Oman, a country blending visible history and traditions with modern cities and captivating natural landscapes, often needs to be noticed as a destination.
Not overrun by mass tourism, Oman maintains its nature and heritage, avoiding getting stuck in the past. Cities like Salalah and Muscat have integrated modern Islamic architecture into streets lined with mosques, souks, and traditional houses.
With diverse geography, from breathtaking mountain ranges to seven desert oases and expansive deserts, Oman stands out in the Arabian Peninsula. This offers tourists a unique chance to immerse into the region’s past and present while exploring remarkable natural sites in the Gulf—an intriguing potential holiday destination.
Here are some of the best things to do and see on your upcoming visit:
Timeless Charm of Muscat’s Mutrah Corniche and Waterfront Heritage
In Muscat, the capital of Oman, taking a stroll along the Mutrah Corniche gives you a glimpse into the past on the Arabian Peninsula. Unlike flashy neighbors like Dubai and Riyadh with their towering glass-and-chrome skyscrapers, this historic port city sticks to law-mandated lowrise buildings. These whitewashed structures offer clear views of the rugged Hajar Mountains to the south.
Walking the Mutrah Corniche, a broad promenade hugging the Gulf of Oman’s northern edge, lets you experience the city’s picturesque waterfront. As you amble, check out the stalls at the Mutrah Souq, take a break for cups of the sweet cardamom tea called karak chai, and admire the stunning 15th-century blue-domed Shia mosque, Masjid Al Rasool Al Adham.
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Majestic Presence of Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Muscat’s Skyline
Oman’s tall mosques stand out, bending the “no tall buildings” rules. In Muscat’s heart, surrounded by neat gardens and a maze of intricate arches, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque takes over the city skyline with its 91m (300ft) minaret.
Built in 2001 to honor the 30-year reign of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, the leader who modernized Oman after discovering vast oil reserves in the 1970s, the Grand Mosque was once home to the world’s biggest Swarovski chandelier and the largest hand-woven carpet. However, these titles were recently swiped by the chandelier and carpet at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
Wadi Shab – The Natural Oasis Awaits Just Outside Muscat
Wadi Shab offers the ultimate experience on your Oman journey. This gorge presents a straightforward 45-minute stroll, revealing numerous pools of emerald green water—perfect for a refreshing break on your trek. Once you complete the walk, you’ll arrive at the final stretch, where you can swim through a cave and glimpse a waterfall at the end.
Situated just a 1.5-hour drive from the capital, Muscat, Wadi Shab is conveniently located by the highway. Access is hassle-free, and at the parking area, a quick 2-minute boat ride takes you to the starting point of the brief hike.
Tracing Heritage and History in Oman’s Heartlands of Nizwa and Bahla
Explore Omani history in Nizwa and Bahla. Once a capital city, Nizwa has shifted from a deeply religious, highly conservative town to becoming one of Oman’s top tourist spots.
With towering minarets and sand-colored structures, the city maintains a strong link to its religion and heritage. Now, it welcomes visitors to its 17th-century Nizwa Fort, featuring high walls and a 40-meter tall circular defensive tower. The city’s souk remains pleasantly unspoiled by tourism, primarily attracting locals seeking fresh produce and household items.
Not far away, Bahla, a fortified oasis town housing a 12th-century fort, is a must-visit. A labyrinthine complex with mud houses, oasis greenery, lofty desert trees, wind towers, mosques, and a small souk, the fort holds Unesco-listed status, enclosed by a protective wall stretching seven miles.
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Remote Majesty and Unparalleled Views at Jabal Akhdar Mountains
Explore Jabal Akhdar Mountains for breathtaking views with few tourists around. The drive in this remote mountain region is stunning, but a 4×4 is a must for the ascent. The roads, marked well like elsewhere in Oman, can be steep, so a bit of driving experience helps. Plan a striking hike or try rock climbing, but do check the weather before heading out. Summer offers a pleasant 25 degrees, while winters can dip below zero.
If possible, spend the night at Alila Jabal Akhdar, a secluded luxury hotel boasting an unforgettable valley view.
Oman’s Natural Water Park Adventure Awaits at Snake Canyon
Snake Canyon is one of Oman’s most extensive valleys. It is sprinkled with charming villages, ruins, and a segment famously named Snake Canyon—Oman’s grandest natural water park. For the adventure enthusiasts, it’s a must-see.
Situated in the broader Wadi Bani Awf area, Snake Canyon unfolds as Oman’s premier natural water park. Navigate through the crevices amid two mountains, where rushing water has carved through, revealing smooth, vibrant rocks and numerous water pools. The canyon widens up to 30 feet and narrows to a mere 2 feet at some spots, making the journey take about 4-5 hours. Snake Canyon presents two paths, both involving jumping in and out of water pools. The simpler route suits families, while the medium option includes abseiling for the more daring!
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Explore a 300-Year-Old Village in the Hajar Mountains at Misfat al Abriyyin
Near Jebel Shams is Misfat al Abriyyin, wedged between the dry Hajar Mountains and the lush oasis below. This village is recognized for its ancient mud, stone, and plaster structures fused into the mountain. Standing 1,000 meters high and aged 300 years, it weaves through narrow alleys lined with snug houses. What surprises the most is that it still relies on its traditional falaj irrigation system!
Acknowledged as one of the world’s ‘Best Tourism Villages’ by the UN’s World Tourism Organization, Misfat al Abriyyin is gradually welcoming tourists, formerly centred around farming. Here, you’ll encounter car-free streets and no bars and restaurants. Instead, visitors stumble upon a serene town embodying traditional Omani life.
Conclusion
Make your trip stick in your memory by exploring Oman’s wonders through the best things to do, like checking out historic forts and lively souks with PackUpYourBags. Take a plunge into the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea and soak in the unique beauty of Wahiba Sands.
Oman trip with PackUpYourBags combines various experiences, blending a rich cultural heritage with natural beauty. Plan your journey, enjoy local delights, and craft enduring memories in this captivating Arabian destination.