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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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Here are the top 17 tourist places in oman.

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Khatmat Malaha Border: A Gateway to Oman’s Breathtaking Scenery

Nestled on the coast of Oman and the UAE, Khatmat Malaha Border is a crucial crossing point between the two countries. This border point is open to all citizens and residents of the UAE, as well as those who hold a valid visa for Oman. However, it’s not just a place for travelers to cross from one country to another. Instead, it’s a gateway to Oman’s breathtaking scenery, from stunning beaches to majestic mountains.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Khatmat Malaha Border, including how to cross it, what to expect, and the destinations you can access from here.

Crossing Khatmat Malaha Border

Requirements for crossing.

To cross Khatmat Malaha Border, you need to have a valid passport and visa. The visa requirements for Oman vary depending on your nationality, so make sure to check with the Omani embassy or consulate in your country. Citizens of some GCC countries can enter Oman without a visa. Also, travelers must have a valid UAE residence visa or citizenship.

How to Get There

Khatmat Malaha Border is located in the Musandam Governorate, the northernmost region of Oman. If you’re traveling from Dubai, the border is approximately a four-hour drive away. You can also take a bus from Dubai to Khasab, the nearest city to the border, and then take a taxi to the border itself.

Crossing the Border

Once you reach Khatmat Malaha Border, you’ll need to go through the usual customs and immigration procedures. The process is usually straightforward, but make sure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, visa, and any other relevant paperwork. Once you’ve crossed the border, you’re free to explore Oman’s many wonders.

Destinations to Explore

Khasab is the capital of the Musandam Governorate and the nearest city to Khatmat Malaha Border. The city is known for its stunning fjords and rugged coastline. You can take a dhow cruise from Khasab to explore the fjords, swim in the clear waters, and even spot dolphins.

Musandam Peninsula

The Musandam Peninsula is a mountainous region that juts out into the Strait of Hormuz. Here, you’ll find breathtaking scenery, including jagged peaks, deep valleys, and tranquil beaches. You can go hiking in the mountains, visit traditional villages, and explore the region’s rich history and culture.

Jebel Harim

Jebel Harim, which means “Mountain of Women” in Arabic, is the highest peak in the Musandam Peninsula. From the top, you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit the nearby Bedouin village of Sayh, where you can learn about traditional life in the region.

Al Hoota Cave

Located in the Al Hajar Mountains, Al Hoota Cave is one of Oman’s most popular tourist attractions. The cave system is more than 2 million years old and is home to a variety of unique geological formations and underground lakes. You can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about its history and geology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Khatmat Malaha Border

Q: Is it safe to cross Khatmat Malaha Border? A: Yes, it is safe to cross Khatmat Malaha Border. The border crossing is regularly patrolled by Oman and UAE security personnel, and there are no known safety concerns. However, it’s always a good idea to take normal safety precautions and to be aware of your surroundings.

Q: What documents do I need to cross Khatmat Malaha Border? A: To cross Khatmat Malaha Border, you need to have a valid passport and visa. The visa requirements for Oman vary depending on your nationality, so make sure to check with the Omani embassy or consulate in your country. Citizens of some GCC countries can enter Oman without a visa. Also, travelers must have a valid UAE residence visa or citizenship.

Q: How long does it take to cross Khatmat Malaha Border? A: The time it takes to cross Khatmat Malaha Border can vary depending on the number of people crossing and the time of day. However, the process is usually straightforward, and you can expect to cross within 30 minutes to an hour.

Q: Can I rent a car to cross the border? A: Yes, you can rent a car to cross Khatmat Malaha Border. However, you will need to make sure that the rental car company allows their vehicles to be taken across the border. Some rental car companies may charge an additional fee for crossing the border.

Q: Can I cross Khatmat Malaha Border on foot? A: No, you cannot cross Khatmat Malaha Border on foot. You must cross the border in a vehicle.

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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.

Best of Dubai

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.

Best of UAE

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.

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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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21 amazing places to visit in Oman

Oman is a celebration of the true meaning of traveling, a place that is not flooded with tourists (yet, hopefully, for long), a place where you can find the true beauty of an unpolished diamond. Harsh natural conditions, prospering country, and authentic lifestyle – that’s the headline of our trip to Oman. Here we want to share 21 amazing places to visit in Oman.

1. Jebel Akhdar, the Green Mountain

Al Jabal al Akhdar or Jebel Akhdar is a mountain that turns green every spring – something very special for a country that is mostly a desert. The entry point to explore Jebel Akhdar is the village Birkat al Mouz, where you can rent a driver with 4X4 jeep. Or if you’ve already rented such a car, then you’ll pass the military checkpoint and go the steep curvy roads. We had so many nice stops for viewpoints on the way. It was quite windy so bring a jacket to enjoy the harsh desert mountain views.

2. Sayq plateau

When you go up higher and higher in the Green Mountain, you’ll reach Sayq plateau. The views over terraced fields and old-time villages, some of which are still not abandoned, are priceless! Even in winter, you can see the green terraces with rose and fruit bushes, together with the typical for Oman date palms. Dare to take a hike on one of the many trails while the sun is not too hot!

3. Misfat al Abriyyin

Misfat al Abriyyin (or Abreyeen, or Abriyeen) is one of those villages with an old part that is still livable and you can visit it. Of course, you need to be super respectful to the local people and their houses, so please dress modestly and pay attention when you walk the tiny stone streets – it’s easy to get confused and enter someone’s private house. The typical houses in the village are build of mud but their foundations are of stone. You can easily spend lots of time wandering the streets, admiring the facades, following the spring and reaching the agricultural terraces with bananas, pomegranates, papayas, mangoes, citrus trees, and palms.

4. Jebel Shams, the Mountain of Sun

Jebel Shams is the highest mountain in Oman and one of the highlights of our visit to the country. The highest peak is 3009 m high and is occupied by a military base, but you can climb the second-highest peak at 2997 m above sea level. Or you can stay at one of the resorts that are way above 2000 meters and enjoy smaller hikes and amazing views.

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We drove with our sedan rental car ( we rented through rentalcars.com ) up the  Jebel Shams Resort  (there are 7 kilometers of dirt road, but it’s passable with a non-4X4 car) and stayed in a tent. The surroundings are perfect for relaxing and hiking, you can do stargazing of the clear night skies, the campfire and the electric heater managed to keep us warm at 5 degrees Celcius at night. That was our favorite place for mountain desert romance.

5. Wadi Ghul, the Grand Canyon of Arabia

One of the most stunning views, when you’re in Jebel Shams, is to the Wadi Ghul, or the Grand Canyon of Arabia. The gorge is up to 1000 meters deep so no wonder how we admire the skillful moves of the many mountain goats. There are exploiting every branch of grass in this desert area and often go up and down the rocks as if there isn’t a huge abyss below them. If you decide to go camping somewhere around the canyon, don’t forget to pick up all y our trash when you leave. The Balcony Walk is a 6-kilometer-hike you can take to absorb all the amazing views.

6. Bahla Fort

Situated at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands, Bahla Fort is Oman’s only UNESCO-listed fort. It was built between 12th and 15th centuries by the Banu Nabhan tribe and plenty of the citadel and the fort itself is still standing like a beautiful oasis in the middle of the desert. The tribe was in charge of frankincense trade and their fortress shows how they used to store their goods as well as guard the area from the many towers. You can easily spend some time chasing the shade and cooling down in what used to be storage rooms of Bahla Fort. We recommend taking in the views of date palms and the neat Bahla town.

Stay in Bahla:  Jibreen Hotel

7. Jibreen Castle

Jibreen (or Jabreen, or Jabrin) Castle was constructed in the late 17th century so some can say it’s the most beautiful in the country. It is true that the then Imam did a great job and nowadays you can admire numerous reception halls, dining areas, meeting rooms, a courtroom, a library, and classrooms. The interior design of the castle features decorated windows, wooden balconies, traditional pottery, arches with inscribed Arabic calligraphy, and stunning ceiling artwork. What we enjoyed the most were the colorful pillows on the carpets that are just so inviting for you to sit comfortably and lose yourself in a book with a cup of Omani tea or coffee. It’s time to stop dreaming though, but you can still walk around the castle and even get an audioguide to compliment your experience.

8. Nizwa City

We decided to skip Nizwa Fort as we needed to head to another part of Oman, so we did a quick car tour of the central part of the city. We were lucky to be there on Saturday and it was a market day! We’re still impressed by those huge and high-quality carpets that were sold on the street. If you want to go shopping in Oman and buy some authentic stuff, head to Nizwa.

9. Wahiba Sands

It’s time to head to a sandy desert – Sharqiya Sands or the Wahiba Sands. We wanted to stay in the desert and not pay too much so we chose a camp at the border semi-desert area –  Al Reem Desert Camp . That’s how we got all the perks of staying in the desert – an adventurous dune bashing and Bedouin villages visit tour, amazing sunset over the dunes and relaxing time drinking tea around the campfire, at quite the affordable price. The dune bashing was quite the excitement, as well as meeting racing camels and baby camels, learning about wells and how they can get water in those areas. Our guides did a beautiful prayer at sunset and we returned to the camp hearing stories and preparing for a peaceful night. No matter if you choose easily accessible or tucked in the desert accommodation, luxurious or budget-friendly – you’ll love Wahiba Sands! We’ve had our fair share of desert experiences ( Lompoul in Senegal , the  Atacama in Chile , Wadi Rum in  Jordan , etc.) and we can say Wahiba Sands is definitely a top desert experience!

10. Al Reem Desert Camp

Ever since the warm-Bedouin-style welcome with Omani coffee and tea and dates at the camp, we knew it was going to be a blast. We spent time reading at the common areas, chatting on our desert house terrace, then enjoying hearty freshly-cooked meals and the caressing flames of the campfire. The breakfast was more than amazing. We couldn’t have asked for more! Note if you decide to stay in the desert – be mindful of the water as this is the most limited resource. Most of the hotels and camp will have som printed advice on how to save water and we think it’s more than cool to help them be more sustainable.

Check prices at Al Reem Desert Camp.

11. Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most popular wadis in the Sultanate of Oman. We even visited in on the weekend and still, it was hard to say it was crowded. The stream has a constant flow of water all over the year. You can take a dip in one of the pools (and leave the fish to massage your feet), or you can hike on boulders and stone trail to get to Mukal Cave and Pools. Wadi Bani Khalid is the perfect place for relaxation, sunbathing, or active adventure outdoors.

12. Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

We skipped the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve as the season for spotting turtles is between May and October, but you can plan your responsible visit contacting the  Ras Al Jinz Reserve . They were quite responsive and explained our turtle spotting tour options – you can choose between a dawn tour (starting at 5 a.m.) and a night tour (starting at 8.30 p.m.). In any case, spotting turtles is never guaranteed, photography without flash is allowed and you should follow the guide’s instructions at all times. If you’re lucky, you can see hatching or nesting green turtles, which are an endangered species. If your budget isn’t tight and if you book well in advance, you can stay at the reserve itself.

13. Qalhat beach

We decided quite spontaneously to spend a night in a newly opened  guesthouse in the town of Qalhat . What happened (again!) was that we got spoiled for the view of the stony Qalhat beach, the fluffy clouds and the bitter Omani tea in a gazebo overlooking all of the above. We encourage you to stay at guesthouses and interact with local Omani people – they are natural at hospitality and will let you know some secret hidden gems in the area. The beach was home to our first encounter with the warm waters of Gulf of Oman, family picnics and playful birds, as well as a small take-away restaurant, where we had the best dinner with a view!

14. Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab turned out to be our favorite wadi in Oman. You have to get a boat to cross the biggest pool and it costs 1 OMR return for a really short boat ride, but on the other hand, you can chat with a friendly Omani boatman. Then you start your hike (it’s not as steep as the hike to Mukal Cave) passing pools of different sizes, taking curves as the gorge leads you through banana gardens and date palms. In the end, you start climbing boulders and eventually have to take a swim to pass caves and get to a waterfall. If you go there as early as before 9 a.m., you won’t meet a lot of people and Wadi Shab will help you fall in love with it!

15. Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)

Bimmah Sinkhole is close to Muscat and therefore quite the popular place to take a dip in its clear blue waters. We got lost on the way, as the place is also called Hawiyat Najm Park, so keep in mind to pay attention to the navigation. It was a weekend so there were quite some visitors around the sinkhole itself. Most of them didn’t follow the “dress modestly” signs and it was too much flesh walking around, jumping and swimming in the hole. Oman is a Muslim country and as visitors, the least we could do is to follow the rules that don’t put us and locals in awkward and culturally-offensive situations.

16. Muttrah Souq and Corniche

Probably the most scenic part of Muscat, the Muttrah neighborhood is home to the famous souq (market) and the famous corniche (promenade). The souq is like a labyrinth of different shops and stalls and it’s easy to get lost. But the aroma of those delightful perfumes in Oman will guide you – don’t forget to buy a perfume if you want to keep the magic for later. Another popular part of the Muttrah Souq is the gold market, if you can afford it or if you’re into window shopping.

Walking along the corniche is recommended at sunset for amazing colors and shades but we enjoyed it in the afternoon as well. You’ll see the two yachts of the Sultan, at least one cruise ship and many seagulls flying over where the sea meets the rocks, forts, and white buildings of Oman. Definitely a highlight of our time in Muscat.

