatic Arabian architecture, and all the commercial conveniences. 

The Mutrah corniche is wonderfully scenic, great for a walk and watching the sunset. Early risers can check out the fishermen bringing in their catches at the Mutrah fish market from 6-10 am every day.  

Wander the Mutrah Souq, a great covered market and bargain for silver jewellery (Oman is known for its silver), textiles, antiques, or anything else. 

The Bait al-Baranda is a museum with kid-friendly exhibitions covering Muscat’s history and pre-history. The Mutrah Fort, Kalbuh Bay Park, and the Portuguese watchtower offer a good view of the city and the sea.  

Visit the Sultan’s Palace in Old Muscat, which is quite a sight with its grand courtyard of royal buildings and palms. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a well-known Muscat attraction, dazzling with its beautiful mosaics, gardens, and the second-largest Iranian rug in the world.  

There are also many nearby beaches, hiking, and 4WD excursions easily accessible from the city – Daymaniyat Island being a must.

Experience Camel Racing at Sharqiya Sands  

This part of the Omani desert has lots of unique outdoor activities for visitors. The rolling sand dunes offer adventure options like 4WD excursions, camel riding, and even camel races, which are usually held between mid-October to mid-April.  

Coming here is also a way to get a glimpse into Bedouin life. The Bedouins, or “Bedu,” here raise camels to race. You can stay the night in a desert camp’s Bedouin tent and watch camels stroll by as the sun sets over a seemingly endless stretch of sand.   

How to get there: Just two hours by road from Muscat. Buses also run from to and from Sharqiya from Muscat and Sur.   

Climb the Fort in Nizwa  

Nizwa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Oman. Its most popular site is the Nizwa Fort, which was built in the 17 th century. Its 40 metre-tall tower is great to climb for its view of the town and mountains. There are also cultural artefacts like tools and jewellery on display inside.

The Nizwa souq is known for its silver khanjars, or traditional Omani daggers. There’s also a livestock souq on Friday mornings.  

Nizwa is also the closest “base” for exploring the surrounding mountains like Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar . It’s also near the historical sites of Bahla and Jabrin .  

Forty minutes from Nizwa is Bahla, an extensively walled city most known for its 12th-century fort built by the Banu Nabhan tribe. A UNESCO World Heritage site , its wall conceals a labyrinth of mud brick houses and cultivatable land, which was watered by an extensive well system during the medieval Islamic period.  

Nearby Jabrin Castle from the 17 th century was an important centre for learning. It’s a fun place to explore with many hidden and quirkily-themed rooms, like the special bedroom for the Sultan’s horse. 

How to get there: Two hours from Muscat by car. Buses and minibuses are available from Muscat, as are taxis.   

Admire the View Atop the Highest Mountain Jebel Shams 

At 3,075 metres, Jebel Shams is Oman’s highest mountain, located in the Hajar Mountain range. If you drive to the top, there’s a great view over Wadi Ghul (aka Wadi Nakhr or Al Nakhur), known locally as the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” Visitors can picnic at the top or go hiking, as there are several hiking routes of varying difficulty. The road to the top is a bit treacherous, bumpy and rough so 4WD is a must.  

How to get there: From Nizwa, it’s about two hours by car, and a roughly 4-hour drive from Muscat.   

Wander the Lush Greenery at Jebel Akhdar   

Jebel Akhdar (“Green Mountain”) is actually the Saiq Plateau, which is about 2,000 metres high. The Saiq is separated into an upper and a lower plateau, and it has lush orchards and green gardens to wander through at the top, along with beautiful views. This is another area that requires 4WD to ascend. 

How to get there : This is also two hours from Nizwa, and a four-hour drive from Muscat.   

• Check out the stunning Anantara al Jabal al Akhdar Resort for one of the most stunning Eco retreats in the country on the mountain slopes.

Take it Slow in Sur 

With its whitewashed buildings framing the sea, Sur is a pretty, laid-back spot to relax in for a day or two and use as a base for trips to Raz Al-Jinz and Sharqiya Sands. The 200-year-old Bilad Sur Castle is nearby, as is the 300-year-old Sunaysilah Castle. It’s also fun to stroll along the corniche to the pretty fishing village of Ayjah and check out its old lighthouse. There are other nice beach options nearby. 

Sur is also known for its carpentry and its tradition of dhow making. You can visit a dhow workshop and watch artisans making these traditional boats in the time-honoured tradition without nails or glue.   

How to get there: About 2 hours by car from Muscat. A couple of buses travel from Muscat to Sur with a travel time of about 3-4 hours.   

Visit Raz Al-Jinz Turtle Reserve 

About 45 minutes south of Sur, Raz Al-Jinz is an important nesting site for the endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas). Between 20-30,000 return to this beach each year to lay their eggs. It is one of the few official places where the public can come to watch the turtles’ nesting process.

The government deemed the entire area a protective area in 1996, and now can only be visited through an escorted tour. Be sure to book in advance. Night tours and dawn tours are available. Stay at the eco-reserve on site to join a dawn tour.  

While turtles arrive on the beach every night of the year, July is the peak laying season, and September-November is the best time to see egg laying and hatching at Raz al-Jinz.  

How to get there: It’s about a 40-minute drive from Sur. There’s no public transport between the two but private cars can be arranged.   

Swim at Wadi Bani Khalid 

Oman has many wadis , which are deep and narrow ravines, and Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most beautiful. It’s an oasis of green in the midst of an arid, rocky landscape. The natural spring at the top of the wadi flows down to the lower parts, collecting in deep pools of beautifully clear water. They are great for swimming.  

If you continue farther up the river path, the water gets deeper and the rocks smoother with few places to hold onto, so it’s best to cautious. Also, some caves and certain pools are only accessible through swimming passageways.

Women should wear bathing suits that cover them; some tourists even swim in their t-shirts. It helps to bring swimming floats for the little ones, water shoes and your own towels. There are public toilets and basic restaurants on site as well.  

How to get there: About 2.5 hours from Muscat. Can stay the night in Ibra, if needed.   

Experience the Tropical Feel of Salalah 

To get a different taste of Oman, head south to Salalah , which is the capital of Oman’s southern Dhofar Region. With a character reminiscent of East Africa—the site of many of Oman’s former territories—this area sees an annual monsoon season, giving it a green and tropical feel. Explore the coconut, banana, and papaya plantations near the city’s corniche and the Al-Husn Souq. Diving and snorkelling are also popular here.  

You can visit the ancient site of Al-Baleed, which is where frankincense was shipped to India via the trading port of Zafar during the 12 th century. The Museum of Frankincense Land tells the story of this historic place in Oman, which was settled in 2,000 BC. There is also 3km of surrounding walking paths to explore.  

Salalah is most famous, though, for the summer khareef . Whilst most of the Middle East is basking in the summer heat in the mid-40s, Salalah is experiencing monsoon season, bringing appealing cooler weather and a blanket of green.

How to get there: Salalah is a 1.5-hour flight from Muscat, and there are four flights daily. Buses of varying levels of comfort make the 12-13 hour trip to/from the capital as well.

Otherwise, it’s a roughly 10-hour drive between the two cities in a private car – we explain exactly how to drive Muscat to Salalah here ! 

Explore the “Fjords” of the Musandam Peninsula  

This small, non-contiguous region of Oman lies in the northern part of the Arabian peninsula and borders U.A.E. It’s known as the “Norway of Arabia” mainly for its impressive khors , or coves. The peninsula itself also boasts a dramatic mountainous landscape with plenty of outdoorsy and adventurous activities.  

Places like the mountain Jebel al Harim and Bukha Fort are some of the attractions. But the most recommended thing to do here is to take a dhow trip around the khors. There are many options for small cruises, and some Musandam tour packages include options for 4WD tours in the mountains, visits to Khor villages, snorkelling and scuba diving.  

How to get there : It’s a one-hour flight from Muscat to Khasab, the main village of Musandam. A five-hour ferry ride is also possible from Muscat. From UAE, it’s possible to enter easily by road, via Ras Al Khaimah .   

• You’ll find here our complete guide to getting from Muscat to Musandam
• Or from within the UAE, our Dubai to Musandam road trip guide

Further Reading on Oman

If you’re planning a family trip to Oman , you may also want to dive deeper into our Oman stories, including:

• What to pack for a trip to Oman – dress code advice for tourists, from the cities to the best of nature experiences in Oman + a downloadable packing list for Oman
• The best times of year to visit Oman – plan your trip with the seasons and special events; there are opportunities to explore Oman year-round
• A  Dubai to Muscat road trip planner  – how to cross the international border with ease and the quickest and most interesting routes to take on this city-to-city Middle East road trip
• A complete guide to hiring a car and driving in Oman – given the driving distances involved and the lack of public transport, you’ll almost certainly want to hire a car to make the most out of visiting Oman

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19 AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT IN OMAN

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Oman is one of our all time favourite countries. Just thinking about it makes us want to jump on a plane to Muscat, load up a 4WD, and hit the road heading, well, anywhere. Because no matter where you go, there’s something incredible to see or do. Yes, Oman has deserts, but it also has so much more. Waterfalls, beaches, mountains and wadis make up a landscape so strikingly beautiful, Oman is bound to capture your heart as it has ours.

Having spent six weeks in the country, travelling from Musandam in the north to Dhofar in the south, we’ve narrowed down a list of our favourite places to help you get the most out of your trip to Oman. Whether you’re planning a quick Muscat stopover, or a month-long road trip adventure, here are 19 amazing places to visit in Oman.

Looking for suggestions on how to spend your time in Oman? Why not take a look at our road trip itineraries. The 10 Day 2WD itinerary is a great introduction to the country, while the 10 Day 4×4 itinerary offers up something a little more adventurous.

MUSCAT & AROUND MUTTRAH SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE BANDAR AL KHIRAN

WESTERN HAJAR MOUNTAINS WADI DAMM & AL AYN WADI BANI AWF & BILAD SAYT JEBEL SHAMS & BALCONY WALK MISFAT AL ABRIYEEN NIZWA, BAHLA & JABRIN FORTS JEBEL AKHDAR & VILLAGE WALK

EASTERN HAJAR MOUNTAINS WADI BANI KHALID WAHIBA SANDS WADI SHAB

SOUTHERN OMAN MASIRAH ISLAND SUGAR DUNES WADI DARBAT TAWI ATAIR SINKHOLE FAZAYAH BEACHES

MUSANDAM MUSANDAM FJORDS MUSANDAM MOUNTAINS

MUSCAT & AROUND MUTTRAH SULTAN QABOOS MOSQUE BANDAR AL KHIRAN

OMAN HIGHLIGHTS MAP

Use the map below to find everywhere mentioned in this Best of Oman Guide. You can also download an offline version  to Maps.me ( iOS / Android ). Tap the menu button at the top left for more details, to toggle layers on and off, and switch between satellite and terrain view. Tap the star symbol to save to your own Google Maps.

