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.

17 of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Oman – from the desert to the fjords to the palm-clad beaches, and everywhere in between!

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

A man swims through Wadi Bani Khalid 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

Desert dunes at dusk in Oman.

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

A mosaic roof inside the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat.

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’

A dramatic landscape of mountains and cliffs, with a winding road leading to a blue bay.

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

An Omani flag stands on one of the Al Daymaniyat Islands 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

A man walks up a staircase along the side of Nizwa Fort.

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

A blue sinkhole with a set of stairs running down to the water.

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

Crystal blue waters in Wadi Shab, Oman.

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

A restaurant with red tablecloths and a view out to a palm grove in Misfat Al Abriyeen, Oman.

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

Oman's majestic Al Hajar mountains, with Jebel Shams as its highest peak.

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’

Villages and terraces in  a valley near Oman's Jebel Akhdar 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

Green terraces and mud houses in Bald Sayt, Oman.

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

A beautiful white city on the coast.

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

A large turtle makes its way down the beach in Oman.

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

A beautiful sand-coloured fortress in Oman.

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

Part of a ruined wooden dhow boat emerges from the sand on Masirah Island in Oman.

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

A beach lined with palm trees in Oman.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan your visit to Oman

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

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

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

5 things to pack for Oman

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

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Places To Visit in Oman

Here are the top 17 tourist places in oman.

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1 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 17 Tourist attractions

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

21 best things to do in Muscat (Oman) + Map

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover the 21+ best things to do in Muscat,  Oman to help you plan your itinerary!  All the amazing  places to visit in Muscat to choose from, depending on what you like: architecture, history, water, nature… A complete guide to plan your visit to Muscat with map, tips, photos and day trips. 

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

places to visit in oman near me

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

  • Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
  • Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
  • Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
  • Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

Things to do in Muscat Oman Travel - Places to visit in Muscat sightseeing

Best things to do in Muscat – Short answer

In the article below, I am describing all my favorite things to do in Muscat in terms of Architecture, Nature, culture…

But if you want a short answer, I think the top 3 Must-do in Muscat Oman are:

  • Touring the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
  • Exploring the old town in the Muttrah area with the Souq and fish market
  • Hiking in the hills to see the unique city from a higher viewpoint

Best things to do in Muscat - attractions

VIDEO: one day in Muscat

And before I develop, you can watch this short video to give you a feel of what you could see in Muscat in just one day:

Some of those places to see in Muscat even made my list of top things to do in Oman !

More ideas and photos after the planning tips.

Where to stay in Muscat & Where to go – Map & Tips

Tourism map of muscat, oman.

It is not so easy to get oriented in the Capital City and find all the places to see in Muscat. The city is spread and separated by hills. To help you, I have drawn a map and collected information about transport options.

Below is a map I draw with the various touristic areas of Muscat and the main things to do in each.

Muscat Tourist Map

Find all my favorite places (with GPS coordinates, tips and maps) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Oman road trip :

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

eBook Slovenia

  • 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
  • 190+ pre-selected locations
  • Tips to make the most of your time
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
  • 100+ original photos to help you choose

How long to visit Muscat

Here are a few points to keep in mind when planning your trip to Muscat Oman.

  • Several attractions in Muscat are only open in the morning
  • The city is scattered
  • I recommend staying at least 2 days to explore the city (hotel recommendation later in the article)

Best areas to stay in Muscat

You can stay near:

  • Al Qurum beach to enjoy evening walks on the sands,
  • or in Muttrah for more traditional restaurant and experience 
  • The cheaper options are in the Ruwi area.

Where to stay in Muscat - Muscat Airbnb

Muscat Hotel suggestions

  • PRACTICAL  – The  Coral Muscat Hotel and Apartments  is a great location for a base with spacious facilities and with an apartment you can have more freedom –  Check out photos and book
  • MODERN & GOOD VALUE  – The  Centara MuscatHotel is not near the beach so has good value deals with really good accommodations –  Check out photos and prices
  • LUXURY  and CHARM – Located by the beach,  The Chedi Muscat  is displays Sumptuous decor and a unique atmosphere – it brings the local architecture styles with modern concept –  Check out photos and prices
  • The WELL KNOWN BRAND  – The  Grand Hyatt Muscat  has a great location by the beach and all the facilities you could need –  Check out photos and prices
  • CHEAPER OPTION BY THE BEACH  – The  Al Ferdous apartments  offer a great price alternative for those you still want to stay very close to the beach –  Check out photos and prices
  • or  Check out the best rated accommodations in Muscat

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

  • Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
  • Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
  • Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
  • Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
  • Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
  • Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

places to visit in oman near me

ARCHITECTURAL TOP 3 – What to see in Muscat

#1 – sultan qaboos grand mosque.

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

If there is one place to visit in Muscat, it is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is an architectural masterpiece both from the outside and from the inside. It is the absolute top thing to do in Muscat.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque  article.

#2 – Royal Opera House Muscat

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Royal Opera House

Another recent building in Muscat is the Royal Opera House. With handcrafted decors all around, you might not even notice how technical the building is, but is it also a masterpiece in that sense. This is why the Opera is one of the main places to visit in Muscat either as a tourist or for a performance.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Royal Opera House article .

#3 – Forts and Palace

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Forts and Palace

The heart of Muscat is around the Sultan’s Qasr Al Alam palace and the two 16th century Portuguese forts of Al Jilali and Al Mirani. They are not open to the public, but you can admire them from outside.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Forts and Palace article.

Other Mosques

There are many more mosques in Muscat. Most of them are not opened to the non-muslims. However, you can go to Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, well rated in trip advisor. 

BEACHES – 3 Muscat Beaches and water attractions

#4 – qurum beach.

Qurum beach (or by its full name Shatti al-Qurum) is the main beach in Muscat. It is a long stretch of Golden sand where locals come relax during the weekend. 

Water Activities in Muscat Oman: Qurum Beach

Inside Muscat, you can also find a small beach at Kalbuh, East of the old town corniche.

To find other Muscat beaches, you have to go a little out of town. You can enjoy: Qantab beach, Sifah beach, Bandar Jissah, Yiti beach…

#5 – Boat excursion to the Bandar Khayran Reserve or the coast

Water Activities in Muscat Oman: Boat Tour

Another great thing to do in Muscat is to discover the shores of the South by boat. From the Al Rowdha Marina, you can take 2 or 3-hour tours including dolphin watch, snorkeling, or just enjoying the work of erosion during daytime or at sunset.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Boat tours  article.

Or you can already book – see all boat tour options

#6 – Boat excursion to the Daymaniyat islands

And if you love snorkeling or diving, book a boat tour to the Daymaniyat islands. The rocky islets have turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Learn more in my article .

Or see Daymaniyat island tour options

Water Activities in Muscat Oman: Boat Tour

Need to rent a car in Oman?

  • Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
  • Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
  • Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

places to visit in oman near me

CULTURAL – 2 Muscat Attractions

There are many other attractions in Muscat you should consider. Some are touristic, others are less, but here there are:

#7 – Fish Market

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Fish market

If you want to glimpse at the life of Omani people, the Fish market is a must place to visit. Active early morning, you can see the boats arriving, the fish being sold and then prepared. It is one of my favorite activities in Muscat but wearing closed shoes!!!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Fish Market article.

#8 – Muscat old city and Souq

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Souq

Not far from the Fish Market, you can walk through the old city and the Souq, especially the gold section.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Corniche and Souq article .

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

places to visit in oman near me

NATURE – 4 highlights of Muscat Tourism

#9 – corniche.

Not far from the fish market, you can walk through the old town and the souk, especially the gold section. Next to the souk there is a long walking path along the water called The Corniche.

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Hiking view city

#10 – Muttrah – Riyam Hike – Unique thing to do in Muscat

Thing to do in Muscat, Oman: Hiking view city

If you want to move a little and capture some great views of the city, you can hike above Riyam. It is an original activity in Muscat to get away from the crowds. Discover many more photos and information to plan your hike in Muscat .

I think it is one of the most unique things to do in Muscat with the most scenic places.

#11 – Riyam Park

Thing to do in Muscat: Riyam Park

The Riyam park is great for a stroll. It includes 2 hills giving scenic views of mountains and the corniche. There are also a great playground for children.

In the photo, it is the green area under the Incense Burner Tower.

#12 – Qurum natural park & beach

Qurum Park & Beach Muscat Oman

Another classic is the Qurum Natural Park located in the Qurum residential area. A well-maintained park in the heart of the city. You can also drive in the hills behind the park for more views of Muscat.

MUSEUMS – 11 Places to visit in Muscat

When in Muscat and was not in the mood for museums, having just lost my brother . However, I have researched them intensively and collected a list of you. First some notes:

  • Raters on Tripadvisor have placed Bait Az-Zubair and the Armed Forces Museums in the list of top things to see in Muscat.
  • The National museum has now opened in its new building (since december 2015). Apparently it is really modern so it might make soon the top list.
  • As those museums do not have official websites, it is difficult to make sure you have the proper opening hours. I did my best, but cannot ensure those are correct.

And here is the list.

#13 – Armed Forces Museum

  • In Ruwi – Al Mujamma St
  • Weapons, clothing, instruments and defence systems
  • 8AM-1PM / 3PM-6PM

#14 – Bait Al Barandah Museum

  • In Mutrah – Al-Mina St
  • History of Muscat since its geological formation to the present
  • Sat-Thur: 9AM-1PM / 4PM-6PM

#15 – Bait Az-Zubair Museum

  • In Mutrah – Al Saidiya Street
  • Omani artefacts and collectables: weapons, jewellery, clothing, household item…
  • Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-6PM

#16 – Muscat Gate

  • In Mutrah – On Al Bahri Road
  • Oman’s history from the Neolithic times to the present + view of the Corniche
  • Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-11:30AM / 4:30PM-7PM

Gate Muscat Oman

#17 – Natural History Museum

  • In Al Khuwayr
  • In the Ministry of Heritage and Culture building – Oman’s geography and geology, flora and fauna
  • Sat-Thur: 8AM-1PM

#18 – National Museum

  • In the Center – Al Saidiya St
  • Oman culture – jewellery, crafts and Omani ships

#19 – Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre

  • In Al Qurum – Sayh Al Malih St
  • Processes of formation, exploitation and processing of how crude oil and natural gas
  • 7AM-12PM / 1PM – 4PM / Thur: 7AM-12PM

#20 – Omani Heritage Museum

  • In Al Alam Street
  • Relics of ancient civilizations: stone tombs, rock carvings, agricultural tools, stone necklaces…
  • 9:30AM-1:30PM / 5PM-7PM

#21 – Omani-French Museum

  • In Center – Qasr al-Alam St
  • History and documents related to the relationship between France and Oman 
  • 9AM-1PM most of the year + 4-7PM Oct to Mar

#22 – Planetarium

  • Planetarium
  • Sun – Thu: 8AM – 3PM

#23 – Currency Museum

  • In Ruwi – In the Central Bank of Oman
  • Succession of currencies circulated in the Sultanate of Oman, both paper and metal
  • Sat- Wed: 8:30AM -12:30PM

Muscat sightseeing – how to get around (transport options)

My experience of taxis in Oman was not really good. Mostly because they only knew the major sights, but not the streets. Apparently, they do that part time, so their knowledge of the city is limited. But if you drive only between major sights, airports and main hotels it should be ok.

You have to agree on the price beforehand. There is a plan to introduce meters, but it is not yet implemented… Between the various areas of the city it should not be more than 5 to 10 OR.

Driving in Muscat

Not really buses, the baisa buses are minivans not clearly marked. If you want to attempt it I recommend asking locals.

Tourist bus

Hop on Hop off Bus by BigBus – considering the spread of the city, it is quite practical. The first bus departs Mutrah Souq at 9am and buses depart every 30 minutes until 5pm (last return at Mutrah Souq at 6:45pm). Timings are subject to change, especially during Ramadan (and with Covid)

Driving in Muscat

I was really surprised how easy it is to drive in Muscat. The roads are in excellent conditions, people are courteous and calm. The old town is where sometimes there are traffic jams, but otherwise, I think it is a good solution. For more information, check out my article dedicating to Driving in Oman .

Organized tours / private guide

You can also join organized half day or day tours or book with a private guide . In that case, you just have to sit back, relax and follow the guide. For a full day private tour of the city, count 200 to 300 USD.

5 Day trips from Muscat

If you have some more days in Muscat but don’t want to go on a round trip one of the things to do in join a day trip. Many are possible and below is a selection of the best ones.

For guided day trips from Muscat, I wrote a dedicated article to help chose with my selection of the best destinations.

Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

Day trip from Muscat: Sinkhole and Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is one of my favorite locations in Oman. You can hike one hour through the canyon and finish by swimming. Absolutely stunning! If you have time this is a must do!

On the way back you can stop at the Sink hole; which is very easily accessed from the main road down to Sur. It is a hole in the ground filled with beautiful water and bordered by the sea on one side and mountains on the other.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip with dedicated articles to the Bimmah Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

See options & book

Jebel Shams

Day tour from Muscat - Jebel Shams

A classic among tourists stopping one day in Muscat on their cruise, is to get up to Jebel Shams, also known as the grand canyon of Oman.Discover many more photos and info to plan your trip in the Jebel Shams article.

See options and book

Day trip from Muscat: Nizwa

Nizwa is another large city in Oman. The drive will be 1h30min. In the center of the city, you can discover a beautiful Souq, the castle with many cultural displays and climb to the top of the fort for breathtaking views of the oasis. Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Nizwa fort and Nizwa Souq articles

See options

Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba sands

Day trip from Muscat: Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba Sands

If you don’t mind a longer day tour with a lot of driving, you can reach Wadi Bani Khalid and the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands. Plan 2h30 drive in each direction. Long, but it gives you 3 unique landscapes of Oman in one day: city, wadi and desert!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Wahiba Sands  and Wadi Bani Khalid articles

Book a day trip from Muscat or an overnight stay – see options

Rustaq Loop

Day trip from Muscat: Rustaq fort

For those who love forts and castles, it is a 1h30 min drive to reach Rustaq from Muscat. Do some better planning than me and don’t go on a Friday. I was there at prayer time, all the local men were going inside but I could not…

You can also do many day trips to the surrounding beaches along the North and South coast of the many but less known wadis everywhere. The list would be too long.

Off road / Off the beaten path

And if you are adventurous, there are also other places to discover in a 4WD: the plateau of Salmah and its tombs, the village of Wakan…

Holidays in Muscat – Itinerary (2, 4 days or more)

2 days in muscat.

If you have only 2 days in Muscat, I recommend staying in the city rather and going on day trips. There is much to experience:

  • Morning 1 –  explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
  • Afternoon 1 – Hike between Riyam and Mutrah – if you can’t head by car to the forts and palace and visit a museum
  • Morning 2 – explore the Mutrah Souq & Fish market
  • Afternoon 2 – enjoy a boat tour to see the town from the distance of relax at the beach

Oman itinerary 4 days – based in Muscat

If you are lucky enough to have a little more time, I recommend alternating days in the city and day trips

  • Day 1 – Grand Mosque and Hike
  • Day 2 – day trip to Wadi Shab
  • Day 3 – Mutrah Souq and boat tour
  • Day 4  day trip Wahiba Sands or to some forts depending on your interests

Oman itinerary – road trip

However, I think the best way to experience Oman is to go on a road trip and stay in different cities. If you are looking for a practical travel guide to help you plan your trip in Oman, check out my Travel Guide eBook:

Muscat FAQs

Is muscat worth visiting.

Absolutely. It is nothing like other capital cities. The white houses between the bare hilly landscapes are mesmerizing.

What is famous in Muscat?

The most famous buildings are the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Royal Opera.

Is it safe to travel to Muscat?

Muscat is overall, a safe city. It is a capital city, so always use common sense and typical protection behavior. Omani people are welcoming and open. As long as you are respectful, there is no issue.

What to wear in Muscat

Like everywhere in Oman, you should cover at least your shoulders and knees (women and men). Muscat is more relaxed, but I think it is always better to show respect for customs.

Is Muscat better than Dubai?

Both cities are so different, there is no way to compare. I prefer Muscat, but it is because I prefer Nature to shopping, and quiet places.

Want to see more of Oman?

  • Best Things to do in Oman – read article
  • Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
  • Where to stay in Oman –  read article
  • Best days trips from Muscat – read article
  • Planning a road trip in Oman – read article
  • Driving in Oman – read article
  • The impressive Wadi Shab – read article
  • The Bimmah Sinkhole – read article
  • The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Oman road trip journal

Want to see more of Oman’s beauty?

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Reader Interactions

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January 14, 2016 at 4:25 AM

This is amazing! My friend is on her honeymoon at the moment in Oman and I was curious as to why – after reading this now I know!

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January 14, 2016 at 12:59 PM

Ahah. When I was telling people where I was going, I had those who said ‘this is a country?’ and the others who were ‘what is there to see, desert?’. Yes Oman is beautiful and has a lot of variety. I hope your friend is having a great time. Thanks for your comment Laura.

