13 MUST-SEE Places in Oman to Visit Before Tourism Explodes

Oman is the most underrated country in the Middle East, period. This place serves up landscapes that look like they’re from another world. I’m talking about towering desert canyons, secret emerald wadis, and long beaches where sea turtles nest beneath coastal cliffs.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in Oman that will make you wonder why more people aren’t talking about it. Here are my 12 favorite spots that prove this corner of Arabia is pure magic!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Oman

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Omani adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last winter, I flew to Muscat for just $445 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Skip the hotels and seek out local restaurants in Muttrah where massive portions of mandi and biryani cost a third of tourist prices. The small restaurants around Sultan Qaboos Mosque serve excellent shawarma and grills at local rates. For road trips, stock up at Lulu Hypermarket. Their prepared foods section is perfect for wadis and desert camping.
• Transport: I recommend using the Mwasalat buses between major cities like Muscat, Nizwa, and Sur. They’re comfortable and far cheaper than hiring a driver. For desert adventures, connect with other travelers to split 4×4 rental costs. Within Muscat, the new bus network is surprisingly efficient and costs a fraction of taxis.

Oman may have a reputation for luxury travel. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to experience its incredible wadis and deserts on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Oman:

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

There’s this wild beauty about Oman that most people never see. Think towering sand dunes meeting the ocean, crystal clear pools hidden in mountain canyons, and ancient mud cities rising from the desert. Let me show you why this might be the most stunning country in the Middle East.

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

• 📍 Location: Muscat, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🕌 Architecture lovers, 📸 photographers, 🌿 peaceful seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the world’s second-largest carpet, admiring the Swarovski chandelier, strolling the landscaped gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler mornings and clear skies 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Al Falaj Hotel – Well-rated city hotel with easy access to central Muscat

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of those places that instantly makes you stop and stare. From the moment you approach, the white marble facade glows under the sun, and the massive central dome dominates the skyline. It’s a peaceful spot, but the scale and artistry are on another level.

Step inside the prayer hall to see a chandelier made of Swarovski crystals and a carpet that covers the entire floor, both of which are among the largest of their kind. The blend of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and modern architectural styles creates a space that feels both timeless and unique.

Outside, the gardens are surprisingly serene for such a big site. You can take a quiet walk surrounded by fountains, palms, and floral beds. It’s open to non-Muslim visitors during specific hours, and a respectful dress code is required, so plan ahead.

• Read next: Unique Travel Experiences

2. Wadi Shab

• 📍 Location: Tiwi, Al Sharqiyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Hikers, 🏊‍♂️ wild swimmers, 🌿 nature lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming to the hidden cave waterfall, trekking through the wadi, relaxing by turquoise pools
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant hiking weather and steady water levels 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Wadi Shab Beach Villa – Cozy coastal guesthouse with direct beach access and mountain views

Wadi Shab is one of Oman’s most rewarding day hikes. After a short boat ride across the river, the trail takes you through a narrow canyon filled with palms, boulders, and cliffs. The real highlight comes at the end, where natural pools appear like something out of a postcard.

The water is cool and clear, perfect for swimming on a hot day. If you’re up for an adventure, swim to the end of the final pool and squeeze through a narrow crack in the rock. It opens into a hidden cave with a small waterfall spilling from above.

Bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet, plus snacks and water. There’s no shop once you’re inside. The mix of hiking, swimming, and exploring makes Wadi Shab feel like three adventures in one.

3. Mutrah Corniche

• 📍 Location: Muscat, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🌅 Sunset watchers, 🛍️ market explorers, 🚶‍♂️ casual walkers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling along the harbor, shopping at Mutrah Souq, admiring the Al-Riyam Monument
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February during cool, breezy evenings 🌇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mutrah Hotel – Simple, well-located stay near the Corniche and souq

Mutrah Corniche brings together everything that makes Muscat feel so alive. The curved promenade hugs the waterfront, lined with whitewashed buildings, decorative street lamps, and palm trees that sway gently with the sea breeze.