MUSCAT & AROUND

At the heart of modern day Muscat lies the fascinating historic district of Muttrah. With traditional shop fronts, homes and buildings nestled between the port and dramatic mountains, it’s a delightful place to wander and soak up the atmosphere. The picturesque corniche sweeps around the bay, perfect for a golden hour stroll. Stop for a fresh fruit juice at a streetside cafe, before climbing to the top of Muttrah Fort for commanding sunset views all around.

Two local gents enjoying golden hour views from the Muttrah Corniche

The backstreets of Muttrah seen from the fort at sunset

Stunning views aside, the biggest highlight is undoubtedly the old Muttrah Souq. The best place to shop for gifts or souvenirs in Muscat, it’s equally good for a spot of people watching. A warren of side alleys spread out from the main arteries of the market, with all manner of goods for sale. The distinct aroma of frankincense wafts near the main entrance, luring customers in to shop for colourful spices and fragrant incense. Besides the tourist shops you’ll find plenty of genuine local crafts and produce. There’s everything from jewellery to kuma , the delicately embroidered traditional caps worn by Omani men. And don’t forget to look up – the elaborately carved woodwork of the market ceiling is beautiful.

An Omani wanders into the alleyways of Muttrah as night falls

Budget accommodation is hard to come by in Oman but for location and price Naseem Hotel can’t be beat if you’re looking for somewhere in the heart of Muttrah. We stayed here on our first trip to Oman and loved the sea views out our bedroom window.

SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE

Grand yet elegant. Opulent but graceful. Magnificent while still intimate. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is architecturally stunning, and like all things Omani, refreshingly tasteful in a region more commonly associated with glitz and glam. 

The main prayer room is undoubtedly impressive, with its 21 tonne hand woven Persian carpet and 14 metre tall crystal chandelier demanding attention. It’s the grounds and outer corridors however that had us lingering in delight. Patches of light and shadow bounce off the pristine Indian sandstone, while minarets, arches and trees are perfectly reflected in the mirror-like courtyards.

The mosque glistening in the sun and reflected in the courtyard

The arches of the outer walkways casting stunning shadows, with intricately designed niches telling the history of Islamic art

The arches of the outer walkways casting stunning shadows

Skirting the main complex are long walkways with row after row of intricately designed niches. They tell the story of Islamic architecture and design through the ages, from around the world. Plaques describe the motifs, materials and common features of Islamic art, the niches evoking traditional styles from the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia , India and beyond. It’s a fascinating lesson in both history and design, one of the most interesting places to visit in Oman.

BANDAR AL KHIRAN

From treasures of a man-made nature to those entirely sculpted by mother nature. The dramatic coastline of Bandar Al Khiran is a delight of fjord-like inlets, tranquil bays and sandy beaches. If your time in Oman is short, this makes an ideal addition to the highlights of Muscat, just an hour south of the capital. There’s a great wild camp spot to be found here, plus secluded beaches accessible only on foot or by boat. An abundance of coral reefs and crystal clear water make this a popular dive and snorkel spot too.

One of the inlets at Bandar Al Khiran. This small beach is accessible only by boat or on foot from the trail above

One of the inlets of Bandar Al Khiran

CHECK OUT OUR DETAILED OMAN ITINERARIES

10 DAY 2WD OMAN ROAD TRIP

OFF-ROAD OMAN 4X4 ITINERARY

WESTERN HAJAR MOUNTAINS & AROUND

WADI DAMM & AL AYN BEEHIVE TOMBS

While better known wadis like Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid are impressive in their own right, Wadi Damm is one of our absolute favourites. Damm means hidden, and that’s exactly how the main pool in the upper wadi feels. Secluded, magical, dare I say a little slice of paradise? Water cascades down a curtain of ferns and greenery into the pool, with a natural shower tucked in amongst the rocks at one end.

You’ll find the most impressive pool in the upper wadi, just past a solitary palm tree. To reach it you need to continue beyond the pool which is about 15 minutes walk in, heading through the cave on the left (if the water is high), or climbing up the rope and dropping down the other side.

The secluded, magical, hidden pool of Wadi Damm, like nowhere else in Oman

The hidden pool of Wadi Damm

While this is reward enough for your forty-five minute hike and scramble through the wadi, the area has numerous other impressive sights to capture your imagination. In the wadi itself you’ll find umpteen petroglyphs, believed to date from around 600BC. There’s a whole wall of them behind the falaj in the car park, and more rock carvings to be found while hiking through the wadi.

Some of the rock carvings close to the car park

Driving in to Wadi Damm the road passes by another historical gem, the Bronze Age UNESCO beehive tombs at Al Ayn. They are particularly impressive given the backdrop of towering Jebel Misht.

The Al Ayn Bronze Age beehive tombs glowing in the late afternoon sun, with Jebel Misht rising behind

Bronze Age Beehive Tombs glowing in the late afternoon sun

WADI BANI AWF & BILAD SAYT VILLAGE

Wadis come in all shapes and sizes. Some are completely dry outwith the rainy season, others have a permanent pool of water perfect for swimming. Unlike Wadi Damm or Shab, Wadi Bani Awf is essentially a huge steep-sided valley. Picturesque villages are dotted around, and an exhilarating off-road route links the mountains of the Western Hajar, at around 2000m, to the Batinah Plain far below. It’s an incredible ride, but only for those with a 4WD and experience on tricky roads.

The dramatic gorge of Wadi Bani Awf 

One village not to miss on the journey is Bilad Sayt. Tucked away up a side road, this impossibly pretty village of traditional houses overlooks a palm plantation and lush terraced fields. You can drive there, or hike the 8.5km on old donkey trails on routes W10h and W8 from Sharaf Al Alamayn.

The amazingly situated village of Bilad Sayt

 A Bilad Sayt farmer at work in the fields

For those up for a challenge, Snake Canyon (Wadi Bimmah), is also nearby. This 3-4 hour traverse involves swimming through ravines, cliff jumps into wadi pools and abseiling. If you’re looking for something less extreme, Little Snake Canyon could be a better option.

Note that it’s dangerous to off-road through Wadi Bani Awf (and especially to tackle Snake Canyon) during or after rainfall. It’s also important to be aware that there is a serious risk of flash floods in any wadi, at any time.

PLANNING A CAMPING ROAD TRIP AROUND OMAN?

HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

JEBEL SHAMS & THE BALCONY WALK

In the Western Hajar Mountains lies Jebel Shams, the highest peak in Oman at over 3000m. Below it is the spectacular Wadi An Nakhur, commonly known as ‘Oman’s Grand Canyon’. This dramatic landscape is one of the most stunning places to visit in Oman and not to be missed.  

For an amazing view, drive up to the rim of the Grand Canyon, where you can peer over the edge into the plunging wadi below. Look carefully and you’ll spot a faint trail running along the ledge, a hundred metres or so below the rim. This is the Balcony Walk (officially route W6 ), and an absolute highlight of the region. To start the walk, drive to the village of Al Khitaym and follow the painted flag-shaped markers all the way to the abandoned village of As Sab at the far end of the canyon. It’s a relatively easy 7km return walk, with the views far exceeding the effort required. Allow 2.5 – 3 hours total, including time to explore the village and admire the incredible landscape.

Setting out on the Balcony Walk,  Jebel Shams rising on the right across the canyon

Setting out on the Balcony Walk

The Grand Canyon is especially impressive at sunrise and sunset, so camping by the rim is highly recommended. Our favourite spot can be found at 23.2063, 57.2032 – check out this post for more details. Not into camping? Jebel Shams Resort is ideally located near the rim.

Watching the sunrise at the rim of Oman’s Grand Canyon, the best place to camp around Jebel Shams

Watching the sunrise at the rim of Oman’s Grand Canyon

MISFAT AL ABRIYEEN

Tucked away in the scenic mountains of the Western Hajar lies quite possibly the most charming village in the Middle East. With traditional mudbrick houses tumbling down the hillside, disappearing into the lush date palm plantation below, Misfat Al Abriyeen is a magical sight. Most of the original residents have moved on, either to modern houses across the valley or further afield. But a few locals remain, and one such runs the wonderful Misfah Old House , the perfect place to stay while you experience the village vibe.

The classic Western Hajar village, Misfat Al Abriyeen, surrounded by date palms and dry mountains

Misfat Al Abriyeen, surrounded by date palms and mountains

For such a small place, it’s easy to get lost wandering the narrow mudbrick alleys of Misfat. And in the plantations below, an intricate network of falaj weave their way through the terraced fields. Follow these ancient waterways and see where you end up, or take a longer walk on the W9 route towards the high plateau overlooking Wadi Bani Awf. Whatever you do, don’t miss the local dates, the most delicious we’ve ever tasted.

NIZWA, BAHLA & JABRIN FORTS

The country boasts a huge number of forts, some crumbling in disrepair, others carefully restored to perfection. Three of the best can be found a short distance from each other on the plains of the Hajar Mountains. As such it is one of the most historically significant places to visit in Oman. 

Nizwa Fort, the most famous of them all, sits in the centre of this modern city, surrounded by markets, mountains and the beautiful dome and minaret of the Al Qala’a Mosque. The main courtyard has an impressive staircase leading to the upper walls of an enormous drum-like tower. The views from the top are spectacular.

Inside the drum-like tower of Nizwa Fort, with the minaret of the Al Qala’a mosque behind

Inside the drum-like tower of Nizwa Fort

Bahla Fort lies 40km to the west of Nizwa, completely dominating the landscape. Its size is seriously impressive, and the commanding views from the top, over plains, plantations and surrounding villages, make it well worth the climb. The mudbrick village of Bahla, at the foot of the fort, is a great place to explore too.

