Doused in natural beauty from wadis to natural sinkholes, and historic forts perched up in the mountains and the middle of the desert, Oman is a hidden gem in the Arabian peninsula, and one to consider when planning a trip to the Arab World!

With its capital city of Muscat, and its proximity to some of the country’s main sites, like the Royal Opera House Muscat, the Mutrah Corniche, and the Bimmah Sinkhole, Muscat is the perfect place to make your base as you explore the beauty of Oman.

Nature lovers, enjoy the incredible Omani beaches, from peaceful Yiti Beach to the abundant Turtle Beach, making Oman one of the most important turtles nesting in the world! Lend a helping hand at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, or see them in the wild at Masirah Island.

Experience Oman’s history and visit the 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the religious site of Bahla Fort, the archaeological site of Al Ayn, its circular tombs, and more!

And that’s just scratching the surface! Let’s get into all the amazing things to do in Oman!

1 – Refresh yourself at Wadi Ash Shab

Wadi Ash Shab, Oman

Enjoy a cooling swim through the mystical turquoise-blue waters of the Wadi Ash Shab, a stunning gorge with multiple-sized pools and stunning waterfalls to complete the iconic desert landscape!

Located near the city of Muscat, Wadi Ash Shab is the perfect day escape to enjoy in various ways including a Wadi Shab tour from Muscat, or even a thrilling jeep tour!

Relish traversing the wild landscape and coastal views of Wadi Ash Shab, with ample time to swim, and visit a few local villages! Hiking tours are also amazing if you want to experience the landscape on foot while taking a look at the incredible nature up close like the mango trees!

Wadi Shab tours from Muscat

2 – Volunteer your time at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, Oman

Located on the eastern coast of Oman is the incredible site of Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, an animal-friendly sea turtle reserve that cares for the thousands of sea turtles that migrate to the Arabian Peninsula to lay their eggs annually.

At this incredible place, you’ll be able to lend a hand at helping the nesting process a bit easier for the sea turtles, many of which include Loggerheads, Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and many more!

Enjoy the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve to learn about the natural process, and have lunch at the beautiful on-site restaurant!

Pro tip: the best time to volunteer is anytime between May-September.

3 – Take a peek into the lavish Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat, Oman

One of the best and most notable things to do in Muscat is surely to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, and also known for its incredible religious relics inside.

Whether you book a tour or stop by yourself, the mosque is open for visitors who dress according to modesty, to see the incredible items from the grand 70-meter by 60-meter hand-woven Persian carpet, to the grand chandeliers and impeccable geometric designs!

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque was built to commemorate the 30th year of the Sultan Qaboo’s reign. Book a tour to learn more about the symbolism behind the items within!

Grand Mosque tours

4 – Relax in the healing waters of the Al Kasfah Hot Spring

Al Kasfah Hot Spring, Oman

Stop by for a dip at the tranquil Al Kasfah Hot Springs, recognized for its healing properties due to its sulfur properties, especially for skin issues and rheumatic illnesses.

This amazing natural spring water amazingly always remains at 45 Celcius (113 Farenheight) and never runs out, due to its multiple water streams nearby. It is located a little over an hour away from Muscat, in the town of Rustaq, and completely worth a trip!

So give your body a little TLC, and make it to this healing spot that also offers shady areas to take breaks in between dips in the hot water!

5 – Walk along the walls of the Nizwa Fort

Nizwa Fort, Oman

Built in the 17th century, the Nizwa Fort was originally a defense tower, and a prominent sign of power as it was located at an ancient trading site crossroads.

Enjoy the traditional Omani architecture of the fort, and walk on top of the castle walls of the cylindrical fort, where you can still see remnants of its use as a defense structure, from old cannons to even secret passageways created for traps to capture enemies!

On an Enchanting Forts of Nizwa tour from Muscat, enjoy a stop at the local Nizwa souk, and a visit to the nearby Jabreen fort, for a complete look at some of Muscat’s most important sites!

Nizwa tours

6 – Culture yourself at the best museums

National Museum of Oman, Muscat — National Museum of Oman

Get a taste of old Muscat when you visit Bait Al Zubair Museum, a cultural museum featuring items depicting Omani culture, from traditional clothing to amazing art collections, and other personal items belonging to the museum’s founding family, the Zubair.

Take your Oman history lesson at the National Museum of Oman, offering a look back at the earliest Omani empires up until present-day society, with the use of over 7,000 artifacts, and an immersive experience using advanced VR technology!