17. Muscat Royal Opera House

That was the first place to visit in Muscat that was recommended to us by our readers. And it is nothing short of lavish, rich, luxurious and magnificent. Tons of marble, fine gardens, and unique contemporary Omani architecture – even if you’re not a fan of opera, you should just visit to admire the art of the complex itself. You can also  take a tour of the opera  to admire the inside of it.

The former ruler of Oman  Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said  was a fan of classical music and a musician himself so he wanted to build the premier venue for musical arts and culture. We almost attended a performance ourselves, but the lack of proper formal clothes and shoes forced us to just admire the outside and hear the amazing stories on the opera tour. Next time we’ll definitely visit a concert!

Stay in Muscat:  Al Ferdous Hotel Apartments

18. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Probably the most majestic mosque in Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque has morning visiting hours and a strict dress code, especially for women. You have to cover wrists, shoulders, knees and ankles, all the hair. So this was the beginning of the story of how I got my own abaya. It’s hard to describe the images and emotions of visiting the complex, you have it experience it yourself.

There is a (kind of illegal) place where you can take a photo of the whole of the complex from the outside. It happens best at sunset, but you have to stop your car at a bus/taxi stop, a quick run down the street, take the photo and hope a police officer won’t be there to put a fine on your illegal parking. In  this article , you’ll find the spot we believe is the best to take a photo of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque at sunset, but you should do it at your own risk.

19. Al Alam Palace

Al Alam Palace is one of the Sultan’s residences and we believe it’s probably very beautiful to see from the inside if it wasn’t closed for the general public to actually go inside. You can admire the beautiful gate though and we think the best way to see it is when you pass with the car – there’s a roundabout that will give you the view straight to the gate.

20. Snorkeling and dolphin watching from Marina Bandar al Rowdha

We were on the edge of going for a snorkeling trip just away from the capital Muscat. We’re so glad we did it – the abundance of underwater flora and fauna was amazing. The visibility at the end of December was not perfect but we could still see interesting fish and even a sea turtle at a small bay – the snorkeling spot and also a fishermen spot. The dolphin watching part felt quite unobtrusive to the several pods of dolphins we found. They were so playful and often chased our boat. You can  book snorkeling and/or dolphin watching tour online  or go straight to Marina Bandar al Rowdha and negotiate the price with the local provider (what we did).

21. Salalah

We left the ever-green city of Salalah for our next visit because it was too far south and we didn’t have time to drive or even fly there. But we hear it’s quite a different climate compared to the rest of Oman so it might be worth spending some time there enjoying the always green fields, the waterfalls, and the friendly locals.

Those were all the amazingly beautiful places to visit in Oman. We’re on the quest for finding more for our next trip to the country. Let us know of your favorites places in Oman!

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

Jan 2, 2022 • 10 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 .

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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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July 26, 2019 at 9:29 pm

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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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How to tour oman: a family-friendly road trip guide.

The best way to discover the beauty of Oman is to get in a car and drive!

Oman is really one of the world’s hidden secrets.  With an understated beauty, it delivers a perfect combination of beaches and deserts, through to mountains and wadis, all without the mass development you see elsewhere in the Middle East.

Oman really is like taking a step back in time to absorb more of “the real Arabia”. You can feel yourself escape from the rest of the world when you visit Oman and have a truly unique and educational family experience. This guide will take you through how to plan your first visit to Oman.

In this post we cover:

Getting your itinerary right.

• Distances between major cities
• Driving information for first-timers
• Hiring a guide or driver

When to visit Oman

What to wear in oman, currency in oman.

• Opening times
• E visas & Border crossings
• Accommodation options

This post is part of our Middle East family travel series .  Don’t forget to check out our our detailed itinerary for an Abu Dhabi to Muscat road trip

How to plan an Oman road trip

Whether you are starting your adventure flying into Muscat or taking on this popular road trip from one of the UAE land crossing, the best way to see Oman’s major attractions is to get in a car and just drive!

Most of Oman’s major tourist attractions are concentrated on the east coast to either side of the Hajar Mountains – but very spread out!  You can really pick your number of days – squeezing in the absolute highlights only you might be able to manage a 3-4 days itinerary, but you need to allow at least a week to do Oman any justice.

For how long to include in each location, pop below to our “ What attractions to include in your Oman road trip”  section below and work backwards from there, bearing in mind opening times that we discuss below.

Distances between major cities and attractions in Oman

Muscat to sohar: 210kms –  2 hours, muscat to nizwa: 160kms – 1.5 hours drive, muscat to sur: 200kms – 2.2 hours drive, nizwa to sur: 295kms – 3.5 hours drive, jebel shams to nizwa: 90kms – 2 hours drive, dubai to sohar: 210kms – 2.5 hours drive (+border crossing), dubai to jebel shams: 405kms – 5.5 hours drive (+border crossing).

The two big outliers from the east coast that you will be unlikely to fit in a short trip are the Musandam Peninsular and Salalah.

See our complete review of the Musandam Peninsular

Musandam Peninsular to the north is actually an enclave of Oman separated by the United Arab Emirates .  You can drive to Oman via the UAE, fly direct from Muscat to the regional capital Khasab, or even catch a ferry from Shinas (Muscat) to Dibba & Khasab – see schedules on  Direct Ferries. 

Check out this guide for Top 10 things to do with Khasab or see our detailed guide on how to visit Musandam, including border crossing procedures, where to stay and a distance calculator.

Salalah is on the southwestern coast of Oman, a good 1000kms from Muscat (about 9 hours drive time), close to the Yemeni border.  Salalah’s claim to fame is the Khareef – a summer monsoon that brings lush greenness and cooler temperatures over July and August, making it an attractive destination for Middle East residents looking to escape the heat.

The easiest way to reach Shalalah is by air. Oman Air has regional flights from Muscat, or budget airlines FlyDubai and Air Arabia operate from the UAE. Flights here, especially during the Khareef, are not cheap! Though the driving alternative is long!

There’s a good guide here on how to tackle the Muscat to Salalah drive , or search flight options here:

Oman driving information for first-timers

• You drive on the right side of the road in Oman (steering wheel on the left)
• Most hire cars have an automatic transmission
• You can hire cars at the airport. A standard 2WD car will get you most places, but a 4WD will be handy if you want to explore deeper into the wadi’s or desert
• If you are planning to hire a car in Dubai/Abu Dhabi and drive it over the border to Oman you must make sure you have the vehicle owner’s permission and insurance.
• Road signage is in English and Arabic
• Download maps in advance there are several points you will not have signal

If you are used to UAE driving, you’ll find that although the traffic can be erratic, it’s nowhere near as fast.  There are fewer tailgaters and headlight flashers there to stress you out.

On the whole, drivers are calmer, more forgiving and don’t drive at excessive speeds. Most highways have a 120km limit for cars, but as most roads are windy, you probably don’t want to go too much faster!

Still not confident to road trip it alone?

That’s completely understandable. Especially if you are unfamiliar driving on the right or in foreign places, let someone else do the hard work!  There are loads of tour operators who can take you on day trips or overnighters from Muscat.  We recommend using a reputable booking agent such as Get Your Guide.

This one week Oman itinerary gives you a good feel of what can be covered on an organised tour.

Oman practical information to know before you go

Situated on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsular, the best time to visit Oman is in the cooler winter months, October through to April. Summer temperatures can be stifling at over 40c.  

That said, there are reasons to visit in the summer months too. As mentioned above, Salalah to the south-west offers a fabulous summer break to experience the Khareef, whilst the months of May through September are best for turtle spotting at Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve (more on that below!).

The Holy Month of Ramadan may not be the best time to visit as many attractions are either closed or have variable opening hours.  You can find when Ramadan falls each year here.

Conservative is best.  For both men and ladies, out and about wear something that covers knees and shoulders at the very least.  It is not strictly enforced just the polite thing to do.

For ladies, if you are entering the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque you must be completely covered to ankles and wrists and over your head (there’s an option to hire an abaya there – see more here ). Keep things covered and flowing; tight, revealing clothing is not respectful.

You will be ok to wear shorts in most locations but do keep them a reasonable length and expect looks in some places like busy markets.

Children are free to wear as they please but from puberty onwards should be treated like adults. Our daughter prefered wearing leggings for all the scrambling in castles and forts. Don’t forget your hats and sunscreen when you’re out and about!

Be aware of Opening Hours in Oman

A very important part of planning your Oman itinerary is to be conscious of opening hours. Like most Middle East countries, Friday is the holy day and many attractions are either closed or only open 8am to 11am Friday’s.    Many businesses also take a middle of the day break every day. Plan your opening hours very carefully! We highlight below in our suggested itinerary where we know hours differ.

The currency in Oman is Omani Riyals 1OR = 2.6 USD or roughly 10AED. The currency is currently pegged to the USD. The tricky part of the currency to then work out is Biasa (also abbreviated bz)! There are 1000 Biasa to the Rial so you will either see this as a decimal or with the ’00s eg 7.5 or 7500.  Clear right?

There are frequent cash exchanges available or ATM’s in the major cities. Credit cards are widely accepted (though we’ve heard this is not the case if you’re heading deep into the south and the road to Salalah).

Other useful bits for visiting Oman!

• Oman’s power plugs are the standard UK square pin socket – you’ll need a wattage converter as well if coming from the US.
• Arabic is the language spoken but you will find most signage also in English. You will find, however, that English translations can vary significantly! If you are struggling to find somewhere on your GPS try it with a different spelling.
• If you have fussy eaters, most major towns had shopping malls with the usual array of chain stores such as McDonald’s, Pizza Hut etc.  Not part of the authentic experience I know, but children need to be fed at some point…..
• On a budget?  There’s a great Budget Backpackers guide to Oman here you should read

Tourist Visas

All visitors will need a tourist visa. At the time of writing, UAE residents could pay only 5OR (about 50AED / $13USD) for the 30-day tourist visa. All other tourists must pay 20OR (200AED / $52USD for 30 days).

** We understand the 10-day visit visa option has been reintroduced for 5OR**

You can now apply for an e-visa in advance  if you are from one of 68 countries permitted visa on arrival which should speed up your progress through border control.

Border Crossing UAE to Oman – How it’s Done

Please note this is based on our last experience crossing the UAE road border into Oman in October 2017. As with any government process here in the Middle East be very aware that systems and rules can change without notice – or even depending which staff member you deal with on which day!

There are two stages to crossing the border; Firstly you must exit the UAE through three stops.

• At window number one we had to state how many in the car and confirm we were owners of the vehicle – though their clever camera system already showed this information to the border official. The first window prints you off a statement in Arabic.
• Next, we need to pay our departure tax by credit card only (if you were going by air this is already included in your airline ticket) . This window also stamps your passports.
• At the final stop the document we were given at the first window is handed over – no questions….
• There was a further police check immediately after the UAE stop but we are waved through here.

Next up is the Oman border point.   Where we crossed out of the UAE at Kathm al Shakla, the Al Buraimi crossing is in fact about 30kms or so after the border.

• Here, your passports are checked, and non-GCC citizens need to park up and go inside the immigration office if you do not have an e-visa in advance.
• An immigration form is needed for all passengers and they must all be present in the office for the immigration officials to see.  A tourist visa is then issued.
• You present this stamped bit of paper at the police checkpoint, they were randomly inspecting some vehicles but not all.

2023 Update: A coach service offered by Omani bus line Mwasalat has been reintroduced, taking passengers between Abu Dhabi to Muscat, via Al Ain . If you’re uncertain about the vehicle crossing rules or don’t own a vehicle this is an excellent alternative to consider.

What attractions to include on your Oman road trip itinerary

\A stop in the beautiful heritage city of Muscat is a must – jump over to our Top Places to see in Muscat post for an idea of what there is to see and do in the capital but make sure you get out of town too to discover the country’s true beauty.

Where to stay in Muscat

I think this depends a lot if you are coming for a luxury retreat or plan to spend most of your time exploring.

At the luxury end of the scale, there are several acclaimed resort hotels including  Shangri La Barr al Jissah , it’s slightly further around the coast from the old city but has extensive family-friendly facilities.   

Another beautiful option on the coast is Al Bustan Palace  (Currently closed for renovations) or a couple’s favourite we are eyeing up  The Chedi Muscat  (see a babymoon review here by Wandermust Family).

In the Qurum area, we suggest you try the Intercontinental or Radisson Blu both have great views and several bars and restaurants attached as well as beach clubs.  The Crowne Plaza also comes highly commended with some stunning views as does the Grand Hyatt .

With several kiddies, we find the easiest option to be serviced apartments. We chose Muscat Oasis Residence (adjacent to Panorama Mall). Other convenient options include the Millenium Executive Apartments (above the Grand Mall and adjacent to Oman Avenues Mall) or very newly opened Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments.