Traditional dhows float in the harbor beside modern yachts, while mountains rise sharply in the background. As you walk, you’ll pass locals chatting on benches, street food carts selling fresh juice, and the iconic Mutrah Souq just a few steps inland.

The souq is a maze of narrow alleys packed with shops selling frankincense, silver, spices, and Omani textiles. Time your visit around sunset, when the light hits the water just right and the city starts to glow. It’s one of the best spots in Oman for a casual wander that still feels full of atmosphere.

4. Sur

• 📍 Location: Sur, Ash Sharqiyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: ⛵ Maritime history buffs, 🏖️ beachgoers, 🐢 wildlife watchers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting dhow shipyards, walking the Al Ayjah Watchtower, seeing turtles at Ras al-Jinz
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for milder temperatures and turtle nesting season 🐢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Zaki Hotel Apartment – Simple, central stay near the corniche with spacious rooms and friendly service

Sur is a charming coastal town with deep ties to Oman’s seafaring roots. Watching traditional wooden dhows being built by hand along the waterfront offers a glimpse into the country’s maritime legacy. These boats once connected Oman to India, East Africa, and beyond.

As you walk through town, you’ll spot the Al Ayjah Watchtower overlooking the water, along with old forts like Bilad Sur Castle that tell stories from a different time. The harbor view is particularly stunning at sunset, with golden light reflecting off calm waters and docked vessels.

Just a short drive away, Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve gives visitors the rare chance to see green turtles nesting in the sand. The experience is quiet and respectful, guided by experts who protect the animals. Sur blends coastal beauty, history, and wildlife in a way few other towns can.

5. Jabrin

• 📍 Location: Jabrin, Ad Dakhiliyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History lovers, 🧭 cultural travelers, 🖼️ architecture fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Jabrin Fort, viewing painted ceilings, exploring ancient rooms and battlements
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler daytime temps and fewer crowds 🧳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The View – Scenic hillside hotel with panoramic mountain and valley views

Jabrin is one of those underrated spots that surprises you with how much it offers. The town is home to Jabrin Fort, widely considered one of Oman’s most beautiful and well-preserved castles. Unlike purely military forts, this one was built to impress, with detailed woodwork and artistic flourishes in nearly every room.

Wander through the fort’s halls and you’ll come across ceilings painted with floral and astrological motifs. There are clever defensive features too, including secret passageways and trapdoors, but the overall vibe is more elegant than warlike. You can really sense the care that went into every design detail.

From the rooftop, the view stretches across groves of date palms and out toward the mountains. The setting is peaceful, and the light just before sunset makes the whole place glow. It’s a quiet but memorable stop that adds historical depth to any Oman itinerary.

6. Wadi Bani Khalid

• 📍 Location: Al Sharqiyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🏞️ Nature lovers, 🏊‍♀️ swimmers, 🧭 light adventurers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in emerald pools, exploring Moqal Cave, relaxing under palm trees
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for ideal swimming and hiking conditions 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Oriental Nights Rest House – Friendly guesthouse with easy access to the wadi

Wadi Bani Khalid is one of Oman’s most accessible and scenic wadis, making it a popular spot for both locals and travelers. The entrance path is flat and easy, leading to large pools of clear turquoise water framed by rugged rock and dense palms.

Most people come here to swim, and for good reason. The main pool is calm and deep, perfect for a relaxing dip, while smaller streams branch off into quieter corners. Pack your own snacks and towels since there aren’t many amenities inside the wadi itself.

A short hike up the rocks leads to Moqal Cave, a small but worthwhile detour for those looking to explore further. The scenery, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, makes this spot feel like a desert oasis that doesn’t require much effort to enjoy.

7. Musandam Fjords

• 📍 Location: Musandam Peninsula, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🚤 Boat lovers, 🐬 dolphin watchers, 🧘‍♀️ seekers of solitude
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising on a dhow, snorkeling in clear waters, spotting dolphins in the fjords
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for calm seas and better visibility 🐬
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Atana Musandam Resort – Traditional-style hotel with views of the sea and mountains

The Musandam Fjords feel like a completely different side of Oman. Deep blue water winds between sheer limestone cliffs, creating dramatic scenery that’s often compared to Norway’s fjords. It’s a peaceful place that invites you to slow down and take it all in, far from the busier cities and roads.