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

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Greta's Travels

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

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

Admiring the views along the Jebel Shams balcony walk

Hiking 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

Hiking along the Jebel Shams Balcony Walk

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

Hiking in the Wadi Shab in Oman

Exploring the Wadi Shab, 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 in Oman

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

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

Views from the Wadi Bani Khalid before entering the actual canyon

Swimming in the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

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

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

The common and dining area of Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp

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

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 in Oman

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 rooftop of the Al Misfah guest house in Misfah Al Abrynn, Oman

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

Wandering around Nizwa Fort

The rooftops of 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 in Oman

Beautiful views over the Sur harbour

Walking along 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

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

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.

View this post on Instagram The #Musandam Peninsula is a Popular #Weekend Trip for #Expats in #Dubai, #UAE. Take a #Dhow Ride, #Mountain Safari, Overnight #Camping on Dhow Etc… #wow #nature#musandam #oman #roadtrip #family#familyweekend #familyfun #vacation #holiday #outdoors #khasab #peninsula #wanderlust A post shared by Dolphin Khasab Tours (@dolphinkhasabtours) on Apr 11, 2017 at 10:04pm PDT

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

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 beautifully decorated interior of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat

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 the Muscat harbour from Mutrah fort

The view over Muscat from Mutrah Fort, in Oman

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

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.

View this post on Instagram Take a seat, let the beauty of nature inspire you! 🌿🌿 #kargeen #muscat #oman #omanrestaurants #experienceoman #omantravel #traveloman #eatoutoman #weekend #nature #omani . 📷 @livetoeatbombay A post shared by Kargeen Restaurant مطعم كرجين (@kargeen) on Oct 31, 2019 at 6:29am PDT

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 in Oman

One of the turrets in Al Rustaq fort

The view from the walls Al Rustaq fort in Oman

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

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, Oman

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

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

Driving on the Hatt mountain road, Oman

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.

View this post on Instagram Una Green Turtle che torna in mare dopo aver deposto le sue uova⁣ سلحفاة خضراء تعود إلى البحر بعد وضع بيضها⁣ A Green Turtle returning to the sea after laying its eggs⁣ ⁣ 📷by @amicomensoli⁣ ⁣ ————————————————————⁣ #igtravel #instago #photooftheday #travel #travelgram #rasaljinz #oman A post shared by محمية رأس الجنز للسلاحف🇴🇲 (@rasaljinz_turtlereserve) on Dec 14, 2019 at 9:33pm PST

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

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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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]

Misfat al Abryeen

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]

Masirah Island

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]

Bahla

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]

Salalah

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

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]

Ras al Jinz

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]

Musandam Fjords

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]

Wahiba Sands

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]

Nizwa

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]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In Oman

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

Oman Map

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The 8 best places to visit in Oman: rugged mountains, seaside towns and culture-rich cities

Natasha Amar

Jan 9, 2022 • 9 min read

Photo taken in Muscat, Oman

Learn about Oman and its rich heritage in these top places to visit © Long Nguyen / Getty Images

Oman ’s vibrant cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the gifts of its terrain, and it permeates every travel experience here. 

The country’s stories are found everywhere you go, from the atmospheric lanes of Mutrah Souq in Muscat, where ornate khanjars (traditional daggers) and patterned kumma (headpiece worn by Omani men) showcase excellent craftsmanship and pride, to the cliffside villages of Jebel Akhdar where old men in sandals expertly navigate narrow farm trails and distill rose water in silver bowls. Every encounter in Oman evokes a strong sense of the land.

Few visitors realize that the history of the Sultanate of Oman dates back 10,000 years. Archeological finds and relics from the Neolithic period point to the presence of ancient settlements involved in the frankincense trade. In the 17th century, Omani control of maritime routes and ports extended from the coasts of Persia (present-day Iran) to East Africa. Today, the country is known for its reverence for its natural landscapes and its perfect balance of tradition and modernity. 

Here are the best places to visit in Oman. 

Muscat: an effortlessly charming capital city

In Muscat , stone forts with watchtowers and mansions with latticed balconies stand alongside low-rise buildings and contemporary architectural masterpieces, and it all fits together effortlessly. The capital of Oman has much to see, including charming museums in restored old houses, courtyard restaurants and swanky shopping malls. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque , with its arched walkways, colorful mosaic tiles, ornate dome and Swarovski-crystal-studded chandelier, is an impressive example of modern Islamic architecture. 

At the Royal Opera House , take a guided tour to learn about the contemporary architecture inspired by historical fortresses. Check the schedule for showtimes: the venue hosts renowned productions from around the world. The Royal Opera House’s dress code requires suits or dinner jackets for men, dresses below the knee for women and no jeans, T-shirts or tennis shoes. Admire whitewashed houses and blue-domed mosques along the 3km (1.9-mile) seafront promenade at Mutrah Corniche . Stroll toward Mutrah Fish Market for a closer look at the calligraphy-inspired slatted canopy roof and step inside to see the catch of the day. At Mutrah Souq , one of the oldest markets in the Arab world, you’ll find shops selling frankincense, lamps, local attire, pashminas, oud (perfume made from agarwood) and handmade sandals. 

A man and a child holding hands in silhouette are framed by a doorway in a large sand-colored fortress building

Bahla: home to a legendary fort

The fortified oasis town of Bahla, where local legends and myths abound, is a must-visit for Bahla Fort , a Unesco World Heritage Site. Within the labyrinthine fort complex, built between the 12th and 15th centuries by the Banu Nebhan tribe and then expanded by subsequent ruling dynasties, you’ll find wind towers, mosques, houses and wells. Legend has it the tribe asked jinn, powerful spirits in pre-Islamic Arabian mythology, to build the fort in a single night when the tribe was under threat of attack. The fort has fantastic views over old mud houses and ruins in the village, surrounded by date plantations. 

Bahla is also famous for pottery crafted using mud kilns, and local potters are believed to be blessed with particularly skilled hands. You can browse pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, rugs and other wares at the Bahla Old Souq , and you might also be able to see potters in action at a workshop nearby.

Don’t miss the 17th-century Jabreen Castle a short drive away, worth visiting for its many rooms and reception areas, intricately latticed windows, painted ceilings and a date storeroom.

Nizwa: a city with a strong religious and cultural heritage

Visit the town of Nizwa , the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, where the domes and minarets of mosques rise over sand-colored buildings surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Owing to its inland location (versus that of Muscat on the coast) that limited outside influences, Nizwa has always had a strong connection to its religious and cultural heritage.

The 17th-century Nizwa Fort , with its round watchtower and high walls, protected the town from invaders over the Sultanate’s history and is a major tourist sight. At the nearby Nizwa Souq , shop for silver jewelry, delal (traditional coffee pots), saffron, dates and spices.

A 10-minute drive away, Falaj Daris Park , a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a great spot to see a falaj channel, an ancient but highly efficient irrigation method. This one, among nearly a hundred others, waters Nizwa’s 8km (5-mile-long) palm oasis and surrounding agricultural farms. 

A man snorkels in front of a large wooden tourist boat in turquoise waters surrounded by sand-colored cliffs

Musandam Peninsula: where mountain peaks rise from the sea

The draw of the Musandam Peninsula is the sublime landscape of jagged peaks of the Hajar Mountains rising from the turquoise sea, leaving narrow inlets of water in between, a sight that has been compared to the fjords of Norway.

A boat trip on a traditional dhow (wooden boat) is the best way to experience the Musandam Peninsula, visiting islands and spotting a dolphin or whale in these waters. The town of Khasab is a good base from which to arrange a boat tour or snorkeling trip, or a mountain safari by 4WD to Jebel Harim . If you’ve got more time, other villages, wadis and fjord-like inlets such as Khor Najd are ready to be explored.

Jebel Akhdar: find cooler temperatures at Green Mountain

At 2980m (9777ft) up in the Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar – whose name translates to Green Mountain – is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. It’s also one of the coolest, with ​​the temperature being about 15°C (59°F) cooler than Muscat throughout the year. The mountain even sees some snowfall in winter. 

Around Jebel Akhdar, you’ll find quiet Omani villages (some abandoned), slopes covered with terraced farms watered by falaj channels and orchards of pomegranates, peaches, apples, apricots and walnuts. In the spring, Jebel Akhdar is covered by pink Damask roses. The distilled rose water is used in cooking and as a fragrance.

Walkers will find a few marked trails of varying difficulty, and some involve descending steep steps. Guided hikes are also available. From the Saiq Plateau, enjoy breathtaking views of the villages, and terraced farms. You can also traverse the mountain face using a via ferrata (mountain route) during a guided hike with Alila Jabal Akhdar .

A family group hiking along a rocky path in the edge of a canyon

Jebel Shams: remarkable views in the Hajar Mountains

Go to Jebel Shams , the country’s highest peak at 3009m (9872ft) in the Hajar Mountains, for a picnic on the plateau with dramatic canyon views. Hikers can head out on an adventure through the canyons of Wadi Ghul and Wadi Nakhr, surrounded by rugged limestone walls. The Balcony Walk is a five-hour hike on an old donkey trail, now marked, with remarkable views along the rim, that ends in the abandoned village of As Sab. Other trails bring you to villages, farms, date plantations and natural pools hidden among the rocky landscape. Local operators, such as Husaak Adventures , offer one- or two-day guided hikes to summit Jebel Shams. 

Sharqiya Sands: visit the undulating dunes of the desert 

No trip to Oman is complete without a visit to the desert. At Sharqiya Sands , also known locally as Wahiba Sands, you’re surrounded by undulating dunes and desert vegetation in a seemingly infinite landscape that feels like it was crafted out of gold when the sun is low in the sky. These wind-sculpted dunes, some as high as 100m (328ft), continue on into the famous Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts in the world.

While Bedouin (known in Arabic as Bedu, meaning desert dweller) still live and work here (many as guides), the Wahiba Sands are also popular with local families and tourists who come for a day trip or an overnight stay in one of many camps offering varying levels of luxury and amenities such as Thousand Nights Camp and Magic Camps . Staying overnight gives you the chance to experience the quietness of the desert after the day-trippers have left, partake in Bedouin traditions around a bonfire, feast on traditional dishes and stargaze in one of the most pristine landscapes in the region.  

A single figure stands on a sand dune staring off into the desert

Dhofar: a region rich in frankincense

From late June to early September, the khareef , the monsoon from the Indian Ocean brings a certain romance to the lush landscapes of Salalah . The pleasant weather makes it one of the best places to visit in Oman in summer, when temperatures elsewhere in the country can reach above 40°C (104°F) on the hottest days. This coastal city is an excellent base from which to explore the wider Dhofar region. 

Salalah has plenty of sights to visit. The Sultan Qaboos Mosque , the largest mosque in Dhofar with its two domes and twin minarets, is a great example of Islamic architecture, and it’s open to non-Muslims from 8am to 11am Saturday to Thursday. Make the obligatory photo stop outside Al Hosn Palace , the Sultan’s palace complex, before wandering into Al Hosn Souq to follow the aromas of spices and frankincense.

Join local families picnicking on the white-sand Al Mughsail Beach, and watch geysers of seawater erupt from the ground at the Mughsail Blowholes . The surrounding region is home to natural springs and wadis (valleys). At Wadi Darbat , a walk past monsoon-fed waterfalls and grazing cattle or a boat ride on Darbat Lake is a great way to see the rain-drenched valley.

Woven into the story of Dhofar is its rich heritage of frankincense, an aromatic resin harvested from the Boswellia sacra tree, which has been used to make perfume and medicine, and in religious rituals, for thousands of years. Dhofar was at the center of frankincense production, and its rare and highly prized frankincense was coveted from China to the Mediterranean and North Africa. 

To learn more, visit the Wadi Dawkah nature reserve where you’ll find hundreds of frankincense trees from which the resin is still harvested. At the archeological sites of Khor Rori, Al Baleed  and Ubar , the ruins of fortified medieval towns tell of frankincense-trading caravans and settlements. Together, these sites, some dating to the 4th century BCE, constitute the Unesco World Heritage Site known as the Land of Frankincense . 

The mountains of Jebel Samhan offer spectacular views and are home to a protected reserve with Arabian leopards, Arabian gazelles and other indigenous wildlife. 

You might also like: 10 must-see natural wonders in Oman    Underwater oasis: where to dive in Oman    Hiking, canyoning, climbing and more: finding adventure in the Middle East   

Oman is on our 2022 Best in Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations click here .

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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Home » Middle East » 14 BEST Places to Visit in Oman • TOP DESTINATIONS IN 2024

14 BEST Places to Visit in Oman • TOP DESTINATIONS IN 2024

Oh man, Oman! You absolute beauty. To this day, I still think about the time I spent traversing this magical land. And I KNOW you’ll probably want to do the same by the time you finish reading.

Stunning untouched beaches, twinkling turquoise-blue wadis, historical forts, more camels than you could ever count… Your Oman bucket list is bound to be hella’ full.

The only problem is, though relatively small, Oman almost has TOO much to offer. And with the ability to wild camp pretty much anywhere , it’s a playground for road trippers! And broke backpacking hitchhikers, of course. ?

While not yet a “touristy” country per se, there are certainly places and activities that are more popular than others. But I can assure you that Oman’s tourist places are still a delight!

Ultimately, Oman is an off the beaten path destination if ever there was one. And as a veteran offbeat traveler/backpacker, I can tell you that it pays to have good info in your pocket.

So let me be your guide! I’ve scoured the majesty of this country from top to bottom, and I’ve found the absolute BEST places to visit in Oman.

Book that ticket. Saddle that camel! It’s time for the trip of a lifetime.

Omani kids on camels go sightseeing in the desert

When is the Best Time to Visit Oman?

The 14 best places to visit in oman , summing up all of oman’s best places to visit.

While not strictly a country of four seasons, there is some diversity in Oman’s weather and temperatures. Plus it’s a desert, so it’s better to be prepared. Heatstrokes ain’t fun, people!

Oman’s winter runs roughly from December-March and is said by many to be the best time to visit Oman. You can expect temperatures between 17- 28ºC during the day.

If you want to travel to Salalah and avoid the monsoon, winter is the best time to do so as it’s the driest time in Oman’s most southern city.

Keep in mind that in December and January especially, it gets real cold  at night and isn’t exactly ideal for camping or water activities.

If you actually want to enjoy the incredible aquatic opportunities Oman has to offer, March-May is a good time to visit.

Daytime temps tend to be between 29-37ºC, so it’s the perfect season to hit Oman’s iconic beaches — some of the best places to visit in the country!

I visited Oman in July and while it was definitely hot, I still thoroughly enjoyed my trip.

The fact that virtually all of Oman’s tourist spots involved water definitely helped too!

But let’s be real, it was…toasty. Eating outside was unpleasant even at night, and doing activities that didn’t involve swimming wasn’t exactly ideal.

Temperatures ARE definitely cooler in Salalah from June-August, but keep in mind that means hella’ humidity and rain, too.

From September-November, Oman is extremely pleasant to visit.

Temperatures cool off yet still remain warm, and September is within peak turtle viewing time at Ras Al Jinz!

Budget backpacker or Arabian adventurer it matters not; the proverbial Pearl of Arabia has something for you!

Starting with a big hole…

places to visit in oman near me

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#1 – Bimmah Sinkhole – One of the most notable and interesting tourist places in Oman.

people swimming in Bimmah Sinkhole places to visit in oman

  • Close to Muscat.
  • Insanely blue/green water.
  • The perfect introduction to snorkeling and swimming in Oman.

We’re starting off the list of epic places in Oman with the Bimmah Sinkhole. Ever swam in a sinkhole? Yeah, I didn’t think so!

I hadn’t either before arriving in Oman and certainly haven’t since. So what’s all the hype about? 

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bimmah Sinkhole is the perfect first stop on your road trip through Oman (or hitchhiking escapade ) and it provides for a much-needed refresher from the heat — one of those Omani tourist spots you just can’t miss! The water is the perf temperature, and there are a ton of fish and other sea-life to enjoy.
  • What to do there: Swim, duh! You can bring lunch, too. The sinkhole is a natural depression created through erosion, but Omani legend says it was created by a meteorite. However it came to be, today it reaches 300 feet at its deepest point and is best enjoyed with some snorkeling gear. The park surrounding this epic Oman tourist spot opens daily at 8 AM. Get there early (or during off-season) to have it (and the nibbly fish that you’ll quickly become acquainted with) all to yourself!

#2 – Wadi Shab  – A magical natural wonder and my favorite place in Oman.

Wadi Shab oasis - one of the most visited attractions in Oman

  • It’s a waterfall inside a swimmable cave… need I say more?
  • A legit oasis in a desert.
  • (Warm) Waterfall… in a cave…

Out of everything I saw in Oman, Wadi Shab was THAT place. A place I still think about now, quite a few moons after leaving the Kingdom. Looking for the most beautiful place to visit in Oman? I believe this might be it.

  • Why it’s awesome: Where else on Earth are you going to get to swim up to a cave, and then get to experience a waterfall… in a cave? And did I mention the water was warm (and the waterfall and cave)?
  • What to do there: Chillax to the max. It takes about 45 minutes to hike to the main swimming area. Spend the entire day in the area soaking in the crystal clear water, and perhaps pair it with a picnic. The only mistake I made here was not bringing enough water (and at the time not having a filtered water bottle ). The waterfall portion of Wadi Shab is also fosho’ a place where you’ll regret not having a GoPro (or an awesome GoPro alternative ).

