Oman is an amazing place in the corner of the Arabian Peninsula. It has incredible natural beauty, very old culture and traditions, and lots of cool things to see and do. If you get the chance to visit Oman, here are some of the best things to do in Oman you simply must try while you’re there. Getting to experience these will make your trip to Oman truly special.
1. See the Massive Grand Mosque in Muscat
You can’t leave Oman without visiting the incredible Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque right in the capital city of Muscat. This giant mosque is extremely beautiful with its blend of traditional Islamic architecture and modern style too. Get ready to be totally wowed by the main prayer hall inside. It has gorgeous Persian rugs on the floor and one of the biggest chandeliers in the whole world hanging from the ceiling! Stroll around the perfectly clean courtyards and feel the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Wander the Old Muttrah Souks
Step back in time and explore the very old markets called souks in Muttrah, a historic neighborhood of Muscat. These ancient covered markets are a crazy maze of narrow walkways lined with little shops selling all kinds of stuff – fragrant spices, pretty Omani handicrafts, sparkling jewelry, neat antiques, and more. Haggling over prices with friendly vendors is expected, so don’t be afraid to barter a little!
3. Go to the Jebel Akhdar Green Mountains
You have to take a trip out to the stunning Jebel Akhdar mountains, a lush green oasis surrounded by rugged rocky desert terrain. This beautiful area has dramatic canyons, little villages built on terraces where they grow rose bushes for making rose water, and scenic hiking trails with amazing views. You can visit one of those rose water villages and see how they extract the fragrant water from the flowers the traditional way. Here is one of best Things to Do in Oman.
Read More – 10 Fun Things to Do in Hyderabad: A City That Stole My Heart
4. Have an Adventure in the Wahiba Sands
For a thrilling experience, head to the vast Wahiba Sands desert which is just a towering sand dune after a towering sand dune as far as you can see! You can go on an exhilarating dune-bashing excursion in a 4×4 truck, driving crazily up and down and feeling your heart pound as the truck climbs the ridiculously steep dunes. Or you could go for a nice camel ride instead and then spend the night sleeping under the stars at a traditional Bedouin desert camp.
5. Tour the Ancient Nizwa Fort
Step hundreds of years back in time when you visit the iconic Nizwa Fort, a remarkable example of Oman’s incredible old architecture and craftsmanship from way back in the 1600s. This huge fort has a tall cylindrical tower you can climb plus intricate carvings all over. Wandering the maze of courtyards, chambers, and towers gives you a great glimpse into Oman’s rich history. And don’t miss the lively nearby souk where locals sell beautiful handmade pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
6. Relax at the Beaches in Salalah
Take a break from the desert heat and go escape to Salalah, a beach town in southern Oman that’s like a tropical paradise. During the Khareef monsoon season from around June to September, Salalah turns into a lush green oasis with misty clouds and waterfalls running down the mountains. You can laze around on the gorgeous sandy beaches, swim in the sparkling water, or explore the leafy Wadi Darbat valley with its natural pools.
7. Spot Wild Dolphins!
Oman’s coastal waters are home to lots of fun dolphins that love swimming and jumping right near the shores. You can book a dolphin-watching tour by boat from Muscat or Salalah and get the chance to see these playful creatures frolicking in their natural homes. Have your camera ready to hopefully capture some cool shots of them gracefully leaping out of the waves! It is one of the Best Things to Do in Oman.
8. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
The crystal clear ocean waters surrounding Oman contain beautiful underwater worlds perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving adventures. You can explore vibrant coral reefs bursting with every color of fish. Or take a boat out to the Daymaniyat Islands which are a protected nature reserve with some of the most incredible dive sites anywhere with caves, shipwrecks, and abundant marine life. It is one of the Best Things to Do in Oman
9. See Ancient Tombs
For a fascinating look at Oman’s ancient roots, make the trip to see the incredibly old tombs of Al Ayn deep in the interior. Some of these beehive-shaped stone tombs are over 5,000 years old from way back in the 3rd millennium BCE! Their intricate carvings and construction give you a peek into the traditions of the long-gone Umm an-Nar people buried there.
10. Experience Omani Culture
One of the best things to do in Oman is explore the Omani culture. Take time during your Oman vacation to truly experience the amazing local culture and hospitality of the Omani people. Sit down and slowly sip some hot Arabic coffee called Kahwa with locals, and try yummy dishes like their slow-cooked shuwa meat or spiced Machboos rice. Chat with friendly Omanis and you’ll feel the kindness and generosity that is core to their proud traditions.