The best way to explore is by traditional dhow boat. These cruises usually include stops for swimming or snorkeling, plus a chance to see wild dolphins playing in the surf. The water is calm and clear, and the cliffs keep things quiet and secluded, giving you time to truly relax and disconnect.

Because the fjords are tucked into Oman’s northernmost corner, they feel remote and untouched. You won’t find big cities here, just small villages, empty coves, and pure natural beauty. If you’re craving stillness and sea air, Musandam delivers one of the most unique coastal escapes in the country.

8. Wahiba Sands

• 📍 Location: Sharqiyah Sands, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🐫 Desert adventurers, 🌌 stargazers, 🧕 cultural explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Dune bashing at sunset, overnight Bedouin camping, camel trekking
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for cooler temperatures and clear skies 🏜️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Desert Nights Resort – Stylish desert retreat with guided tours and traditional meals

Wahiba Sands is where Oman’s desert magic comes alive. Endless golden dunes stretch in every direction, sculpted by the wind into towering ridges and soft valleys. The light changes by the hour, especially at sunrise and sunset when the sand glows in rich orange and red hues.

Many travelers opt for an overnight stay at a desert camp, where you can experience Bedouin hospitality, traditional food, and stories around the fire. The silence at night is something you won’t forget, with only the breeze and the occasional camel call in the distance.

Adventure options here are plenty. You can ride a camel, drive over the dunes in a 4×4, or simply sit on a high ridge and take in the view. Wahiba Sands isn’t just about the landscape, it’s also about connecting with a way of life that has thrived in the desert for centuries.

9. Jebel Shams Canyon

• 📍 Location: Al Hajar Mountains, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Hikers, 🌄 view seekers, 🧗‍♂️ adventure travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking the Balcony Walk, watching sunrise over the canyon, visiting mountain villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for crisp mountain air and hiking-friendly weather 🏞️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sama Heights Resort – Cozy eco-lodge with incredible views of the canyon

Jebel Shams, known as the “Mountain of the Sun,” towers above Oman’s landscape and offers views that are seriously hard to beat. The canyon here is often called the Grand Canyon of Arabia for its depth and drama, with cliffs dropping over 3,000 feet into the valley below.

One of the best ways to explore the area is by taking the Balcony Walk, a moderate trail that hugs the canyon wall and leads to an abandoned village perched on the edge. Along the way, you’ll get nonstop views and a real sense of scale that photos just can’t capture.

The air is cooler up here, especially in winter, and the peaceful surroundings are a nice change from Oman’s coastal heat. Jebel Shams is a favorite for hikers and photographers alike, offering one of the most unforgettable mountain experiences in the country.

10. Bimmah Sinkhole

• 📍 Location: Hawiyat Najm Park, Al Sharqiyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🏊‍♂️ Swimmers, 📸 photo lovers, 🌿 casual explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in turquoise water, relaxing in the park, viewing the sinkhole from above
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler temps and clearer water 💧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Vida Inn – Newly renovated inn, offering an infinity pool and modern kitchen suites

Bimmah Sinkhole looks like something out of a fantasy movie. This giant limestone crater is filled with clear, aquamarine water and surrounded by rugged cliffs. It was formed naturally by the collapse of an underground cavern, making it one of Oman’s most unique geological sights.

After a short walk through Hawiyat Najm Park, you’ll reach a set of stairs that lead down to the water. The swim is refreshing, especially under the morning sun, and the mix of salt and fresh water gives the sinkhole a buoyant feel. It’s a peaceful place to float and take in the rock walls rising around you.

The park has shaded areas and picnic spots, making it a good stop on a longer road trip along the coast. Bimmah is quick to visit, but the vibrant color of the water and the surreal setting leave a strong impression.