See a detailed guide to Muscat Family Accommodation options

Oman Tourist highlights; Nizwa & the Mountains

This is all about discovering Oman’s ancient past. Kids can really get their little explorer on here!  There are over 500 Forts apparently in Oman so you might want to pick your forts carefully or you’ll get a little fort fatigued, but they have done an excellent job at restoring some of these buildings. Here’s our selection of just a few you might like to try;

Nizwa Fort & Souq

The bustling center of the old town is a must-have experience.  Much work has gone into restoring these buildings and to this day they continue to be an important meeting place for locals. The Nizwa Friday Market is a truly unique experience.

Nizwa Fort Opening Times:   Daily 9am to 4pm, Friday’s 8am-11am (after this time it gets hard to find anything open other than the modern new shopping malls).

Entry fee: 500bz for adults. Kids 6-11 100bz

One of the oldest and biggest in the country, this historical fort at the foot of the Djebel Akhdar highlands is really quite extensive! Guides are on site looking for a few extra bz to give you a guided tour. Kids will be fascinated by the bats that call the fort home and there are sorts of staircases and nooks to explore.

Bahla Fort Opening Times: Daily 9am to 4pm; Friday’s 8am to 11am

Entry Free is 500bz for adults; Kids 6-11 years old 200bz

Jabreen Castle (also called Jibreen Castle, Jabrin Fort)

Situated about 20kms from Bahla, this is one of the most beautifully restored and ornate.  Originally built in the 17th century for the Imman and his family,  its a favourite for many (definitely mine!) with its charm, historical information and plenty of staircases and rooms for the kids to explore.  Audio guides provided.

Jabreen Castle Opening Times:  Daily 9am to 4pm; Friday’s 8am to 11am

Entry Fee: 500bz adults; Children 6-11 100bz

Al Hoota Caves

Definitely a family highlight and worth the drive high into the foothills of Jebel Shams to check out this fascinating natural wonder deep in the hillside.  A small train (not operating the day we went!) should take you the 500m into the entrance of the cave, then a 45minute walking tour takes you around the  2 million-year-old cave! Involves a fair bit of stairs and walking for little ones.  There is a small cafe here and play equipment. Not no photos allowed in the cave itself.

Al Hoota Caves Opening Times:   Daily 9.30am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm.  Friday’s 9.30am to 11am then 2pm-5pm.

Entry:  This is a limited ticket attraction you NEED TO PRE-BOOK on their website.

Al Ayns Beehive Tombs

One we ran out of time for but would love to find these 5000-year-old UNESCO listed tombs just beyond the small township of Al Ayn – take the Amlah-Kubarah exit from the E21. There’s no formal entry here. We are reliably told to park your car at the nearby mosque and walk 10 minutes towards the mountains, you can’t miss them!

Where to stay near Nizwa

Top Luxury Pick : Stay in the mountains at the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akdhar Resort for a true luxury experience, includes extensive kids programs and infinity pool with a view to die for! ( Reviewed by Rachel at Life on the Wedge)

Mid-range: The Golden Tulip – about as “western” as you’ll get in Nizwa, only place that serves alcohol ( reviewed by our guest writer Lynette here)

Serviced apartments: Two relatively new and spacious 2 bedroom options (cheaper than 2 rooms at a hotel) are  Al Karam Hotel Apartments and Nizwa Hotel Apartments

Oman tourist highlights; Jebel Shams and the north

Also called the Grand Canyon of the Middle East the drive alone to Jebel Shams is worth it for the spectacular views.  It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts with several hiking trails.

If you’re travelling from Nizwa direction, don’t miss on your way the little mountain village of  Misfat Al Abreyeen , approx. 6kms from Al Hamra.  You will get some great views from here back to Al Hamra village and see the agricultural spoils of the falaj irrigation system that is still working to this day to bring fresh produce to the region.

The other major regional town situated on the northern coast of Oman is Sohar.  Previously the capital it is now a bustling.   Although far less well known than the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, its counterpart in Sohar is equally as stunning from the outside.

We did not realise at the time that non-Muslims were also permitted to enter from 8-11am as the pictures of the interior look just as stunning as it’s Muscat counterpart. Lit up at night it was truly majestic (as we did circle work of the freeway system looking for a place to get the kids dinner!)

There is also a fort in Sohar (of course!) but its currently closed for renovations. Popular nearby Wadi’s that can be explored from Sohar include Wadi Al Jizi and Wadi Salahi.

Where to stay near Jebel Shams

We’ve heard mixed reviews about “resort” accommodation in Jebel Shams so not feeling brave enough to actually recommend somewhere to stay here, but there are also camping options which are popular with weekend trippers coming from Dubai to Oman.

Where to stay in Sohar

You will find a few nice resorts that can break up a road trip particularly on the Muscat to Dubai/Abu Dhabi route. We recommend you try Radisson Blu for a luxury retreat.  Or if looking for a cheap but clean and acceptable overnight stop we stayed at Sama Suhar Hotel Apartments for less than $100 for a 2-bed apartment.

Check out more on camping in the north of Oman here

Oman tourist highlights, the desert and to the south.

We are generalising a lot here calling it the south as it covers a big expanse of area!  We’ll break it down by the coastal parts and inland to the desert.

Bimmah Sinkhole – also called “Hawaiyat Najm” (the Falling Star)

This beautiful natural waterhole is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes drive to the south of Muscat (between the coastal villages of Dabab and Bimmah).  Do-able as a day trip but you may want to keep driving and stay in one of the southern coastal areas like Sur. 

The sinkhole is 40m wide and 20m deep with an accessible pathway so you can get down into the waterhole to swim.  Also built next to the sinkhole is a park area for kids to run around.

Raz al Jinz

The Ras al Jinz turtle reserve is home to the endangered green turtle (Cheloniamydas).  These beautiful giant creatures come in and nest on the shores here from the Indian Ocean from May to September.

As well as visiting their museum and laboratory, guests can also  stay on site. They limit daily numbers so you will need to book this part of your trip in advance .

Wahiba Sands

For a true taste of the beautiful desert and in stark contrast to the mountainous regions you must head into the vast Wahiba Sands.  Best tackled with a 4WD, you can join an organised tour or tackle it alone!  See this beautiful insight on Wahiba Sands by Mummy Travels.

The Wadi’s!

There are no shortage of Wadi’s in Oman! (For those unfamiliar, these are mountainous ravines that fill after heavy rains, though many in Oman have water year round). Some of the most popular include:

• Wadi Shab with its underwater caves (only accessible after a hike, may not be suitable for young children)
• Wadi Bani Khalid well set up with a BBQ area and public toilets – though can get crowded especially on weekends
• Wadi al Arbaeen with its beautiful swimming pools, popular with cliff jumpers
• Wadi al Hawqayn with its waterfall.

Click here to see the 3 best family-friendly Wadi’s! 

Where to stay in the South

Near Sur:  This pretty coastal town has a lot of accommodation options, though not many you’d class as luxury!  It does make a good stop over point for exploring the southern regions.  With a pool and great view you can get a good deal for families at Sur Plaza Hotel  or Zaki Hotel Apartments for your larger groups.

Coastal Hotels:  As mentioned above you can actually stay on the turtle reserve  Ras al Jinz Turtle Beach Reserve  in a room or one of their special eco-tents

Camping/Glamping options: 1000 Nights Camp gets great reviews (see what our friends with kids thought of it here), as does Dunes by Al Nadha with larger family tent options 

And the Rest of Oman

As we mentioned in the introduction, Musandam Peninsular and Salalah are quite separated from Muscat and the rest of the tourist highlightsof Oman. 

You can see our coverage on what to expect in Musandam here. Stay tuned for further Oman adventures by signing up for our monthly newsletter, and join in the conversation with our Middle East Facebook community group .

Have you ever done an Oman road trip?  Are there any must-see places we should add or advice to other travellers with kids you would give?

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Enjoy this post  why not check out the rest of our middle east series , including our jordan road trip itinerary, or join the conversation on facebook with a group dedicated to family travel in the middle east.

Disclosures: All views in this article are our own, we were not paid to mention any of these attractions. This article contains affiliate links, if you purchase anything via these links we may make a small income at no extra cost to you.  Please see our full disclosure policy here.

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23 thoughts on “ How to tour Oman: A family-friendly road trip guide ”

Pingback: Travel lessons learned: Oman with kids - mummytravels

How to travel by road from Saudi To Oman I live in Jubail Saudi Arabia and would like to visit Oman this year,

Sorry it is not a route and procedure we are familiar with as the tourist visa for Saudi is very new. I think your quickest land route is still via the Abu Dhabi – Ghweifat International Hwy, you can then cross at Al Ain but it’s a very long route by road

is there any selective border to cross for uae residents by road. and is we need in/out on same border or we can come in different border on return

You can come in and out of different border crossings, but some are only open to GCC residents. So you could, for example, exit via Wadi Hatta then come back via Al Ain Mezyad or Khatam Al Shukhla. The main Hatta crossing and Hili are GCC passports only (regardless of whether resident visa or tourist)

Don’t try to go there in summer, I’ve been to this region one summer and regretted it so much!

I’ve been to Emirates in a desert near Oman, it’s incredibly beautiful! The pictures of Oman are superb, I need to write “visit Oman” in my bucket list 🙂

This was really enjoyable to read. Having read this there seem to be some wonderful places to visit.Had a quick look at your blog and love it already.

There really is so much to explore and experience in Oman. Definitely a country one could re visit over and over again and still find something new. Love the pic of you in the Abaya…????

That is so very true Shea. We only touched the surface, so many little signposts we went past and kept saying there next time, there next time! Lucky it is so close I think we will have to set ourselves a task to see a new part every winter! I would definitely lovely to experience the Khareef in Salalah too!

Thanks for sharing your great experience to guide Oman; it would be very helpful for those who are planning a trip. You are absolutely right because I also like the beautiful natural water hole (Hawiyat Najm). It takes approx one and half hour to drive to south of Muscat.

What an inspirational guide Keri. I wouldn’t know where to start planning this kid of trip, but I sure know where to come back to now! Thanks for sharing this with #MondayEscapes

What an incredibly thorough and informative post! Lots of handy tips and practical advice, thank you #mondayescapes

Thank you very much!

What a fabulous indepth guide. Oman is definitely a country on my bucket list,and now we have a good friend who lives there too, so there’s really no excuse! Thanks for the inspiration! #mondayescapes

Absolutely no excuse! We tend to plan our holidays around these things to. Maybe you can organise a convoy road trip together?

oman is still very much an unknown to most kiwi travellers so i love that you’ve made this so comprehensive. sounds like it would be a great alternative to dubai for stopping over en route to europe! #mondayescapes

If only Oman Air flew direct, right? Its a very easy skip down by car or plane though so if anyone is en route to Europe via the UAE and fancies something different to the big lights of Dubai it definitely makes a great alternative

What a comprehensive guide to Oman. We lived in muscat many moons ago. A couple of years ago we took the boys spending some time in muscat and then doing a road trip to our favourite places. it had changed a fair bit with many more black top roads and lots more development. we loved staying at the shangri-la al waha which is perfect for families #Mondayescapes

There’s certainly a lot of development ongoing, especially in the mountains outside of Muscat, giant new industrial areas that sprawl on and on – and some amazing engineering! But still all in the traditional style, which in many ways we really liked. I loved LOVE to go to the Shangri-La! It didn’t fit in budget for this road trip but we’d definitely back for that one as a one-off special treat, it’s a holiday in itself!!!

Nice post. Thanks for sharing your travel experience. Oman is an amazing place for the vacation trip. I am very much excited to go for my Oman trip with my family.

Great tips – really helpful for anyone planning a trip. Having just got back from Oman, I have to say I’m glad that (travelling solo with a 5yo) I had a driver – the traffic wasn’t that bad outside muscat, but as we went up into the mountains and into the desert, I was quite glad I wasn’t the one tackling limited signposts/navigating and twisty roads! I did also get a little caught out by the timings – the distances aren’t always that far, but when it’s a twisty road, it obviously takes longer. But I’d totally agree that it’s worth getting out and exploring, and that you’d miss so much of this wonderful country without driving into the interior from muscat.

I would agree too if you’re not familiar with the Middle East driving style or a little off-roading then having a driver is the way to go. Do you want to mention here who you used so anyone looking for a bit of help planning their journey knows a good family-friendly contact.

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Oman Trip Planning: A Detailed Guide For The BEST Vacation

Are you looking to create an itinerary for an oman trip you are in the right place.

In this post, I will detail everything you need to know before your Oman trip. I will explain the things you should do during your visit, including how to get to Oman, the best time to visit Oman, the places you should stay based on your budget, and how to get around the country. I hope this will help you with planning a perfect itinerary that is right for you!

I know this may sound a tad overwhelming, but fear not! This step-by-step Oman travel guide will list timeframes and checklists to help keep your schedule organized and tasks on track!

After backpacking around the country by myself, I can assure you that with the right information, it is quite easy to plan a trip around Oman! It’s more flexible and cost-effective to organize the trip by yourself, or you can opt for a tour to help ease the hassle. Of course, you can have the best of both worlds by taking on a few day trips. I will dive into all the options below!

Ready? Let’s get this Oman trip planning party started!

How to Plan an Oman Trip

Oman sits on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula and borders Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. It is an incredibly serene and peaceful country, which makes it a great destination for those that want to escape the chaos of big cities.