#3 – Salalah – Green, southern, and absolutely stunning.

places to visit in oman camels marching from the ocean

  • A lush, tropical desert paradise of a city.
  • Beaches, mountains, and plenty of fruit trees.
  • 10-hour drive from Muscat…

Not a desert person? Don’t worry — one of the best places to go in Oman is as green as green can be. Salalah is sweet and often overlooked by travelers due to its vast distance from most other tourist spots in Oman. Don’t be like them, Salalah IS indeed worth the drive!

  • Why it’s awesome: It’s a completely different vibe than the rest of the country. Often compared to India’s green state of Kerala, you can’t say you’ve seen all of Oman without visiting Salalah. And while it’s often said to avoid monsoons, you should do the opposite as far as Salalah is concerned! From June-August, the region is transformed into a full-on jungle paradise complete with pop-up waterfalls and streams. 
  • What to do there: There are a ton of places to visit in Salalah, including the Frankincense Land Museum where you’ll learn all about Oman’s iconic frankincense industry. You can also admire the gorgeous Qaboos Palace (named after longtime King Sultan Qaboos), check out Haffa (the old town), and if you’re lucky you can get fully culturally immersed at the Khareef Festival , celebrating the monsoon every summer. 

#4 – Wadi Bani Khalid  – A HUGE desert oasis that you just can’t miss when you visit Oman.

wadi bani khalid pool in oman

  • A vast swimming area.
  • Surrounded by villages and colorful plantations.
  • Basically, paradise.

Wadi Bani Khalid can be described as one hell of a sexy spot . A true paradise arising out of the desert. If you love swimming, cliff jumping, or just beautiful spots in general (duh), you can’t miss Wadi Bani Khalid when you visit Oman. 

  • Why it’s awesome: Wadi Bani Khalid literally pops out of nowhere. One minute it’s desert as far as the eye can see, and then BOOM! Wadi Bani Khalid appears like a knight in shining armour. It’s large, vast, and wide open, unlike Wadi Shab which is more narrow and requires a bit of trekking. Wadi Bani Khalid has waterfalls, multiple swimming areas AND you can visit the nearby local villages, too. 
  • What to do there: Swim, hike, enjoy the waterfalls, and just bask in the awesomeness of one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oman! I highly recommend bringing food: you’re definitely going to want to spend the whole day here.

#5 – Jebel Shams  – Oman’s best hike, hands down.

An epic lookout in Jebel Shams - a good place to go hiking in Oman

  • The most epic hike in Oman!
  • Mountains!!!
  • Viewz for dayz.

Most things to see in Oman do involve water, but you shouldn’t forget your hiking boots! The Jebel Shams canyon will allow you to feast your eyes on some truly unique scenery, including a 500-meter canyon drop. Make sure you leave any fear of heights at home!

  • Why it’s awesome: Literally translated to “mountain of the sun,” Jebel Shams is a part of the Al-Hajar Range. But what makes it so great is that its balcony walk (which has some dope-ass sunset/sunrise views) can be done by literally anyone. 
  • What to do there: The balcony walk is definitely one of the top things to do in Oman . You’ll drive to the top of the canyon and begin the walk, which is mostly flat. My fave part came at the end though, when you can take a dip in a waterfall! The hike is only 4km with a 200m elevation gain, but unless you want to wake up early, stay overnight in Misfat Al Abriyinn, the closest village.

#6 – Wahiba Sands  – One of the top things to see in Oman.

a camel crossing wahiba sands

  • Talk about a rare landscape!
  • Option to stay in Bedouin tents.
  • Insane sunsets.

Sick sunsets, sand, and the opportunity to get a feel for REAL nomadic life? Yep, sold! Wahiba Sands (now called Sharqiya Sands) is spread out over 5,000 sq miles. Need more?

  • Why it’s awesome: Few landscapes can match the feeling a desert gives… especially when an epic sunset is sinking into it. It’s also one of the best places in Oman to experience real Bedouin culture. Double win!
  • What to do there: Head up to the top of the dunes to watch the sun sink into the dunes before spending the night at a traditional-style tent camp. If you’re carrying your own backpacking tent , you can pitch that too, though I’d go for one of the rugged, traditional options here if I were you!

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#7 – Muscat  – The super-chill coastal capital of Oman.

A beautiful night photo of Oman's capital city Muscat

  • Oman’s pretty, aquatic capital.
  • Lots of cool things to do .
  • Ehhh , food.

Muscat is Oman’s chill capital that you’ll almost undoubtedly be starting your trip in. And lucky for you, because it’s not a bad place to start! Muscat is easily one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever seen, and it certainly wins the cool capital competition if there was ever one. Where else can you find a city that’s both on the water AND surrounded by rugged mountains? 

  • Why it’s awesome: Muscat’s tourist attractions are plentiful, its scenery stunning, and its easy access to nearby points of interest is certainly notable. You can find beautiful beaches in the city and nearby, too; one of my favorite places in all of Oman ended up being a fishing village less than 30 minutes from Muscat. Add in a ton of history and you’ve got yourself an ideal place to start your trip to Oman. 
  • What to do there: Out of all the places to visit in Muscat, it’s hard to pick the *best* thing to do. Stroll along the shimmering Gulf of Oman , admire the artistry of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque , shop til’ you drop at the Muttrah Souq , and check out the sultry sunset spot at the Muttrah Fort , which shows off one of the most iconic views in all of town.

#8 – Nizwa – A historical place to see in Oman.

nizwa oman fort upper view

  • Oman’s second-largest city.
  • Historical AF… like 6th century historical.
  • There’s an epic fort.

If you want to get a feel for an Omani city but find Muscat to be a basic bitch, then let me welcome you to Nizwa. Famous for its fort, Nizwa is also the perfect city for wandering and simply getting a feel for local life. It’s undoubtedly one of the top cities to visit in Oman. 

  • Why it’s awesome: Nizwa was the country’s flourishing capital in the 6th and 7th centuries and today remains one of the must see places in Oman thanks to its sexy, cylindrical-shaped 17th-century fort. The city also has a completely different vibe than Muscat: it’s a true desert oasis!
  • What to do there: Explore the Nizwa Fort, some parts of which date back to the 9th century! You should also check out the Nizwa Souq for a memorable shopping experience. It’s also a perfect place to pull out your travel camera for a bit of street photography!

#9 – Ras Al Jinz  – Visit Oman for ecotourism!

turtle entering the water in oman

  • Nesting place for the rare Green Turtle!
  • One of the ONLY places in the world where turtles lay eggs 365 days a year.
  • There’s a cute fishing village.

Ras Al Jinz is a small village at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula world-famous for its green turtle nesting grounds. Green turtles are endangered, and in 1996 the Sultan of Oman established the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Center to protect these precious habitats. 

  • Why it’s awesome: Where else in the world can you see turtles laying eggs every day of the year? Especially endangered ones! Ras Al Jinz is super unique, and it’s doing some excellent things in the name of ecotourism. 
  • What to do there: See both adult females lay eggs and newborn green turtles hatch, of course. This is one of the few places on Earth where you’re almost guaranteed to see both in one day. (And let me tell you, it’s magical! )

#10 – Musandam  – The Norway of Arabia.

A tourist cruise in Oman in the waters of Musandam

  • Surreal beaches and landscapes.
  • Kind of requires you to leave Oman?
  • Outdoor adventure paradise!

Yes, you read that right: the Musandam Peninsula isn’t quite in Oman; in fact, it’s entirely surrounded by the UAE. Luckily, you can still drive from Muscat or take a flight to Khasab. Despite being a bit out of the way, it’s well worth it: Musandam is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oman. 

  • Why it’s awesome: Appropriately nicknamed the “Norway of Arabia,” Musandam is STACKED with epic adventures to be had. It also happens to be the perfect place to take your travel photography drone out for a spin over shining blue waters!
  • What to do there: Visiting Musandam is all about the water: you can scuba dive, snorkel, or even head out on an epic dolphin-spotting adventure that will have you sailin’ through fjords in a traditional Omani boat. There’s no better way to enjoy Oman than in its waters, and a day on a boat is totally worth the cash splurge!

#11 – Bahla Fort  – Another top historical place to go in Oman.

bahla fort places to visit in oman

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site!
  • Preservation? Check!
  • Close to Nizwa.

Oman is full of some seriously dazzling forts, and Bahla Fort, which sits beneath the Jebel Akhdar Highlands, might just be its best. The fort dates back to the 13th (!!) century and is only 40 km from Nizwa. 

  • Why it’s awesome: An Omani tourist spot that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and an incredibly well preserved one. While in Bahla, you can also check out the city walls (which are made out of adobe), and perhaps treat yourself to some pottery.
  • What to do there: Explore the fort, check out the local markets, take some epic pics. What else do you need?

#12 – Oman’s Iconic Beaches – Just trust me on this one.  

girl looking out at ocean and mountain view while visiting oman

As much as I loved the wadis, the history and the mountains, it’s Oman’s beaches that flash into my mind again and again. With hundreds of miles of coastline and plenty of undisturbed swimming spots, Oman is a beach bum’s paradise. Just don’t forget to put sunscreen on your beach packing list : the Omani sun is strong. 

  • Why it’s awesome: So freakin’ gorgeous! Omani beaches are a mix of bright blue water, fishing boats, waves, rock formations and, of course, tall mountain ranges that you might not have ever thought you’d see paired with a beach. Yup, they’re all epic: even the unknown ones. My favorite beach in Oman happened to be a small one located in a fishing village not far from Muscat. Don’t be afraid to just pull over anywhere you see a prime ocean scene!
  • What to do there: Swim, tan, float, and relish in the fact that you get to experience both beaches and mountains at the same damn time. 

places to visit in oman near me

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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#13 – Sur  – A coastal city paradise.

best places to visit in oman

  • One of the most beautiful places in Oman.
  • Relaxed, seaside vibe.
  • On the way to Ras Al Jinz.

Sur is one of the most chill places in Oman, and while far from Muscat and many other Omani points of interest, it’s absolutely worth the drive! Especially if you love coastal architecture and seaside towns as much as I do, this is definitely a place to consider for your backpacking adventure .

  • Why it’s awesome: This small city — which used to be an important trading hub — is filled with beautiful white houses, shimmering bright blue water, traditional dhow boats, and a selection of good eats to choose from. Sur is easily the most picturesque city in Oman!
  • What to do there: Wander around and get lost! Take pictures, try local eats, stroll along the harbor, and climb up to Al Ayjah Watchtower for an amazing view of Sur! You can also check out a dhow factory to see exactly how the traditional fishing boats are made

#14 – Masirah Island – Truly one of a kind.

Masirah Island - beautiful secluded place to go in Oman

  • Island time!
  • The perfect blend of sun, sand, and history.
  • Secluded AF.

Located off its eastern coat, Masirah is the country’s largest island and one of those things to see in Oman that you just can’t miss. And because most other people DO skip Masirah, you’re probably going to have most of it to yourself 😀 

  • Why it’s awesome: Um, because it’s an island off the coast Oman? Masirah has tons of virtually unexplored beaches, shipwrecks off the coast, and an “island vibe” that you can’t quite find anywhere else in Oman. Regular ferries also make it easy to reach from the mainland!
  • What to do there: Swim, lay in the sun, and explore some of the old shipwrecks. Masirah is all about relaxing and becoming one with the slow-paced life of a real island. 

Get insured before heading out to the best places in Oman!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

places to visit in oman near me

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Yes, it might be in the Middle East, but relax because Oman is not just one of the safest countries in the region to visit, but perhaps even the world! Crime is virtually non-existent, and it’s FOR SURE safer than the United States or even most of Europe. 

Even so, no backpacking packing list is complete without travel insurance. Because while Oman itself might be safe, you never know what might happen!

What if you fall while navigating a wadi? Get attacked by a camel? Okay, that last one might be unlikely, but it’s still possible. 

Which is why you should ALWAYS consider getting travel insurance before any trip. 

Now that you’ve seen some of the amazing places to visit in Oman, I’m sure we can both agree that this country sure has a lot to offer. And believe me when I say there’s even MORE to explore if you know where to look. And if you’re still trying to decide on where to stay in Oman , check out our handy guide to this.

Despite being as beautiful as it is, Oman is still a relatively off-the-beaten-track destination. Plenty of hidden gems, empty beaches, and natural oasis pools await discovery if you give yourself enough time to find them!

That’s why I strongly encourage you to take your time with Oman. Yes, highlights can be seen quickly, but if you really want to get to know this mountain-beach-desert-oasis paradise you gotta dig deep, and ideally, pack a cheap camping tent!

To visit Oman is to see the Middle East at its most beautiful — now get out there and enjoy that twinkling gem of the desert to the fullest!

A tourist enjoying a paragliding activity somewhere green in Oman

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Samantha Shea

Samantha Shea

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Team Wanderlust | 13 December 2019

20 amazing places to visit in oman.

Stunning deserts, ancient forts and a pristine coastline. Check out some of Oman's must-visit locations in this intriguing desert kingdom. Travel blogger Joāo Leitão lists some of his favourite spots...

1. Musandam fjords

Musandam fjords. (Dreamstime)

Musandam fjords. (Dreamstime)

Musandam peninsula is separated from the rest of the country – it's an enclave in the United Arab Emirates. It's famous for its breathtaking fjords, desert mountains and waters of a beautiful shade of blue.

2. Khasab fortress

Khasab fortress, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Khasab fortress, Oman. (Dreamstime)

The capital of the Musandam region is the city of Khasab. To get there you can take a fast ferry boat, connecting to the capital Muscat.

Muscat, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Muscat, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Muscat, the capital of Oman, has a beautiful historic district. Buildings with East African-style wooden balconies, and several seafront fortresses make Muscat a picturesque and relaxing destination. It’s worth spending a couple of days there, and visiting the markets, museums, forts, mosques and areas near the sea.

How to spend 24 hours in Muscat, Oman

4. masirah island.

Masirah Island, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Masirah Island, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Masirah Island is a desolate and deserted destination. If you like the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, and in a place where hardly anyone goes, then you’ll love this island off Oman's coast in the Indian Ocean. There are several deserted beaches where you can see turtles laying eggs.

5. Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Jebel Akhdar, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Crossing the Jebel Akhdar was one of the best moments of my Oman trip. I drove up, departing from Al Hamra until Ar Rustaq, on the far side of the mountain. I drove a normal city car, but a 4WD is recommended. The landscape is amazing.

6. Tomb of Job

Tomb of Job. (Joāo Leitão)

Tomb of Job. (Joāo Leitão)

Job is a religious figure, known as Ayyub in Islam, Iyov in Judaism and Job in Christianity. You can visit his tomb and, in the outer zone, you'll find a small box which protects his footprint (people say it's enormous). The whole area is a site of Muslim pilgrimage.

7. Taqah Castle, Mirbat

Taqah Castle. (Dreamstime)

Taqah Castle. (Dreamstime)

Taqah Castle dates back to the 19th century, and is situated at the entrance of Mirbat. It was built to be the permanent residence of Sheikh Ali bin Al Ma’shani Timman. It's very well preserved, and houses a very interesting ethnographic museum, showing various aspects of life and culture from the region.

8. Sumhuram ruins

Sumhuram ruins, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Sumhuram ruins, Oman. (Dreamstime)

The ancient port of Sumhuran dates from the third century BC to the fifth century AD. This is one of the most important places of the region’s pre-Islamic time. This was one of the great centres of frankincense production of south Arabia. The ruins are spectacular, with amazing surrounding scenery.

9. Al-Baleed ruins

Al-Baleed ruins, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Al-Baleed ruins, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Al-Baleed ruins are a huge archaeological complex on the coast, near the city of Salalah. Ibn Battuta visited this site in 1329 and commented on its beauty. Most of the buildings of the citadel would be built in a typical architectural style of the region of Dhofar, mixing wood and stone.

Top 5 Desert Adventures in Oman

10. samail castle.

Palm trees in Oman. (Dreamstime)

Palm trees in Oman. (Dreamstime)

Samail Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Oman. The Samail Hosn, or Samail Castle, is surrounded with mountains and huge palm trees. A true oasis in the desert mountains. A few kilometres before Samail there is another small fort known for its watchtowers which overlook the entire valley.

11. Incense market in Salalah

Frankincense. (Dreamstime)

Frankincense. (Dreamstime)

Salalah is a city of great importance in the trade of frankincense. Here, there are two modern markets where there are many shops with plenty of excellent quality incense. Salalah also has a beach area that you can visit, as well as the huge mosque of Sultan Qaboos.

12. Telegraph Island

Telegraph Island. (Shutterstock)

Telegraph Island. (Shutterstock)

Telegraph Island is a small piece of land in the middle of the water surrounding the Musandam Peninsula. In the 19th century there was a station there that was used to boost the British telegraph messages along the Persian Gulf cable line - part of the London–Karachi telegraph cable. Nowadays, only a few ruins remain, but the snorkelling is great.