Speaking of high tech, check out Oman Across Ages Museum offering a truly immersive experience walking through Oman’s more than 700 million years of history! With the use of AR, 3D, and VR, the history of Oman will be bouncing off the walls!

Muscat Gate Museum, Oman — Muscat Gate Museum

Named after the frankincense tree in the middle of the museum, the Museum of Frankincense Land is a dedicated museum shedding light on the archaeological site of Al Balid, and nearby sites. The museum is divided into two halls – the Maritime Hall and the History Hall.

Located in Old Muscat is the beautiful Muscat Gate Museum, where you can go as far back as the Neolithic period of Oman, looking at the geological makeup of the country and city, the special rocks used to build the city’s structures, landmarks, and more!

Continuing with science, the Natural History Museum is the perfect spot to dig into the animal, insect, geology, plant, and marine life of Oman, some of which have gone extinct.

7 – Learn about the history of Telegraph Island

Telegraph Island, Oman

Located a few meters off the shore of the Musandam Peninsula in the northernmost point of Oman, lie the amazing fjords and what many call the Norway of the Middle East at Telegraph Island!

Reportedly getting their name from the British who came in 1864, and used the island to send telegraphic messages, the British men were nowhere near civilization, impulsing them to go insane with time. Many stories of this event still circulate on the island today.

To experience the beautiful island, consider a dhow cruise – a traditional boat used to cross the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, where you can enjoy some swimming and snorkeling activities!

boat tours from Khasab

8 – Walk along the Mutrah Corniche

Mutrah Corniche, Muscat, Oman

Stretching for a distance of 3 kilometers along the coast of Oman in Muscat is one of the most famous walkways in the city called Mutrah Corniche, brimming with restaurants, cafes, markets, and more!

In the distance, you’ll be amazed at the sights of ancient forts including the Portuguese watchtowers atop the Hajar mountains, as well as the famous Mutrah Fort. Towards the water, you’ll see numerous boats including traditional dhow boats.

During the day, the paths get busy with locals, visitors, joggers, and bicyclists, while by sunset, a walk through the corniche reveals the beautiful lit-up white buildings along the walkways, while the sun ducks down behind the dramatic mountains in the back.

9 – Visit the beautiful Khasab Castle by the sea

Khasab Castle, Oman

Historically built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the Khasab Castle was built above the ruins of an Omani fort and remained as such until they were expelled from Oman a few years later.

After the Omani took over the Khasab Castle, they decided to convert it into a military structure, and it remained as such until the early 90s when it was turned into a museum.

Located right in front of the sea on the Musandam peninsula, the castle offers an exquisite view of the water and nature, while inside, houses an excellent collection of both military and cultural items, as well as hosts numerous events and exhibits.

city tours in Khasab

10 – Learn about one of Oman’s greatest seafarers at the Oman Aquarium

Oman Aquarium, Muscat

Based widely on the seafaring adventures of Ahmad Bin Majid’s sailing stories, the Oman Aquarium features a journey through the sea based on his voyages through the different exhibits, for a unique aquarium experience!

Start in Salalah where you’ll learn about the local freshwater animals and local vegetation, to then the Asian rainforests and more!

See for yourself the great collection of sea creatures from different oceans across the world, from sharks to whales, sea turtles, and dolphins, and even see a few daring scuba divers swimming around the sea creatures!

Entry into the museum starts at 8.50 OMR, and tickets vary based on the package.

11 – Have some fun under the sun at the best beaches

best beaches in Oman

Enjoy the tranquility at Yiti Beach in Muscat, offering a secluded and peaceful vibe, with views of small cliffs, and different rock formations in the water. Sunset lovers, stick around and experience one of the best places to live golden hour!

Coexist with the turtles at Turtle Beach, located in Al Hadd, 3 hours away from Muscat on the east coast of the country. To surely get a view of the turtles in action, be sure to visit after 8:30 PM.

For water sports fun, visit Al Bustan Beach, known for canoes, kayaking, paddle boarding rentals, and more, ideal for families and friends to enjoy!

12 – Admire the turquoise blue colors at the Bimmah Sinkhole

Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman

On the eastern side of Oman is the incredible natural site of the Bimmah Sinkhole, a limestone hole that formed, and gradually was filled with water from the sea nearby. Considering its proximity to Muscat, check out the different tours to Bimmah Sinkhole, with a few other stops along the way!