The first step for your Oman trip is deciding when you will go. If you already have your dates in mind, head towards the second section of the article, where I will dive into the things and activities you should plan and book. Otherwise, here is all you need to know to decide when to visit Oman!

Here’s an Oman map to help you get acquainted with the country. You can zoom into the map and get a sense of the points of interest we will be discussing later on. I hope it helps!

The most visited city in Oman is Muscat, the capital. Muscat is located in the north and is known for its souqs, old town, mountain view, and beach-side walkways. Salalah is the largest city in the South and offers plenty of beautiful wadis and lush greenery.

When to go to Oman

Due to its subtropical weather, Oman can be extremely hot during the summer months, averaging 40-50 degrees Celsius. As such, the best time to visit Oman would be between September and April, when the weather is more pleasant. April and May are doable too, but it may average 30-40 degrees Celsius, which isn’t for everyone.

The lucky news is that there is very little rain in Oman, meaning that you don’t have to gear up for a thunderstorm as you would for, say, South America during the wet season. However, it is also important to know that when it rains, it pours. Although it may be rare to see rain in Oman, there can be a few rainfalls between November and April around Muscat, which will make it difficult to visit wadis and mountains.

The climate around Muscat doesn’t cause much change in scenery, but it is best to visit Salalah between June and August. This time period can be quite hot, but those are the monsoon months and Salalah will be green and beautiful.

Other things you should take into account depends on what you’d like to do. Oman is known for several things, including its camel racing festival , which falls between September and March. If you like seafood, lobster season lasts from March to April. Its turtle egg-laying season is from July to October when you can see lots of turtles migrating to the beach to lay their eggs!

Peak tourist season in Oman is during its winter months between October and March. However, since the country is still relatively new on the tourism radar, don’t worry about crowds of tour groups. Do make sure to book things ahead of time, especially adventure tours and hikes, if those are your preferred activities.

Lastly, Ramadan in Oman is strictly observed. Under Article 49 of the Sultanate’s Penal Code, it is illegal to drink or eat in front of a Muslim person in public. Most restaurants will be closed during this period, so do check beforehand for the exact dates of Ramadan!

Booking Timeline

Oman remains a relatively new destination for travelers so it doesn’t tend to get booked out completely. However, take into consideration that there aren’t many hotels in the country, thus it is also a smart move to book in advance during peak tourist season between November and March.

The best time to book flights and accommodation is 5-6 months before your departure so that you can grab the best deals and save on travel cost. This is especially the case if you’d like to visit Oman during its peak tourist season or attend its camel racing festival.

5-6 months in advance:

Book international flights to Oman

Get travel insurance for Oman

Plan your Oman trip

Look up your visa needs and requirements

Plan your accommodation

3–1 months in advance:

Plan your transportation in the country. Be it the bus, rental, or domestic flight

Book your accommodation in Oman

1 month in advance:

Get visa for Oman (here’s how)

Book attractions and other tours

Book bus tickets

Book airport transfers or other modes of transport to your hotel

Look up sim card needs if required

Have a copy of your bookings on your phone.

2 day in advance:

Pack and double-check your bookings!

How to Get to Oman

Flights to oman.

There are two ways to travel to Oman. But unless you are coming from the UAE or Saudi Arabia, it is most likely that you will be flying into Muscat. There are two major international airports in Oman, one is the Muscat International Airport in the capital city, the other is the Salalah Airport down South.

It is quite cheap to fly into Muscat from its neighbours, especially those in the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe.

However, for others (like me, who’s in Canada), a direct flight will be few and far between (and costly!). The most budget-friendly thing to do is to fly into UAE and take a 6-hour bus down to Muscat. Here is how you can do that.

Best Deals on Flights to Oman

Oman Air is the major airline based in the country and offers plenty of international flights. Salam Air is the first low-cost airline in the country. It offers flights to major hubs nearby and connects Salalah and Muscat at a relatively cheap price.  Of course, numerous airlines stop in Muscat, thus, there are countless options if you check out Skyscanner!

If you are coming from North America, consider flying into Dubai before taking a bus down to Muscat. This can be much cheaper than flying directly to Oman’s capital.

Otherwise, fly into Muscat and visit nearby cities by bus. This is a great alternative to flying into Salalah as its airport is a tad more limited.

There is a dedicated bus between Dubai and Muscat that operates three times a day, seven days a week. The bus service is offered by Mwasalat and is 6 hours in length. Although, it may be longer depending on the traffic and border control. You can buy the ticket at the Rashidiya station in Dubai, but they don’t have an online portal yet.

Although there was a ferry line between Iran and Oman, the service was suspended a few years back. Now, there aren’t any international ferry lines between Oman and its neighbours.

Passport & Visas

Citizens from GCC countries do not need a visa to visit Oman. At the time of publishing, citizens from 71 countries can apply for an Oman eVisa online. At the time of publishing, a 10-day visa costs OMR 5 and a 30-day visa costs OMR 20. It took me 10 minutes to fill out my application online and approximately 4 hours for the visa to be approved.  

Your passport must be valid for 6 months at the time of entering Oman. Here’s a kicker! If you are an US or Canadian citizen, you do not need an Omani visa if you have a valid UAE visa and are entering from Dubai. However, this visa must have a 21-day validity remaining, meaning you will be allowed to stay in the country for up to 3 weeks after entering from Dubai. I know this can be confusing, but here’s a comprehensive article on your Omani visa application process.

A 10-day visa can be extended by 10 days (OMR 5) and a month-long visa can be extended by a month (OMR 20). Both visa extensions can be applied for from the ROP Visa Information Counter at the Muscat International Airport.

Be careful! For every day that you defer your exit from Oman without a valid visa, you will be charged OMR 10/ day.

Money in Oman

The Omani Rial is the local currency. Due to the tight monetary policies in Oman, the rial is one of the strongest currencies in the world (OMR 1 = USD 2.6). However, baisas are usually used in the country (OMR 1=1000 baisas), so get your change ready! Unimoni Exchanges are dedicated money exchangers in cities. They can be easily located on Google Maps.

It may be really difficult to find a money changer in the villages.

Where to go in Oman & Travel Itineraries

The most difficult aspect of planning your Oman trip is deciding how long to stay, and where to go. It is a country rich in nature and culture, so there are many options!

The most popular places are:

Muscat , the Capital of Oman and the largest city in the country

Nizwa , home to the famous Omani fort and gold souqs

Salalah , the largest city in the South and a popular beach destination.

Sur , an old city with the tradition of hand-making dhows

Bahla , a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Buraimi , is a town bordering Al Ain in the UAE

Ibra , a small village in the Wahiba Sands

Matrah , historic town with one of the largest seaports in the region

Sohar , Sindbad’s home (remember Legend of the Seven Seas from Arabian Nights?)

Masirah Island , a popular beach and diving destination for locals

Accommodation in Oman

To be honest, Oman is not the cheapest destination due to its accommodation costs. Compared to its neighbors, there aren’t too many hotel options available, especially outside of major cities. In Muscat, you can find budget options for as low as USD 30/ night. In the country-side, such as hotels in jebel shams, rooms can shoot up to USD 400/ night during tourist season!

There are a number of hostels around the country, usually priced between USD 28-55 during low-season. This is a great place to meet fellow backpackers.

If you are looking for cost-effective options, a mid-range hotel priced USD 60/night will be clean, sufficient, and accommodating. They are great for a relaxing trip!

Finally, on the upper end, there are some gorgeous resorts that offer beautiful value. A number of sea-side resorts are built like palaces and offer excellent service. If you want to relax by the pool after an adventurous day, this option might be for you.

Best Accommodation Booking Sites

Airbnb and other unregistered hospitality platforms/venues are illegal in Oman. (but Couchsurfing in Oman is great if you are looking to backpack through the country).

Starting from 2020, there will be a new 4% tax from customers from hotels and restaurants that are located in tourist areas and managed through franchise contracts.

How To Get Around Oman

Domestic transportation in Oman is not the greatest. There are a few bus services between bigger cities and a number of ferries. However, it’s quite difficult to find transport to the mountains and deserts. But fear not, here is a thorough guide:

Hitch Hiking in Oman

Oman is not a difficult country to hitchhike in. In fact, hitchhiking seems quite common in the country. During my time there, I often see locals and foreigners alike standing the side of the road with their thumbs sticking out. After asking around, my friends informed me that due to the lack in public transportation and general customs, hitchhiking has been a normal way for a lot of people to get around the country.

Of course, be careful if this is the route that you’d like to take!

Buses in Oman

The main public transport provider in Oman is Mwasalat. The state-owned company offers daily buses to/from major provincial cities for less than OMR 10. Tickets can be purchased with cash from the bus driver, but I’d recommend you to make reservations for longer journeys just in case! Mwasalat buses are generally on time. They are air-conditioned and comfortable. This bus operator also provides inner-city services in Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar.

A few buses operated by private companies such as Moon Travel and Al-Sumri Transport also provide long-distance services between Muscat and Salalah.

Click here to see bus timetables!

Shared Taxis

There are some shared taxis/baisa buses that operate along the highway and bus stations. Depending on where you’d like to go, this can be a good alternative for inner-city travel and/or transfer from the airport. Shared taxi for long-distance travel can also be taken at a number of bus stations.  

Private Taxis

Taxis are generally easily available in major cities. Marhaba Taxi is a major player and also offers an app similar to Uber. However, taxis in Oman can be quite expensive.

You can negotiate the cost beforehand with the taxi driver if they aren’t using the meter. This may be a good option if you are dividing the cost between several people.

If you are traveling between cities/ going into the wadi, there are numerous travel agencies that provide personalized transportation services between tourist destinations. Drivers can be hired at a daily rate.

I’d definitely recommend renting a car if that’s an option for you. Overall, it is a lot less hassle than all the other options above. It’s easy to do a road trip in Oman since the highways are very well maintained. The mountain roads are a different story and thus, I’d recommend doing a day/night tour if you’d like to visit Jebel Shams or another mountain in Oman.

Here is more information on driving in Oman, including some tips and regulations that you should know!

The National Ferries Company (NFC) is a government-owned company that offers services between a number of destinations. If you plan on visiting Masirah Island, you’d need to hop onto a ferry. The website has an operating timetable that will be very useful for your Oman trip planning. Head to their office to purchase tickets. Remember to bring a valid ID/ visa (if applicable) along!

Lastly, domestic flights are a great option in Oman. Although they aren’t the most affordable when compared to the methods of travel above, they are great for large distances if you are short on time. I’d recommend you to grab a flight between Salalah and Muscat if you’d like to visit both destinations during a short stay in Oman.

You can also fly between Muscat and Masirah Island, and Masirah Island and Salalah. Or, travel by land during one leg of the trip and fly for another. You can take a look at specific itineraries to decide which method of travel will suit you best on your Oman trip.

Estimated Travel Cost

Oman isn’t a cheap country to travel in. Due to its lack of public transportation, one of the most expensive aspects of an Oman trip is getting from place to place. Otherwise, accommodation is reasonable and the meals are cheap.

Here are a few estimated budgets for two people:

Absolute Backpacker : OMR 20/day (couchsurfing/ camping, some hitchhiking, shawarmas)

Budget Traveler : OMR 40 (hostels, buses, some decent meals)

Mid-range Traveler : OMR 60-80 (hotels, rental car, good meals)

High-end Traveler : OMR 80+ (nice hotels, rental car, good meals)

Oman is not cheap. Pockets may run very steep. Worth every (Omani) rial. A Haiku

At the end of the day, everyone’s budget will differ based on what they do, where they go, and what they eat. This is especially the case if you’d like to include a few day trips and visit all the attractions. Oman isn’t the most affordable country to visit, but it’s worth every (Omani) rial. You can cut down costs by going camping once in a while and doing a barbeque with store-bought ingredients. Here’s a guide on some of the best camping spots in Oman!

What to Pack for your Oman Trip

Luckily, Oman’s subtropical warmth means that you don’t have to pack any heavy jackets or rain gear. Nonetheless, it is always important to respect local customs. As a Muslim majority country, people in Oman are dressed very conservatively.

Although there is not need to wear an abaya, as do most women in Oman, it is a good idea to wear something light and loose. Aim to cover your shoulders and arms. If you like to throw on a dress or skirt, its hem should reach below the knee. I prefer longer dresses that reached my ankle. There aren’t many publish washrooms in Oman and most of them are in mosques. Thus, it is a good idea to bring a shawl or scarf so you can cover up whenever needed!

Other Essential Items:

Hat and scarf/shawl

A pair of hiking shoes

Swim wear & sunscreen

A type G plug adaptor

Power bank (you might be in the mountain for a day or two)

Internet & Phone Coverage

Many accommodation providers and some restaurants will have wifi for keeping in touch with home. However, we always buy a local sim card so we don’t have to worry and because they are so cheap and easy.

You can get one at the airport in minutes and even buy one beforehand here.

Other Things to Know for an Oman Trip

In Oman, a typical workweek is from Sunday to Thursday. It is important to note that due to prayer time, businesses are usually closed for an hour between 1 pm to 2 pm. Always grab lunch before or after this time slot.

Fridays and Saturdays are the weekends and you can find restaurants and shops open a bit longer into the night.