Nizwa, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Nizwa, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Nizwa is one of my favourite cities in Oman. It has many interesting places to visit such as the animal and vegetable market, the castle with old Portuguese cannons, the potteries and the old town. The view from the top of the castle is fantastic. In Nizwa you can also visit the famous falaj canal system and supply of water to the oasis, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Jebel Akhdar, Oman. (Dreamstime)

Haat is a village in the Jebel Akhdar Mountains. Here, several stone houses are protected by palm trees. There is a small river, falaj irrigation system and a water tank with a member of the village always present and protecting it with an AK-47. There is also a small pool of natural water coming from a mountain spring.

15. Jabrin Castle

Jabrin Castle. (Dreamstime)

Jabrin Castle. (Dreamstime)

Jabrin Castle is an excellent example of military architecture in the region. It was built by Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Ya’arubi in 1670. It's fantastic to explore the interior of this huge castle, enjoy the views from the top of the tower and also discover the fabulous ceilings of many rooms and halls inside.

16. Bahla fortress

Bahla fortress. (Dreamstime)

Bahla fortress. (Dreamstime)

Bahla fortress is one of the historical forts near Jebel Akhdar. The castle dates from the 13th century and is well-preserved after being closed for renovation for several years. This building is surrounded by an oasis with some amazing views. This place is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

17. Al Hazm

Al Hazm. (Shutterstock)

Al Hazm. (Shutterstock)

Al Hazm is a place with lots of history – a big fortress and various ruins of an old village and even an ancient tomb at the top of the hill. The scenery is very beautiful, mixing green palm trees and desert mountains.

Top 10 amazing places to immerse yourself in Oman's culture

18. sadah coast.

Driving to the Sadah Coast is fantastic. The landscapes are amazing and unique. The village of Sadah itself sits by the sea, surrounded by mountains made of black rock and 'invaded' by sand from the beach.

19. Ras Madrakah beach

Ras Madrakah beach. (Dreamstime)

Ras Madrakah beach. (Dreamstime)

The beach landscapes in Ras Madrakah are quite beautiful. Here, thousands of crabs make the wild beach their territory, and it’s very funny running after them towards the water. However, they do not let themselves get caught… It’s wonderful to hear the symphony of waves, running back and forth with nature. 

20. Abandoned boats of Ras-Hilf

Ras-Hilf. (Joāo Leitão)

Ras-Hilf. (Joāo Leitão)

Ras-Hilf is the capital of Masirah island. Although the city itself does not have many attractions, its beaches with many ship wrecks are always interesting to see and take pictures of. You can also go up the abandoned boats.

With thanks to Joāo Leitão for his help writing this feature. Follow him on Instagram.

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places to visit in oman near me

Grand Mosque in Muscat, one of the best places to visit in Oman

11 Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

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Oman isn’t a country that many people consider visiting, which is a shame as it has a lot to offer and is one of the safest countries in the Middle East.

In Oman you can visit forts and deserts, mountains and beaches, mosques and souqs, and swim in stunning wadis.

These are our picks for the best places to visit in Oman.

You’ll find a map at the end of the post with all these Oman tourist places.

Video: Best Places to Visit in Oman

The most beautiful places to visit in oman, places to visit in oman map, is oman worth a visit, more oman tips.

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1) Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

The main prayer hall of the Grand Mosque in Muscat, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oman

Most trips to Oman begin in the capital Muscat and high on everyone’s list is a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque .

It’s a stunning modern mosque that lives up to its name with space for 20,000 worshippers.

The extravagant main prayer hall features a massive chandelier, intricately detailed blue mosaic tiles, and the second largest handmade Iranian rug in the world—it took 600 women four years to weave.

The mosque’s grounds are a serene place to wander and enjoy the harmonious lines and archways of the various buildings and beautiful gardens. It’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Muscat.

On our visit a rare rain shower turned the marble floors into a reflective pool.

Women need to cover their hair, arms and legs when visiting the mosque. Men should wear long trousers.

Details: The Grand Mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors from 8.30am to 11am every day except Friday. There’s no entrance fee. Where to Stay: Beach Bay Hotel has comfortable rooms, a great breakfast, and is only a two-minute walk from Qurum Beach in the diplomatic area of Muscat. You can use the Grand Hyatt’s pool next door for a small fee. Suggested Tour: Combine your visit with this Private Group Sultan Qaboos Mosque & Bait Al Zubair Museum Tour .

2) Mutrah Corniche, Muscat

People walking along Mutrah Corniche in Muscat, Oman

Before sunset head to the other side of Muscat to the Mutrah Corniche .

Join the locals for a stroll along the lovely seafront where white buildings and mosques are backed by rocky mountains and forts that glow golden in the late afternoon light.

Nearby you can shop in the narrow lanes of the Mutrah Souq , one of the oldest markets in Oman and a top Muscat tourist attraction.

Browse the stalls for frankincense and myrrh, ceramic incense burners, silver jewellery, pashminas, turbans, genie lamps, fluffy camels, and much more.

Where to Stay: You could stay at Beach Bay Hotel (above), but Mutrah Hotel is within walking distance of Mutrah Corniche and is cheaper (but a bit more basic).

3) Jabrin Fort (Jibreen Castle)

The sandcastle-like Jabrin Fort (or Jabreen Castle), Oman

From Muscat we recommend taking a trip inland to the Nizwa area where you can explore forts, mountains, and ancient villages.

See our Oman road trip itinerary for more details of all the places on this list.

Jabrin Fort (also known as Jabreen or Jibreen Castle) dates back to 1675 and looks like a sand castle amidst an oasis of date palms.

You can wander through the labyrinth of rooms and see the defensive methods used like the murder holes, gaps in the floor where they used to pour boiling date oil on enemies.

Details: Entrance to Jibreen Castle is 500 baisa. It’s open from 9am to 4pm Saturday to Thursday and 8am to 11am on Friday. Where to Stay: Nizwa is a good base. Our self-catering apartment at Al Karam Apartment Hotel was spacious, comfortable, and affordable. Suggested Tour: Why not book this Private Historical Tour which includes Jabreen Castle, Nizwa Fort (see below) and other sites?

4) Nizwa Fort

Tall towers at Nizwa Fort, Oman

The 17th-century Nizwa Fort is one of the most popular places to visit in Oman.

It features a massive circular tower which you can climb for views of the mosque, souq, distant rocky mountains, and the date palms that surround this oasis city.

Nizwa Fort has been refurbished and there are now historical items on display like jewellery, tools, and a timeline of the area’s history.

You can also watch women making crafts and baking bread over an open fire. Look out for the murder holes here too.

Details: Entrance to Nizwa Fort costs 5 OMR. It’s open from 8am to 8pm (except on Fridays when it’s open 8am to 11.30am and 1.30pm to 8pm). Where to Stay: We stayed at Al Karam Apartment Hotel —see above. Suggested Tour: This full-day Nizwa tour includes Nizwa and Jabrin forts.

5) Jebel Akhdar

Rugged terrain surrounding Jebel Akhdar, Oman

Jebel Akhdar means Green Mountain but you might wonder why as you ascend its slate grey and burnt orange sides, barren except for a few thorny dried up bushes.

The green refers to the villages of the Saiq Plateau , 2000m above sea level, where abundant rainfall allows the growth of pomegranates, grapes, peaches, apricots, and roses for the rose water that’s used in Omani sweets and as perfume.

Spring is the best time to visit when the roses are in bloom and the terrace plantations are a vibrant green.

Jebel Akhdar is an easy day trip from Nizwa (or even Muscat), but you do need a 4WD to ascend the steep winding road (we hired a driver at the police checkpoint just outside Birkat al Mawz ).

There is a moderate 3.2 hike that takes you to spectacular views from the top of the villages surrounded by jagged peaks, and the cold air is a relief from the hot plains.

Where to Stay: We stayed at Al Karam Apartment Hotel , a 15-minute drive from the base of the mountain in Birkat al Mawz. If you can afford it, Alila Jabal Akhdar high up in the mountains looks stunning. Suggested Tour: This Full-Day Guided Tour to Jebel Akhdar includes visits to rose farms and fruit markets depending on the season.

6) Misfat al Abryeen

Misfat Al Abriyeen surrounded by mountains and lush date and banana plantations, Oman

Most of the old villages in Oman have been abandoned, but Misfat al Abryeen is still inhabited and is one of the most picturesque in Oman.

It’s a maze-like village of crumbling mud houses in narrow passageways sloping down the mountainside.

Below the village you can follow the falaj irrigation channels and walk through the lush date and banana plantations—it’s shockingly green after the desert.

Where to Stay: We visited Misfat between Nizwa and Jebel Shams. For an interesting local experience and home-cooked food, you can stay at the Misfah Old House guesthouse. Suggested Tour: Learn about fascinating legends and facts in this Best Of Misfat Al Abriyeen Walking Tour .

7) Jebel Shams

The view on the Balcony Walk at Jebel Shams, one of the best things to do in Oman

It’s a long drive on steep, rough roads to the top of Jebel Shams , Oman’s highest mountain.

It’s worth it for the stunning views deep down into Wadi Ghul , known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Oman.

Our highlight was the Balcony Walk , a fairly easy but dramatic 2.5-hour hike which winds around the cliffs halfway up the rim of the canyon to the abandoned village of As Sab .

Tiny stone and mud houses perch precariously on the edge of the ravine under a ledge of rock—a perilous place to live.

Where to Stay: Jebel Shams Resort is the nicest of the two hotels at the top of the mountain. We had a good view from our sunset chalet and it was convenient for the viewpoint and Balcony Walk. Suggested Tour: Climb the mountain with a guide on this Jebel Shams Day Trip: The Grand Canyon of Oman .

8) Wahiba Sands

Simon walking along the rolling sand dunes at Wahiba Sands, Oman

For the true desert experience head to Wahiba Sands for rolling sand dunes, camel rides, and 4WD adventures.

We spent a night in a rustic goat-hair Bedouin tent at the foot of a huge dune which we climbed for sunset and sunrise.

We watched camels wandering past, drank tea by the fire, and gazed at the sky lit up with stars. It was wonderfully peaceful.

Where to Stay: Desert Retreat Camp was the most interesting place we stayed in Oman. We liked the simple tents, excellent Indian food, and peaceful location. Suggested Tour: Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid private tour .

9) Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

One of our favourite things about Oman were the wadis, rocky ravines or dry riverbeds that only contain water at certain times of the year, but many have pools you can swim in.

Wadi Bani Khalid is a stunning oasis in the desert with crystal clear green water surrounded by date palms and rugged mountains.

The pools are huge and swimming in them is so refreshing in the desert heat. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.

Read more about Wadi Bani Khalid . 

Where to Stay: We visited Wadi Bani Khalid on our way from Wahiba Sands to Sur. The Oriental Nights Rest House is one of the nearest hotels if you want to stay nearby. Suggested Tour: If you limited time this Full-Day Private Wahiba Sands Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Tour looks ideal.

Blue waters at Sur beach, Oman

At Sur the desert meets the sea. You’ll find long empty beaches, the picturesque fishing village of Al Ayjah , a dhow boat building yard, and just north, the turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz .

You must book turtle viewing tours (9pm and 5am) at the reserve in advance. Sadly, there were no turtles on the beach when we visited in December. The peak viewing season is from May to September.

Where to Stay: You can stay at the turtle reserve , but we chose the cheaper Ras Al Hadd Guest House . After our visit to the reserve we moved to the basic Sur Hotel in the centre of Sur, which is inexpensive and convenient. Suggested Tour: Visit Sur as part of this Coastal Tour and Wadi Hike from Muscat which includes accommodation pickup.

11) Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab, one of the best things to do in Oman

While Wadi Bani Khalid is all about relaxation, Wadi Shab is about adventure.

You take a boat across the river, hike for 45 minutes through a stunning valley, then swim through a series of pools to reach a cave which contains a waterfall.

It’s gorgeous and one of the best things to do in Oman.

Where to Stay: We visited Wadi Shab on our way from Sur to Muscat. The beachfront Tiwi Sunrise is one of the nearest hotels to the wadi. Suggested Tour: Wadi Shab and Bimah Sinkhole tour .

Absolutely! As one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East we cannot recommend Oman enough. It has so many stunning sights to pack out any itinerary.

What do you think are the most beautiful places to visit in Oman? Leave a comment below as I know we missed many of Oman’s attractions.

  • The Best Oman Itinerary: A 7-10 Day Road Trip
  • What to Expect When Visiting Oman
  • Visiting Wadi Bani Khalid: Oman’s Desert Oasis

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10 Comments

I love this site

Reply ↓

We are going to Oman in March, but not sure about the route to take (1 week). Would you recommend skipping Sur or Nizwa? We prefer hiking in the mountains instead of visiting forts.. Love your blogs! Very helpful :-)

I’d skip Sur. Nizwa is a good base to head up to the nearby mountains like Jebel Akhdar where you can hike. Don’t miss Jebel Shams either.

I have suggestions for a 7 day itinerary in this post: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/oman-itinerary-road-trip/

Enjoy Oman!

Am coming to Oman very soon to work with one company

olaoluwa are you now in oman

Hi, i have gone through your website and must say that you have very nice photographs.

We are a new tour operator just started our company 6 months before and specialized for India, Oman, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.

We are very much interested in your oman most amazing photographs.

Please let me know if you want to sell Oman´s photographs.

Waiting for your reply. regards, Shreekesh Singh

I was in oman 4 yrs ago and i can say its one of the most beautifull countries ive visited

I love Oman, and I’m so happy you enjoy it as well

We do not have enough toilets for public touring the beautiful resorts of Oman. Mindtry of tourism should pay attention to it. Nobody can enjoy while the visiting person has urge and is uncomfortable. I am avoiding day trips for similar reasons. Consider provide facilities against nominal charges for up keeping the facilities.

Absolutely true brother. Hopefully the future of Oman Tourism seems to be on a flourishing track. As new initiatives are being undertaken.

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21 Places To Visit In Oman: Top Locations To Add To Your Travel Wishlist

A country nestled on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula and boasting of its incredible attractions, Oman is a land that promises nothing but the sheer joy of a holiday. From historical forts and mesmerizing desert landscapes to the finest of beaches and scenic mountain ranges, one can find numerous places to visit in Oman that not only surprise but also inspire the tourists.

Also known as the Sultanate of Oman, the country is one of the top picks of travelers coming from around the world today, and rightly so. Its capital Muscat very much contributes to the charm of the country and highly popular amongst travelers coming for a holiday here.

So, if you're planning your next holiday wondering about the top tourist attractions in Oman, we have compiled a detailed round-up of the best locations of Oman that one should definitely visit when on a vacation to the country.

Top 21 Places To Visit In Oman

Have a look at the best places that you can explore on your vacation in the Sultanate of Oman.

1. Muscat: A City Home To Historical Attractions In Oman

Muscat

The capital of Oman and one of the finest cities in the country, Muscat promises numerous attractions are a treat for travelers. From forts and giant palaces to the best of museums and markets, Muscat has it all. Home to some truly fascinating tourist attractions in Oman , the city is home to the world-renowned Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque where visiting during the mornings is the name of the game. The mosque houses an enormous crystal chandelier, top of the line marble wall panels, and so much. In fact, it is home to the world's second-largest Persian carpet which is a true highlight for the visitors.

What's more? Muscat even has a harbor that overlooks the famous Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace. Although the visitors cannot see the interior of the palace, the sight of it from the harbor is something you can't afford to miss.

Guarding the palace are the two forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani. Featuring amongst the notable attractions in Muscat today, the forts have now been converted into public museums where visitors can enter and catch a glimpse of the historic beauty.

Besides, the city not only offers the beauty of palaces and museums but also its buzzing market places where shoppers are bound to have a great time. So, if you're thinking about some top Oman places to visit on your vacation, why not consider a visit to Muscat?  

Best Time To Visit Muscat: November to March

How To Reach:

  • By Air - Reaching Muscat by air isn't much of a hassle. There are direct flights to Muscat available from virtually popular destinations around the world. Airlines like Emirates, Gulf Air, Air India, British Airways, and Lufthansa all fly to the city.
  • By Road - Travelers can make a road trip to Muscat from UAE. The journey takes about five hours. Likewise, one can even take a six hours road journey through Yemen to Muscat.
  • By Bus - There is no railway network connecting Muscat with nearby areas as of now. However, travelers can opt for buses that run from Dubai and Abu Dhabi and are owned by the Oman National Transport company.  

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 nights 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located 42 km from the city.