Some tours include a bonus stop at Wadi Shab, with a bonus hike, and lunch included in the typically 9-hour-long experience!

Your guide will share important and fascinating information about the natural scenery of the Bimmah Sinkhole, including when it was discovered and the local ecology, before jumping in for a swim!

Bimmah Sinkhole tours from Muscat

13 – Cool off at the best aqua parks and amusement parks

water parks in Oman

Spend a day or two enjoying cooling activities at the Wadina Water Park, from swimming, sliding down the multiple water slides, or laying poolside with a refreshing drink in hand – you deserve it!

Hawana Aqua Park is the perfect place to bring your kids of all ages, to enjoy water slides, shallow pools, a gentle wave pool, and so much more!

Speaking of children’s parks, Qurum Natural Park is another great option specifically for children to run around and enjoy scenic gardens, abundant playgrounds, and activities like ice skating, bowling, and laser tag games at the Fun Zone!

Blow off some steam at Marah Land, and enjoy the different amusement park rides and games, geared for children and adults! From roller coasters to the Ferris wheel, the carousel, and more!

Al Naseem Park is a great park to visit, where you can enjoy a fun aquarium, a lake with a waterfall, and different gardens to take in the fresh air.

14 – Get a taste of traditional Omani life at Taqah Castle

Taqah Castle, Oman

Tucked away in southern Oman is the archaeological site of Taqah Castle, a 19th-century castle that used to be the private residence of a tribal leader by the name of Sheikh, the grandfather of the mother of Sultan Qaboos.

Today, the castle reopened as a museum in which you can step inside and see what the castle looked like as a residence, from the bedrooms, living room, kitchen, and even closet spaces that house some of the old cookware!

See the inner workings of the castle, from how they got their water supply, and more, throughout its 2 floors.

Entry tickets can be purchased at the castle.

15 – Bring your binoculars to do some dolphin watching

dolphin watching in Oman

Oman is known as a great place to do some dolphin watching, therefore a trip to the Gulf of Oman from Muscat is a must to spot them!

Board a dolphin-watching cruise, and along with a tour guide, get ready to spot a few of these magnificent sea creatures of different varieties, from the Indo-Pacific Humpback to the rough-toothed, and bottlenose, and more!

On your tour, you’ll also enjoy a complimentary drink and a lifejacket, with most experiences starting at 10:00 AM. Dolphin-watching tours start at $52 USD.

Pro tip: dolphin season is September-May.

dolphin watching in Oman

16 – Walk past the amazing Al Alam Palace

Al Alam Palace, Muscat, Oman

Known as “Flag Palace” the Al Alam Palace is one of the most distinguishable palaces located in Old Muscat, previously the royal residence of the ruling monarch Sultan Qaboos.

Since its original construction, some 200 years ago, today, the Al Alam Palace is mainly used as a palace to host international and important figures.

The palace is currently not open to visitors, however, to get a closer look, step into the special public space behind the palace to get a view of the marble and gold details, gardens, Sultan statues, and other details of the exterior of the palace.

Pro tip: come back at night to see the palace beautifully illuminated.

17 – Explore the walnut orchards at Wadi Bani Habib

Wadi Bani Habib, Oman

Plan a trip to the abandoned village of Habib and its natural landscapes nearby including a wadi and thriving walnut orchards, located in the mountains of Jabal Al Akhdar, in northern Oman.

Also known as Green Mountain, due primarily to its growth of various fruits, from apricots to pomegranates, Wadi Bani Habib draws in people to see examples of old homes made of mud, and its relatively good conditions, as the village was last populated 40 years ago.

To get to the Wadi Bani Habib, a hike of 200 steps is required, which according to locals and past visitors, is easier than it sounds!

18 – Take a trip to the highest peak in Oman at Jebel Shams

Jebel Shams, Oman

Take a trip to the highest mountain in Oman, Jebel Shams, whose name comes from the fact that it is the first place in Oman to receive sunrise!

The views from above consist of villages, views of the Wadi Ghul, locally known as Oman’s version of the Grand Canyon, and more! Due to its remote location, the best way to travel to the mountain is to book a Jebel Shams tour from Muscat!

Enjoy a ride on a 4-wheel vehicle, and free time to explore, while listening to the history of the mountain from your guide! Some tours include a stop at Jebel Akhdar, another impressive mountain!