The dominant Bahla Fort, surrounded by buildings and date palms of the village itself

The dominant Bahla Fort

Jabrin Fort is just 10km south of Bahla, and our favourite of the three. It’s surrounded by date palms, a sea of green against the dusty ochre of fort and mountains. You can explore the basement date stores, as well as admire the intricate wood and paintwork on the ceilings and balconies of the rooms. Looking up to the sky from the inner courtyard is a wonderful sight – a perfect square of blue crowns the three stories of mud brick and wood.

The tastefully decorated rooms of Jabrin Fort

JEBEL AKHDAR & VILLAGE WALK

Our final recommendation of places to visit in the Western Hajar of Oman is Jebel Akhdar on the Sayq Plateau. In contrast to the stark beauty of Jebel Shams and its surrounds, Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) is a lush and fertile land. Sitting at 2000m above sea level, the air is noticeably cooler here and the plateau receives just enough rainfall to support apricot, pomegranate and Damask Rose orchards. A string of traditional villages cling to the hillsides above picturesque terraced fields, the perfect place for a walk. Starting at Al Aqur, a 4km trail meanders past terraces, along aflaj (plural of falaj ), and through villages all the way to Sayq. Officially, the trail is known as W18b . Beyond Sayq, you’ll find Wadi Bani Habib and the fascinating mud and straw house ruins of its abandoned villages.

The steep and narrow village streets

The village Al Ayn, on the walk below the Sayq Plateau

The village Al Ayn below the Sayq Plateau

The steep, switchback road leading to Jebel Akhdar is paved, however the area is only accessible by 4WD. There’s a checkpoint at the start of the road where you’ll need to show your passport and car insurance documents.

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EASTERN HAJAR MOUNTAINS & AROUND

WADI BANI KHALID

The tamest of the wadis? Probably. But you can’t deny its beauty! Easily accessible and more ‘resort like’ than any other, Wadi Bani Khalid is a perennial favourite amongst families, tour groups and those keen to experience all the relaxation with none of the adventure. With that said, it definitely pays to get an early start here (8am ~ 9am) when your chances of having the wadi pools to yourself are greatly increased. 

From the car park it’s a short and easy stroll along a falaj to the main wadi pools. They are large and come complete with seating areas and a cafe tastefully arranged around the (mostly) natural rocks. The pools are surrounded by palms and greenery, completing the oasis in the desert feel.

The perfect paradise of Wadi Bani Khalid, before the crowds arrive

While the main pools are scenic and great for a dip, the upper wadi pools are definitely worth the short walk and offer something a little different. To reach them, keep heading up the wadi, an easy 10 minute walk on the rocks to the right side of the pools. Here you’ll find crystal clear water snaking through narrow gaps in the high sided canyon. A couple of chains have been fixed to the walls, which you can swing from or use to climb up if you fancy cliff jumping.

The upper reaches of Wadi Bani Khalid, the perfect place to get a bit more adventurous in Oman’s most popular wadi

The upper reaches of Wadi Bani Khalid

WAHIBA SANDS

Stretching around 180km north to south, and 80km west to east, Wahiba Sands is one giant golden playground. Officially named A’Sharqiya Desert, the area is commonly referred to as Wahiba Sands after the Wahibi tribe of Bedouin hailing from here. For those with their own 4WD (and experience driving in dunes), it’s the perfect place for adventure. For everyone else, take advantage of a network of established desert camps and leave the dune bashing to the experts. 

Spending a night out under the stars, in the quiet of the desert, is pretty special. Climbing to the top of a dune for sunset is even more magical. For the quintessential desert experience, Wahiba Sands is a must. As places to visit in Oman go, it’s unmissable.

Having fun on the dunes at sunset

The distinctive orange red sand dunes of Wahiba Sands

The distinctive orange sand dunes of Wahiba Sands

If you’re confident in your sand driving skills and appropriately equipped, Wahiba Sands is a great place to wild camp. There’s an established track stretching north to south through the desert – follow it for a bit and camp nearby the track, or journey the length of it over a couple of days. Check our map for entry and exit points, and follow the track carefully using Maps.me and GPS. Otherwise, arrange a pick up from the main road and book a night at a desert camp like Desert Nights Camp , Desert Retreat Camp , or Queen Desert Camp .

With just the right amount of adventure to keep it on the side of exciting as opposed to extreme, Wadi Shab is on most people’s list of places to visit in Oman. And for good reason. It’s a stunning area, with year-round wadi pools, a hidden cave complete with mini waterfall and impressive rock formations. It’s also relatively easy to access, and just a couple of hours south of Muscat.

A trip to Wadi Shab starts with a quick boat ride from the car park to the opposite side of the wadi, then a hike/wade/swim combo of around an hour to reach the hidden cave. Water levels can vary dramatically depending on how much rain there has been in recent days. If you’re not a confident swimmer (like me), try to time your visit with a dry spell when the pools will be less deep. If you’re uncomfortable at any time, you can always turn around and head back. To reach the cave and waterfall inside it, you need to swim through a narrow crack in the rocks, sometimes completely underwater depending on the water levels. You’ll emerge in a beautiful cavern, with the waterfall cascading down before you.

The rock pools of Wadi Shab

Given the popularity of Wadi Shab, it pays to visit on a weekday and early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. The boat trip at the start of the hike is run by locals and costs 1OMR per person return.

SOUTHERN OMAN

MASIRAH ISLAND

For wildlife lovers, avid kite surfers or those seeking a quiet back-to-basics beach retreat, Masirah Island is the perfect place to visit in Oman. It’s far enough south to be off the main tourist trail, but close enough to still be easily accessible for those willing to make the journey. It’s a laid back island where livelihoods still revolve around fishing, and the impact of mass tourism is yet to be felt. Indeed, there aren’t many tourist facilities at all. There are a few accommodation options on the island , plus ample opportunities for wild camping.

Relaxation, Masirah Island style

Old boats decorate the coast

There’s no ‘must see’ attractions here, rather the island as a whole is a place to slow down and soak up the beach vibes. The west coast is characterised by stunning white beaches, brilliant blue water and attractive rock formations. The east, facing the Indian Ocean, is much wilder, with long sweeping stretches of golden sand, battered by wind and waves.

The white beaches, blue water and rock formations of Masirah Island’s west coast

Masirah is an important breeding ground for turtles, with around 40% of the world’s loggerhead turtles nesting here between March and August. There’s no established reserve, like at Ras Al Jinz, so if visiting be sure to treat the beaches, nests and turtles with respect. Most of the nesting beaches are on the east coast and marked with signs. Don’t drive on the beaches or camp here, and do not disturb nesting turtles with bright lights or noise as this could prevent them from laying their eggs.

Sunset on the west coast of Masirah Island

You can reach Masirah Island by ferry from Shanna Port, around 420km south of Muscat. Private and national car ferries make the trip, taking around an hour and costing from 10OMR one way for a car and passengers. In windy conditions, the national ferry is often cancelled so be sure to check the weather in advance and plan accordingly.

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Just get in touch via our contact page to  let us know your rough trip plans and the kind of support you would like and we’ll get back to you with options and detailed pricing

SUGAR DUNES

While Wahiba Sands impress with their scale and burnt orange hue, the comparatively tiny Sugar Dunes will delight you with their soft white sand and feeling of genuine remoteness. Few venture this way, and you certainly won’t find strings of tourists plodding along on camels or flashy desert camps here. Instead, a vast white sand beach, backed by picture perfect dunes and the odd camel roaming around.

Camels are likely to be your only company in the Sugar Dunes

Camels might be your only company in the Sugar Dunes

Let the air out of your tyres and head into the dunes to find your perfect camp spot, or pitch up on the beach and explore the dunes on foot. You may see some locals speeding by in their trucks, but chances are you’ll have this place entirely to yourself.

The Sugar Dunes are pristine, one of the most stunning places to visit in Oman 

The Sugar Dunes are one of the most stunning places to visit in Oman

WADI DARBAT

In the far south of Oman lies Dhofar , somewhere quite unique in the landscape of not just Oman, but the whole of Arabia. While the rest of the region swelters in the dry summer heat, Salalah and its surrounds experience a monsoon known as the khareef . Between June and September high winds and waves batter the coastline, while heavy rainfall turns the land lush and green. It makes Dhofar one of the most special places to visit in Oman, and Wadi Darbat a particular highlight. 

Visiting just after the khareef is perhaps the ideal time. The weather is much calmer but the landscape is still a verdant oasis. In Wadi Darbat you’ll find a long river, flanked by lush banks and even a 1000 year old tree, flowing down to form a number of pools and waterfalls. Camels and cows roam freely, munching on leaves and grass. The most impressive sight is the cascade of water gushing over the top of the travertine curtain, a unique geological feature that looks like a sheer wall of pitted mud.

The waterfall of Wadi Darbat, rushing down over the travertine curtain

The waterfall of Wadi Darbat

Depending on the volume of water flowing, you can approach the wall and waterfall from both above and below – it’s a truly breathtaking sight. While the pools look oh so inviting, best to avoid swimming in them as there have been reports of bilharzia (a nasty parasite) in the water.

Above the waterfall at Wadi Darbat, admiring the many pools and rock formations

Above the waterfall at Wadi Darbat

TAWI ATAIR SINKHOLE

Not far from Wadi Darbat lies one of the biggest sinkholes in the world. It’s an astonishing place that becomes increasingly magical the deeper you go. At 150m wide and 211m deep, there’s only so much you can appreciate from the viewing platform up top. For the real wow factor, head down the rough trail to the right of the platform and climb deeper into the heart of the sinkhole, to a rusting old platform about 130m down.

Taking in the view on the way down into Tawi Atair sinkhole

Looking up from the old platform. Can you spot Kim?

The cacophony of birds is truly astounding, with some unique species found only here and in a part of nearby Yemen (according to the camera wielding twitcher we chatted to up top). From this vantage point, deep in the belly of the sinkhole, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Vietnam or some other tropical paradise. But nope, just one more spot to add to your list of amazing places to visit in Oman.

FAZAYAH BEACHES

Almost as far south as you can get in Oman before hitting the border with Yemen lie the secluded beaches of Fazayah. A string of white sand bays, tucked away under the towering cliffs above, it can be hard to choose a favourite. So, best to give yourself a day or so here to beach hop along the coast and sample the delights of each. At low tide, even more pristine white canvases are exposed, hidden behind rocks with azure water lapping at the receding shore.

