In this post, we want to show you the best things to do in Oman. Oman was the first country we visited in the Middle East, and we immediately fell in love! The country is so diverse and there are a lot of things to do and explore! In this post, we give you a summary of the things you definitely need to include in your travel itinerary for Oman. We have broken down our list according to 4 main regions in Oman (Muscat, Ad Dakhiliyah, Ash Sharqiyah and Ad Dhahirah). Read on, and discover the 20 best things to do in Oman!
Read more: Discover our travel itinerary that include the best things to do in Oman
Best things to do in Oman – content
Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. This means if you click on a link and purchase, we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. The affiliate links concern only products and services we appreciated highly and trust. This means the views and opinions expressed in this post are purely our own. For more information, read our privacy and cookie policy.
To see all of these places in an time efficient way we recommend renting a 2WD or 4WD car. A 2WD car suffices to see most of the highlights in Oman but if you want more freedom and want to fully experience the mountains and more remote places like the Wahiba sands by yourself then we really recommend renting a 4WD with a rooftop tent.
We always rent our cars through Discovercars.com with free cancellation and insurance included. Discovercars.com is a world leader in comparing prices and offers great deals. We have never encountered any problems regarding their services.
Check availability and prices for a 2WD car in Oman HERE
The best things to do in the Muscat Governate in Oman
1. Muttrah
Muttrah is the old port region in Muscat, the capital of Oman. This part of Muscat has a lot of charm and can be easily accessed by car, taxi or bus. First of all, you have Muttrah Corniche. The Corniche is a waterfront promenade that gives you views over the ocean and the harbor on the left side and over the mountains on the other side.
Undoubtly, the best things to visit in Muttrah is Muttrah Souq. This is one of the oldest and probably the most famous souqs in Oman. It’s the best place to go shopping for souvenirs. But there’s more to this place than traditional Omani vendors. Visiting Muttrah Souq is an experience on its own. As soon as you enter the souq, you will scent the typical aroma of Oman, frankincense. And make sure to look up as the ceiling of the market is really beautiful.
Other things to visit in Muttrah are Muttrah Fort, also known as Fort Jalali. This fort lies on a hill and is an iconic landmark in Muttrah. In Al Riyam Park you can find some shade between the palm trees and other greenery. It is also the starting point of the C38 hike that takes you into the mountains that surround Muttrah.
See prices and book a Muttrah tour here
2. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-visit when traveling in Oman. It is architecturally stunning! The main prayer room is considered as the most impressive part of the mosque, with the second largest hand woven Persian carpet in the world and the crystal chandelier made of Swarovski, wheighing two-tons. However, also outside the main prayer room, there is so much beauty to discover. We especially loved the minarets and the greenery against the white sandstone.
You can visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque by yourself but having a guide who will give you all the details, stories and anecdotes about this spectacular building surely add up to your travel experience!
3. Viewpoints near Muscat
Muscat has some stunning viewpoints to offer. Our two favorite viewpoints are the Bandar Al Khairan viewpoint and the Yiti viewpoint. The Bandar Al Khairan viewpoint is located in between the ocean and the sandy mountains and is definitely recommended during sunrise or sunset. At those moments, the mountains are covered in golden light. The Yiti viewpoint offers beautiful views over typical white houses lying in between red-brown mountains.
4. The Daymaniyat Islands
The Daymaniyat Islands are a stunning nature reserve that is perfect to discover while snorkeling. Meet the friendly sea turtles or try to spot Nemo and its friends. If you are lucky, you even might spot one of the shy black tipped reef sharks or a whale shark. The Daymaniyat Islands are often overlooked, but according to us, a tour to these islands is one of the best things to do in Oman.
To reach the islands, you need to book a tour and there are different companies to choose from. Most of the tours take you to two different snorkeling spots where you can see the turtles and some beautiful coral upclose. During the months it is allowed (November to April), they also take you to a beach from where you can explore one of the islands.