Jebel Shams tours from Muscat

19 – Drop some cash at the local Souks

best souks in Oman

Explore the Nizwa Souq, one of the oldest souqs in Oman that is still running, and offers a great variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins, as well as artisanally made objects, especially a silver khanjar, a traditional curved knife.

Bring some cash to the Muttrah Souk, a roofed market, where you’ll find souvenirs to bring home, from textiles, jewelry, and other locally-made items. The market is located on the famous Mutrah Corniche in Muscat.

For its great collection of metal and clay-made items, check out Bahla Souk, housed within a stunning courtyard covered by shady trees. Similarly, Sohar Souk is another wonderful artisanal market, offering local honey, wool-made items, and more!

20 – Take a trip to Masirah Island

Masirah Island, Oman

Take a boat trip to the largest island in Oman, located on the Arabian Sea, known for its abundant and wild animals residents, from flamingos and turtles to ghost crabs, and other vibrant sea creatures like lobsters, kingfish, prawns, and more!

The island, which has recently become open to tourism, is the perfect mix of natural beaches, excellent turquoise blue waters, and white sandy shores! Whether you check into a lavish guest house, a seaside hotel, or an adventurous camping expedition, your expectations will be exceeded!

To get to Masirah Island, take the ferry from the mainland to the island, which takes between half an hour to one hour and departs from Muscat.

21 – Enjoy some desert swimming at Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman

Take a day tour to Wadi Bani Khalid, known for its turquoise-colored natural pools created in the deep ravines of the desert, located 2.5 hours away from Muscat.

Surrounded by palm trees, other vegetation, and the incredibly rocky backdrop, the Wadi Bani Khalid also offers tons of seating areas, a restaurant, pool facilities, tons of sunbathing opportunities, and even a fish spa to rejuvenate your feet!

And don’t stop there! Make it to the second pool, only a 10-minute walk from the main pool, and a bit quieter and smaller than the main pool.

Entry to the pool is free, and depending on your tour, you’ll stop by other sites!

Wadi Bani Khalid tours from Muscat

22 – See the circular tombs at the Al Ain archaeological site

Al Ain archaeological site, Oman

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ain is a cultural site that includes a few other important areas as they share the fact that humans occupied these desert areas as far back as the Neolithic period!

On your visit to this fascinating archaeological site, you’ll see circular tombstones known as the Al Ayn tombs, which detail old funeral practices. Other sites to see include old building constructions and ruins made of adobe, and even parts of the impressive Aflaj irrigation system and other ingenuities invented at the time.

Locals recommend traveling on a 4-wheel-drive vehicle, otherwise, you’ll have to park outside the site and walk a short distance.

23 – See how the ancient boats were created at the Dhow Factory of Sur

Dhow Factory of Sur, Oman

Visit the city of Sur, only 2 hours south of Muscat, right along the Gulf of Oman, known for its rich history of shipbuilding, specifically, the Dhow, a traditional boat used by the Omani for centuries.

Visit the Dhow Factory of Sur, and see the craft and work that’s involved in building these traditional ships, which were once used to traverse the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea and to transport all sorts of goods between countries.

Check out the scale models of the different Dhow ships, and stop by the Sur Maritime Museum, to get more details about the thriving maritime history of the city!

24 – Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bahla Fort

Bahla Fort, Oman

Located a little under 2 hours from Muscat is the fascinating site of Bahla Fort, a mud brick house, which showcases a glimpse into what it was like to live in Oman during the medieval age.

Historically it was known as a center for the belief of Ibadism, which is a branch of Islam, originating in Arabian countries and even Africa.

Known as one of the best forts to visit in Oman, consider booking a Bahla Fort tour from Muscat, which also includes stops at other epic places like Nizwa and the Jarbin Fort!

Enjoy stopping by the Nizwa Souq for some shopping, before making it to Bahla Fort.

Bahla Fort tours from Muscat

25 – Explore the beauty down under at the Al-Hoota Cave

Al-Hoota Cave, Oman

Al-Hoota Cave is a sprawling cave system located at the foot of the Jabal Shams mountain, and unique throughout the Arabian peninsula.

Known to have existed a whopping 2 million years ago, the beauty of the cave is something to see with your eyes, from its unique million-year-old limestone formations to the fauna that lives within!

Throughout you’ll find the unique fish species called blind fish that live in the waterways of the cave, many of which live within the pockets of the rocks and other surfaces.