The beaches at Fazayah: golden sand, clear water and fantastic rocks

As with everywhere in Dhofar, camels roam freely, adding to the surreal beauty of this land. Outwith the khareef , it’s a great place to camp, or you can visit as a day trip from Salalah.

Mountains rise behind the beaches and camels munch on the low grass

MUSANDAM FJORDS

Cut off from the rest of Oman and surrounded by the UAE, Musandam is actually easier to get to from Dubai than Muscat. It’s a popular getaway for those living in the UAE, the raw natural beauty of ‘Arabia’s Norway’ the perfect antidote to the glitz and glam of Dubai. The Norway thing hails from Musandam’s many khors , or fjord-like inlets, which characterise the coast of this peninsula. The best way to take it all in is from the sea itself, and there’s no shortage of dhow cruise operators in Khasab, the main town. For the most relaxing experience, avoid the weekends or UAE holidays, and opt for a full day or overnight cruise to really make the most of your trip. You’re almost guaranteed to see dolphins and your dhow will likely anchor by Telegraph Island where you can jump in for a swim and snorkel.

Cruising the Musandam Fjords in a traditional dhow boat

Cruising the Musandam Fjords in a dhow

From the land, the best viewpoint is from the top of a curving road heading down to Khor Najd (check our map for the exact location). You can camp here, or head to our favourite beach camp spot in Musandam at Rocky Beach – read more about it here .

Looking down on the spectacular Khor Najd from the road above

Looking down on the spectacular Khor Najd

MUSANDAM MOUNTAINS

High above the glistening fjords of Musandam, an off-road adventure like no other can be found. With views stretching for miles, layers of mountains silhouetted all the way to the horizon, the Musandam Mountains are utterly spellbinding. You’ll need a 4WD to attempt this route, or you can join a guided tour out of Khasab. Highlights include the lush As Sayh plateau, ancient rock carvings and fossils, and the entire section between Jebel As Sayh and the small villages of Qad Qad, A’Rowdhah and beyond.

The Wadi Bih road snaking through the mountains

Fossils in Musandam’s mountains

The off-roading is exhilarating, the locals friendly (both humans and camels alike) and the views out of this world. It’s one of the most spectacular places to visit in Oman. If you’re exploring in your own wheels you’ll find one of our all time favourite wild camp spots at 25.9535, 56.2396 – check out this post for more details. Check our map for key points.

The sunrise view from one of our all time favourite camp spots

THANKS FOR READING!

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

Kim and Del Hogg

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip.

Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

We hope you enjoyed our rundown of some of the most amazing places to visit in Oman. If you have any questions at all, or places you think should make the list, let us know in the comments below.

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More from oman.

The Essential Guide To Salalah And Dhofar

10 Day Off-Road Oman 4×4 Itinerary

Our 1 Month Oman Road Trip Itinerary

10 Day Oman Itinerary: 2WD Road Trip

The Essential Guide To Musandam

19 Amazing Places To Visit In Oman

2 leave a reply.

Amazing guide on Oman. Musandam and Muscat are two best places to visit in Oman.

Hey , I have just stumbled on your website.Its just amazing.You are doing an excellent job.I must want to say keep doing this.

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The Best Places to Visit in Oman on a Road Trip

My time in the middle east did not end with Dubai and Egypt. After Egypt, I boarded a flight to Muscat to meet some friends. There we began a week-long Oman road trip exploring the hidden beauty Oman has to offer.

I had been dreaming of visiting Oman for YEARS! I saw some photos a few years back and this country quickly rose to the top of my travel list. When I finally got to go, I wanted to make sure to see all the best places to visit in Oman on my trip.

Oman borders the United Arab Emirates and is only a 1-hour flight from Dubai. Oman is really well developed, but they aren’t looking to be the next Dubai.

The majority of Omani people speak English and are more modern in their way of thinking than other middle eastern countries. To top it all off Oman is voted as one of the cleanest and safest countries in the world.

Over the past few years, Oman tourism has been increasing, but it is still a place unknown to most. Most people wouldn’t even be able to place it on a map. Even with the boost in tourism, you’ll find very little photos or blog posts from travelers online. If I’m being honest, this was one of the most attractive things about picking this destination!

The Middle Eastern country is incredibly safe to drive around, and within a few hours drive, the country has everything from emerald colored waters to deep gorges, infinite orange sand dunes, historic villages, and spectacular mountain peaks.

My Oman road trip took me around the country for a week with my friends Amy and Brandon. We were all blown away at the variety of the landscapes, the beauty of the country, and the kind nature of everyone we met.

You’ll notice in this blog post nearly every spot we visited we expected to be swarmed with tourist, but you’ll quickly find that you won’t find that in Oman. It is still so undiscovered!

Our road trip through Oman was one of my favorite moments of this year!

On our Oman road trip, we made the best places to visit in Oman a priority. We wanted to see the variety of landscapes and the beauty of the country as well as experience the culture of the country.

Here is a quick breakdown of our Oman itinerary. You can also use the map below to plan your own visit to Oman.

Table of Contents

TOP THINGS TO DO IN MUSCAT

We spent the first 2 days unwinding and getting spoiled at the Shangri-La Al Husn in Muscat. Shangri-La is one of my favorite hotel chains so I’m always thrilled to stay there whenever I can.

I love the smell of Shangri-La hotels! It’s something so simple as the signature smell they use in all their hotels that makes me so happy and feel right at home.

The Shangri-La always has several 5-star restaurants and buffets. Al Husn was no different. The buffet alone was the biggest I had ever seen.

I was disappointed I didn’t get to try the Asian restaurant, which is typically my favorite food. However, the Moroccan restaurant did not disappoint. I’m a sucker for vegetable tajine and Moroccan mint tea!

Damaniyat Island

The Shangri-La organized a boat tour for us with Zahara Tours to the Damaniyat Islands. We left the hotel around 10 am. The boat company picked us up and dropped us off at the marina. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes on a speedboat to get to the islands. The boat ride was pretty choppy and windy, so settle in.

Typically you’d expect a place this beautiful would be packed with tourists, but once we arrived we were the only ones there! We spent the afternoon snorkeling and visiting 2 of the 9 pristine islands.

The boat ride also includes a vegetarian lunch. After lunch and a few hours of swimming and snorkeling, we made our way back to the mainland.

The day was absolutely incredible. Who knew Oman had waters that resemble Tahiti or the Maldives! It was some clearest water I’ve ever seen!

Hot Tip: If I were to do it again, I would have booked a private boat. It would have been worth the money to spend an entire day there. It’s too beautiful to head back so soon!

Attention adventure-seekers: If you’re up for it, apparently you can camp on some of the islands. I haven’t looked too much into it, but if you’re looking to save money and have a really unique Oman experience, it’s worth looking into.

Mutrah Souq

Like most night markets, the souk has tiny back alleyways filled with scents of frankincense and myrrh (signature scents of Oman), luxurious scarves, and beautifully decorated Abayas (long sleeve tunic and head scarf for women).

I always love visiting local markets, and my favorite things to shop for are home decor. I love filling my home with memories from my travels. Over the years I have brought home rugs, pillowcases, paintings, hand-painted plates and vases.

Every year for as long as I can remember, my mom has always gifted us a new Christmas ornament. When I started traveling, I started collecting a new ornament from every destination. I was so happy I managed to find the cutest one for Oman because I missed out on picking one up in Egypt!

While we walked around, I also stumbled in a little shop and picked up a few local accessories I thought could be fun to jazz up the photos when shooting.

One of the first things I noticed was how friendly Omanis are. Typically you’d expect vendors to be pushy, but the locals wanted to find out your name and where you are from regardless of if you made a purchase or not.

Tip:  Fridays and Saturdays are weekend days, and some parts of the souk will be closed on those days.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Hours: Non-Muslims can visit the Grand Mosque from 8 am to 11 am from Saturday to Thursday. Friday is prayer day. Cost: Free

We planned to visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque right at 8 am, however we only managed to get there by 10 am. The mosque is so grand, both in beauty and in size. Built in 2001, the details of this mosque are getting worldwide attention.

I would recommend planning to arrive earlier, especially if you are going for photos! We didn’t realize that the mosque closes at 11 am for non-Muslims, so we didn’t have much time.

Visitors are asked to dress modestly to respect the places of worship. For women, that requires you to cover your hair with a scarf and wear clothing that covers your wrists and ankles. I wore a long dress and a scarf, and it was perfect. However, if you arrive unprepared, they have a shop with Abayas for rent.

If I were you and you know you will need to rent, I’d spend the same amount and buy one at the market. You’ll end up buying one that is a lot nicer and you’ll have a nice souvenir.

BEST PLACES TO STOP ON AN OMAN ROAD TRIP

After exploring Muscat for a few days, it was time to start out on our Oman road trip. We ended up spending almost a week in Oman total, and it gave us time to see Muscat plus explore more of the variety of beautiful places to visit in Oman.

From the deserts to the sinkholes to the mountains to the gorges, Oman has so much natural beauty to explore. Renting a car allowed us to explore the best Oman has to offer without being confined to a set schedule. Here are the best stops for an Oman road trip outside of Muscat.

Hours: Boats start at 8.m. and stop between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Cost: 1 OMR ($2.50 USD) for the boat ride

Wadi Shab meaning gorge between the cliff is a must-visit! Located just a 1.5-hour drive from the capital Muscat, it is right off the highway making it easy to reach.

Once at the parking spot, you catch a 1 minute boat ride to cross the river and start the 45-minute hike to reach the gorge. The boat ride costs only 1 OMR (2.5 USD).

After a long drive, we decided to spend the night in the town of Sur. We had hoped to get some photos at the Bimmah Sinkhole, but unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side.

We ended up booking a room at the Wadi Shab Resort. It’s nothing fabulous but we weren’t expecting many luxury accommodations on our road trip. It was the closest to Wadi Shab.

We woke up early, packed up the car and made it to Wadi Shab right at 7am. We didn’t realize that we were traveling during a national holiday (basically Oman’s independence day) so we wanted to be the first ones to arrive when the boats start running.

Due to the holiday, we expected both tourists and locals to fill the gorge. We wanted to make sure we were first in line. To our surprise, we had the entire place to ourselves! Only as we were leaving around 9:30 did people start to arrive.