Oman is known for its delicious shawarma and amazing juice. You can walk into any small shop and grab a fresh drink and a warm snack for less than OMR 1.5. I recommend the pomegranate & pineapple mix!

Muscat is also populated with mishkak (skewered & grilled meat) and burger joints. They are usually out in the open and frequented by men. Although, no one gave me a second glance when I joined in on all the chow down.

Alcohol isn’t illegal in Oman, but there are numerous regulations. Only certain places offer beverages and they can be quite expensive in the country. If you’d really like a drink during your trip, you can grab a duty-free bottle from the airport before entering the country. Otherwise, a drink can cost up to OMR 5 at a bar.

Ramadan is observed by Muslims and generally lasts for a month every year. During this time, the Muslim population will fast between sunrise and sundown. In Oman, it is discouraged to eat or drink in front of a Muslim person during Ramadan, and under Article 49 of the Sultanate’s Penal Code, it is illegal to do so in public.

Although your hotel will provide dining options during Ramadan, most restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day. A handful of tourist attractions will also be closed during this period.  

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Hi, Id like to take my mum to Oman in feb. She can walk but not extreme activities. we are thin king of going for 10/12days. where do you recommend we should go?

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7 Days in Oman Itinerary: Epic One Week Oman Road Trip

My one-week Oman itinerary is here to help you plan an unforgettable Oman road trip (no 4WD required).

This self-drive route, which starts and ends in the capital Muscat , covers must-visit places in northeastern Oman as well as some wonderful hidden gems discovered while travelling in Oman . Also, here you will find driving distances and times, places to stay, and the best things you can do in Oman in 7 days . 

Oman is one of my absolute favorite places to travel in the Middle East. Therefore, as soon as Oman’s borders opened for tourism and pleasant winter weather finally arrived, I packed for my one-week road trip to  Oman from Dubai, UAE .

With roads being some of the best quality in the world, and petrol costs some of the lowest, driving in Oman is undoubtedly the best way to explore the Land of Frankincense. 

Extraordinary scenery featuring endless layers of jagged mountain peaks and water-filled wadis is giving the way to the pristine blue coastline and rolling sand dunes.

Whilst the charming traditional towns, souqs, ancient forts, and mud villages allow you to witness old Omani culture which is still present in today’s daily life. And above all, welcoming local people and the safety of the country makes Oman one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. 

If you are wondering what to see in Oman, I’ve got you covered with this ultimate 7-day Oman itinerary ! Moreover, I also added suggestions for shorter 5-Day and extended 10-Day to 14-Day Oman routes.

Thus, I hope that this Oman travel guide will be inspiring and useful to you when planning your own Oman road trip itinerary. 

RELATED REEDS: Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

5 to 7 Days in Oman Itinerary: Oman Road Trip Overview 

Here is a summary of the One Week Oman Road Trip Itinerary :

• Day 1: Muscat
• Day 2: Muscat-Bimmah sinkhole-Wadi Shab-Sur
• Day 3: Sur-Bani Wadi Khalid-Wahiba Sand Dunes and Dessert Camping
• Day 4: Wahiba Sands-Al Hamra-Misfat
• Day 5: Misfat-Jibreen Castle-Birkat Al Mouz-Nizwa
• Day 6: Nizwa- Muscat (optional stop at Nakhla Fort)
• Day 7: Muscat (with optional day trip to Daymaniyat Islands)

Total distance: approx. 900 km.

Time on the road: approx. 12hrs.

Sign up HERE to receive a FREE downloadable OMAN MINI GUIDE !

How to prepare for this Oman road trip- Quick Useful Tips

Before we jump to the fun stuff, here are the essentials for organizing your Oman road trip.

• WHERE TO STAY
• Muscat: Fort Guesthouse (9.4 on Booking)
• Sur: Sur Grand Hotel (8.2 on Booking)
• Wahiba: Desert Nights (8.8 on Booking)
• Misfat: Misfat Old House (8.5 on Booking)
• Nizwa: Antique Inn (8.5 on Booking)
• RECOMMENDED GUIDED DAY TOURS
• Best Wadi Shab Tour (5/5 GetYourGuide)
• Best Desert Tour (5/5 Viator)
• Best Nizwa & Mountain Tour (4.5/5 GetYourGuide)
• Best Dimaniyat Islands (5/5 GetYourGuide)
• Best Muscat City Tour (5/5 Viator)
• Rent a car : The best way to explore Oman is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• Before You Go: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• Accommodation: book your ideal accommodation on Booking .
• Travel Insurance: buy affordable travel insurance at SafetyWing . Alternatively, get  5% off  your insurance by using my link on  Heymondo , a travel insurance provider.
• Guided tours: book the best-rated guided tours in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport or hypermarket. Omantel provides the best coverage.
• eSIM CARD:  Stay connected before you land.  Airalo  offers eSIM card with data up to 5 GB (30 days) data package for Oman.

This road trip is planned as a circular route starting and finishing in the capital Muscat . On a side note, all the locations on this road trip could be done as day trips from Muscat. Most of them are within a 1.5-2.5 hour drive from Muscat.

We only had 5 days to spare for this Oman road trip. Therefore, we had to leave Bani Wadi Khalid and Wahiba Sand Dunes for our next visit to Oman. However, those are the top attractions in Oman that you can visit if you have 7 days in the country.

Nakhla fort wasn’t included in our 5 days trip either, but I have visited it back in 2017, and it is well worth a stop if you are travelling in Oman for a week, and if you love castles.

However, if you are short on time, you could either skip Day 3 (Wadi Bani Khalid and the desert), or trim down the Nizwa part. Unless you are really keen to see the desert, I would recommend definitely making your way up North of Oman and visiting the ancient mountain villages of Misfat al Abriyeen, and Birkat Al Mouz.

Our 5 Day Oman Road Trip looked like this:

• Muscat-Bimmah Sinkhole-Wadi Shab-Sur-Al Hamra-Misfat-Jibreen Castle-Birkat al Mouz-Nizwa-Muscat

Total distance: approx. 815 KM

Total time on the road: approx. 10 HRS

What we would have done differently on this road trip?

The Oman road trip itinerary presented here is perfect for travelers flying in and out of Muscat airport.

However, if you are, like us, driving from Dubai, or elsewhere in UAE, you could choose to start your Oman route in Muscat entering via the Hatta border, and then end your trip in Nizwa, returning back through the Al Ain border. That being said, you could first spend 2 days in Muscat, and finish exploring the Northern part of Oman in Nizwa.

Oman Road Trip Route Map

Click  here  to open and save my Oman itinerary map which shows the exact locations of the points of interest mentioned in this Oman guide.

How many days in Oman do you actually need? 

One week in Oman is the bare minimum you should allocate if you want to cover the highlights of the northeastern part of the country. However, one week in Oman would be only scratching the surface of what this beautiful country has to offer. 

Ideally at least 10 to 14 days would be a sufficient time. Having a couple of weeks in Oman would allow you to either slowly explore the northeastern part of Oman, or travel at a faster pace adding Dhofar governorate and/or Musandam peninsula to your itinerary.

I will go more into detail on the add-ons and extended routes at the end of this post.

The best time to visit Oman

The best time to visit Oman is from October to March. This time of the year is recommended for visiting the northern and the eastern parts of the country’s mainland as well as the Musandam Peninsula. While travel season for Salalah (the South of Oman) is during the summer months of June, July, August, and early September due to the completely different milder climates, greenery, and rainy season that is always awaited by local people and GCC residents to escape the summer heat. 

Renting a car in Oman

Deciding on what type of car to rent in Oman  depends on your travel route. You will find that many blogs recommend renting 4WD in order to reach remote areas and high mountain passes. 

Our route DID NOT require 4WD as it covers places with easy access by well-paved roads. Indeed, you will still be able to see a lot by driving a regular car. 

However, if you decide to go to Jebel Shams or Jebel Akhdar (two very famous mountains), 4WD is a must. It will also be useful if you want to drive in the desert (considering that you know how to do it) or visit remote mountain villages that do not have paved road access. For example, we had to skip above mentioned mountains and some interesting villages because we didn’t have 4WD. 

As per my research, Discover Cars has some of the most competitive rates for renting both SUVs and sedans.

The best rates for renting a car in Oman

I often use Discover Cars to find the best car rental deals.

7-Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary: Daily Breakdown

Here are my recommended 7 days in Oman Itinerary breakdown day by day. It covers must-visit places in Oman at each destination, things to do, and accommodation recommendations. I also provide travel distances and required time for each section of this Oman road trip route.

DAY 1: MUSCAT (overnight in Muscat)

Capital Muscat mostly likely will be your first stop in Oman. Low-rise white-washed houses sprinkled between dark craggy peaks on the shores of the Gulf of Oman define the city landscape.

Although the biggest city and bustling trade hub, Muscat is a soulful capital with a unique character and well-preserved old traditions.

Muscat is one of the most beautiful cozy capitals in the world, and you must visit for at least a day or two. 

Top Tip: Muscat is very spread out with limited transport options. Therefore, having your own car will be the fastest and most likely the cheapest way to move around Muscat. It will also allow you to see some great places on the outskirts of the capital. Parking in Muscat is also easy, which makes self-drive even more attractive.

The Best Things to Do in Muscat

Here is my list of must-visit places in Muscat. You may need 2 days to cover them all at a relaxed pace. We did some of the activities on the first and some on the last day of our Oman road trip.

Also read: To plan your time in the capital of Oman, refer to my detailed post about  The best things to do in Muscat: 1-3 days itinerary

1. Admire Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an absolute must-visit place in Oman for those of you who admire architecture and love photography. It is the largest mosque in Oman with remarkable modern Islamic architecture.

Defined by perfectly symmetric arrays of arches, elaborate latticework, intricate mosaics and ornate carvings of flowers, Sultan Qaboos mosque is one of the most impressive modern mosques I have ever visited.

Moreover, one of its 5 minarets (together they represent the 5 pillars of Islam) is 90 meters tall, making the mosque country’s tallest structure. On a side note, it is amazing that Oman stays away from glass-encrusted skyscrapers and preserves its low-rise urban landscape.

Interesting facts about Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

It took 6 years to complete the mosque and it can host up to 20000 worshipers. The 24-karat gold-plated chandelier inside the men’s prayer hall holds 600,000 Swarovski crystals and is surrounded by 34 smaller versions found across the mosque.

Equally impressive is the hand-made prayer carpet weighing 21 tons. It took 600 Iranian artisans to complete it for a duration of 4 years. The only prayer carpet that is even larger belongs to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Things to know before visiting Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Muscat

• Opening hours for non-Muslim visitors and photography are from 8 AM- 11 AM every day except Friday .
• Entrance fee: FREE
• How long should I spend here? 1 hr minimum, but you can easily spend 2-3 hrs.
• Dress Code: ladies must cover head to toe (including wearing a head scarf), men are not required to wear head cover, but must also wear long pants and long sleeve shirts.
• Etiquette: leave your shoes at the door when stepping into the prayer halls.

The mosque is huge. Therefore, you can easily spend there 2-3 hours wandering around its beautiful allays and prayer rooms. Try to arrive as early as 8:30 AM before all the tours come. This way you can enjoy the mosque quietly. We came late at around 10 AM, and we haven’t even noticed the time fly by, meaning there was not enough time to explore it properly.

• Photography Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandness of architecture. I used my 14-30 mm Nikkor Z lens to capture the images shown above.

2. Stop by at Yiti street viewpoint overlooking the Ruwi area

Muscat is built between the hills. Thus, climbing higher up will reward you with fantastic viewpoints. One of the less explored spots I have discovered on my Oman road trip is a Ruwi area with a fantastic viewpoint opening up from Yiti street.

You won’t find this spot in any guidebooks, but I must say it was one of the Muscats highlights that I recommend adding to your route.

The exact coordinates for the viewpoint are 23.573747, 58.549943.

3. Stroll along vibrant Mutrah Corniche and Climb Mutrah’s Fort

One of Muscat’s most vibrant areas, also known as an Old Town, Mutrah (or Muttrah) is one of my favorite places to spend time in Oman. Characterized by 19th-century latticed merchants’ houses and colorful minarets, Mutrah’s sweeping waterfront is the city’s old commercial center.

The romantic curved waterside promenade offers beautiful views of Muscat’s historical center backed by rugged mountain peaks on one side, and calming sea on the other. But for even better perspectives of the old town climb Mutrah’s Fort.

Built by the Portuguese in the 16 th century, Mutrah Fort stands atop a rocky hill. From here you can see fantastic panoramic views overlooking Muttrah corniche.

• Opening hours : Saturdays to Thursdays 9 AM-6:30 PM/ Fridays 9-11 AM, 2-6:30 PM.

4. Go on a hike in Muscat- Mutrah to Riyam Park Trail

If you love hiking, Muscat got you covered. There are a few short easy to moderate-level city trails. One of the most picturesque routes is the C38 circular trail starting at Riyam Park in the old part of Muscat.

The hike starts with a short steep climb, gaining a quick elevation of around 100 meters. You can see the famous incense burner in Riyam park. Then the trail winds through the craggy peaks. You have to climb one of the higher peaks to enjoy the panoramic views of Mutrah corniche.