Learn about the cave’s ecosystem, its creation which came from the force of the water over time, and so much more!

26 – Enjoy the sight of the Dhofar natural springs and waterfalls

Dhofar waterfalls, Oman

Ain Razat is known for its natural springs which grow abundant during specific times of the year, creating small ponds with lilies, and great swimming pools available all year round!

Visit the stunning Ayn Khor nestled within the green nature of the Salalah region, and adorned with a stunning waterfall, jagged mountains, and rocky walking trails!

Located in the Dhofar region, Darbat Waterfall is a spectacular site, also known as the Travertine Curtain for its multiple waterfalls all around. Try to visit between June and September!

Also in the Dhofar region, Wadi Darbat is a river surrounded by intense greenery and rich vegetation, popular for its hiking trails, powerful waterfalls, and boat rides along the river!

Salalah tours

27 – Get amazing views from the Nakhal Fort

Nakhal Fort, Oman

Visit the military Nikhal Fort, located 56 minutes from Muscat, for a trip back to the 9th century, when the fort was used as a defense structure against attackers.

When you visit the fort, check out the museum in which you can see pieces of historic artifacts from the use of the fort, including old guns, cannons, uniforms, and more! On some occasions, you can visit the weekly goat market to experience a bit of local culture, too.

Climb to the top of the fort, receive incredible views of the surrounding areas from behind the fort’s thick walls, and absorb the peaceful views. Audio tours are available, and in English too!

28 – Explore the remnants of the Lost City of Ubar

Lost City of Ubar, Oman

Tap into your inner Indiana Jones and visit the Lost City of Ubar, many of which compare it to the lost city of Atlantis of the Arabian world, located in the modern region of Shisr.

It’s believed that Ubar was an ancient outpost where travelers made a stop in the middle of their travels, and after the research has been conducted, it’s estimated that the Lost City of Ubar practically disappeared due to a sinkhole that made the walls of the fort fall, and then the sand over time covered the fallen ruins.

Be sure to visit with a guide, as getting there can be a bit confusing.

29 – Go snorkeling at the Ad Dimaniyat Islands

Ad Dimaniyat Islands, Oman

Blessed with crystal, turquoise blue waters within the protected natural reserve of Ad Dimaniyat Islands, enjoy a snorkeling trip in this slice of paradise, which is part of an archipelago on the Arabian Sea.

Recently opened in 2013 to tourism for the first time, enjoy the land terrain, consisting of rocky limestone for a while, and then dip into the blue water to experience the budding sea life from sea turtles, colorful fish, and more!

Scuba diving in Oman is also one of the best things to do!

The Ad Dimaniyat Islands are only a 20-40 minute ferry from Muscat.

snorkeling tours from Muscat

30 – Make it to the Royal Opera House Muscat

Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman

Enjoy a beautiful evening of music, opera, and ballet at the Royal Opera House Muscat, one of the premiere music venues in Muscat and Oman!

With a capacity of 1,100 people and a beautiful and circular theater with intricate carvings, this opera house is not only exclusive to world-class shows but also hosts open mic nights, and other public forums within the beautiful space!

Can’t attend a show? Attend a tour, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house, and all its working parts to carry on its incredible shows on a nightly basis.

The dress code suggests formal or business and conservative dress for women.

31 – Buy some date juice at Jabreen Castle

Jabreen Castle, Oman

Explore the site of the Jabreen Castle, built in 1675, and adorning the horizon with its 2 looming towers, and within its interiors, its impressive painted ceilings!

Due to its construction, the Jabreen Castle is known to be one of the most interesting fortifications and one of the best-conserved with its detailed latticed-window courtyard, amazing views all around, and its history which doubled as a center for learning astrology, medicine, and Islamic law.

Audio tours are available, which will guide you throughout the castle, from the burial chambers, to the courtyard, and different rooms.

Beside the Jabreen Castle is a date store, so stop by and grab some date juice and products!

32 – Go glamping at Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands, Oman

A must-experience activity is going glamping or joining a desert safari in Oman, and where better to do that other than at Wahiba Sands!

Named after the local Bani Wahiba tribe, the Wahiba Sands is a spectacular desert region in Oman with beautiful dunes, and incredible sunsets, popular for glamping for a night or two! Depending on your experience, enjoy a fun desert safari in Oman, whether it’s going on a quad tour through the dunes, or off-roading on a jeep!