Tip: Plan to spend about 3 – 4 hours at Wadi Shab. To avoid the midday heat, getting there in the morning would be the best option.

Tip: Pack a swimsuit and wear good shoes! The hike often calls for you to climb big boulders. I wore running shoes and was happy to have a better grip and support than just flip flops.

Bimmah Sinkhole

Hours: The park the sinkhole is in is open from 7:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. Cost: Free

This natural crater is right next to the main road about 20 minutes from Wadi Shab. You can definitely hit these two places on the same day! Make sure to pack a swimsuit and take a dive in the emerald-colored water.

Locals believe this natural swimming hole was creator by a meteorite. What do you think?

We tried visiting the sinkhole the day before, but the weather wasn’t on our side. We decided to visit Wadi Shab first as we thought morning light would be best and Bimmah Sinkhole during high sun (noon) to get the sun hitting the water directly.

Even for a national holiday, the sinkhole wasn’t too busy at all! There were about 8 other people there with us. The freshwater is so clear and makes for the perfect place to cool off.

If you’re ticklish like me, beware that the sinkhole has little fish that will nibble at your toes. I’ve never done a fish pedicure before, so I can’t compare it, but I would imagine it would be similar.

Pro-tip : Come Sunday-Thursday as those are the weekdays in the Middle East.

Wahiba Sands

From the sinkhole, you are still 2 hours from the last town before the desert. Then you’ll need to drive 40KM through the dunes to get to our night camp.

We arrived at the last town before the desert at about 3pm, right on time. We went to a gas station to fuel up and deflate our tires. When driving on sand, you want to deflate the PSI in your tires. This prevents you from getting stuck in the sand – very important!

Our first impressions of 1000 Nights Camp – wow! We were blown away by the design and landscape – think Moroccan glamping! We were welcomed with traditional tea and shown to our tent for the night.

Because of the tight timeline of our road trip, we only stayed one night, but we would have gladly stayed another if our schedule allowed. Having no WiFi for the night was honestly really nice to disconnect and take in the dunes and the stars at night.

There is nothing better than experiencing a sunset on the dunes, so make sure to arrive with enough time so you can settle in. Since we visited Oman in November, the sun starts to set earlier in the afternoon at around 4 p.m.

Tip: The best time to visit the desert is during their winter, between October and March. Summer temperatures can rise to 50 degrees and it will be unbearable.

Dinner at the camp was incredible! It was an extensive buffet style. After a long day of eating gas station snacks, this was our first real meal of the day. I think we went back for three plates we were so hungry.

After dinner, we gathered by the fire and watched some of the local guides dance around as the staff played traditional music under the stars. It was a perfect way to end a long day.

We woke up that morning planning to shoot around camp but we did not expect to be greeted by the friendliest camels! They were so gentle and definitely made my photos epic!

This is Sunny, he was a real poser! What do you think of his posing skills?

Hours: Saturday-Thursday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. Cost: 5 OMR ($13 USD)

We left the desert at 11:30 a.m. With a quick pit stop to reinflate our tires and one more stop at a supermarket for food, we arrived just before sunset.

Nizwa Fort is located about an hour from Muscat. If you plan to make Muscat your base, it can easily be a day trip from Muscat.

Nizwa Fort is the largest castle in Oman and is the country’s most visited national monument. It is an amazing example of old Omani architecture.  Inside the fort’s walls, you’ll find signs telling some interesting stories about the fort and their defense system.

Pro Tip: Do not miss walking the Nizwa Souq. I bought the most beautiful terracotta vases at the market just outside the fort grounds.

Al Hamra Village

GPS location Al Hamra Oman:   N23º 07’ 14.542” E57º 16’ 59.048”

The town of Al Hamra is a completely abandoned mud village in the northeast of Oman. Here you can wander among crumbling buildings, dusty pathways and decorative old doors. 

Al Hamra is located 45 minutes from Nizwa and about 2 hours from Muscat. This means you could combine them into one day trip from Muscat or two different day trips if needed.

Apparently the village became abandoned because the people living there wanted to start again with better infrastructure and better technology.

We spent about an hour wandering through the abandoned town and only crossed paths with three other people. It is a surreal experience to walk through a completely abandoned village stepping over piles of rubbles where houses used to lay. Not to mention a really cool place for photos!

We stayed at Al Hamra Guest House which was less than special, but we didn’t really care. We got in late and left first thing in the morning.

Jebel Al Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar, meaning the Green Mountain, is one of Oman’s most impressive areas. It is the highest point in Oman and all of eastern Arabia. 

This rugged, mountainous region is one of Oman’s top tourist destinations due to breathtaking landscapes that include Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain, and Jebel Akhdar. You can expect spectacular mountain views and few tourists.

On our last night in Oman, we decided to treat ourselves and spend a night at Sahab Hotel in the mountains. The idea of a hot shower and room service was too hard to pass up! We even bought a $60 bottle of wine to celebrate the end of our trip!

FYI: Alcohol is hard to find in Oman, so when you do find it, it is very expensive. Hence the $60 bottle of cheap wine! If you’re a drinker, I would recommend picking up any alcohol you want at duty-free as you won’t find much around the country. Even if you do its expensive.

The mountain climate is significantly colder than the rest of Oman so make sure to pack a few layers, especially for at night. I was glad I had some layers to keep me warm while enjoying the views.

Pro Tip: The drive in the mountain area of Jabal Akhdar is made up of beautiful, winding roads, so make sure that you have a 4×4 to go up. Also, avoid the drive if it is raining as the winding roads can get dangerous if you don’t have clear conditions.

Pro Tip: When on a road trip in Oman, I recommend using Waze over Google Maps.

BONUS OMAN TRAVEL TIPS

There are a few common questions that came up on my Oman posts and stories. If you have other questions I missed here, feel free to leave them in the comments for me. Here are a few things to note before traveling to Oman:

Do I need a visa to visit Oman?

Depending on where you are from, visa requirements will vary. For Canadians, a visa was very easy to get and cost only $30. You can apply online and it takes a few days. I ended up getting a visa on arrival.

How much does it cost to travel in Oman?

Oman is not a budget travel destination. It was comparable to life at home in North America in terms of costs of hotels and food. Alcohol is more expensive and hard to find, so if you plan to drink, budget in some extra money and/or pick up drinks at duty-free.

When is the best time to visit Oman?

The best time to visit Oman would be from October to March to avoid extreme heats. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially on hikes, and to try to explore places early in the day before it gets too hot.

What should I wear in Oman?

Oman is pretty modern for a Middle Eastern country. However, I recommend dressing modestly still. It will draw less attention and show respect to the culture.

If you visit a swimming area on the weekend days especially, wear a modest bathing suit as more locals will be around on those days. If you plan to visit a mosque, make sure you have something to fully cover your body and your hair.

What is the food in Oman like?

The food in Oman has a Middle Eastern flare laced with Indian influence introduced by the widely scattered expat community. As a vegan, the Indian choices made it very easy to eat anywhere.

Is Oman safe to visit? Is Oman safe for women?

According to women, Oman is one of the safest countries to  travel in the Middle East  as a solo female, much safer than other mass tourism destinations such as Jordan and Egypt. 

Whereas Oman is highly conservative, you won’t get as many stares as in Jordan, and they will generally treat you more respectfully because all women here are queens. 

Why You Need to Plan a Road Trip in Oman

While Oman is worth a trip of its own, try to schedule in some time in Oman if you will be in the area to visit other more popular tourist destinations like Dubai. Because Oman is still so undiscovered, visiting in the near future means you get these beautiful locations almost to yourself.

I feel like Oman is only going to become more popular as more people see photos of the various landscapes and decide they want to see them for themselves. I felt completely safe on our Oman road trip, and it was amazing to explore this country before tourism really takes hold there.

If you have any other questions about Oman, feel free to leave them in the comments below!

Looking for more Middle East travel ideas? Check out my 10 day Egypt itinerary here .

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Just so you know, what you were wearing was totally inappropriate for visiting a lot of places… Abandoned beaches, and hotels was fine, but slit and bare arms in Al Hamra?! You look gorgeous, and I am grateful for you showcasing my country and the town my mother in law is from.. But women in Al Hamra in public cover from shoulder to ankle… It is offensive to them, that every man in their town see tourist women dressed like that… Omanis are polite so they aren’t going to come up and publicly shame you, but we don’t think it is polite whatsoever. You probably didn’t know… But yeah. It makes people less open to tourists. Wearing something loose, or covered to shins, and preferably elbow length is better for Oman… We know it is hot, so we don’t expect you to dress like us, but be aware people here find that way of dressing sexually suggestive, especially in more remote places out of the capital or resorts. Please don’t be offended, but just in case you ever visit again.

Hey Alix. I was wearing a long sleeve that covered my shoulders and took it off for the photos. To be honest the 2 men in the photo are the only people we saw in town. Since it’s an abandoned down we didn’t think much of it. Anywhere else where we were in public we were sure to cover up. But I really appreciate the feedback. I want to be respectful to the people and the culture when I visit.

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Khasab Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 1 day

Best Time: November to March Read More

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"The Land of Many Vistas!"

Khasab tourism.

Home to Jebel Harim or the 'Mountain of Women', sandy beaches, beautiful corals and a Portuguese fortress, the city of Khasab is a quiet town oozing with history. Tourists can enjoy a cruise through the 'Fjords of Musandam' and swim in the turquoise seas. Or, if they prefer, snorkel and explore the stunning corals and sealife. History buffs will enjoy trekking the mountains of Musandam and visiting the abandoned houses in the deserted towns close to Khasab. The city is old but cared for by its residents. A city like no other in Oman, Khasab is a humble city which has retained its charm for centuries.  

Things to do in Khasab

1. khasab fort.

2. Jebel Al Harim

3. Dolphin Watching and Snorkelling

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• A Visa from RAK border with a fee of AED 50 per person
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Best destinations for Dubai tourists to visit in Oman

• Places to Visit for Thrill-Seekers
• Romantic Get-Aways
• Family-Friendly Attractions

The Sultanate of Oman is an enchantingly unique country with some truly amazing tourist attractions. Visiting Oman means a chance to explore the desert landscapes, rugged wadis, markets and beaches, as well as the charming culture and traditions. If you have a long weekend coming up, maybe it’s time to plan a road trip to this jewel in the Middle East’s crown. Are you feeling suitably enticed? If yes, this guide on places to visit in Oman from Dubai represents essential reading.