5. The Bimmah Sinkhole
The Bimmah Sinkhole, also known as Hawiyat Najm, is a stunning natural pool. It was formed by a collapse of the surface. The crater filled with turquoise-blue water and is now a must-visit and a unique place to have a swim. The sinkhole is approximately 50 meters wide and about 20 meters deep. Steps take you down to the water’s edge and make an easy access to take a refreshing dip. The Bimmah Sinkhole is definitely a great thing to do in Oman!
The best things to do in the Ash Sharqiyah Governorate
6. Wadi Shab
Wadi Shab is one of the most beautiful wadis in Oman. Before your reach the first pools of Wadi Shab, you are treated with a beautiful hike through a stunning landscape. Once you arrive at the pools, you will notice that they are filled with warm, crystal-clear water. Swimming amidst the cliffs of Wadi Shab is definitely a once in a lifetime experience! One of the highlights of Wadi Shab is a hidden cave with a waterfall inside, only accessible via a small opening in the rocks. Definitely an adventure you can’t miss in Oman!
7. Wadi Tiwi
Not far from Wadi Shab, you can find Wadi Tiwi. This wadi is a breathtaking oasis nestled within a rocky landscape. The wadi is known for crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush greenery. When driving into the wadi (you’ll need a 4WD) you will discover hidden villages and traditional architecture.
8. Sur
Sur is often seen as just a town you pass during your travels through Oman. However, according to us, Sur is a quaint fishing village that deserves some time to explore. There are many different things to do and see in Sur, so it’s a good place to spend at least one night. Make sure to bring a visit to Sur’s lighthouse, where you have stunning views over the Arabian sea. Or visit the souq or a dhow yard and learn how traditional Omani boats are built.
9. Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Bani Khalid is the most accessible and probably most touristic wadi in Oman. But that is well-deserved, as it is beautiful! From the car park, it is only a short walk along a falaj (irrigation channel) to the main pools, surrounded by different date palms. The main pools are the busiest, so we recommend to continue your hike to the upper wadi pools. To reach them, just keep walking into the canyon. After a 10 minute walk the canyon becomes more narrow. Here you discover some stunning pools that are the perfect place for a swim or even a cliff jump!
10. Wahiba Sands
In the heart of Oman, you can find some golden sand dunes, called the Wahiba Sands. Spending a night and day in this desert was one of our highlights in Oman. Watching the sunrise was one of the best ways we have ever started a day. And we enjoyed exploring the dunes by foot and take in the most wonderful vistas! There are different camps in the desert that also offer extra activities like camel riding and dune bashing. At night, the sky changes in a carpet full of stars and it will feel like you are dropped in a 1001 nights fairytale.
The best things to do in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governate
11. Jebel Shams
Jebel Shams is Oman’s highest mountain and stands at an elevation of 3004 meters. The canyon below, the spectacular Wadi Ghul, is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Oman”. Driving up to Jebel Shams not only gives you spectacular views over the landscape but you can also do a spectacular hike: the Balcony Walk.
This trail takes you along the rim of Wadi Ghul to an abandoned village, the Al Nakhr Village. During this trail, you get awe-inspiring vantage points with deep ravines and rugged landscapes. Along the way, chances are high you get accompanied by one of the friendly, but sometimes importunate goats along the way. The Balcony Walk will take about 3-4 hours and is relatively easy. We also recommend to spend a night at Jebel Shams, so you can witness both the sunset as the sunrise. There are nice places to stay both in hotels as with a tent near the rim of Wadi Ghul.
12. Misfat Al Abriyeen
A place you cannot miss during your itinerary through Oman is the old village Misfat al Abriyeen. We’re sure that spending some time here will be amongst your favorite time in Oman. This village, perched on the foothills of Jebel Shams, definitely takes you back in time. The old town, with its mud houses, is surrounded by date palm trees and lush terraced fields.
Especially the falaj system, an ingenious irrigation system, is not to be missed! To make sure you don’t get lost in the small alleyways, there are different walking trails. We highly recommend doing the W9 walk combined with the W9C walk. This hike will take you through the village and via the terraced gardens to the wadi. We promise you, the views are spectacular! Afterwards, you can reward yourself with a drink at one of the different rooftop cafes in Misfat Al Abriyeen.