Popular Attractions: Mutrah Corniche; Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque; The Royal Opera House; Wadi Bani Khalid; Yiti Beach; Bait Al-Zubair; Al Alam Palace; Al Mirani Fort; Bimmah Sinkhole; Al Jalali Fort

Things To Do: City Tour; Wahiba Safari; Wadi Shab Tour; Wadi Bani Tour; Nizwa Day Tour; Jebel Akhdar Green Mountain Day Tour; Visit to Rustaq

Adventures To Try: Dolphin Watching Tour; Wadi Hike; Snorkeling; Grand Canyon Tour; Desert Safari; Cruise

Best Places To Stay In Muscat: Kempinski Hotel Muscat Oman; Grand Hyatt Muscat; Mysk Al Mouj By Shaza; Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel; Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair

Best Shopping Markets: Mutrah Souq; Oman Avenues Mall; City Centre Qurum; City Centre Muscat; Muscat Grand Mall

Suggested Read : Best Hotels In Oman For A Joyous Stay

2. Nizwa: The Second-Largest Destination Of Travel In Oman

Nizwa

An ancient city nestled in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of Northern Oman, Nizwa is one of the best places to visit in Oman and a land that boasts of its picturesque setting and a wide range of attractions. From the best of agricultural attractions to the historic beauty that dates back a long way, Nizwa is one of the best Oman places to visit that have it all. In fact, it is the second-largest tourist destination in Oman and has earned the nickname, "The Pearl of Islam."

What's more? Travelers coming to Nizwa can either explore the architectural marvel of Nizwa Fort or head over to some popular locations like the Souq, Jebel Akhdar, and so on. Interestingly, this is a city that was once the hub for education, religion, trade, and art in Oman. Surrounded by the gorgeous banana plantations and date palms, Nizwa could be a perfect destination for a grand holiday in Oman.

Best Time To Visit Nizwa: Between September to March

  • By Air - Travelers can easily book a flight to the Muscat International Airport and continue their rest of the journey to Nizwa by road. Virtually all top airlines have flights to Oman .
  • By Road - Travelers can take taxis from the Muscat International Airport for Nizwa or rent a car to drive themselves. However, visitors need an International Driving Permit in order to drive themselves to any place in Oman. There are even cabs available from the airport.
  • By Bus - The Oman National Transport Company runs regular buses from Muscat to Nizwa twice a day. The journey takes an estimated 2.5 hours.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located 1.6.16 Km from Nizwa.

Popular Attractions In Nizwa : Jebel Akhdar; Nizwa Fort; Jabreen Castle; Tanuf; Nizwa Souq; Wadi Ghul; Nizwa Grand Mall; Birkat Al Mouz Ruins; Falaj Daris; Desert Camel and Adventure Tours

Things To Do: Oman Grand Canyon and Nizwa Full-Day Tour; Nizwa Bahla and Jabrin Tour; Jabel Akhdar Overnight Excursion; Al Hamra and Hatt Mountains Tour; Jabel Shams Overnight Excursion

Best Places To Stay In Nizwa: Alila Jabal Akhdar; Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort; Intercity Hotel Nizwa; Antique Inn Nizwa; Nizwa Heritage Inn

Best Shopping Markets: Nizwa Souq; Nizwa Mall; Lulu Hyper Market; Faidh Hyper Market; Produce Market

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in UAE For A Luxury Holiday

3. Salalah: Your One-Stop Destination For A Scenic Travel In Oman

Places to Visit Salalah

Famed amongst travelers for its unique climate and a wide range of attractions, Salalah is a picturesque city in Oman that welcomes visitors to a true paradise. Home to the King of Oman, this is a city that offers everything you possibly expect. From the finest of beaches perfectly adept for snorkeling and diving to the lush green mountains that present a scenic sight to the visitors, Salalah has all the attributes to be your perfect holiday destination in Oman.

The best part? Although the mountains in Salalah present a gorgeous sight to the visitors, Monsoon season is the time when these mountains come alive, making Salalah one of the best places to go in Oman during the Monsoon season.

What's more? The holiday experience in Salalah gets even better as the visitors get to taste the finest of delicacies in the city, most notably the seafood choices here that are a real culinary highlight in Salalah. So, why not consider a visit to the city on your vacation to Oman with your loved ones?

Best Time To Visit Salalah: Late June to September

  • By Air - There are two best routes that travelers can consider in order to reach Salalah. One can either fly from the capital city of Oman, Muscat which is an appropriately 90-minutes flight, or take a Dubai flight which is a 2-hour flight.
  • By Road - One can easily take a 12 hours' drive from the city of Muscat in order to reach Salalah. The drive boasts of its picturesque scenery along the way where visitors can catch a glimpse of the desert, oil fields, the old town of Nizwa, and other gorgeous locations of Oman.
  • By Bus - Traveling to Salalah by bus is considered to be the cheapest mode of travel. There are regular buses available from virtually Omani cities and even Dubai. These buses are run by the Gulf Transport Company and are highly popular amongst travelers owing to their modest prices.

Nearest Airport: The Salalah International Airport is a mere 2.6 Km away from the main city.

Popular Attractions In Salalah: Mughsail Beach; Wadi Darbat; Sultan Qaboos Mosque; Sumhuram Archeological Park; Taqah Castle; Marneef Cave; Jebel Samhan; Al Baleed Archaeological Park; Tawi Atair Sinkhole Oman; Anti-Gravity Point

Things To Do: Salalah Day Trip; Omani Madhbi Lunch Tour; Watch Sunset Above Largest Dunes of Desert; Desert Tour; West of Salalah Private Tour; Hiking Tour; Salalah East Tour

Adventures To Try: Off-Road Tour; Boating; Hiking; Fishing; Safaris; Camping; Scuba Diving; Snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Salalah: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara; Salalah Gardens Hotel; Fanar Hotel and Residences; Millennium Resort Salalah; Juweira Boutique Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Salalah Gardens Mall; Salalah Grand Mall; Al Hosn Souq; As Salam Street Salalah; Oasis Mall Salalah; Al Nahda Center Salalah; Al Saada Commercial Centre; Lulu Hypermarket Salalah; Salalah Gallery Mall; China Commercial Town (CCT)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuwait, The Jewel Of The Middle East

4. Sur: A City Brimming With Tradition

places to visit in oman near me

One of the finest places to visit in Oman , Sur is a port city nestled about 200 km from the country’s capital Muscat. Boasting its old shipyards and mesmerizing forts, Sur is a place that travelers should definitely have on their list. From the finest of historical and cultural attractions to the best of natural wonders one can find here, there’s a lot about Sur that surprises travelers today.

In fact, one can explore places like the Bilad Sur Castle, Sunaysilah Fort, Al Ayjah Watch Tower, Fatah al Khair while on their vacation in Sur.

Best Time To Visit Sur: Early December to Late February

  • By Road - Travelers can travel to Sur from Muscat easily by taking a bus or driving themselves. The journey takes a little more than 3 hours.
  • By Air - The nearest airport to Sur is the Muscat International Airport. Travelers can easily book a flight to Muscat and drive further to Sur.

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 225 km from the center of the city.

Popular Attractions In Sur: Bilad Sur Castle; Sunaysilah Fort; Al Ayjah Watch Tower; Fatah al Khair

Things To Do: Explore the old town; Enjoy Fishing; Relax at the Beach; Visit historical forts

Best Places To Stay In Sur: Sur Plaza Hotel; Sur Grand Hotel; Sur Inn Hotel Apartments; Zaki Hotel Apartment

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Dubai: Top Locations For A Memorable Holiday In The City

5. Masirah Island: Witness The Life Of Turtles Up Close

places to visit in oman near me

Are you someone who gets fascinated about seeing turtles or camping at the beach? Well, Masirah Island is the spot for you. One of the finest tourist attractions in Oman , Masirah offers a number of attractions to tourists. From the opulent beauty of Safa'iq to the thrills of water sports, there’s a lot to look forward to at Masirah Island. In fact, the island is considered to be a top destination in Oman for those who love camping and turtle watching.

Best Time To Visit Masirah Island: November to March

  • By Air - There is no airport at Masirah Island. Travelers coming here can opt to head to Shannah first and take a ferry from there.
  • By Road - Travelers arriving at Masirah are can opt to hire a cab or drive themselves from Muscat. The journey takes about five hours to complete.

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is the nearest airport to Masirah Island.

Popular Attractions at Masirah Island: Hilf; Jabal Al Humr; Masirah Beach Camp; Safa'iq Grave Site

Things To Do: Enjoy Water Sports; Turtle Watching

Best Places To Stay at Masirah Island: Masira Island Resort; Hotel Danat Al Khaleej; Masirah Hotel; Masirah Beach Camp

Suggested Read: Stunning Places To Visit In February In The World

6. Muttrah: Enjoy The Adventures Of Oman Here

Muttrah: Enjoy The Adventures Of Oman Here

A district that was the commercial center of Oman and one of the finest places to visit in Oman , Muttrah is a fine location that travelers can consider visiting on a holiday. Boasting of some fine locations that are set to catch the eye, this is a colorful area where there are ample places to discover for the visitors. From the finest shopping experience at the Muttrah Souq to the best of historical experience at the Bait Al Baranda Museum, Muttrah awaits the visitors with its fine adventures in Oman.

Best Time To Visit Muttrah: November to March

By Air - Travelers can take a flight to Muscat from top locations and drive to Muttrah which is only a few miles away.

By Road - Travelers travel by road to Muttrah and its other top locations like the Muttrah Fort without any hassle. There are direct buses available from Muscat to the city while visitors can also hire a car to drive to the place.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 Night and 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 31.4 KM from Muttrah

Popular Attractions: Muttrah Souq; Bait Al Baranda Museum; Mutrah Fort; Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art; Omani Heritage Gallery; Old Watch Tower

Things To Do: Shop for diverse goods at Muttrah Souq; Engage in the offerings of the Bait Al Baranda Museum; Explore Mutrah Fort; Relish the Omani lifestyle and culture at Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art

Best Places To Stay In Mutrah: Al Falaj Hotel

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Turkey For The Best Turkish Experience

7. Seeb: Spend Time On The Pristine Beaches Of The City

Seeb: Spend Time On The Pristine Beaches Of The City

A coastal fishing city that is renowned for a number of locations, Seeb is popular amongst worldwide travelers. This is a place that offers relaxation at its very best. In fact, one can explore the best of local fare and markets in the area while getting to stay in the best of luxury hotels here. One of the finest places to visit in Oman , Seeb is widely renowned for its pristine beaches and gorgeous gardens that are perfect in every sense.

Best Time To Visit Seeb: November to March

By Air - Travelers coming to Seeb are required to arrive at the Muscat International Airport and complete the rest of the journey by hiring a vehicle.

By Road - The distance between Seeb and Muscat is around 29.7 KM and the travelers are required to hire a bus or rent a vehicle to cover the journey. The journey between the two cities takes about half n hours to complete.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 Night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 24.2 KM away from Seeb

Popular Attractions: Seeb Souq; Wadi Al Khoud; Oman Botanic Garden; Al Naseem Park; Zulfa Mosque; Al Sahwa Public Garden; Maizoon Bint Ahmed Mosque

8. Misfat Al Abriyeen: Discovering the Beauty Of Oasis

Misfat al Abryeen

Misfat al Abryeen, an offbeat and small village that is one of the best places to visit in Oman for a unique experience. With the contemporary vibes and the myriad of a natural vista like the banyan trees dominating most of the terrains makes it a wonder to explore. The Italian villages and the vintage house add beauty to the ancient village offering you a great vacation in Oman.

Nestled away from the chaos of the city, the Misfat al Abryeen is nothing lesser than an oasis that is painted in the brown and green hues of nature.

Best Time To Visit Misfat al Abryeen: June to August

How To Reach: The Misfat Al Abryeen is 232 kilometers away from Muscat that can be covered via a drive. As you land at Muscat international airport, you can heir a cab or taxi that will drop you at the gate of the village. You can trek the rest of the village.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 days

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Al Hoota Cave, Al Naseem Park, Rustak Wadi Bani Auf

Things to Do: Village Tour, Hiking, Old House Tour

Places To Stay in Misfat al Abryeen: Durrat Al-misfah Guest House, Misfah Heights, Al Misfah Hospitality Inn, Bait Aljabal Hospitality Inn

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In March In The World To Experience Balmy Weather

9. Wahiba Sands: Experience The Thrill Of Desert

Wahiba Sands: Experience The Thrill Of Desert

The Wahiba Sands or the Sharqiya Sands is a deserted area in Oman you can visit for your vacation. The Wahiba Sands dominated by the rolling dunes and the golden hues makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Oman . From desert adventures to trekking and lunch amidst the serenity, Wahiba sands offer leisure as well as thrill to make your visit, one of the best experiences. Get ready for sand sports and night camping, dune bashing and every possible activity you can think of.

The Wahiba sands nothing less than a dreamland that is spreading to an area of 180 kilometers or more.

Best Time To Visit Wahiba Sands: October to April

How To Reach: From Muscat International Airport, one can get a 4x4 vehicle to reach Wahiba sands. The distance of the airport from the Wahiba sands in 253 km that will take approximately 3 hours to reach.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 nights

Things to Do: Dune Bashing, Sand Boarding, Camel Safari, Bedouin Family Tour, Overnight Camping, Desert Safari

Places To Stay in the Wahiba Sands: Queen Desert camp, Home X4, Alsarmadi Desert Camp, Nomadic Desert Camp

10. Sohar: Discovering The Mythical Characters

places to visit in oman near me

Sohar is known to be a dwelling place of sailors Ahmed Bin Majid. Now, what makes it the best attraction for tourists in Oman is the mythical character, Sinbad. The destination houses some of the most amazing beaches and vibrant souqs, monuments, and other places of tourist interest. Bounded by the magnificent beaches on the outskirts, the city is the best place to discover the art, heritage, and traditional art of Oman. Look out for adventures like camel rides or buy some traditional handicrafts as you plan your holiday around the splendid attraction.

Best Time To Visit Sohar: November to February

How To Reach: Board a flight to Sohar International Airport from there you can rent a cab or get a taxi to reach Sonar. Cabs and taxis are also available from cities like Muscat making it easy to each from any corner of the world.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 6 days

Nearest Airport: Sohar International Airport

Popular Attractions: Sohar Corniche, Sohar Fort, Sohar Handicraft Souq, Sohar Muncipal Park,

Things to Do: Shopping from famous malls, Beach leisure, Camel rides

Places To Stay in Sohar: Radisson Blu Hotel, Mercure Sohar, Sohar Beach Hotel, Al Wadi Hotel, Royal Garden Hotel

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The Middle East For A Cultural Holiday Experience

11. Wadi Darbat: Explore The Calm Blue Waters and Caves

Wadi Darbat: Explore The Calm Blue Waters and Caves

Wadi Darbat is one of the most amazing scenic spots for nature lovers, surrounded by the hills and gorgeous waterfalls.  it is a lush green valley, surrounded by hills with small caves people can hike up.  it is the best places to visit in Oman with family and friends. It is flooded with locals and tourists during the monsoon seasons as they come to enjoy the green landscaped hills.  Shawarmas, popcorn and ice-cream are some of the street foods sold at the small stalls and restaurants.

Best Time To Visit: June to August

How To Reach

The best way to reach Wadi Darbat is to fly to Muscat or Dubai, which is a 90 minute- 2-hour flight respectively. One can fly with Oman Air.

By road, it is a 12-hour journey.

There are several buses that go to this place, which are offered by the Gulf transport company.

It is well connected by train, so they won’t be any problem.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 1 day

Nearest Airport: Salalah International Airport

Popular Attractions: Tawi Attair, Sumhuram Archaeological Park and Mirbat

Things To Do: Boat ride, walk or trek and visit the waterfalls

Adventures To Try: Trekking and Boat Ride

Best Places To Stay In Wadi Darbat: Souly Eco Lodge, Kairaba Mirbat Resort, Roshan Resort

Best Shopping Markets: Salalah Gardens Mall, Salalah Glory tours and Al Husn Souq

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kochi: Exploring The Treasure of Kerala

12. Musandam: The Unexplored Omani Getaway

Musandam: The Unexplored Omani Getaway

The unexplored Omani getaway is rich with modern architecture and serene beaches. Musandam is a one stop destination for scuba divers as it has clear waters and several facilities. Rich in Arabian culture, mixed with Iran’s, the Omani peninsula is surrounded by mountains and water bodies and with two gulfs- Arabian and Omani. Being one of the best tourist attractions in the middle east, Musandam has one of the most important and busiest waterways- the strait of Hormuz.  Jebel Harim is one of the tallest peaks in the region as it is studded with fossils of fish and various marine animals. It is one of the most breathtaking destinations to visit.

Best Time To Visit: October

Oman air is the only flight that goes to Khasab and Muscat. The duration of the flight is about 1.25 hours and departs and leaves from the military base.

If one were to travel by road, then one will have to get insurance permits for two countries and go past at least 8 entry checkpoints. On the other hand, if one were to drive down from Dubai, it is a lot simpler as one will have to pass only Tibat.

There is a ferry people can take from Muscat to go to Khasab.