Best places to visit in Oman from Dubai

There are numerous activities and things to do in Oman for tourists. Whether you’re an adventure buff, looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or just want to enjoy good times with family, Oman is the place for you. Read on to find out more about the top places to visit in Oman if you plan to travel from Dubai.

Top places in Oman for thrill-seekers

Oman is truly an adventurer’s paradise. Adrenaline junkies will find endless opportunities to explore the expansive sand dunes, vertical cliff edges, natural wadis, spooky caves and a lot more. Here are the best places to visit in Oman from Dubai if you’re looking for an adventure.

WADI ASH SHAB 

Oman is home to several wadis but the reason why Wadi Ash Shab is on our list of places to visit in Oman from Dubai is the truly thrilling experience it offers.

Wadi Ash Shab was also the host and final stop of the 2012 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. The cliffs of the wadi are ideal for treacherous, yet exciting cliff jumping. You can also visit the popular “keyhole”- a very narrow waterfilled cave nestled between rocks. You need to swim through a small opening to reach this last point of the trek.

Visitors also have to trek the mountains to reach the other picturesque pools in the wadi that have clear turquoise waters.

MAJLIS AL JINN CAVE

The Majlis Al Jinn Cave is a true wonder and the second-largest cave chamber ever discovered in the world. This colossal cave chamber is not for the faint-hearted as it has some hair raising and heart-pounding thrills. One of the activities that adventure junkies will enjoy trying here is abseiling down a massive cave with specially crafted equipment.

Majlis Al Jinn is popular for base jumping and rock climbing but you need to have some amount of physical preparedness in order to experience these adventures. A guide will help you to conduct both activities safely. 

The cave is lit up with an opening in the upper part of the cave, the light shines thickly across the massive chamber with the sound of the wind rustling through. This makes the visit to the cave a memorable experience.

Visiting Majlis Al Jinn or “spirits meeting place” is a surreal experience and a popular location, especially for base jumpers. Opt for Oman tour packages from Dubai or plan your own road trip to the country for the best adventure trip of your life.

SNAKE GORGE AT WADI BANI AWF

If you love trekking, hiking and cliff diving, the Snake Gorge at Wadi Bani Awf should be on your list of different places to visit in Oman from Dubai.

Locally Snake Gorge is known as Wadi Bimah and is located in the Wadi Bani Awf area in the Al Hajar Mountains .

The trek and 3-kilometre swim through a winding narrow channel end with a dive right into the bright green pools of the water-filled caves.

Natural water slides scrambling through huge boulders, land you into the turquoise water pools. As the name suggests, there are snakes in the waters, particularly in the narrow nooks and crannies, but most are non-poisonous and harmless. We still suggest that you proceed with caution while you are swimming.

Note: It’s best to avoid the area during heavy rainfall because Snake Gorge is prone to flash floods during heavy rains.

JEBEL SHAMS

No adventure itinerary in Oman is complete without a visit to Jebel Shams– the highest peak in the country.

Jebel Shams means “Sun Mountain” in Arabic. The peak is usually the first place in Oman to receive sunlight at dawn, according to the locals.

There are many hiking and trekking locations such as the Al Nakhur Rim Hike or The Balcony Walk through the W6 route. This route is the best way to explore the Al Nakhur Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia. Another popular hiking route for adventure buffs is the Al Khiyam to Wadi Ghul via the W6A route.

Quintessential romantic getaways in Oman

Couples looking for romantic places to visit  will enjoy our top picks for the best romantic honeymoon destinations in Oman , particularly those travelling from Dubai.

ISLAND OF MASIRAH

Couples driving from Dubai to Muscat will definitely enjoy a visit to the secluded island of Masirah. This remote and unspoiled island in Oman is accessible through a ferry from Muscat. You can stay at any good hotel on the island or stay in a luxury Masirah beach camp for the ultimate outdoor adventure.

The island is popular for turtle nests where you can watch the tiny baby turtles hatch. Moreover, the waters around the area are popular for blue whale sightings. You can try a diving course to see these majestic creatures in action.

JABAL AL AKHDAR

Jabal Al Akhdar has to be on your itinerary if you plan to travel to Oman from Dubai for your honeymoon or a romantic getaway. The Anantara Jabal Akhdar Resort is one of the best ways to make the most of the trip. The remoteness and serenity of this incredible mountain is the perfect backdrop for a romantic holiday.

WAHIBA SANDS

The next honeymoon destination on our list of places to visit in Oman from Dubai is the Wahiba Sands or the Sharqiya Sands, located in the eastern part of the Sultanate.

Couples who love a little adventure and like to step out of the clichéd romantic holiday would love dune bashing on the colossal sand dunes in a 4×4. Camel rides and sandboarding activities are other exciting attractions in this romantic Oman destination that will make your holiday a truly memorable one.

The lush-green destination of Salalah is the perfect spot for couples travelling to Salala from Dubai. Salalah gets its serene greenery from special climatic conditions known as the Khareef, where the monsoon winds develop their full force and the temperatures drop to a cool and moderate 20c. You can also take a Dubai to Salalah road trip for an exciting adventure.

The area has waterfalls and subtropical oases riddled with banana plantations, something unique to Oman. Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is amongst the best places to stay for a romantic getaway.

BIMMAH SINKHOLE WADI TIWI

Another popular destination to visit is the Bimmah Sinkhole at Wadi Tiwi located at Hawiyat Najm Park. The Bimmah Sinkhole is just a short drive away from the magnificent Wahi Ash Shab if you wish to include it on your Dubai to Oman road trip . The naturally formed sinkhole has clear blue waters perfect for swimming or snorkelling.

KHORS OF MUSANDAM PENINSULA 

The gorgeous fjords or Khors – as they are called in Arabic – are one of the best places to visit in the country. The Khors of Musandam are fondly called the “Norway of Arabia” because the exclave on the Hormuz strait offers picture-perfect and awe-inspiring views of the meandering coastline with crystal clear waters.

A cruise on the traditional dhow boat is the perfect way to explore the picturesque coastline and fjords. Keep an eye out for dolphins and Socotra cormorants while cruising. Don’t forget to go snorkelling in the crystal clear waters followed by a safari on the rugged winding mountain roads. 

FAMILY FRIENDLY PLACES TO VISIT IN OMAN FROM DUBAI

Now that the cooler months are here, it is perfect to pack your bags and visit Oman from Dubai by road with your family. Here are the best destinations in Oman for a family holiday .

ATTRACTIONS AND PARKS IN MUSCAT 

Families travelling from Dubai to Oman with kids should allocate at least two days to spend time in Muscat. Some of the best parts of Muscat city to explore are the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, Shatti Al Qurum beach, the Muttrah Corniche and the accompanying Muttrah Souk.

SULTAN QABOOS MOSQUE 

The stunning Sultan Qaboos Mosque is a prominent choice in the list of things to do in Muscat for kids . Not only can they take in the fantastic sights, but they will also get to learn more about Islamic traditions and the history of Oman.

The biggest attraction at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat is a huge carpet that adorns the main prayer hall. The giant carpet is made with an amalgamation of classical Kashan, Persian Tabriz, and Isfahan designs. It weighs over 21 tonnes and features 1,700,000,000 knots. The main square-shaped prayer room can accommodate 6,500 worshipers and has a central dome which rises 50 metres above the floor. 

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque timings: The Mosque is open for Non-Muslims every day except Friday from 08:00 am to 11:00 am

MUTTRAH BEACH AND MUTTRAH SOUK

The Muttrah Corniche is a popular family-friendly attraction in Muscat. The sweeping seafront is one of the oldest commercial areas of Muscat. Visit the Muttrah Fort which isn’t too far from the corniche. The colours and excitement of the Muttrah Souk are also sure to keep kids happy as they pick their favourite souvenirs to take back home.

SHATTI Al QURUM BEACH

Shatti Al Qurum, the longest beach in Oman, is a must-visit place if you have kids. Located on the northern coast, the Shatti Al Qurum district is one of Muscat’s upscale residential areas, known as the Diplomatic District. The area and beach are close to several luxury hotels, cafes and restaurants. Include a visit to the Royal Opera House in your itinerary for a completely different experience. 

Muscat has a plethora of theme parks and other attractions for kids as well. For affordable outings in the evenings, try some of the top parks in Muscat. here’s a list of the best parks in Muscat Oman for kids.

• The Wadi Kabir Park
• The Riyam Park
• Naseem Park
• Al Sahwa Park

WADI BANI KHALID 

Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the perfect wadis to go swimming with kids in Oman. The wadis’ natural pools and ponds have clear water. It will prove to be a fun activity for the entire family.

RAS AL JINZ TURTLE RESERVE 

If you plan to take an Oman tour from Dubai  with kids , Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is the ultimate kid-friendly activity in Oman. The Turtle Reserve is like small green oases with an unspoiled natural landscape and a long shoreline nestled between rugged mountains.

The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the nesting of the endangered green turtle and Ras Al Jinz is popular across the globe for being the perfect spot for green turtle nests.

It is one of the biggest natural nesting concentrations in the Indian Ocean. The entire family, including the kids, can learn about the turtle nesting tours at Ras Al Jinz as they watch the baby turtles hatch under the moonlight and make their way towards the sea for their epic journey.  

• Tourist Adult: 08 OMR per person
• Tourist Child (03 to 10 Years Old): 3 OMR per child
• Free for children below 03 years
• Night turtle viewing: 9:00 pm | For non-inhouse guests 08:30 pm
• Dawn turtle viewing 05:00 am | For non-inhouse guests 04:45 am
• Contact: +968-9655-0606 | +968-9655-0707

*Please note that timings may change depending on the season. Kindly reconfirm prior to your arrival.

CAN WE DRIVE TO OMAN FROM DUBAI?

Yes, UAE residents can drive to Oman from Dubai. But if you’re driving to Oman from Dubai make sure that you and all other passengers have their valid passports. It is quite easy to travel to Oman from Dubai. It takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes via road.

DO UAE RESIDENTS REQUIRE A VISA TO ENTER OMAN?

Most UAE residents and Emiratis are not required to carry a visa but do check with the local Omani embassy if you need an O man visa on arrival from Dubai. However, you might need an Oman visa from Dubai in some cases. Check the Oman Police E-visa portal for more details.