As the route descends, it passes through a water-filled wadi. The water stream is not deep but if you don’t want your shoes to get soaked, you might have to scramble and jump around some boulders to avoid getting into the water. The trail eventually leads back to the town through some old graveyard. The last 2 KM are just a city walk along Mutrah corniche back to Riyam Park.

Things to know about hiking Mutrah to Riyam Park trail

• Trail distance: 3.7 KM
• Hike duration: 1.5 hrs
• Difficulty level: easy to moderate
• The trail is well-marked with yellow white and red line flags
• Proper hiking boots are recommended as the rocks are very slippery
• Kids-friendly (we saw families with young kids doing it).

Trailhead coordinates: type in Google [C38 Mutrah to Riyam Park Hike] to get to the start of the trail. The starting point is behind one of the houses. You will see a stone staircase on the left-hand side going uphill-follow it to begin the hike.

5. Shop for Omani souvenirs at traditional Mutrah Souq

At the heart of Mutrah, hidden between the winding old streets, you will find one of the oldest markets in the world-Mutrah Souq. Covered in the fog of frankincense, the bustling souq will make your head spin. Mutrah Souq is a maze of hundreds of shops selling everything from small souvenirs to hand-made carpets, kummas (traditional embroidered Omani hats), colorful lanterns and magic lamps, to hand-crafted silver khajars (Omani knives/swards), jewelry, oriental perfume and what not.

It is a fun experience to wander around Mutrah Souq even if you are not buying anything. Most likely you will end up purchasing something from one of the friendly local sellers. Or at least will end up overdosing on Omani coffee which is offered as a gesture of hospitality at nearly every single shop.

• Opening hours : 9 AM-1 PM/4 PM- 9 PM daily.

6. Swim at Qantab Stone Beach and take a boat ride to Qantab natural arch

The beach at Qantab fishing village, 30 minutes away drive south of Muscat, was one of the unexpected discoveries during this Oman road trip. I was initially mapping out some interesting photography locations on Google maps, and Qantab caught my attention as a potential spot that offered great mountain village views.

Even the drive from Muscat to Qantab was filled with pleasant views. Once we reached it, we were pleasantly surprised by the quiet beach featuring beautiful rock formations. It was one of those wild-type beaches with just a few local fishermen hanging around. I would have easily spent half a day reading a book and chilling on the sand.

As we walked towards the sea, we were approached by an elder Omani sailor named Solomon. He offered us to go on a private sunset boat ride. We agreed. And it was a pleasant 30 minutes ride in a traditional motorized boat. We had a chance to see a natural stone arch and admire the beautiful coastline.

The private boat ride cost us 10 OMR.

7. Go on a half-day trip to Daymaniyat Islands

Ad Daymaniyat is a Nature Reserve formed of nine pristine islands located 20km off the shores of Barka- a coastal city up north of Muscat. Islands are known for their crystal clear waters and as a great spot for snorkeling with their bright-colored fish and sea turtles.

From May to October visiting Daymaniyat islands is prohibited due to marine life protection.

Since a special permit is required to enter the islands, the easiest way to visit Daymaniyat is by joining a day tour. Tour operators will handle all the logistics, permits, and food on your behalf.

Daymaniyat snorkeling cruise from Muscat  is rated 5/5 on Get Your Guide, and alternatively, this day tour  offers snorkeling and dolphin watching.

The Best Places to Stay in Muscat

Muscat has a range of accommodations to meet almost any type of traveler: from budget to mid-range to the finest luxury resorts with fantastic mountain scenery. Here are my top pics for each category.

• High-End Accommodation
• Al Bustan Palace -stunning coastline set against Hajar mountains, dreamy pools, and a stretch of private beach- great for romantic getaways and the best beachfront views.
• Chedi Muscat – one of the most beautiful hotels in Muscat featuring modern Arabic architecture, beachfront, 100-meter long pool, yoga, and pilates classes- a perfect place for relaxation.
• Mid-Range-Budget Accommodation
• Grand Millenium Muscat -a home away from home, located close to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
• Fort Guesthouse – superb location at the beachfront of Muttrah corniche and Fort, features a lovely terrace and humble Omani-style accommodation.

DAY 2: Muscat to Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, and Sur (overnight in Sur)

• Driving distance: approx. 200 KM
• Total driving time: approx. 2.5 HRS
• Midway stops: Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab

After exploring the fascinating city of Muscat, it is time to continue our road trip along the East coast with a couple of stops at some of the best-known and probably most visited nature attractions in Oman- Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab. The final destination of the day will be the atmospheric port town of Sur. On day 2, I recommend waking up early to slowly enjoy your nature stops and allow yourself enough time to reach Sur before sunset.

Dip your toes and swim in Bimmah Sinkhole

Located 1 HR 30 Min drive from Muscat, Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawaiyat Najm) is a natural pool phenomenon that is mystified by a legend. It says that the sinkhole was formed after a meteorite struck the Earth. In reality, it is a water-filled depression in the limestone.

Bimmah Sinkhole is easily accessible from the main highway. Therefore, it is one of the most popular natural spots loved by locals and tourists.

I had second thoughts on whether I should include Bimmah Sinkhole in our Oman itinerary. Honestly speaking, it didn’t look that appealing from the photos (plus how busy it can get).

However, Bimmah Sinkhole was religiously recommended in every single blog as one of the must-visit places in Oman. Since it was on the way to our main attraction of the day- Wadi Shab- I decided to pay Bimmah Sinkhole a short visit and see what all the fuss is about.

Although a little busy even on a Thursday morning, Bimmah Sinkhole ended up being a pleasant surprise. In terms of photography, I do not find this place impressive, but the experience is what makes it worth the stop. Swimming in refreshing clear waters was indeed amazing and fun during the hot day.

Also, you can get a free “pedicure” from the fish that inhabits those waters. If you sink your feet in the water and stay still, soon you feel a ticklish sensation- dozens of small fish will come to eat the dead skin off your feet.

• Opening Hours: from 8AM to 8PM- Bimmah Sinkhole is enclosed within a gated park.
• Dress Code: to respect local culture, avoid swimming in bikinis and trunks. Most of the people swim in T-shirts, legging or long shorts.

Wadi Shab hike and swim in its natural pools

Less than 30 MIN drive away from Bimmah Sinkhole we head to the famous Wadi Shab (Wadi Ash Shab)- a highlight of the day . For those of you who do not know what “wadi” means, it is an Arabic word widely used here in the Middle East to refer to the dry gorge, which occasionally may have a water stream running through it.

Wadi Shab is arguably the most visited gorge with water-filled natural pools in Oman. It doesn’t come as a surprise considering the beauty of the place and the refreshing swimming attraction it has to offer.

Moreover, Wadi Shab is easily accessible within 2 hours drive from Muscat. Getting to Wadi Shab is straightforward. Just type “Wadi Shab Parking” in Google maps and it will take you to the parking spot.

Related reads : check my blog post about Wadi Shab hike to pools in Oman for all the details on how to visit Wadi Shab .

Things to know about visiting Wadi Shab

• To enter wadi Shab you must take a 2-minute boat ride for 1 OMR per person. The boats operate daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. You can easily locate them under the huge bridge where the parking lot is. Make sure you get back on time, otherwise you will have to swim back to the parking lot.
• You must hike for around 40 minutes to get to the first pool. The hike is easy and very scenic featuring high canyons, boulders, green small farms, and water streams along the way.
• Note, that there is lots of water along the way. Thus, wear footwear suitable for passing through the water streams. Don’t wear slippers as it wouldn’t be safe to hike over the slippery rocks. Light sneakers or swimming shoes with rubber soles are the best.
• There are 4 pools in total. The first one is shallow and suitable for non-swimmers while the rest require decent swimming skills in order to be able to stay in the water a long time (you can’t reach the ground).
• There is also a hidden waterfall in the secret cave- you should attempt getting there if you are a good and confident swimmer who can keep yourself afloat for at least 15 MIN!
• Wadi Shab is extremely popular and gets quite crowded. The best time to visit Wadi Shab to avoid crowds is early in the morning on a weekday. However, don’t get put off by the number of visitors as the experience is fantastic.

 Once you are at the first pool, you can access the 2 nd and 3rd pools by swimming, while the 4th pool is hidden above the so-called hidden waterfall. Note that to get to the hidden waterfall you will have to swim through a narrow crack in the rock. There is only enough space to pass your head above the water. Even people who do not suffer from claustrophobia find it slightly intimidating at first.

After an adventurous day at Wadi Shab, we continue our journey to the sleepy port town of Sur. It takes approximately 40 minutes to drive from Wadi Shab to Sur. Since we reached it after sunset, we are going to wake up early to spend some time exploring this atmospheric little town.

Places to stay in Sur

The closest accommodation to Wadi Shab (unless you are camping), is located 40 min drive in port town Sur. It only has a limited number of hotels. Here are my top picks:

• Sur Accommodation Suggestions
• Sur Grand Hotel – The best-rated in the area, 6 KM from the center of Sur featuring nice beach views directly from the window!
• Sur Plaza Hotel- we stayed here-another decent option for the area with old-school film vibes and clean and spacious rooms. The hotel is located inland but has a pool for those who want to refresh on a hot day. The food served at the restaurant was average though.

DAY 3: Morning in Sur- Wadi Bani Khalid- Wahiba Sands (overnight at desert camp)

• Driving distance: approx. 170 KM
• Total driving time: approx. 2 HRS 30
• Midway stops: Wadi Bani Khalid

If you are travelling for a week, before heading up North of Oman, I recommend stopping by at Wadi Bani Khalid and definitely spending some time in the desert and staying overnight at a desert camp in Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands .

Wake up for sunrise in the peaceful town of Sur

Sur is an atmospheric small port town on the East Coast of Oman. Once an important trade hub, and fishing harbor, Sur is home to Oman’s only surviving dhow boats factory.

I loved this chilled tucked-away town. Sur is characterized by an array of white and pastel hue architecture lined up over the quiet seafront promenade. Al Ayjah Lighthouse is the main landmark beautifully set against the Gulf of Oman on one side and white-washed houses with a misty mountain backdrop on the other. If you have little time, make sure at least to pay a short visit to the lighthouse and enjoy the calming morning views.

If you have more time to spare, climb the Al Ayjah watchtower for incredible elevated Sur views. Finally, stroll along the peaceful corniche or beach together with locals. It is indeed a very relaxing place to start a day before hitting the road.

Splash waters at Wadi Bani Khalid

1.5 HRS (130 KM) drive from Sur, Wadi Bani Khalid is another spectacular oasis and a must-visit place in Oman . Mostly popular among locals, Wadi Bani Khalid offers some beautiful natural pools to take a dip and cool down on a hot day.

At the entrance to the Wadi Bani Khalid, you will find a few manmade pools, where most of the locals with families like to splash around. But don’t stop here as there are better swimming options- natural pools- tucked away deeper into the wadi. To find them, continue further following Muqal Cave signs until you reach more isolated ravines with also fewer people.

Ride the dunes of Wahiba Sands

Located approximately 1-hour drive from Wadi Bani Khalid, Sharqiyah Sands (or the Wahiba Sands) are known to be the most accessible desert area in Oman. The rolling dunes of Wahiba define the edge of the vast desert of the Arabian Empty Quarter (parts of which belong to UAE and Saudi Arabia).

If you have never been to the desert, make sure to spend some time in this magical place.

Camp under the stars in the Arabian desert

To enter the desert, you must have a 4WD and know how to drive in loose sands. Therefore, an easier way is to spend a night in one of the Wahiba Sands desert camps that provide 4WD pickup and offer an array of other fun desert activities.

One of the best places for spending a night in a luxurious One Thousand Nights way is at Desert Nights Camp , which also offers a complimentary sunset ride over the dunes.

Best things to do at Wahiba Sands Desert

Immersing in the vastness of the desert is one of the most magical experiences. From watching the sun rising over the rolling dunes to adrenalin-fueled dune bashing and counting down billions of stars lighting up the pitch-black sky- all these are classics of the desert experiences not to be missed.

I recommend exploring the sand dunes on foot and just letting the warm sand fill up your shoes. Especially if you love photography, you may want to take your time chasing that perfect sand wave to be captured. Be mindful though when walking in the desert. Although less likely during the day, but there is a chance of seeing a desert snake or a scorpion.

DAY 4: Wahiba Sands- Al Hamra- Misfat Al Abriyeen (overnight in Misfat)

• Total driving distance: approx. 250 KM
• Total driving time: approx. 3 HRS 20 MIN
• Midway stops: Ibra, abandoned Al Hamra village

The next leg of the road trip is a long drive into Al Hajar mountains and some of the most charming historical parts of Oman. Getting lost in the maze of old streets of ancient mud villages and conquering some of the majestic Omani forts and castles is what we going to do for the next couple of days.

A short stop at Ibra

Getting to the Northern part of Oman will be quite a long drive. Therefore, if you want to break your trip, a short detour would be stopping at the Old Quarter of Ibra town. There you will find ruins of historic buildings, which for some may be a fascinating sight.

Another quite interesting landmark of Ibra is the 50-domes mosque Jami Al-Hamoda Mosque. Its unique architecture is almost exactly the same as the 4-dome oldest mosque in the UAE, Fujeirah. The only difference is the Omani one is 12 times bigger. I couldn’t help it comparing the dome rooftop with one of those whipped cream tarts- it is just so unusual and adorable.