Ideal Duration For Stay:   1 day

Nearest Airport:   Khasab Airport

Popular Attractions: Musandam peninsula, jebel al Harim, Khasab fort and Khor Najd

Things To Do: Camping, interact with the dolphins

Adventures To Try: Camping, paragliding, diving and snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Musandam: Dibba beach resort, six senses zighy bay and khasab hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Lulu roundbot, zaree Khasab souvenirs shop and al Marsa Musandam dive shop

Suggested Read: Popular Places To Visit In Kerala That Will Bring You Close To Nature

13. Bahla: A Reconstructed Heritage Town

Bahla: A Reconstructed Heritage Town

Bahla has been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site, one of the first ever Omani town, located in the Dakhliya region of Oman. One of the major tourist attractions in Muscat is the Bahla fort, even though the site constitutes of traditional vernacular houses, a market and a mosque. It is one of the most ancient forts that goes back to the 13th century. The town is known for its pottery and silver artefacts. It has been an interesting part of several Arabic legends as it was believed that it was the birth place of black magic.

The town is the perfect example of fortified oasis settlement of the Islamic period and boasts of a defensive architectural ensemble that allowed tribes to gain prosperity in the desert.  It offers a perfect view of the palm groves that can be seen from the Jabrin entrance.

Best Time To Visit: June- September

By Air: Muscat International Airport is the nearest airport in Bahla. There are several buses from Muscat for Bahla. It is best to hire a taxi or cab or travel in your vehicle.

Popular Attractions: Bahla Fort, Mosque, vernacular houses and markets

Things To Do: Pottery and visit the old souq

Adventures To Try: Camel rides, Dolphin watching, hiking and bike tours

Best Places To Stay In Bahla: Bait Bahla hospitality inn, hotel apartments and Al Hamra old house

Best Shopping Markets: Bahla Souq, riyal gift markets, Al Karama Hypermarket, Bahla

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In August In The World For Celebrating The Holidays

14. Khasab: The Land of The Many Vistas

Khasab: The Land of The Many Vistas

Khasab is a peaceful town that oozes with history as it home to the mountain of women, sandy beaches, beautiful corals and Portuguese fortress. People can take cruise through the Fjords of Musandam and swim in the blue seas. One can even snorkel and discover the stunning corals and sea life. The history lovers will love trekking the Musandam mountains and going to the abandoned houses in the deserted towns close to Khasab. It may be an old town but it is taken care of by its residents and has still sustained its charm. It is a humble city like no other and one of the many attractions in Oman.

Best Time To Visit: November

There are regular flights to Khasab from Muscat and the nearest airport is the Muscat international airport.

One can hire a cab to Khasab from Muscat, which would take about 6-7 hours to reach.  People can even rent a car or taxi.

Popular Attractions: Sandy beaches, beautiful corals and Portuguese fortress.

Things To Do:   Snorkel, Trekking and Swim in the blue sea

Adventures To Try: Snorkel and Trekking

Best Places To Stay In Khasab: Diwan Al Amir, Khasab Hotel, Atana Musandam Resort, Shams Musandam

Best Shopping Markets:  Ajmal Market center, Musandam Almasya, Marjan Market

15. Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab

For the locals and tourists, one of the most famous places to visit in Oman is Wadi Shab. November is the best time to visit the place and view the breathtaking hills, date palms, and waterfalls inside the caves in the mountains.  A 40-minute hike will take you to the place and while hiking people will discover the most beautiful path and will see pools along the way where they can swim. For a bit of fun and adventure, from the mountain cliff, one should dive into the pool. It is an adventure of a lifetime one should not miss out on.

The closest airport in Oman is the Muscat International Airport.  One can take a bus or hire a car or cab and go to Wadi Shab. It is will take about 2 hours.

One will have to check and see if there any trains to Oman.

Popular Attractions: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Tiwi

Things To Do: Hiking and Swimming

Adventures To Try: Hike and Dive into the pool from the mountain cliffs

Best Places To Stay in Wadi Shab: Wadi Shab Resort and Tiwi Sunrise Hotel

Best Shopping Markets:   Muscat City Center

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Cyprus For The Gorgeous Mountains And Ancient Ruins

Barka

Barka is a colorful beachside city located on the Omani coast. The ancient traditions of bullfighting and Omani Halwa make it a unique town that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oman . Barka is a 40 - minute drive from Muscat, making it an ideal day trip with family and friends. The fort overlooks the coastline of Oman and the Souq, the marketplace of the city. During the Muscat festival that is held annually, Barka bursts into life. Attending the festival is one of the many things to do in Oman as it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see what it is about.

Best Time To Visit: December

How To Reach:   From the city center of Muscat, Barka is a 45-minute drive. One can hire a taxi or rent a car and go to Barka.  People can even travel by bus to Barka as there are buses that go to the place regularly.

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1 day

Popular Attractions: Naman Zoo, Barka Fort

Things To Do: Go watch bull fighting, Eat Omani Halwa

Adventures To Try: Snorkeling, Fishing

Best Places To Stay In Barka:  Bait Al Sawadi, Barka Hotel Apartments

Best Shopping Markets: Bait Al Sawadi, Season Inn Hotel

Ibri

Have you ever visited the old parts of Oman? It is one of the most exciting Oman tourist places people should explore. Located in the northern Al Dhahriah region of Oman, Ibri is a stopover between Saudi Arabia and UAE. Based on the various UNESCO heritage sites, Ibri's treasure lies in its heritage. Tombs of Al-Ayn, Al- Khutm, and Bat are some of the most famous ancient ensembles in the world. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Muscat with archaeological sites with towers, forts, castles, and tombs. It is known for its oil and back in the year 1979, metal hoards were discovered. In 2018, several shopping places opened up.

Best Time To Visit: May- September

How To Reach: If traveling by air, then people can fly to Muscat and then travel by road. The nearest airport in Muscat is Muscat International Airport. Ibri is about 300 km away from Muscat. People can travel by bus from  Azaiba Bus Station to Buraimi, which passes by Nizwa and Ibri.  People can even travel by taxi from Muscat.

Popular Attractions: Towers, Forts, Castles and Tombs

Things To Do: Visit the archeological sites and tombs

Adventures To Try: Camping, walking and hiking

Best Places To Stay In Ibri: Al Majd Hotel, Ibri Oasis Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Sinaw Souk, Nizwa Souk, Al Husn Souq, Salalah, Gun Souq, Salalah

18. Al Suwaiq

Al Suwaiq

Have you ever visited the market in Oman? It is one of the most famous places to see in Oman . In Arabic, Al Suwaiq means market. People can explore the mountains, valleys, and plains along the coast. Several tourists on holiday can explore the market place, the countryside, discover the shores of Oman, and give their taste buds a treat to some of the most delicious food in Oman .

The town was popular for its market back in the day. One can visit Al Suwaiq to sell or buy goods. The place that was once off the grid has evolved over the years and today, one can see a combination of a traditional and modern town.  What more can anyone ask for in terms of having an ideal time? People should visit the market at least once as it is a once in a lifetime experience. What more can one ask for?

How To Reach: The nearest airport is Muscat International Airport and so, people can fly to the Oman easily;  and then hire a cab or taxi to visit the market.

Nearest Airport:   Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions:   Shores Of Oman, valleys, plains and mountains

Things To Do:   Buy souvenirs

Adventures To Try: Cruising, snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Al Suwaiq:  Gulf Sand Resorts, Al Ghadeer Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: NA

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Cairo, Egypt To Discover The Melting Pot Of History

19. Al Hoota Caves

Al Hoota Caves

The caves are about 2 million years old and situated at the foot of the Jebel Shams mountains. It is home to bats, anthropoids, snails, and mollusks and is well protected.  People will get to see the 4 lakes while taking a tour of the caves. The rare blind fish, Garra Barreimiae are seen in the lake and are only seen in the middle east. The tour is about 45 minutes as people get to see all of the 500 m of the cave.

People will get information in both Arab and English about when the cave was formed, founded and the animals that existed, and how long has it been preserved. One will have to walk carefully as the caves are quite slippery.

Timings: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1-2 hours

Popular Attractions:   Rare Blind Fish, Bats, Snails and Mollusks

Things To Do: Explore the cave

Adventures To Try: NA

Best Places To Stay In Al Hoota Caves: Al Hamra Old House, Al Hamra Guest House

Best Shopping Markets: Carrefour, Nizwa Grand Mall, Nizwa Souq

Mirbat

Now here's a thing, Mirbat may not be amongst the most talked about places to go in Oman but is certainly one spot that travelers can explore when on a vacation to this part of the world. Primarily famous for fishing, Mirbat was once the capital of Dhofar and a place where frankincense trade was heavily practiced in the old times. In fact, while being the capital of Dhofar, Mirbat earned most of its revenue from the frankincense trade and from breeding Arabian horses.

Interestingly, during the Dhofar Rebellion, it was also the site of the Battle of Mirbat in 1972 which certainly adds a historical significance to the place. Today, history lovers from around the world can come here and see the old remains easily here. Not only this, the town has a population of around 15000 today and has gained popularity as a perfect diving and snorkeling spot in Oman. There are excellent coral reefs offshore that divers would certainly love to explore. Likewise, visitors coming to Mirbat can also spend time savoring fine delicacies at a restaurant or spend a night at an upscale resort, this place has it all. Besides, since Mirbat is located close to Salalah, it becomes easily commutable for travelers today.

Best Time To Visit - June to October

How To Reach - Mirbat is located in close proximity to the Salalah International Airport. Travelers can easily take a flight to Salalah and cover the rest of the journey by road. Mirbat is 70 km east of Salalah on Highway 49 and it takes about an hour to reach here from the airport.

Ideal Duration Of Stay- 1 day

Nearest Airport - Salalah International Airport

Popular Attractions - Frankincense Museum, Tomb of Mohammed Bin Ali

Things To Do - Diving, snorkeling, exploring historical locations

Best Places To Stay In Mirbat - Mirbat Marriott Resort, Kairaba Mirbat Resort, Alila Hinu Bay

Best Shopping Markets - Mirbat Commercial Market

Suggested Read: Striking Places To Visit In Bahrain For An Enriching Travel Experience

21. Telegraph Island

Telegraph Island

A small piece of land surrounding the Musandam Peninsula in the middle of water, Telegraph Island was once a station in the 19th century that was used to boost the British Telegraph messages along the Persian Gulf cable line. Although not much remains of the old station on the island, it is still the perfect spot to enjoy snorkeling as the water conditions are perfectly favorable for the same. Hence, for travelers who are looking to experience the best of water sports in Oman , a trip to Telegraph Island makes perfect sense.

Best Time To Visit - Travelers can visit the Telegraph Island at any time they want

How To Reach - Travelers can take a flight to Khasab which is located nearby Telegraph Island.

Ideal Duration Of Stay - Few Hours

Nearest Airport - Khasab Air Base

Popular Attractions - Ruins of Telegraph Station

Things To Do - Snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Telegraph Island - There are no such places to stay on Telegraph Island as it is a relatively small island.

Best Shopping Markets - N/A

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sri Lanka For A Vacation Worth Remembering

A country that welcomes travelers to its scenic haven all round the year, Oman has a lot to be admired about. From gorgeous beaches, amazing food, and fresh sea breeze to the enchanting Souq and desert landscapes, this is a country that has it all. As for travelers, knowing the top places to visit in Oman is the real trick as the country has enough attractions to keep one engaged for weeks. Hence, if you're planning your next trip to Oman and wondering about the top places you can visit, keeping Muscat, Nizwa, and Salalah in your travel diary is almost mandatory for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Yes, Oman is one of the safest Middle-Eastern countries today where travelers can spend weeks without worrying about any mishaps.

The expense of traveling to Oman clearly depends on the number of days one decides to spend in the country. Ideally, the cheapest hotel room may cost around 12–15 OR per night in the country.

Yes, most top airlines around the world fly direct to Oman with cheap flights available for travelers.

Yes, US citizens can travel to Oman without much hassle. However, they do need a visa and passport prior to their journey.

Places like Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Al Mughsail Beach, Mutrah Souq, Wadi Dayqah Dam, Khasab Fort, etc, are the best places to visit in Oman.

As believed by many travelers, spending 2 weeks in Oman is an ideal duration to explore the whole country.

The time between October and April is considered as the best time to visit in Oman owing to the pleasant weather during this period.

There are no such restrictions on wearing shorts in the country. Travelers can wear anything that is dignified but they must not wear shorts while visiting mosque.

Rajat Kanojia

Rajat Kanojia

Driven by his keen impulse for globe-trot, Rajat is a buoyant writer, blogger, and traveler who breathes an airy passion to escape to a distant wild and live to share the tale with the world.

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  • 10 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Oman That Are Pure Architectural Masterpieces!

23 Mar 2023

The Sultanate of Oman is a destination for all travelers who love outdoors. Set amidst the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, the Middle East peninsula is known for its picturesque desert, historic forts, and spectacular mountain ranges. So if you’ve been thinking​ that your bucket list is complete, wait till you check out these top 10 places to visit in Oman , which will give you a new reason to revise your plans.

10 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Oman

Muscat city

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This capital city is part of everyone’s itinerary who’re traveling to Oman. And why shouldn’t it be? It’s​ a home to the beautiful Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace, the twin forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani, and the one-of-a-kind Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque with its marble panels and the second largest Persian carpet in the world. The Islamic architecture is a reason enough for this city to be one the top places to visit in Oman.

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Aerial view of Mosque Nizwa

The 17th century Nizwa fort is one of the simplest places to visit in Oman , which is known for its defence mechanism such as the honey traps, the strategically shaped windows, and the enormous cylindrical tower for approaching enemies. You can also check out the outdoor market or the unusual goat market for a unique experience.

3. Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Desert

Experience the traditional life with the Bedu people at Wahiba Sands which happens to be one of the best places to visit in Oman . From the city of Ibra, you can start the tour for Wahiba Sands wherein you can enjoy a camel ride and dune bashing on the sand dunes all around you.

4. Ras al Jinz

Turtle in the reserve

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One of the most picturesque places to visit in Oman is the turtle reserve at Ras al Jinz where sea Turtles are preserved and protected. From the months of May to October you can witness the Turtles hatch on the beach too. This place is absolutely divine and should be on your list of top places to visit in Oman during summers.

5. Jebel Akhdar

Peaks of Jebel Akhdar

Being the highest point in Oman, Jebel Akhdar is mainly made of limestone despite which the cooler temperature here will be a pleasant change during your vacation. Out of all the places to visit in Oman this place is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing and trekking.

Salahah valley

While looking for Oman tourist places you must visit the city of Salalah which boasts of incredible architecture as well as lots of shopping opportunities. You must visit this gorgeous place between June to August when the monsoons transform this place into a lush green paradise with waterfalls and streams. During these months Salalah becomes one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Oman .

7. Bahla Fort

Bahla Fort

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Within the city of Bahla lies an oasis named the Bahla Fort, which is a 13th century masterpiece. One of the top places to visit in Oman , the walls of this fort stretch upto 7 miles in length and are nothing less than pure bliss. The local tribe are craftsmen of pottery who earn their living by selling their handmade souvenirs at the local market.

8. Masirah Island

Sunset at Masirah Beach

Just off the main coast of Oman, lies the Masirah Island that can be reached via a small ferry ride. Masirah has a couple of small towns, few villages that mainly involve fishing, and the highest mountain peak of Jabal Al Humr, which are some of the fascinating places to visit in Oman. However, do add camping at the beach for witnessing the life of turtles that’ll make your holiday a memorable one.

9. Majlis Al Jinn

Trekker at Majis Al Jinn

In the Al Sahrqiya region of Oman, a deep shaft leads to the most interesting sites to be seen in the world. Majlis Al Jinn is one of the best places to visit in Oman if you’re looking for an offbeat adventure. One of the second largest caves in the world, Majlis Al Jinn is said to be the meeting point of local spirits who still reside there. Spooky much?

10. Wadi Dayqah Dam

View of the dam

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The Wadi Dayqah Dam is yet another attraction that is a must on your list of places to visit in Quriyat, Oman. The view from the dam has no comparison and you’ve got to be there to experience it for real. Amidst the surrounding peaks, this highest dam in Oman is part of the 8-km long lake. Never will you find a more amazing view of a man-made project and this undoubtedly has to be on your list of places to visit in Oman.

Excited much? There are many more incredible places to visit in Oman that range from mountains to desert havens. Being a home to the most underrated destinations and attractions, get going to the wonderful paradise of Oman to witness the other side of the world on an unforgettable vacation!

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Oman

Is Oman worth visiting?

Oman is a place of serenity and peace. Its rich culture, mesmerizing sights, and amazing food makes this Middle Eastern Country totally worth a visit.

What is famous in Oman?

Apart from its breathtaking scenery, Oman is quite famous for its seafood, Omani bread, Omani Halva, and dazzling souks.

Which is the best time to visit Oman?

October to March is the best time to visit Oman. During these winter months, when the weather is pleasant and cool. If you wish to avoid the crowd, April and May is also a great time to visit when the weather is still pleasant, but warmer than in the winter months.

What is there to do in Oman?

Most exciting things to do in Oman are: 1. Take a Wahiba Sands Tour 2. Visit the World Heritage Sites 3. Go on a Wadi Shab Tours 4. Shop for interesting artifacts at Muttrah Souk 5. Take a refreshing swim at the Bimmah Sinkhole

Is Oman expensive?

Oman is an expensive place. Although car rentals are cheap and gasoline costs close to nothing, this remains a major part of the budget and save a lot on your budget trip to Oman.