You might need an e-visa if you travel to Oman from Dubai by road. Remember that you will be crossing an international border. You need to follow the rules and regulations. It might take some time, especially if there are many cars awaiting immigration and other security checks.

HOW LONG IS THE FLIGHT FROM DUBAI TO OMAN?

You can find an affordable flight from Muscat to Dubai. The flight takes an hour at most and is one of the most cost-effective ways to visit Oman from Dubai. Selected passport holders can also visit Oman visa-free.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT

Just like Dubai the sultanate of Oman faces scorching temperatures in summers. The best time to visit Oman from Dubai is in the winter months from October to early March.

That’s all for our guide to the best places to visit in Oman from Dubai. Make sure to check the list of UAE holidays  and plan on visiting Oman from Dubai for a trip of a lifetime.  You can also take Oman bus from Dubai but make sure to check if tickets are available before making your travel plans.

If you prefer to take a flight to Oman from Dubai, you need to be aware of the list of banned food items in Dubai. Go through the list thoroughly before you plan your trip to Oman. Regulatory bodies in the UAE prohibit the use of drugs and controlled medication to enforce the right treatments and prevent drug use in the country. Be sure to check the guidelines for carrying medicines to the UAE before crossing borders. 

If a trip to Oman is on your mind for a while but you don’t have the time to make up a suitable itinerary and other travel arrangements, take a look at the list of the best travel agents in Dubai to help you find the best tour package to Oman from Dubai .

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Wow i loved reading this after ur experience i wud love to visit Oman bt can u pls give more details about cliff climbing and base jumping in mejlis al jin cave u mentioned. I woufd love to know who to contact for a base jumping session for two

Thank you for reaching out to us. As far as a trip to Majlis Al Jinn is concerned, you will need special permits from Ministry of Tourism in Oman. However, you can contact the following companies for their offers. They can assist you in arranging a cliff climbing and base jumping in the area. Please contact Ali from Oman Tripper at [email protected] or visit the official website for more information. https://www.omantripper.com/tours/ Or you can reach out to Husaak Adventures for a trip to Oman. You can reach them at +96897185288 – WhatsApp: +96599635414 I hope this information is helpful for you. Best of luck and enjoy your trip!

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4 Amazing Places to Visit in the UAE and Oman With Itinerary

The United Arab Emirates and Oman are full of beautiful places to visit. And we’ve fallen in love with Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain and Muscat!

The United Arab Emirates, and more particularly Dubai, leave no one indifferent. You love them… or not. Because wealth, splendor and opulence are omnipresent… or not. We chose to explore them without prejudice, and we loved it!

The amazing places to visit in UAE and Oman

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi’s main attraction is undeniably the Sheikh Zayed Mosque , named after the country’s first president, who died before the building’s construction was completed in 2007. This mosque is absolutely stunning, both inside and out. It is the largest marble structure built by man to date . It also contains the largest chandelier (12 tons!) and the largest handmade rug in the world (5627 square meters!). Our curiosity led us to see the Ferrari World theme park, next to the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 circuit. Its building is the largest space frame structure ever built.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque – Sunset

Sheikh Zayed Mosque at night

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Mosque – Interior

Etihad Towers

Emirates Palace

For once, with the risk of shocking many, I will let loose a little bit by talking about Dubai , the city of the Middle East with its now legendary reputation as a sumptuous and opulent destination. You know… this city “of disproportion”, “built in concrete”, “superficial”, “charmless”, “soulless”, “not authentic”, “not ecological”, “not human”, which has grown like a mushroom in the middle of the desert “with the money from oil”, “by the strength of the arms of poor slaves” and “by not respecting human rights”, and which continues to do so today, unscrupulously and under the dumbfounded gaze of the international community (i.e. France, England and the United States).

And against what you may think, I’m not going to aim my ammunition at Dubai, but rather at the disturbing criticism I see on the social networks surrounding that city. You know, those Internet users who consider themselves among the most holy of all the sacrosanct and who spit their venom on anything that doesn’t resemble them! These anarchists from the Western world who have never set foot in Dubai, who know everything about everything, whose superiority is not to be proven and who allow themselves to judge it as if they had already lived there, because of a report they saw on the television. These people who are part of the middle class, who have never experienced real poverty up close, who are always asking for more government subsidies because everything is due to them and they owe nothing to anyone. They claim to be defending the widow and the orphan by wanting to tax the richest and all those who, with the sweat of their foreheads, have managed to achieve the standard of living they had always dreamed of. It is up to us to ask ourselves if it is not jealousy that drives them to be so judgmental.

It’s true that I had a bias towards Dubai, but I wanted to know for sure by visiting it . And as I try to educate my children to be open to the world while also being critical yet reasonable, this is the guideline I also try to follow when I travel.

What I can say, after visiting Dubai and talking to many of its residents, is that the reality there is quite different . It is true that money is the common denominator that governs life in this country, as it is almost everywhere. But unlike Las Vegas, which was built around entertainment, lust and debauchery, Dubai was built around a need for subsistence . With a bit of empathy, I understand what pushed the leaders of this country to develop in the way that they did. Because you see, life in a desert is difficult. The country is arid, has no lush vegetation and has difficulty with water supply. Oil has long been the vector in the country’s development, but this is no longer the case. The country has taken a green shift in sustainable development, becoming a leader in solar and wind energy, water desalination and wastewater recycling. The admirable decisions taken by the government in recent years have generated massive foreign capital injections and industrial and commercial investments. The country’s sound management has resulted in a trade surplus that has made all Western countries look pale in comparison.

Today, with nearly 90% of its population being foreigners, the United Arab Emirates (which is a democracy, by the way) has become an Eldorado for workers from all over the world, seeking a better future than they would ever have found in their own country , and even less so in poorly managed Western countries overflowing with racism and prejudice. The people who live in Dubai are normal people, who have chosen to live and work there. Even if some may earn ridiculously low wages, they are neither slaves nor unhappy. They are just aspiring to a better life, and that is precisely what Dubai offers them: opportunities, security and a standard of living that no other country could possibly offer them . In this morally conservative society, attitudes are discreet and there is no intoxication, let alone drugs and prostitution. Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with a very low crime rate. Can the same be said of Paris, London or New York?

Surprisingly, I have not seen more luxury or extravagance than in some of the cities we have visited. We did not see any “super cars” elsewhere than in the vicinity of Dubai Marina. Of course, there are some very luxurious neighborhoods, but nothing as outrageous as some cities such as Monaco, Geneva or even Toronto. Its infrastructure is no better than that of the Netherlands, its skyscraper density is no higher than that of Hong Kong, its shopping centers are no more impressive than those in North America. And if the frantic pace of construction or their creative approach bother you, I can’t imagine what you would have said if you had lived in New York when its first skyscrapers were being built! But seriously, I wasn’t impressed at all.

And indeed, the city also possesses a certain appeal , with districts boasting modern architecture and old but sober and authentic neighborhoods with lively souks that have brought us back to moments that have reminded us a bit of Turkey , Lebanon or Jordan .

Despite the unbearable heat in the middle of the day, we had a wonderful stay in Dubai. This destination is not perfect and cannot please everyone, but I hope you will no longer see Dubai the same way and that you will have the chance to visit this wonderful city and appreciate it as much as we did!

Burj Khalifa

Mall of the Emirates

Atlantis The Palm

Dubai Aquarium at Dubai Mall

View from Burj Khalifa

Abra in Dubai Creek

Dubai Gold Souk

Bur Dubai Souk

Burj Al Arab from Sunset Beach

Dubai Marina Beach

I’ll be honest with you. We had never even considered visiting Oman . I didn’t even know where this country was until 2 months ago, when in Turkey, we met a Canadian expatriate in Dubai, who told us that we would be bored by spending 9 days in Dubai. He suggested we visit Oman, which we did during a short 3-day stay and Wow! We were very pleasantly surprised by this country!

Just 200 years ago, Oman was the center of a true colonial empire, stretching from northern India to Zanzibar! There is an atmosphere of strong Islamic flavor that contrasts with that of the United Arab Emirates, where modernity has taken over from the traditions. In downtown Muscat, the capital, it is a great place to live and people are friendly, relaxed and simply happy. While strolling peacefully on the beach, on the corniche and in the souk of the old town, it feels like you’re living in another century!

The architecture of the buildings is rich in detail. The many castles, watchtowers and stone fortresses, are evidence of Oman’s strategic value at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. The seaside and mountain landscapes that we have criss-crossed are magnificent. In the middle of an arid climate, we passed by a lot of oases. Sometimes we felt like we were in the Sahara Desert with its large orange dunes, sometimes we felt like we were in the middle of the African savanna with camels to replace lions, elephants and giraffes. Many mountainous formations have even reminded us of Iceland as well!

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Al Jalali Fort, Muscat

Ras al Baz, Muscat

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – Interior

Royal Opera House Muscat

Al Ain is nicknamed “the Garden City” because it is a great oasis in the middle of the desert! We spent 2 nights there, just enough time to visit the surroundings and visit its camel market. On the way back to Abu Dhabi, we had fun climbing huge sand dunes!

Sand Dunes at Al Yahar

Al Ain Camel Souk

Al Jahili Fort

For a better preparation

We landed in Abu Dhabi where we stayed for two days. Then we headed to Dubai for five days. With our rental car, we crossed the border into Oman for a short three days, where we stayed in Muscat . On our return to the United Arab Emirates , we slept two nights in Al Ain and then spent two last nights in Abu Dhabi.

Accommodation

Our way of life in the United Arab Emirates was very similar to the one we had in Turkey . We slept in 5 different hotels of the Marriott chain during the 11 nights we stayed there. In Abu Dhabi, we treated ourselves to a night at the Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal. All these hotels have been paid for with our points . Aside from the Ritz Carlton which is a category 5 hotel, all the others were category 1 and 2 hotels, i.e. they required very few points.

In Muscat, we had booked an apartment for three nights.

Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi

Element Me’aisam Dubai

Aloft Al Ain

Transportation

The region is a real paradise for cars , as we refueled for just 2.4 Dirham (0.65 USD) per liter of gasoline. The roads in the Emirates and Oman are beautifully maintained, to such an extent that you can drive at 160 km/h on some highways! We had to pay an additional insurance to be able to drive in Oman. Budget Rent a Car, our rental company, offered us this possibility for an additional fee. But it is not the case for all companies. On returning our Chevrolet Aveo, it had an extra 2000 km on it.