13. Nizwa fort
Nizwa Fort is an old but well-maintained castle right in the middle of Nizwa. It was built in the 17th century and with its big circular tower, it is a landmark in Oman. When you go inside, it’s like stepping into the past. The different rooms of the fort give you a good image on how life was inside the fort. If you climb to the top of the tower, you get an awesome view over Nizwa and the Hajar Mountains nearby.
The way the fort was build in clay and mud makes it so much different from other castles we have ever visited before. Around every corner in the fort, there is something new to see. Make sure to spend some time in Nizwa town as well, as Nizwa has a splendid souk to explore!
14. Jabrin castle
Another fascinating cultural site is Jabrin castle. As Nizwa fort, this castle was built in the 17th century. What makes it a must-visit is the mud and clay buildings in combination with the beautiful wooden carvings. There are many rooms, chambers, and towers to discover while you‘ll learn more about the past of Oman. The castle did not only serve as a defensive fortress but also as a center of learning and culture. Make sure to go on the towers as they’ll give you some panoramic views on the surroundings.
15. Birkat Al Mouz
Another old village in Oman you have to add to your itinerary is Birkat Al Mouz. This old mud town, surrounded by banana trees and palm dates is a wonderful place to discover. This old town has a well-preserved falaj system that has sustained the surrounding agriculture for years. Wandering through Birkat Al Mouz drops you back to ancient times and gives you a glimpse of the Oman from centuries ago.
The best things to do in the Ad Dhahirah Governate
16. Wadi Damm
The Ad Dharihah Governate gave us some of the best memories of Oman. Little did we expect that Wadi Damm would become one of our favorite wadis in Oman. Whereas Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid receive more tourists, Wadi Damm still remains a hidden gem. Before you enter the wadi, you’ll wander through a wide valley where ancient petroglyphs are carved into the rocks. After a while, the gorge becomes more narrow and you reach the different pools of Wadi Damm. There are no clear paths in Wadi Damm, so you’ll be able to explore the wadi in a very authentic manner.
17. Al’Ayn beehive tombs
Another surprise on our travel itinerary were the Al’Ayn beehive tombs, an UNESCO World Heritage site. These burial tombs date back from the Bronze Age and as they are placed against a giant mountain, they are breathtaking to see. It’s a place that is still not visited by many tourists, but we highly recommend to add it to your things to do in Oman.
Top things to do in Oman in general
18. Go camping
Not many people know that Oman is an excellent country for camping and outdoor life. If you like camping, we highly recommend considering Oman as your next destination. It is completely legal (even the Omanis go camping on the weekend) and safe. And above all, you’ll be able to pitch your tent in the most stunning landscapes you’ll ever see. And if you prefer some more luxury, consider glamping in the Wahiba Sands!
19. Enjoy the sunrises and sunsets
One of the best things to do in Oman is watching some of the most spectacular sunsets and sunrises. So make sure you wake up in time, grab a coffee and look for a spot where you can see the sunrise. Or grab a late afternoon snack and watch the sun set. We promise you you’ll remember these for the rest of your life.
20. Enjoy the Omani hospitality
Last, but definitely not least, you’ll get interactions with the most friendly people you’ll ever meet. The Omani hospitality is famous and never before have we met so many friendly and open people. The Omani hospitality was the cherry on the cake during our travels in Oman.
We hope this post convinced you that there are plenty of things to do in Oman. We promise you you won’t regret visiting this country. Ready to start planning? Then book your trip with the links below!
Happy travels!
Matthias and Mieke
Quick start your holiday with the help of our trusted tools
These are the websites we highly recommend to plan your next trip. We use them all the time to save money and travel freely! Did you know that by purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️
Find hotels: via booking.com
Find a rental car: via discovercars.com
Find cheap flights: via skyscanner.com
Book tours & attractions: via getyourguide.com
Book a bus / train / transfer: via omio.com—