What clothes to wear in Oman?

Oman is an Islamic state which follows conservative dressing standards. All tourists are also required to wear ankle-length clothes and limit wearing swimsuit only to beaches.

How safe is Oman for tourists?

Oman is quite a safe country. It is very friendly and warm toward tourists, and the lowest crime rate, so apart from petty crime on the streets, there isn’t too much to worry about.

Can you drink alcohol in Oman?

Yes. Alcohol is widely available in Oman and is served in several restaurants, bars, and hotels.

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An Adventurous World

Home » Blog » Middle East » Oman » The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

By Author Macca Sherifi

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

  • Pin It 2.7K

From the mountains of Wadi Bani Awf to exploring the capital of Muscat, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Oman on your first trip!

places to visit in oman

Are you looking for the most beautiful places to visit in Oman? Then this is the blog post for you!

Let me start off by saying this now – Oman was not what I expected at all. In fact, I think it’s a country that will really surprise you too.

I’ve been to the United Arab Emirates a few times before. I’ve even been to Fujairah, the Emirate state neighbouring Oman in the Arabian Gulf, so I assumed the country would be very similar to this place. Oh how wrong I was.

Oman is nothing like Dubai or the UAE . In fact, it’s like nowhere else I’ve been to before. There are just so many beautiful places in Oman that make it such an amazing country to explore for your holidays.

For my tour of Oman, I went straight from the city of Muscat to spend a night in the sand dunes under the stars. Then I drove though Wadi Bani Awf and up into the mountains where it’s surprisingly cold, not what you’d expect from a desert country at all. Then I headed back into the hustle and bustle of Muscat again to end my trip. All in just a few days in the country.

I’m going to tell you all about these places and more.

things to do in oman

Beautiful Oman

This may sound stupid, but I had no idea that Oman had so many different landscapes. I thought because it was in the Middle East that it was an endless desert.

I don’t say this lightly, but Oman is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever been to before. It’s a place that just captures the imagination and I can’t wait to go back again and explore more of the country one day. It’s no wonder the tourist board keep on calling it ‘Beautiful Oman’ – it really is.

In this blog post I’m going to show you some of the most beautiful places to visit in Oman. I’m also going to add in lots of practical information too like whether you need a guide and some of the different customs in Oman.

Basically, if you’re planning a trip to Oman then this is the blog post for you – just keep on reading!

If you’re planning a trip to the Middle East, then check out my guides to the UAE and Dubai . I’ve also written about the infamous Dubai jeep safari too!

Customs in Oman

customs in oman

First things first, let’s look at some of the customs in Oman before your trip.

  • Everyone is very welcoming – I found Omanis really welcoming and friendly wherever I went. Everyone I met was curious about where I was from and why I was visiting the country, but in a very kind way. If a local comes up to you it’s more for a chat than anything else which I loved.
  • Say hello to everyone – I can’t remember not saying hello to a single Omani while I was there. It’s just custom to say As-Salaam-Alaikum to pretty much everyone you make eye contact with. When meeting someone of the opposite sex, do not offer your hand unless they offer you theirs first.
  • Don’t hold hands – As Oman is a strictly conservative culture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not hold hands with your partner in public. I travelled to Oman with my fiancée and we refrained from holding hands in case we caused any offence.

what to do in oman

  • Dress appropriately – It’s best for women to wear loose clothing with their shoulders and arms covered. Chloe’s written an amazing blog post all about what women should wear in Oman so check that out. For men, try to avoid very short shorts and no vest tops please!
  • Show respect to Sultan Qaboos – Sultan Qaboos came into power in 1970 making him the longest serving leader of the Arab world and he has completely changed the country to the point he is revered.
  • And don’t get angry – It’s actually illegal to show anger in any way in Oman so try to keep your emotions under control. One of the more surprising customs in Oman for you!
  • Check out some more advice & information on visiting Oman here. This post is packed full of everything you need to go before you go.

Flying to Oman

Flying to Oman is very easy from the UK (or anywhere else around the world!)

We flew from London Heathrow to Muscat with Oman Air and there are flights twice a day. You can also fly direct from Manchester too.

Flight time is around 7 hours so it is a relatively quick flight and perfect for a holiday. However, because of the time difference you do land at night, so make sure you factor this in when booking your trip. It’s always best to get an airport pickup or a taxi as it’s late at night.

Beautiful Places in Oman

Dunes by al nahda.

dunes by al nadha oman

The first place we visited in Oman was Dunes by Al Nahda . This is only an hour and 15 minutes from the capital Muscat but it feels like it’s a million miles away.

Dunes by Al Nahda is a 4* resort where you get to sleep in luxurious tents under the stars. It’s quite hard to describe really so hopefully the photos will show you what I mean!

When we arrived here I couldn’t believe the views of this place. The resort is surrounded by huge dusty orange sand dunes and it makes you feel like you’re in the heart of the desert.

One of the best things about staying at Dunes by Al Nahda is you’re completely cut off from it all. The only things you’ll need to worry about is how long you should relax in the infinity pool or whether to have breakfast in bed.

One of the more adventurous activities you can do there though is quad biking through the sand dunes. The quad bikes are beasts but you don’t need any experience and it is so much fun. This was probably my favourite adventure in Oman!

Rustaq Fort

beautiful oman

Let me say this now, I love a fort. I just love how they’re a blend of architecture and history all in one place. That, and you usually get a killer view at the top too.

Rustaq Fort is located in the Al Batinah Region of northern Oman. Built in 1711, Rustaq Fort is an amazing example of Omani Islamic architecture with these high walls and narrow windows everywhere. And surrounding the fort are the mountains of Wadi Bani Awf (also one of my top places to visit in Oman!)

I arrived at the fort fairly early at around 10am and I was surprised to have the place all to myself. It takes around an hour to walk around the fort and there are a number of secret passageways and ladders leading you to the ramparts.

The fort has been carefully restored and it’s an impressive sight looming above the town, so if you’re heading to Wadi Bani Awf then I’d definitely recommend visiting this place first.

Entrance tickets to the fort is 500 baisa (£1) so it’s very cheap! There are also a few Rustaq beach resorts in the surround area too.

Wadi Bani Awf

wadi bani awf

I bet you didn’t think Oman had mountains like this!

I know you’re thinking: “what is a wadi?” Well, a wadi is basically a valley or ravine that’s dry except in rainy season. So, if you’re looking to head up into the mountains you’ll most likely drive through a wadi!

A lot of people head to Wadi Bani Awf to go canyoning and rock climbing at Snake Canyon , but we went on a different adventure all together.

Driving through Wadi Bani Awf to the top of the mountains is a bone-shuddering adventure in itself. All the ‘roads’ here are off-road dirt tracks, and it’s impossible driving in this region without a 4X4.

With our driver, guide and all-round legend Ahmed from Desert Camel Adventure Tours , we took on the rough roads all the way to the top.

The hardest part was not stopping every 100 metres to take another photo. These were some of my favourite views in Oman, especially when you get to the top of the wadi at 2,000 metres.

If you’re looking for a 4WD safari tour from Muscat then check out this day out . This is a full-day tour where you’ll explore the Wahiba sands and the wadis of the area.

Jabal Akhdar

jebel akhdar oman

From Wadi Bani Awf, one of best places to visit in Oman is Jabal Akhdar. This is a village high up in the mountains of northern Oman.

In Jabal Akhdar, perched on the edge of the cliffs, you’ll find the Anantara Resort . There’s no way to subtly say this but the Anantara is one of the most beautiful hotels in the world. It’s expensive but I promise you it’s worth it.

The Anantara is a blend of ancient Islamic architecture where part of it looks like an old fort, with modern design bringing it into the 21 st century. Even though this is an uber-luxurious place to stay, the views of the Jabal Akhdar valley are stunning.

My favourite spot at the Anantara was Diana’s Point . This is a glass lookout point where you can grab a cocktail and watch the sun set behind the mountains. It’s like your own platform on Mars.

It’s named after Princess Diana and Prince Charles visited the exact same point in 1986, long before the hotel was built here. Basically you’re walking in the footsteps of Royalty which is another reason to come here! In my opinion Diana’s Point is one of the top things to do in Jabal Akhdar. Apparently it’s the most tagged Instagram location in the country too!

Birkat Al Mouz

places to go in oman

Another reason why it’s a great idea having a driver is he’ll take you to all the best spots in Oman like this one, Birkat Al Mouz.

As we were driving back to Muscat, Ahmed asked: “Would you like to see a lookout point that not everyone knows about?” 10 minutes later we were overlooking this oasis of palm trees in the middle of the desert. I mean, this place just screams ‘Beautiful Oman’.

Nestled at the foot of the mountains is an abandoned village which you can explore. You can also drive through the middle of the palm trees to really immerse yourself in this oasis.

For me though, this was one of those spots that just captured the magic and imagination of Oman. I told you there were a lot of different landscapes here – well this is just another one. For me, this is one of the top places to go in Oman that’s slightly off the beaten track.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

visiting sultan qaboos grand mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the finest mosques in the world. Built by Sultan Qaboos in 2001 as a present to his people, the mosque can hold up to 20,000 people at one time.

In fact, it’s full of superlatives. It took 300,000 ton of Indian sandstone to build the mosque. The main chandelier above the prayer hall is 14 metres tall, weighs 8.5 tons and is made up on 600,000 Swarovski crystals. But my favourite fact is the prayer hall houses the world’s second largest hand-woven carpet with a whopping 1,700,000,000 knots. Imagine stitching that one together!

I always enjoy visiting mosques around the world as I just love the clean lines of symmetry wherever you look. And they are always so peaceful and calming.

With the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, foreigners are encouraged to visit to learn more about Islam as a religion and to see how accepting it is. It’s a good ethos.

If you’re visiting the mosque, it has a very strict dresscode. For men, that’s trousers and a t-shirt. For women, it’s either a long dress or trousers, you need to make sure your shoulders are covered and you need to wear a headscarf. If you’re not dressed appropriately you can hire clothes on site.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Muscat. It’s open every day for tourists from 8am till 11am. After that it’s closed for prayer.

National Museum of Oman

national museum oman

For those of you interested in the history of Oman then I’d really recommend visiting the National Museum. Located in the Old Quarter of Muscat, the National Museum opened in 2016.

The museum is really well laid out and goes through the history of the first settlers to modern day Oman. I didn’t realise that settlers dated back 4,000 to 5,000 years ago here, so they preceded the Egyptians.  

The emphasis of this modern museum is on quality rather than quantity. Each display has a huge amount of space, height and light to really enhance the selective displays showcasing the heritage of Oman.

My favourite exhibition was learning about the mysterious Beehive Tombs of Al Khutm and Al Ayn. These date back nearly 4,000 years, and a bit like Stonehenge here in England, no one knows why they were built. So fascinating learning the history of this country!

Tickets for the National Museum cost 5 Riel (£10) for an adult.

Al Alam, the Sultan’s Palace

al alam palace muscat oman

Opposite the National Museum is the Sultan’s Palace, Al Alam. This palace gives you a small insight into the wealth that Sultan Qaboos must have. Oh, and this is just one of six palaces he has around the country.

For me the main highlight here are the brightly coloured blue and gold columns on the palace. These look like flowers rising out the ground and they look surprisingly modern considering this palace was rebuilt in 1972.

Even though most people pause in front of the front gate for a few photos, you can actually walk around the back of the palace. Here you really get to see the size of the buildings. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Oman.

Either side of the palace are Mirani and Jalali Forts built in the 16th century by the Portuguese.

Muttrah Fish Market

fish market muscat

It may seem strange to add in a fish market as one of the top places to visit in Oman but I really liked it here!

Unlike a lot of markets in Middle Eastern countries (and I would even throw Muttrah Souq that’s just down the road into the category), the fish market felt very real. It’s where locals and businesses would go to buy their fish. It wasn’t for tourists, it wasn’t fake, and I liked it for that.

There was a real buzz to the place as they were selling everything from freshly caught crabs to huge whole tuna.

What the locals do at the fish market is they buy their fish, then they take it to a separate section where it gets cleaned a gutted for a small charge. I thought this system was quite clever as it means you can have a freshly fileted fish without having to do it yourself.

Beware: this is a real working fish market with lots of live fish. If you’re vegetarian or vegan it’s probably best to steer clear of this one.

The Muttrah Corniche

what to do in oman

Just outside the Fish Market is the Corniche, a long part of Muscat well worth visiting on any trip to the capital.

I think after visiting places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi , I expected Muscat to be built up and modern, but it is the complete opposite. There are no uber lux skyscrapers on the horizon or traffic problems that blight Dubai. Instead, Muscat has kept its beauty and charm, traits signified in places like the Corniche.

Lined with 19 th century merchant’s houses and punctured with bright blue minarets from the surrounding mosques, the Muttrah Corniche is one of the city’s most vibrant areas.

I’d really recommend picking up a lemon and mint juice and taking a stroll along the waterfront. It really is such a peaceful place wander around.

A great way of seeing a lot of these places mentioned is on a Muscat city tour . If you’re looking at what to do in Oman, this is a great place to start. That way you’ll get to see Muscat before exploring the rest of the country.

Bandar Khayran

bandar khayran muscat

This might just be my favourite place to visit in Muscat. Located in the north of the city is Bandar Khayran, a coastal town that feels so far from the bustle of the city centre.

Here the coast breaks up into a series of khors (inlets) and bandars (natural harbours), the perfect place to go exploring. There are a few hills by the side of the road the you can scramble up for an amazing view of the bay below.

Another really popular activity is to hire a kayak and to paddle around the secluded bays and beaches. This is also a really popular dive spot too with a dive school located next to the Shangri-La.

The colour of the water is something else though, especially when the sun sets. If you’ve got time, I’d definitely add this to your Oman itinerary. And yes, it really does look as good as the photos!

Where to stay in Muscat

where to stay in oman

While I was in Muscat I stayed at the Kempinski , a gorgeous property on the Gulf of Oman.

Nestled within the newly built coastline community of Al Mouj which has been dubbed ‘the new heart of Muscat’, the Kempinski is a fantastic place to base yourself to explore all the city has to offer.

There are 4 restaurants on site offering everything from traditional Arabic food to modern dining. One of the restaurants, Soi Soi, was the best Thai food I’ve had in a very long time (not including my most recent trip to Thailand of course!)

I really enjoyed my time at the Kempinski though and hitting the pool after a busy day of sightseeing was bliss. Oh, and the airport is only a 15-minute drive away, so it’s a good option for business travellers too!

Tours in Oman

My trip to Oman was in association with Experience Oman showcasing some of the best things to do in Oman. As always, all view and opinions are my own.

Are you looking at where to go in Oman? What part of the country would you like to visit first? Let me know in the comments below!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman on Your First Trip

About the Author

Macca Sherifi

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

View all posts

Sunday 8th of January 2023

I have some notes and corrections as a French who has been in Oman for many years: 1. It's not offensive to hold your partner's hands or hug them, but be cautious with kissing (which depends on how far it goes) 2. Vest top is ok, and exposing shoulders and arms for women is ok too unless you went inside a mosque like that 3. It's not illegal to be angry as you said, but it is illegal to curse or fight in public. While slurs or anything that promotes sectarianism is totally forbidden in Oman and would undoubtedly get you in jail

Overall, don't be afraid of asking anyone in public about anything, most Omanis are very cooperative and helpful, especially if you are a foreigner as they know you most probably would have a completely different culture than theirs. That's why everybody asks you about where you are from. They don't get offended by your difference as my experience with 'some' European countries. They are actually curious and love to learn about your culture.

Macca Sherifi

Monday 9th of January 2023

Amazing advice and very useful, thanks very much for posting to help people out. I completely agree with you that Omanis are very curious - it was really refreshing that they just wanted a chat about a different culture. I loved my time in Oman, I would 100% recommend it to people!

Gayle Trunfio

Sunday 20th of June 2021

Oman surprised me with its stunning beauty!! Completely blown away with the variety of landscapes. Everywhere you turn was another beautiful view. A photographer’s dream and nightmare all encompassed into one. The people were extremely welcoming. The food, absolutely delicious. In just a few short days complete strangers became family. Thanks to social media it makes it so easy to stay in touch often. My recommendation ... do not miss an opportunity to visit a date souq. Omani dates are some of the best in the world. I had no idea there were so many different varieties! You’ll find your in sensory overload from tasting as many of the two dozen or so varieties. No sampling limits either! From the three I liked the best I had my guide choose for me. Definitely buy more dates than you think, trust me on this one. Looking forward to my next adventure there to different areas.

Friday 2nd of July 2021

Thanks very much for commenting Gayle, and I couldn't agree more! I absolutely loved the variety of landscapes in Oman - it's a photographer's dream. I love the tip about dates too. Hopefully a fair few people get to try them when they're out in Oman.

Abdul Razak

Tuesday 8th of June 2021

Thank you for this very informative blog … loved it. Waiting for travel restrictions to ease … so can travel.

Thursday 17th of June 2021

You're very welcome! I really hope you get to visit there one day - it really is an incredibly beautiful place to visit.