Enjoy a spectacular and traditional Omani dinner in the middle of the desert, followed by some incredible stargazing opportunities, and then finally sleep the peaceful night inside a fully-equipped glamping tent!

glamping in Wahiba Sands

33 – Travel back in time at Bait Al Safah

Bait Al Safah, Oman

Step back in time at Bait Al Safah, a historical museum that will feel like taking a glimpse into traditional life in Oman, taking place inside a classic mud-brick house, with actors explaining and showing daily life.

Located in the village of Al Hamra, you’ll see what Omani people traditionally ate, including watching a bread-making session, and even seeing how they used to grind their coffee. See how they then sit down cross-leg in the living spaces (majlis) and so much more.

In this experience, you’ll not only be the spectator but you’ll also be invited to participate in activities by the locals, making it a unique museum experience!

34 – Travel to the Rustaq Fort

Rustaq Fort, Oman

Wander around the 13th-century Rustaq Fort, located near Muscat, easily reachable on a day trip, and known as one of the biggest forts in Oman, in great condition!

Comprised of 3 floors, and offering amazing 360-degree views from the top of the impressive mountains, make sure to bring proper walking shoes and water to help make the climb to the top easier!

Along with the views at the top, enjoy walking through the weapons room and prison to get a sense of what the fort was used for!

Day trips to Rusqat Fort from Muscat are available, which include stops at the nearby wadis and roundtrip transportation for this 7-8 hours long activity!

Rustaq Fort tours from Muscat

35 – Explore the cute village of Misfat Al Abriyeen

Misfat Al Abriyeen, Oman

Travel to the quaint village of Misfat Al Abriyeen, charming all visitors who make the 2.5-hour drive from Muscat with its traditional houses, picture-perfect alleyways, and beautiful views from the top of this mountainous village!

Take a look at the neighbors tending to their fruit trees, and gardens, from papayas to bananas, and more. Though the village gets hot, the ample amounts of trees, and benches make for the perfect rest stop for a moment to take in the scene.

Offering the perfect escape and a glimpse into a traditional and simple way of living, add Misfat Al Abriyeen to your list of the best things to do in Oman!

36 – Kayak around Wadi Dayqah Dam

Wadi Dayqah Dam, Oman

See all the fun water sports and activities to do at Wadi Dayqah Dam, a manmade lake created to collect the water flowing from the high peaks of the mountains nearby, to regulate the movement of water and accessibility to it by nearby villages.

Today, the park has opened up with multiple different activities, from kayaking, paddleboarding, renting a boat, and sailing along the crystal blue freshwater from the nearby mountain peaks.

Aside from fun water activities, enjoy some nearby hiking, and even mountain biking, to enjoy the land nearby. Hungry afterward? Hit the cafe or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the different areas!

The Wadi Dayquah Dam opens seasonally in March-April.

37 – Go canyoning at Snake Canyon

canyoning in Oman

Enjoy an adventure-filled day at Snake Canyon, a popular destination to be out in nature, relishing the narrow paths of the blue water, especially through canyoning!

Located a little over 2 hours from Muscat, Snake Canyon is made of various routes, perfect for hiking, swimming, and jumping into the pools.

It is also known as Oman’s largest natural water park! Enjoy the multiple brown and tan colors of the smooth rocks, and to ensure your safety, be sure to book a canyoning tour from Muscat!

Canyoning tours can last a few hours to up to a day, depending on your availability, and includes a guide, accessories, and transportation!

canyoning in Oman

38 – Visit Bibi Maryam Mausoleum at Oman’s original capital city

Bibi Maryam Mausoleum, Oman

Take a day trip to the impressive Bibi Maryam Mausoleum, located in what used to be Oman’s first capital city of Qalhat, until Muscat became the new capital city. Previously a main site used throughout the Indian Ocean trade route, the site hosted various travelers and traders, including Italian Marco Polo!

Although the site was bustling with bazaars, houses, and people coming and going, today, the only remnant of this once bustling city is the Bibi Maryam Mausoleum. Visit the grand mausoleum, which is said to belong to the wife of the king of the Hormuz Empire.

Bibi Maryam Mausoleum is located 2 hours from Muscat.

39 – Plan a scenic road trip through the Rustaq Loop

Rustaq Loop, Oman

Plan to see 3 of Oman’s most famous forts, including the country’s iconic desert sites and impressive wadis on the beautiful Rustaq Loop, veering away from the coastal road, to the mainland.