Explore abandoned mud-village of Al Hamra

On the way to our final destination for the day- Misfat al Abriyeen, we shortly stopped at the old part of Al Hamra town. A district of partially abandoned mud-houses is settled at the foot of the mountains and tucked away behind the lush palm tree oasis.

Surprisingly, some of these houses are still inhabited by people while many of them are also completely abandoned. Al Hamra reminded me of Yemeni village- mysterious little streets and multistorey clay buildings with colorful doors. Some of the houses are in better shape than others. In general, the ruins of Al Hamra village are around 700-1000 years old.

Wandering around this mysterious place is easily one of the best unique things to do in Oman!

If you have extra time, make sure to visit Bait al Safah- a living Omani history museum . I read about it online, and it seems to be an interesting place to learn more about traditional Omani life (will have to come back for it next time).

Photography Tip: As the sun is about to set, the village glows in the golden light- this is by far the best time to photograph Al Hamra’s abandoned village.

Important Note: Be careful when going inside abandoned houses, especially climbing staircases and rooftops as those are crumbling down and may be dangerous.

GPS location: The Ruins In Al Hamra Oman  N23º 07’ 14.542” E57º 16’ 59.048”.

Travel back in time to the mountain mud village of Misfat Al Abriyeen

Set at 1000 meters above sea level atop of massive rocks of Al Hajar mountains, Misfat Al Abriyeen, is said to be one of the most beautiful ancient villages in Oman .

Seamlessly blending into the backdrop of the mountain, Misfat offers a quiet hideaway and unparalleled authentic experience. By far, this was my favorite overnight stop!

If you wondering where did we stay, Misfat’s community is currently welcoming visitors for overnight stays in several traditional Omani mud-houses.

Things to do in Misfat Al Abriyeen

1. explore the maze of alleys of misfat village.

Since Misfat is a pedestrian-only village, it is a perfect place to slowly explore its shaded old streets and hidden corners. Once at the heart of the village, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time.

2. Follow Falaj- and the ancient irrigation system

Explore the green terraces at the bottom of the village by following Falaj. There are signs of yellow red and white flags marking the walking routes around the terraces that you can follow. Even if you do not stick to the marking, the area is small enough, and surely you will manage to find your way around and back to the village.

3. Drink specialty coffee at the terrace of Halwa Coffee shop.

Misfat has perfectly adapted to tourism and even introduced a fantastic quality coffee for its visitors. There are a couple of specialty coffee shops that serve delicious hot and cold coffee (including traditional Omani qahwa ). One place that really stands out due to its fantastic location is Halwa Coffee. Situated in an old building atop a high rock, Halwa Coffee shop has an amazing terrace with views overlooking part of the new and old Misfat and green mountain terraces.

4. Go on a hike following the marked trails in the area

Misfat is a great base for a few moderate hikes into the Hajar mountains. You can find trail maps at the visitor’s center. One of the popular routes that you can take is the W9 trail, which will lead you along the wadi. All the trails are marked with red white and yellow flag labels.

Parking and Logistics Tip: Misfat is a tiny pedestrian-only village. Therefore, leave your car at the designated parking area for visitors, and explore the town on foot. Note that if you are spending a night in Misfat, you can’t drive to the homestay doors. You will have to leave heavy suitcases in your car and pack only essentials for the day.

Where to stay in Misfat

I have followed recommendations by other travelers and chose to stay at Misfah Old House – a traditional homestay with welcoming Omani owners. Now I am joining the tribe and highly recommend staying at this place as well.

Not only did we have a chance to stay in an authentic Omani room, but also had a fantastic dinner and breakfast served on a delightful terrace overlooking the oasis and mountains. The food in Misfat Old House was a homemade mix of meat, fish, and vegetarian options. It was by far one of the best places we ate in Oman (on a side note, on this trip we struggled to find good places to eat).

DAY 5: Morning in Misfat- Jibreen Castle-Birkat Al Mouz – Nizwa (overnight in Nizwa)

• Total driving distance: approx. 120 KM
• Total driving time: approx. 1 HR 50 MIN
• Recommended stops: Bahla Fort, Jabreen Castle, Birkat Al Mouz

Waking up to the ripple of Falaj in a centuries-old Omani house, then having a heartful breakfast in an airy terrace, followed by a slow stroll across the lush terraces and wandering the maze of shaded narrow streets of  Misfat town was a perfect start to the day.

The next exciting stop was ancient forts and castles which are plentiful in Oman. Each of them is impressive in its own way. Therefore, you can spend hours wandering around the courtyards and maze of rooms.

Stop at Bahla Military Fort

30 minutes drive from Misfat Al Abriyeen, UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort is a worthy stop that is also out of tourist radar compared to the more famous neighbor – Nizwa Fort. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it is one of the oldest and biggest military forts in Oman.

We admired Bahla Fort from the outside, as we had time to visit only one fort for the day. We chose to explore even less visited Jibreen Castle, which is 15 minutes drive from Bahla Fort.

Get acquainted with royalty living by visiting Jibreen Castle

Built in 1675 by Imam Bil-Arab Bin Sultan, Jibreen (Jabrin) Castle is one of the best-preserved whimsical battlements. Formerly an important learning center of astrology, medicine, and Islamic law, today Jibreen is welcoming curious travelers to wander its impressive exteriors and interiors.

We spent around 2-3 hours admiring the ever-changing shadow and light combinations casting over the beautiful castle’s architecture. We were enjoying ourselves taking pictures and checking out some of the 50 rooms inside the castle.

The minimalistic yet rich interiors with elaborately painted ceilings, old date store, and beautiful bird-eye views opening up from the latticed window courtyard on the rooftop of the castle- are some of the interesting features of this historical structure.

• Opening Times: Daily, 7:30 AM- 10 PM.
• Entrance Fee: 3 OMR

Watch the sunset at Birkat Al Mouz’s abandoned watchtower

You may think that you had enough of the mud houses for the past couple of days, but I am so glad we made our way to Birkat Al Mouz- another fantastic completely off-the-beaten path abandoned village. Birkat Al Mouz ruins although often overlooked by tourists were one of my favorite spots on our Oman road trip .

It takes only 30 minutes to drive to Birkat al Mouz from Jibreen castle. We reached the mud village just before sunset. With not much time left to explore we rushed up to the ruins of an old watchtower. Panoramic views opening up from the top of the abandoned villages were incredible during sunset time. Since the positioning of Birkat Al Mouz is similar to Al Hamra, we got the best light painting of the settlement in rich orange hues.

Top Tip: There are 2 interesting old places to explore in Birkat Al Mouz. One of them is marked on Google Maps as Birkat Al Mouz Ruin and the other Harat Burj Al Maqaseer. The distance between them is only 300 meters. However, we arrived late and only had time to explore the ruins. Make sure to leave more time to check them both out.

• Recommended accommodation in Birkat Al Mouz (30 minutes from Nizwa)
• Bait Al Sabah Heritage Inn & Cafe – set between the ruins of ages-old Birkat Al Mouz mud village, this is a renovated cozy hotel with a fantastic coffee shop and a beautiful terrace overlooking the mysterious abandoned town.

DAY 6: Nizwa- Nakhal Fort- Muscat (overnight in Muscat)

• Total driving distance: approx. 275 KM
• Total driving time: approx. 3 HRS 15 MIN
• Recommended stops : Nakhal Fort (or full Rustaq Loop).

Today is the time to explore the most famous fort in the country- Nozwa Fort and then head back to Muscat. Depending on your energy and appetite for visiting more forts, on the way to Muscat, I recommend a detour to Nakhal fort. If you have a serious thing for forts, you can even do a Rustaq Loop (more on that later).

Nizwa, Oman

Nizwa town is known to be one of the most popular places to visit in Northern Oman. Backed by craggy Hajar mountains, its prominent landmarks and highlights are a cylindrical-shaped Nizwa Fort with adjoining vibrant Souq.

Although quite well-known, Nizwa ended up being a nice addition to our Oman road trip route. It wasn’t as busy as expected from a popular location, which made our experience very pleasant.

Conquer Nizwa Fort- the most famous fortification in Oman

Nizwa Fort- the country’s most famous fort-was built back in the 17 th century. Its main function back in the day was to protect Nizwa’s position on a major trade route.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering inside the Fort and enjoying its architecture. Thus, set aside enough time- at least 2 hours.

A common perk of each castle and fort, with no exception for Nizwa Fort, is beautiful bird-eye views of the surrounding town and mountains.

• Opening hours: Saturdays to Thursdays: 8 am – 8 pm / Fridays: 8 am – 11:30 am, 1:30 pm – 8:00 pm.
• Entrace fees: 5 OMR ($13 USD) for adults / 3 OMR ($8 USD) for children.

Wander Oman’s oldest market- Nizwa Souq

Just outside Nizwa Fort, you will find a vibrant marketplace filled with all sorts of handicrafts, antiques, and textiles with traditional pottery being the main sales item. There is also a section selling a variety of dates, and even livestock of goats every Friday. Nizwa Souq is Oman’s oldest market and is a fantastic place for buying souvenirs or just taking fun travel pictures.

Tip for souvenirs and takeaways : I recommend trying Omani halwa- my absolute Omani sweet made from dates. Also, if you love the smell of Oman- this is a perfect place to buy some frankincense. Make sure you also pick up an incense burner.

• Opening hours: Saturdays to Thursdays: 6 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 10 pm / Fridays: 5 am – 11 am

Nakhal Fort and Rustaq Loop

On the way back to Muscat, if you are still craving more impressive Oman forts, make a detour to Nakhal Fort.

Nakhal Fort is less known than Nizwa but it is just as stunning. It also offers excellent views of Al Batinah Plains from the ramparts. Spare around an hour for visiting Nakhal fort.

• Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday (9 am to 4 pm) and Friday (8 am to 11 am).

You can also extend your forts list and complete Rustaq Loop by adding two more of Oman’s finest forts. One is Rustaq Fort which is 50 minutes west of Nakhla Fort in Rustaq town. Rustaq fort is one of the biggest and oldest fortifications in Oman. Needless to say, architecture is as always impressive.

Only 20 min east of Rustaq stands firm a military castle called Al-Hazm. Not as impressive from exteriors as its more photogenic neighbors, Al-Hazm is said to have one of the best expositions.

Top Tip: It could be a challenge to knock out 3 or 4 forts on a day trip (but it is possible). Budget at least 1-2 hours for each of them.

Where to Stay In Nizwa

• Nizwa Accommodation suggestions
• Heritage Inn Nizwa – a beautiful hotel in a traditional rustic Omani house, 100 meters from Nizwa Souq and 400 meters from Nizwa Fort.
• Omani Guest House – steps away from Nizwa fort in an old quarter of the town this amazing traditional Omani house offers fantastic hospitality, and also a beautiful terrace overlooking the town.
• Antique Inn – decorated in traditional Omani style, this hotel offers a beautiful garden area and an outdoor pool. Located just 200 meters from Nizwa Fort, and 400 meters from the Souq.
• Date Palm Inn – a more contemporary lodging compared to the ones above but still with lots of authentic elements and a cozy garden.

DAY 7: MUSCAT

If you are flying out from Muscat , adding a relaxed day in the capital to finish your Oman trip is the best way to go.

Depending on your flight time, finish up your trip with some of the activities listed on Day 1.

This was my suggested one-week Oman itinerary. I hope you will love it and will end up being just as awestruck and in love with Oman as I am!

Have more than a week for Oman? Fantastic! Below are my suggested extended routes for your Oman trip.

Extended Oman Road Trip Routes: Alternative 10-Day and 14-Day Itineraries for traveling in Oman

If you have some extra time on your sleeve, here are suggested itineraries to prolong your stay in Oman. Also, some of the must-visit places mentioned below require 4WD. Therefore, I would strongly recommend either hiring a 4-wheel ride either for the whole trip (note that car rentals are available in Muscat), or getting a driver from Nizwa for visiting those remote locations.

10-DAY Oman Itinerary

Here are 2 options for the suggested 10 days in Oman itinerary.

• 10-DAY ROUTE 1
• DAY 1-6: Same as above (day 6- overnight in Al Hamra, possibly skip Nakhal)
• DAY 7: JEBEL SHAMS BALCONY HIKE (4WD required)
• DAY 8: JEBEL AKDHAR (4WD required)
• DAY 9: BALD AL SAYT AND WAKAN MOUNTAIN VILLAGES (4WD required)
• DAY 10: MUSCAT
• 10-DAY ROUTE 2
• DAY 1-6: Same as above (overnight in Nakhal)
• DAY 7: BALD AL SAYD AND WAKAN MOUNTAIN VILLAGES (overnight in Nakhal)
• DAY 8-9: MUSANDAM (6 HRS drive from Muscat includes UAE border crossing, or 1 HR flight from Muscat)

14-DAY Oman Itinerary Suggestion

• 14-DAY ROUTE 1
• DAY 8: BALD SAYT and WAKAN MOUNTAIN VILLAGES (4WD required)-NAKHAL
• DAY 9-10: NAKHAL-JEBEL AKHDAR
• DAY 11-13: JEBEL AKHDAR- MUSANDAM (6.5 HRS drive from Jebel Akhdar includes UAE border crossing or 1 HR flight from Muscat)
• DAY 14: MUSCAT
• 14-DAY ROUTE 2
• DAY 7: JEBEL AKHDAR (4WD required)
• DAY 8-11: MUSCAT- SALALAH -MUSCAT (1 HR flight from Muscat or 9 HRS drive from Muscat/11 HRS drive from Jebel Akhdar, 4WD required)
• DAY 12-13: MUSCAT-MUSANDAM (6 HRS drive from Muscat includes UAE border crossing or 1 HR flight from Muscat)

More about suggested alternative road trip locations in Oman

Jebel shams balcony hike- visit the grand canyon of oman.