Not Scared of the Jetlag

The 26 most beautiful places to visit in Oman

places to visit in oman near me

Oman is my favourite country to visit in the whole world! I can’t even say why. It just calls me again and again. There are so many places to visit in Oman that even after spending a total of almost 5 weeks in the country, there is still much more for me to see.

The best thing about Oman though, and this is not listed in this article, are the people! They are so friendly and welcoming and a lot of them speak really good English.

Oman has a great mix of history and culture as well as nature to be attractive to everyone. And if you are still in doubt, if Oman is a place you should visit, keep reading this post. I am sure by the end you will book your flight!

The best places to visit in Oman around Muscat

Sultan qaboos grand mosque.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is my favourite mosque and definitely a must-see attraction in Muscat . It is decorated in light colours and is surrounded by beautiful grounds and gardens. When I first visited it a few years ago, I was so impressed by the size, the beautiful gardens with frangipani trees and the tranquillity it exudes. I wanted to spend hours just walking around or sitting somewhere and letting time pass.

The main prayer hall can accommodate up to 6500 worshippers. It has one of the most intricate prayer rugs I have ever seen.

Sultan Qaboos grand mosque with big dome in the background and colourful flower beds in the foreground. One of the best places to visit in Oman

My favourite part of the complex is the mosaic gallery that surrounds the mosque. The long arcades on the north and south sides house niches with mosaics in different styles from all the Islamic countries. They are very beautiful and it is interesting to see the differences in Islamic art in the different regions.

Read this article if you are interested in other mosques to visit as a non-Muslim.

The Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House has to be one of, if not THE most modern opera house in the world and should be on your list of places to visit in Muscat! Even if you’re not going to see an opera or a ballet, I highly recommend a tour of the building.

Opened in 2011, the opera house is mostly made of creamy white marble with intricate wooden details inside.The entrance hall is huge and has a beautiful grand staircase leading to the balconies. There are also display cases with costumes that were worn in performances.

places to visit in oman near me

The grand hall is full of technology. Depending on the type of performance, the stage can be extended by lowering the front rows of seats into the floor.The ceiling can be raised or lowered to change the acoustics for orchestra concerts. Even the small gallery balconies can be moved to accommodate the stage set-up.

Where to stay – Hotel tips for every budget:

Budget: Riyam Hotel in Muttrah

Medium: Sheraton

Luxury: W Muscat in Qurum or Shangri La Al Jissah Muscat a bit outside the city

Corniche of Muttrah

The corniche in Muttrah is best enjoyed at sunset as it doesn’t offer much shade. But it offers great views of the bay as well as the old town with its blue mosque. Walk on the water side in one direction and back on the other. This way you can admire the traditional buildings with their intricately decorated balconies and look at the small shops in between.

places to visit in oman near me

Muttrah Souk

The clear highlight of the sights in Muscat is the Muttrah Souk. Although it has been modernised in recent years, it still feels like you have travelled back in time. The small, crowded stalls are full of delicacies and souvenirs, from Omani halwa (a traditional sweet), to khanjars (the traditional Omani daggers), to pashmina shawls and cushion covers, and of course frankincense, the oldest Omani export.

Wondering what is a souk? Read more here!

Muttrah Fish Market

At the other end of the corniche, you will find the modern fish market hall. The waters around the coast of Muscat are teeming with fish, and here you can get a good look at them all. Get here early in the day to make the most of the experience.

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Muttrah Fort

Muttrah Fort dates back to the early 16th century when Oman was occupied by the Portuguese. It is rather small, especially compared to the forts of Nizwa and Bahla.

It is nevertheless one of the best things to do in Muscat, if only for the view over the Muttrah Corniche.

Al Alam, the Royal Palace

The palace is a funny looking building, to be honest. Considering the Sultan’s wealth, it is a rather modest palace. It was completed in 1972 and is only one of several palaces in the country. You can walk towards the old fort in direction of the sea to catch a glimpse of the complex from the back as well.

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National Museum of Oman

Opposite the palace is one of the most interesting places to visit in Oman. Exhibitions at the National Museum cover traditional dress, boat building and the history of seafaring, as well as other cultural aspects. Everything from prehistoric times to the present is covered.

You can find miniatures of forts around the country and many boat models of all sizes.

The best places to visit in Oman north of the Al Hajar Mountains

Wadi dayqah dam.

The Wadi Dayqah Dam is one of the largest in the country and supplies the capital and other smaller towns with drinking water. There is a small park above the dam that families like to visit for picnics. It is also worth visiting the valleys in the vicinity and taking a short hike.

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Wadi Shab is one of the most popular wadis in Oman. It is easily accessible by car via the highway from Muscat and almost all tour groups stop here.

To get to the wadi, you have to travel a short distance by boat from the car park (1 OMR). Then you walk for about 45 minutes in the beautiful, green Wadi Shab, always along the river. There are several pools along the way where you can swim. At the end of the trail you can swim for about 20 minutes further upstream to a waterfall in a cave. When I was there, however, the water level was too high and the cave entrance was under water.

rocky gorge with big rocks and some palm trees, water pooling between boulders. Wadi Shab, one of the best places to visit in Oman

Bimmah Sinkhole

Another popular destination in Oman is the Bimmah Sinkhole. Here the ground has collapsed almost circular and a lake has formed at the bottom. You can reach the bottom via a staircase and are also allowed to swim here.

The area has been fenced off for several years and a small park has been created.

Bimmah sinkhole, main attraction in Oman

Sur is a relatively untouristy harbour town with an impressive dhow shipyard. Dhows are the traditional wooden boats that the Omanis once used to travel to Zanzibar and other places. They are still made by hand today. There is also a small museum nearby that exhibits various models and their history.

There is a lighthouse and fort on the east side of the harbour entrance, from which you have a great view of the city.

places to visit in oman near me

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Oman. The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is located at the easternmost point of Oman. You can book tours here to watch turtles laying eggs on the beach, or if you’re lucky, baby turtles hatching. It is possible to stay overnight directly in the building.

Budget: Turtle Guest House

Medium: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

If you are looking for an off the beaten path experience in Oman, this is your best bet. The Musandam Peninsula is an extremely barren, rocky headland that can be reached by plane to Khasab, by boat, or by car via the UAE. The most beautiful experience is going on a multi-day tour with a dhow. You can see the fjords from different perspectives, go on day hikes into the mountains and you are practically guaranteed to see dolphins coming to the ship.

The best places to visit in Oman in the Al Hajar Mountains

Misfat al abriyyin.

Misfat Al Abriyyin is famous for being a place where you can observe the traditional life of the Omanis. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. Too many tourists have not respected the privacy of the locals, taking pictures of the women, for example. And now most people have moved to new houses on the other side of the valley.

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What remains is a ghost town with the old, very beautiful mud houses, narrow alleys and a few guesthouses. You can visit the public bathhouse and there is a beautiful short walk between the orchards down into the valley (and up again on the other side). The trail starts at Misfah Old House, which I would recommend for an overnight stay here.

Where to stay – Hotel tip: Misfah Old House

Jebel Shams

Jebel Shams, the Sun Mountain, is the highest mountain in Oman at just over 3000m. The summit is military territory, but you can get to the second highest point a bit off the beaten track. The road there is still gravel for the last few kilometres, so if you don’t have an off-road vehicle, you have to drive very slowly.

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In my opinion, the Balcony Walk (marked in the maps.me app) on the opposite side of Wadi Ghul is much more interesting than the summit. Follow the road to Jebel Shams Resort to the end, to the village of Al Khitayam. Here, behind the women selling handmade jewellery, you will find the path that runs along Oman’s “Grand Canyon”.

You should be free from vertigo, as the path leads along the steep slope to a few old houses and a hidden waterhole. If it has rained lately, there is also a waterfall.

Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar, the Green Mountain, is Oman’s orchard. Terraces have been created in the numerous valleys and mainly fruit trees have been planted. That is why the fruit blossom in spring is a popular time to visit.

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The most famous viewpoint was named “Diana’s Point” after Lady Di. To get there, you have to walk through the very fancy and expensive Anantara Resort, but no one there minds.

My favourite place to visit in the Jebel Akhdar region was Bani Habib, a remote valley with a small clay village.

Medium: Sama Hotel Jabal al Akhdar

Luxury: Anantara al Jabal al Akhdar Resort or Alila Jabal Akhdar

Wadi Bani Khalid

The second very well-known wadi is Wadi Bani Khalid. In contrast to Wadi Shab, however, it resembles more a water park than a natural paradise. After a few metres from the car park, you reach a landscaped park with restaurants and a few pools that almost look like they have been built.

If you walk a little further up the valley, you will find more pools that are much less frequented. If you search a little, you will also find one or two entry points. This is where the true beauty of Wadi Bani Khalid is found.

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Snake Canyon

Snake Canyon (Wadi Bimah) is a great destination for real adventurers. However, as there have been accidents with fatalities here in the past, you should only go into the canyon with a licensed local guide . There can always be flash floods, even if no rain has fallen in the immediate vicinity.

There are some offers for canyoning, but for me it was too cold in January to spend a day in the water. We camped nearby and the surrounding valleys are also really worth seeing.

places to visit in oman near me

The best places to visit in Oman south of the Al Hajar Mountains

In the 6th and 7th century Nizwa was the capital of Oman. Today Nizwa is famous for the old fort and the souk and a great place to visit in Oman.

The souk is especially interesting on Fridays when sheep and goats are presented and sold. Otherwise, you can find everything from everyday items to food and handicrafts. The region is famous for its dates, which you should definitely try here.

places to visit in oman near me

The Nizwa fort was built around 1670 and is one of the most important in the country. Here you can see very impressively the defence mechanisms that were used at that time.

Budget: Antique Inn

Medium: Mud House Nizwa , a very special, traditional house, not suitable for tall people, sadly

Luxury: Bustan Inn

Wahiba Sands

The Wahiba Desert is an area of sand dunes measuring approximately 180 x 80 km. Most visitors book one (or more) nights in a permanent camp. The choice here ranges from simple to super luxurious. If you have a rental car with 4×4 drive, you can drive yourself to the camp, but if you are unsure, you can also have someone pick you up.

places to visit in oman near me

It is worth climbing the highest dune in the vicinity at sunset or sunrise. The view is a dream! You can also book camel rides here and feel like Lawrence of Arabia.

Where to stay – Camping tips:

Desert Nights Camp

Safari Dunes Camp

Al Ayn Beehive Tombs

The beehive tombs of Al Ayn are over 4000 years old. Together with other Bronze Age monuments in the region, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can see the tombs from the road and when we were there you could just walk up to them. There was no fence and you didn’t have to pay an entrance fee.

places to visit in oman near me

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is Bahla Fort. It was built between the 12th and 15th centuries and is likely one of the largest forts in Oman. One can imagine that in times of crisis the town could be almost completely housed inside the fort. You can easily spend a few hours here to see everything.

Stables, living quarters, a mosque, a hammam and so much more. From the upper floors you also have a great view over the fort and the town.

places to visit in oman near me

Jabreen Castle

Jabreen Castle was built in the 17th century and was definitely a highlight of my Oman trip. There is a very good audio guide with which you can explore the castle on your own, at your own pace. The “Sun and Moon Room” with its painted ceiling and the “Date Preservation Room” were particularly interesting.

places to visit in oman near me

The best places to visit in Oman in the far South

Salalah is a rather unspectacular coastal city in the south of Oman. A visit here is really only worthwhile in connection with a desert tour to the Rub Al Khali or during the rainy season, when the surrounding mountains green up for a few weeks and the waterfalls and rivers have plenty of water.

Medium: Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah at the beach or Muscat International Hotel Plaza Salalah in the centre

Luxury: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Rub al Khali

The largest sand desert in the world, the Rub Al Khali, is impressive. The long sand dunes stretch for dozens of kilometres and are separated from each other by shallow valleys. Especially at sunset the dunes glow a spectacular red, which is rarely seen in other deserts.

I did a 9-day desert hike here years ago, but compared to the other deserts I visited, the Rub Al Khali was rather monotonous.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

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Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

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Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

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Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

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Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

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Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

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Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

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IMAGES

  1. 10 Best Places to Visit in Oman

    places to visit in oman near me

  2. The 14 BEST Places to Visit in Oman (2023 Guide)

    places to visit in oman near me

  3. THINGS TO DO OMAN

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  4. 20 Amazing Places to Visit in Oman

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  5. 11 Beautiful Places To Visit In Oman

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  6. 20 amazing places to visit in Oman

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  1. Would you visit Oman 🇴🇲? #travel #oman

  2. Saudi arabia to oman my journey

  3. 🇴🇲 Places in Oman that don't feel real #placesthatdontfeelreal

  4. Oman tourism gets a boost with 3mn tourists in 2018

  5. Best Places to visit Oman 🇴🇲 || UAE travel 🇦🇪 || #shorts #travel #oman #omantravel #uae

  6. OMAN, Road Trip, documentary, travel, Vlog, (English version) 2022

COMMENTS

  1. 17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Oman in 2024

    Best places to visit in Oman this year. 1. Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most beautiful places in Oman. 2. Sharqiya Sands (Wahiba Sands), Oman's Empty Quarter. 3. Muscat, Oman's vibrant capital city. 4. Musandam Fjords, the 'Norway of Arabia'.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Oman (Updated 2024)

    2023. 7. Jebel Shams. 390. Mountains. At just over 2000 meter. Jebel Shams Resort is ideally situated a few minutes walk from the famous "Grand Canyon of Oman" and a visit to us on Oman's highest Mountain at approximately 3000 Meter is great place from which to enjoy the mountain.

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Muscat

    7. The National Museum. 433. Art Museums. The National Museum - Sultanate of Oman, established in 2013, is the Sultanate's flagship cultural institution, showcasing the nation's heritage from the earliest human settlement in the Oman Peninsula some two million years ago through to the present day. As a national institution with global outreach ...

  4. 17 Places To Visit In Oman

    Here are the best places to visit and things to do in Oman to explore sightseeing and tourist attractions. Read more to plan your travel to Oman. 1. Muscat. 4.5 /5. 1 out of 17. Places to visit in Oman 17. Tourist attractions. Muscat, the capital of Oman, has served as an integral trading link between the east and the west and still remains a ...

  5. 16 Places to Visit in Oman (By a Local)

    8. Bimmah Sink Hole. 📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Bimmah Sink Hole Hotels on Booking. Bimmah Sink Hole is the most beautiful accident in Oman. Some visitors say it has been made by aliens, while the locals claim it is a result of a meteorite falling on Oman (hence the Arabic name, meaning "falling star").

  6. 21 best things to do in Muscat (Oman) + Map

    Oman itinerary 4 days - based in Muscat. If you are lucky enough to have a little more time, I recommend alternating days in the city and day trips. Day 1 - Grand Mosque and Hike. Day 2 - day trip to Wadi Shab. Day 3 - Mutrah Souq and boat tour. Day 4 day trip Wahiba Sands or to some forts depending on your interests.

  7. 20 Must See Places In Oman

    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. Contents [ hide] 1 10 beautiful places to visit in Oman. 1.1 Jebel Shams Canyon. 1.2 Wadi Shab.

  8. 10 Best Places to Visit in Oman (+Map)

    9. Masirah Island [SEE MAP] Marlon Cureg / Flickr. 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.

  9. Places to Visit in Oman

    2023. 7. Jebel Shams. 390. Mountains. At just over 2000 meter. Jebel Shams Resort is ideally situated a few minutes walk from the famous "Grand Canyon of Oman" and a visit to us on Oman's highest Mountain at approximately 3000 Meter is great place from which to enjoy the mountain.

  10. The 8 best places to visit in Oman

    At 2980m (9777ft) up in the Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar - whose name translates to Green Mountain - is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. It's also one of the coolest, with the temperature being about 15°C (59°F) cooler than Muscat throughout the year. The mountain even sees some snowfall in winter.

  11. The 14 BEST Places to Visit in Oman (2024 Guide)

    There's a cute fishing village. Ras Al Jinz is a small village at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula world-famous for its green turtle nesting grounds. Green turtles are endangered, and in 1996 the Sultan of Oman established the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Center to protect these precious habitats.

  12. 19 Amazing Places To Visit In Oman

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

  13. 20 amazing places to visit in Oman

    It's famous for its breathtaking fjords, desert mountains and waters of a beautiful shade of blue. 2. Khasab fortress. Khasab fortress, Oman. (Dreamstime) The capital of the Musandam region is the city of Khasab. To get there you can take a fast ferry boat, connecting to the capital Muscat. 3. Muscat.

  14. 11 Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

    1) Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat. The Grand Mosque, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oman. Most trips to Oman begin in the capital Muscat and high on everyone's list is a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It's a stunning modern mosque that lives up to its name with space for 20,000 worshippers.

  15. 21 Places to Visit in Oman on Your Next Grand Vacation

    2. Nizwa: The Second-Largest Destination Of Travel In Oman. Travel to Nizwa. An ancient city nestled in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of Northern Oman, Nizwa is one of the best places to visit in Oman and a land that boasts of its picturesque setting and a wide range of attractions.

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