The route specifically passes through Nakhal Fort, Ar Rustaq Fort, and Al Hazm Fort, and can easily be done in one day, with little to no traffic!

With each stop on the loop being within an hour (or less) of each other, you can rest assured that you won’t spend too many hours sitting and instead have ample scenic stop points to take in the scenery of time-old forts, and incredible nature that characterizes Oman’s beauty.

40 – Enjoy an Authentic Omani Home Dining experience

dinners in Oman

Indulge in the comforts of an Omani homemade dish or two when you opt for an authentic Omani home dining experience! Interact with the Omani people, exchange culture, and enjoy each other company as you dine traditional cuisine!

Be involved in the cooking process, learning cooking secrets and styles that the locals have used for centuries, as well as taste-testing different fragrant ingredients that give their cuisine that added boost of flavor.

When you book an authentic Omani home dining experience, you’ll also be practicing a new style of eating and table manners, starting with eating on a traditional tapestry on the floor, sharing food with your table, and more!

dinners in Oman

41 – See the ancient objects used in Sumhuram Old City

Sumhuram Old City, Oman

Learn about the Sumhuram Old City, and explore the stunning excavations and ruins of this site, which include old forts, temples, houses, storage rooms, and other structures that detail daily life.

Located on the southern coast of Oman, enjoy a trip to this mystical site, and check out the incredible renovation of the old city, starting with noticing one of its bigger structures, the temple where they worshipped the Mesopotamian moon god.

Along with the incredible ruins, check out the other items that were found ranging from incense burners, mortars, limestone inscriptions, coins, fishing tools, and more!

Entry into the Sumhuram Old City starts at 2 OMR per car.

How to get to Oman?

No matter your arrival time, consider pre-booking an airport transfer in Oman to get to your hotel swiftly and easily without figuring out bus schedules, or having to stop at other hotels before arriving to yours.

Another great transportation option is the shore excursions in Oman if you’re arriving via water, to get to your hotel easily!

Where to stay in Oman?

Stay in luxury and beauty when you book your nights at Sur Grand Hotel, located in the city of Sur, offering clean and modern amenities and interiors! Coupled with a cool rooftop pool with sprawling views of the beach nearby, enjoy the hotel’s on-site restaurant and warm hospitality!

The Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair is a great option to consider when you are staying in Muscat! Stay close to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House, and a few other notable sites! The hotel offers on-site breakfast and refreshing amenities like 2 pools and a fitness center!

Check out the IntercityHotel Nizwa by Deutsche Hospitality, located in Nizwa! Perfect for families, this hotel features a few pools with water slides, as well as a stunning courtyard, to relax after a day of sightseeing. Enjoy a 24-hour front desk and on-site breakfast options!

Visiting Oman on a budget?

Visit the most popular and historical landmarks and sites with the guidance of a local on a fun and free walking tour in Oman!

From walking the Mutrah Corniche to visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and stopping by a few markets, you’ll enjoy getting to know Muscat’s best sites on foot, while getting acquainted with the city!

Where to go next?

Explore the country’s incredible landscapes through one of the many multi-day trips in Oman!

After exploring Oman, look to see all the incredible things to do in the Arabian Peninsula, starting with Dubai! From the record-breaking Burj Khalifa to the lifting over Dubai at the Sky Views Dubai!

Check out Abu Dhabi’s impressive Jubail Mangrove Walk, exploring the incredible wildlife while walking through lush nature, home to all sorts of birds and fish!

Next up Doha serves luxury and beauty seamlessly with a walk through The Pearl-Qatar, while still offering a taste of Qatarai history with a stroll through the historic Souq Waqif!

Look at the amazing things to do in Amman starting with a tour of the incredible historic sites like the Roman Theater, and of course, a day trip to Petra!

Visit Jerusalem, the Holy Land, and start your adventures through the Old City of Jerusalem, including a walk through the Western Wall, and the incredible City Gates in Old City!

Then, head to Tel Aviv, to explore Old Jaffa, and hop through the colorful and fragrant markets!

Final thoughts

From its enchanting wadis like the Wadi Ash Shab to its historic forts and castles like the Nizwa Fort and the Jabreen Castle, and heading toward’s the virtually untouched Ad Dimaniyat Islands, we hope that you’re just as excited as we are for all the incredible things to do in Oman!

What caught your attention the most?

Happy travels!

Table of contents:

41 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Oman