Jebel Shams is the highest mountain peak in Oman reaching 3000 meters above sea level, located north of Al Hamra town. It is a fantastic place to experience nature and go on a hike scaling some of the highest altitudes in the country. The most well know easy-level hike suitable for beginners is Balcony Walk marked as a W6 trail.

The Jebel Shams Balcony walk is a 4km hike with elevation gain and loss of 200 meters, starting at 1700m and reaching up to 1900 m. Note that this one-way (return same way -total 8km) hike requires around 3-4 hours to complete. This hike offers beautiful views of the so-called Oman Grand Canyons.

Jebel Akhdar- the Green Mountain of Oman

The green mountain- Al Jebel Al Akhdar peaking at 2900 meters above sea level is part of the mighty Hajar mountain range . To drive the winding mountain road leading to the peak you must have a 4WD as it is not safe going in a regular car. Moreover, you will be stopped at the checkpoint at the bottom of the mountain to ensure you have the right car, otherwise, the security won’t let you pass.

Jebel Akhdar features some of the most stunning mountain views in the country and is also home to a few finest luxury hotels if you want to treat yourself to an extraordinary staycation. Here are some of the most impressive ones:

• Alila Jabal Akhdar:  This 5-star luxury resort lies at the heart of the Al Hajar mountain range. Needless to say- it offers luxury at its highest level.
• Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort:   The famous Anantara never disappoints. This is one of their most impressive resorts with mindblowing mountain views. If you are ready to splurge on a hotel – one of these two might be the best ones in all of Oman to do so!
• Sahab Resort and Spa, Jabal Al Akhdar:   A lower-priced but still high-end mountaintop hotel.

Top Tip 1: If you are staying at one of the luxury resorts in Jebel Al Alhdar, the hotel can organize your pick-up. This way you can visit green mountain without renting a 4WD!

Top Tip 2: Bring warm clothes- it gets quite chilly in the mountains even during the hotter months in Oman.

Mountain Villages: Bald Sayt and Wakan, Oman

Bald Sayt and Wakan are remote mountain villages located not far away from Misfat Al Abriyeen. Those traditional Omani villages are perfect for those of you craving a true off the beaten path experience.

Bald Sayt (Bilad Sayd) is even referred to as a Burano of Oman due to its colorful houses. While Wakan is famous for blooming apricot flowers (seasonal) which makes it adds a nice additional experience when visiting this village.

Note that none of the mountain villages have guesthouses. Thus, you would have to visit them on a day trip from Nakhal/AlRustaq area, or Al Hamra.

Important Note: Again, you will require a 4WD to reach the villages because roads are unpaved and bumpy. Moreover, those are narrow and steep mountain roads. Therefore, good driving skills are required. It is also possible to hire a driver from Nizwa, Al Hamra, or Nakhal.

Musandam Peninsula- The Fjords of the Middle East

Musandam is an exclave governorate of Oman located up North of the United Arab Emirates border. That being said, the Musandam Peninsula is completely separated from Oman’s mainland by the UAE.

Khasab – the capital town of Musandam governorate is known to be one of the most beautiful places In Oman . The spectacular landscape of Musandam is often referred to as the Norway of the Middle East.

To reach Khasab town takes 6 hours drive from Muscat via UAE, or around 3 hours drive from Dubai, UAE. Alternatively, there are daily 1 HR flights from Muscat to Musandam.

RELATED READS: Planing on going from Dubai to Musandam? Here is my detailed Musandam Travel Guide which includes border procedures and the best things to do in Musandam for a day, two, or more. Click HERE to read it.

Salalah- The Tropics of the Middle East

Capital of the southern Dhofar province, Salalah is located at the Oman-Yemen border around 1,000km from Muscat. Salalah is a different world on its own best known for its monsoon (Khareef) season which totally transforms dry desert landscape into a green subtropical paradise .

Monsoons in Salalah start around June and last until late August. This time is considered to be the best for visiting Dhofar province. Therefore, if you happen to be traveling to Oman during the summer months, you must include Salalah in your itinerary.

The fastest way to get to Salalah is to jump into 1 HR flight from Muscat. Otherwise, driving from the capital takes around 9 HRS, and even longer if you are coming from the UAE.

• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my  Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Salalah route with my  Ultimate Salalah Itinerary: the best things to do in Dhofar region, Oman.

I hope you are enjoying my free travel guides & tips. If yes, please consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee so I can continue creating more useful content from my favorite coffee shop in town. Thanks!

Oman travel essentials & useful links

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

Other Oman travel resources:

• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Starting your Oman journey in Oman’s capital Muscat? Here are  The best things to do in Muscat: itinerary for 1-3 days .
• Traveling from UAE to Oman by road or vice versa? Check useful information about UAE-Oman land border crossing using this guide .
• Plan your visit to Wadi Shab-one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Oman .
• Plan your visit to Musandam with my detailed Musandam from Dubai road trip guide.

MY 7-DAY OMAN PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

• Photo and video camera: Mirrorless Nikon Z6
• Main lens: Nikkor Z 24-70 mm f/4
• Wide-angle lens: Nikkor Z 14-30 mm f/4
• Drone: DJI Air 2s
• Pocket-sized camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
• Small Tripod: Gorilla Pod
• Travel tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)
• Photo and Video Editing software: Adobe Photoshop , Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Premier Pro

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Muscat, Oman

The historic city of Muscat is diverse, with loads of ancient edifices and modern buildings. It is a perfect blend of old and new. From the masterful contemporary Opera House to the 400-year-old Mutrah Fort, the city offers a mixed array of architecture for history buffs and the like to devour. It offers pristine beaches, decadent dining offerings, and a host of activities to learn about Omani culture. An eclectic mix of Arabian adventures and stunning treasures awaits travelers during a visit to Muscat.

Stopover at Mutrah Fort

Mutrah Fort sits on top of a rocky, narrow hill overlooking the Sultan Qaboos Tourism Port. Visiting the fort is a rite of passage for any tourist visiting Muscat. Its comprised of three circular towers, which still hold old cannons that were used for protection in the past. Visitors can also enter the castle located at the fort during the week. It can be reached via Mutrah Souq towards the office of Wali Mutrah, and then turning right towards the fort.

See a Show at the Royal Opera House Muscat

The contemporary Royal Oman Opera House Muscat was the brainchild of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The Opera House serves as the main focal point of cultural exchange to Oman. It hosts diverse artistic performances and educational programs. From the iconic American jazz artist Chick Korea to the annual military music concert that takes place in celebration of Oman’s National Day, the Royal Opera House is a fantastic architectural marvel to enjoy.

Find Treasures at Mutrah Souk

Once the local trading place for merchants before they set sail to the China and India trade routes, Mutrah Souk is now one of Muscat’s top market places. Visitors can barter for Arabian gems, including dazzling antiques, traditional Omani clothes like dishdashas, and its famed silver jewelry. Don’t leave the market without purchasing or eyeing a traditional Omani Khanjar dagger, which is still worn by men for ceremonial occasions. It is located near the Mutrah Fort.

Dine at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is set near a rural mountainside and the glistening Gulf of Oman. It has several romantic and family-friendly settings for not only relaxing but dining. Bait Al Bahr offers fresh seafood by the Gulf of Oman. Decadent choices include a mixed seafood platter of grilled lobster, prawns, and kingfish. If you’re interested in a more traditional Omani setting, then Al Tanoor, located at the Al Bandar Hotel on the Shangri-La complex, is the choice for you. It offers live cooking stations and an Arabian tent backdrop.

Visit Al Alam Palace

Coined the “Flag Palace,” Al Alam Palace is located in the center of Old Muscat. It is one of the six royal residences and the ceremonial palace of His Majesty the Sultan. While the palace is not open to tourists, the sparkling blue and gold structure is worth visiting to take a stroll on the palace grounds and snap a few pictures.  Neighboring government buildings include the Ministry of Finance and the National Museum, which is located across the road.

Stroll Through the Oman National Museum

Ekrem Canli / CC BY-SA / Wikimedia Commons

As the flagship cultural center of Oman, the Oman National Museum is the foremost place to visit to take a peek into Omani heritage. Opened in 2016, the museum faces the Al Alam Palace, and in its own right, has a grand design that fits its surroundings. It offers state-of-the-art conservation facilities, a UHD cinema, more than 7,000 objects, 33 immersive digital experiences, and discovery areas for children. 

Drop by the Beach

Muscat is home to stunning beaches for you to lounge by or take a walk along. Located on the northern coast, Shatti Al Qurum is the most famous beach in the region. It is near the upscale Diplomatic District, which you can’t miss with the glistening white buildings and country flags from around the globe flowing in the wind. Smoke shisha overlooking the beach at one of the cafes along the path or dine at the Crown Plaza. The white sandy Sifah Beach, located on the eastern coast of Muscat, is another favorite of locals and ex-pats alike. It’s great for camping or a day visit.

Toast to the Good Life

Muscat offers a range of bars for the party-goers to indulge in masterful cocktails. The world-famous Polynesian lounge  Trader Vic’s sits adjacent to the Intercontinental Hotel. Who doesn’t enjoy a drink that comes in a coconut? Another stand-out is Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, located in the W Hotel . The pool lifestyle concept offers an outstanding backdrop of a sunken bar and infinity pool for relishing a finely mixed cocktail.

Observe Culture at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The most iconic landmark in all of Muscat is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque . The Mosque holds up to 20,000 worshippers and covers around 416,000 square meters. It also houses a library that contains 20,000 reference volumes in science, Islamic culture, and a mesmerizing chandelier, which is one of the largest in the world.  Non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque every day, except on Fridays, from 8:30 until 11 a.m. It’s imperative to dress modestly as well; women should cover their heads.

Enjoy Fine Dining

Courtesy of The Chedi

The dining scene in Muscat is made up of a mix of Omani traditional cuisine and delicacies from around the world. Ubhar restaurant prides itself on providing the highest level of Omani hospitality and culture. With its modern design and fusion of Omani dishes, Ubhar delivers a great option from more conventional restaurants. Next, with a name like The Restaurant, located in The Chedi hotel, it undoubtedly stands on its own merit. The Restaurant provides the most elegant setting, with its crystal chandelier-lit dining room and commanding bay windows—delight upon your choice of Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, or western cuisine.

Cruise on an Omani Dhow

A dhow is a traditional Arabian wooden boat, which dates back to being used through the generations in Oman. The spectacular vessels are available for sunset cruises, dinner cruises, or even private charters for tourists. Dhows generally pass top tourist locations like the Sultan Palace, Al Bustan Palace , a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, and Qantab. Several tour operators are available from Muscat Yacht Club, located at Marina Bander Al Rouda.

Eat Traditional Food at Bait Al Luban

Anthony Bourdain put the famed  Bait Al Luban  restaurant on the map after he visited Oman. ‘Al Luban’ translates to frankincense, which is a source of kindness and soothing atmosphere in Omani culture. Bait Al Luban offers an assortment of traditional Omani foods, including shuwa, a unique Omani specialty of meat slathered in a copious blend of oil and spices, wrapped in palm leaves, and cooked over hot flames underground for hours.

Snorkel in the Arabian Sea

With a host of pristine beaches to choose from, Muscat is a prime snorkeling destination for water enthusiasts. Coral Ocean Tours offers half-day trips where you can experience not only snorkeling with sea creatures but also a bit of dolphin watching! Oman is an emerging snorkeling destination, becoming one of the top choices in the world.

Shop 'til You Drop

One thing Muscat does not fall short of is shopping mall options. Oman Avenues Mall is one of the largest malls in Oman, composed of more than 72,000 square miles. It is made up of 150 international and regional brand shops, as well as having a gym, cinema, children’s entertainment center, and a bowling alley. If you don’t get enough of your shopping fix at Oman Avenues Mall, then head to one of the oldest malls in Muscat, City Centre Muscat . It is home to more than 220 international lifestyle brands, 24 international dining outlets such as Nando’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, as well as 10-screen VOX Cinemas, the largest in Oman.

Behold Bait Al Zubair Museum

Opened in 1998, Bait Al Zubair is one of the first heritage and cultural centers in Muscat. It houses one of the largest permanent art collections and artifacts in the country. The immaculate building is a sight to see, as it was one of the first recipients of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’ Award for Architectural Excellence. It is made up of six separate buildings, a garden with a miniature Omani village, and an aflaj irrigation system (an ancient Omani water channel). 

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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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