Our Rental Car

I must confess that we have not tasted any traditional dishes from the United Arab Emirates and Oman, since the indigenous population in these countries is ultra-minoritary. So we often ate in Lebanese, Turkish and American fast-food restaurants . The Indian ready meals sold in grocery stores were also tasty and very inexpensive.

Our expenses in the Emirates and Oman were quite reasonable , considering that we were staying with our points. Our only “crazy” expense was the cost of a visit at the Burj Khalifa, at AED 490 (USD 133). The total cost of our stay for our family of 4 is:

• 6575 AED (1792 USD);
• 470 AED (128 USD) per day;
• 117 AED (32 USD) per person and per day.

In a nutshell

In the end, the United Arab Emirates more than exceeded our expectations, and Oman absolutely charmed us. This introduction to Oman gave us the desire to discover this country in greater depth. But until then, it is India that awaits us!

==> Download all our photos of the United Arab Emirates and Oman for free!

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A Definitive Guide to Visiting Oman

Last Updated: June 27, 2018

Most people choose holiday destinations that are popular. Italy, France, UAE, USA, UK, etc. are some of the most sought after holiday places around the world. Rarely people go to a lesser known country or city. Oman is one such place. While this little country in the Middle East is generally not on the travel bucket list of most people, it has some of the most beautiful gems that not many know about.

15 best places to visit in Oman.

Located on the Arabian Sea, Muscat is the capital city of Oman. While Muscat is the most modern city in the country, the development has not affected its old-world charm. Muscat is home to historic districts, seafront fortresses, buildings with wooden balconies and royal palaces. You would also find several luxury hotels, malls, and restaurants in this city of Oman.

2. Jebel Akhdar

Part of the Al Hajar Mountain range, Jebel Akhdar is the highest peak in Oman. While the name Jebel Akhdar means Green Mountain, you will hardly find any greenery here. However, while hiking to the summit, you will pass beautiful terraces full of trees filled with delicious fruits. Plus, Jebel Akhdar is the perfect place to go to if you want to cool off, as the temperature here is lower than in the desert. If you do not want to hike, traveling in a 4×4 vehicle would be the best way to visit the place.

The capital of Oman in the sixth and seventh centuries, the highlight of Nizwa is the Nizwa Fort with its enormous cylindrical tower, secret shafts, false doors, wells, honey traps, and turrets. The fort also has a museum which displays Omani life in the 17th century. While the fort is the most important part of Nizwa City, you would also have a great time wandering around the souk, the goat market, date palms, etc. of this city.

Located in the southern area, Salalah is a green oasis in the desert land of Oman. If you want to enjoy the green beauty of the place, you must visit Salalah during the monsoon season (between June and August). You can check out the ancestral home of the ruling king and see the Qaboos Palace. Also, it is a great place to buy some frankincense as Salalah has two popular incense markets. The place also has a great beach and a beautiful mosque which you can visit.

5. Musandam Fjords

Undeniably the most beautiful place in Oman, the Musandam Fjords is an exclave which is separated by UAE. It is part of the Musandam Peninsula and is endowed with views that would blow your mind away. Resplendent with gorgeous desert mountains, crystal clear waters, sheer cliffs, a visit to the place will instantly relax and refresh you. The best way to explore the place is by going on a dhow cruise or traditional Omani boat. It is also a great place to go scuba diving if you love water adventures.

6. Wahiba Sands

Your holiday in Oman is not complete without a visit to the desert, and the Wahiba Sands is the best for this. Visiting the Wahiba Sands would not only give you the chance to view the vast desert dunes of the country but also know about the true Omani culture and traditions. Join a desert tour to go on an adventurous desert drive, ride a camel, gaze at the open star-lit sky and spend a night in a goat-hair Bedouin tent. Nothing is as peaceful and relaxing like time spent at the Wahiba Sands.

7. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

As Islam is the practicing religion of Oman, a visit to a mosque is imperative. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (located in Muscat) is a modern architectural marvel with its arches, lights, colors, and decorations. While the exterior of the mosque is grand, the interior is spellbinding. Decorated with blue mosaic tiles, enormous crystal chandelier and exquisite handmade carpet (the second largest in the world), the sight of the mosque is a sight to behold. It is open to non-Muslims too. However, make sure to cover your hands, legs, and head (for women) when inside the mosque.

8. Wadi Bani Khalid

Oman is known for its wadis and surely one of the best in Wadi Bani Khalid. Complete with rugged mountains, beautiful lakes, refreshing pools, and numerous date palms, this place is the perfect oasis in the middle of the desert land. If you are tired of the sweltering heat of Oman, head off to Wadi Bani Khalid where you can take a dip in the cool waters of the pool while enjoying the dazzling view of the place.

Sur is the place in Oman where you can see the desert meets the sea. Due to this phenomenon, the place has long pristine beaches and most of them are empty, giving you the chance to enjoy the beauty of the sea in solitary. While the fishing village of Al Ayjah and a dhow boat building yard are interesting places to visit, you should definitely visit Ras Al Jinz which is a turtle reserve. If you visit the place between May and October, you would be able to sea turtle nests and the baby turtles hatching and making their way towards the ocean.

10. Wadi Shab

If you thought that wadis are only for relaxation, you would be surprised to know about Wadi Shab which is perfect for adventure. If you are looking for some action, head to Wadi Shab. Here, you ride a boat, hike on a valley and swim across pools to reach a cave that has the most stunning waterfall. The whole thing is really exciting and the place is absolutely stunning, making it one of the most interesting things to do in Oman.

Located in Northern Oman, Bahla with its palm trees is nothing less than a heaven in the desert. The highlight of the place is definitely the historic Bahla Fort. The spectacular monument was built in the 13th century. A tour of the fort would be interesting and you would not only be able to see the entire city of Bahla but also the walls of the city that stretches for 7 miles in length. Other than this, you can buy local pottery as a souvenir at Bahla.

12. Masirah Island

Do you want to do something away from the crowded tourist destinations? Head to Masirah Island which is a desolate island! Although it is a major air base for the Oman Air Force, the island is home to small towns and remote beaches. While the beaches are splendid, most of them are isolated and do not have anything other than shipwrecks. This is a great place for a beach picnic. Also, check out the 30,000 turtles that are found at the beaches here during the hatching season, every year.

13. Misfat al Abriyeen

A mountain village, Misfat al Abryeen has preserved the traditional Omani atmosphere that you would not find in the modern cities. Complete with stone buildings, banana trees, and lush greenery, this is a place to visit if you want to experience nature at its best. The best way to explore the place is on foot. Also, do not forget to visit the ancient watchtower above the village where you can see the entire place as well as the fields and dams surrounding it.

14. Mutrah Corniche

Want to enjoy a stroll while enjoying the sea and the view of the city? Mutrah Corniche in Muscat is the place you must head to. The presence of mighty mountains in the background of white buildings and mosques give the place a spectacular look. When you are done admiring the beauty of the place, do not forget to visit the Mutrah Souq where you would get to buy silver jewelry, frankincense, and myrrh, pashminas, ceramic incense burners, fluffy camels, genie lamps, etc.

15. Al-Baleed Ruins

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Baleed was an ancient Middle Age settlement, probably during the Iron Age. The ruins of Al-Baleed are heaps of rubble of buildings made by mixing wood and stone. The place has been a frankincense trade commerce center since the 11th century. Here, you can also visit the Frankincense Land Museum.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Oman

As you know the best travel places in Oman, it is time to book your tickets and fly to this amazing country. However, before you pack your bags, there are some important things that you need to know.

Visa: You would have to apply for an Oman visa before you travel to the country. Citizens of GCC countries do not need to have a visa to visit the country. On the other hand, citizens of the European Union, Canada, USA, Switzerland, Malaysia, China, etc. are offered visa on arrival. E-visa (single or multiple entries) for 30 days is also available for 71 countries and territories around the world. To ensure that your visa application is approved, make sure that your passport has validity for at least 6 months.

Weather: Oman is sunny throughout the year, even in winter. However, the weather is cooler during the winter season as compared to summer. The temperature can be anywhere between 30oC to 40oC in the summer, while the winter temperature can vary between 17oC to 25oC. However, the climate at the Al Hajar Mountains is cool throughout the year. Also, Salalah has a different climate than the rest of the country. During the summer months, when the rest of the country becomes too warm, Salalah enjoys occasional showers, making it really pleasant.

Transportation: Taxis are available for traveling in Oman. But they are really expensive. A cheaper alternative would be to share the taxi with other passengers. However, this may not be really convenient. The best way to travel in Oman is by renting a car. You can rent one at the airport. To get good rates, it would be best to book your car before you arrive in the country.

Code of Conduct: Oman is a conservative country where a lot of importance is given to traditions and culture. As a sign of respect to the people and country of Oman, you must make sure to dress conservatively. Although you do not have to wear the national dress of Oman, ensure that you wear clothes that cover your body completely. Showing skin is not recommended here. It is best to avoid wearing a swimsuit at the public beaches. You can wear one at the pool area of your hotel.

Oman is a unique place, and if you are looking for off-beaten tracks to travel, there is no better contender than this Middle Eastern country.

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Thanks to your blog, I am now seriously considering going to Oman for a tour. I wanted to ask, how are the stay options in the country?

Thank you. The main cities of Oman like Muscat and Salalah and even tourist destinations have a good number of hotels.

I was thinking of doing the Musandam Dibba Tour. How well are those dhow tours arranged? Are they worth spending time and money?

Absolutely. Dhow cruises to the Musandam Peninsula are very popular and the best way to see them.

I have been to Oman and my favourite place was Salalah. It was my first time seeing an oasis like this. Plus, the incense I bought there was amazing.

Glad you loved the place. It is magical.

How’s the heat in Oman? I hear it can get quite hot during the day and very cold at night. Do the tourist locations also get hot?

Oman is hot, but the winter months are pleasantly cool. And there are attractions like Salalah, Wadis, and Hajar Mountain that are always cool.

I work in Muscat, and I must say, this blog has done a good job in covering places to visit. There’s a lot of natural beauty here in Oman.

Thank you. It’s a great country.

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