11. Al Jebel Al Akhdar

• 📍 Location: Al Hajar Mountains, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🌸 Flower chasers, 🥾 trekkers, 🍎 farm stay fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting terraced rose gardens, hiking the villages trail, sampling pomegranates and local honey
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for blooming roses and fresh mountain air 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Alila Jabal Akhdar – Luxury clifftop resort with panoramic views and eco design

Al Jebel Al Akhdar, or the Green Mountain, is a cool and fertile plateau that feels like a hidden world above the desert. Its high altitude keeps the temperature mild year-round, and the dramatic cliffs and valleys offer endless views over the Al Hajar Mountains.

In spring, the terraces burst with blooming pink roses, and local families begin the traditional process of making rosewater. You’ll also see orchards filled with pomegranates, peaches, and apricots, all sustained by ancient falaj irrigation channels carved into the rock.

The hiking here is some of the best in Oman. One popular route connects old stone villages tucked along the cliffs, with paths that overlook the valleys below. Between the fresh mountain air, rich culture, and scenic trails, Jebel Al Akhdar offers a peaceful and refreshing change of pace.

12. Ras Al Jinz

• 📍 Location: Eastern tip of Oman, Ash Sharqiyah Region
• 🏆 Best For: 🐢 Wildlife enthusiasts, 🌅 sunrise seekers, 📷 quiet nature lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching turtles nest, exploring the visitor center, strolling the remote beach at dawn
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November during peak turtle nesting season 🐢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve – Eco lodge with guided turtle tours and beachfront cabins

Ras Al Jinz is a protected coastal reserve where endangered green turtles come ashore to nest. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can witness this rare event up close. The guided tours are respectful and low-impact, helping visitors learn about the turtles without disturbing them.

Visits typically happen at night or early morning, when the beach is quiet and the turtles are most active. Watching a turtle dig a nest and lay eggs under the moonlight is unforgettable, especially with the sound of waves in the background and stars overhead.

Aside from the turtles, Ras Al Jinz offers a peaceful slice of nature. The coastline here is wild and undeveloped, with soft sand and turquoise water. The on-site museum adds context to the experience, and the reserve’s eco-lodge lets you sleep just steps from the sea.

13. Nizwa Fort

• 📍 Location: Nizwa, Ad Dakhiliyah Region, Oman
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History fans, 🧕 culture seekers, 🧭 architecture lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the central tower, exploring traditional rooms, visiting the adjacent souq
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to February for cooler mornings and active local markets 📿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Antique Inn – Traditional-style guesthouse within walking distance of the fort and souq

Nizwa Fort is one of Oman’s most iconic historical landmarks. Built in the 17th century, the fort was designed to protect the city and showcase its influence as a cultural hub. The massive round tower at its center is among the largest in the country and offers panoramic views of the surrounding palm groves and mountains.

Inside, you’ll find a maze of rooms filled with traditional artifacts. From ancient weapons and tools to handmade furniture and Omani clothing, the displays offer a deep dive into the region’s heritage. The narrow staircases and secret doors add a fun element of discovery as you explore.

Right next to the fort is the bustling Nizwa Souq, where you can shop for spices, pottery, and silver jewelry. The whole area feels like a step back in time, and the energy of the market pairs perfectly with the historical depth of the fort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Oman

Want to learn more about Oman’s most beautiful locations? Here are a few typical questions I get about the top Oman activities and attractions.

Which is the beautiful city in Oman?

Muscat, the capital city of Oman, is often regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the country. With its blend of modern architecture and historic sites, it offers a unique mix of the old and new. The city’s coastline, grand mosques, and bustling souks add to its charm, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Oman.

What is Oman most famous for?

Oman is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The country is also famous for its historic forts, aromatic frankincense, traditional dhows, and vibrant souks. Additionally, Oman’s diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains and coastal areas, make it a unique travel destination.

Where are the best places to experience Omani culture?

Nizwa, with its historic fort and lively souk, offers a deep dive into Omani culture. Additionally, the lanes of Mutrah Corniche and the traditional markets in Salalah provide authentic experiences of Omani traditions and crafts.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oman?

Yes, Oman boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This includes the Archaeological Sites of Bat, Al-Khutm, and Al-Ayn, as well as the Land of Frankincense in Dhofar.

What are some of the must-see natural wonders in Oman?

Oman’s natural wonders include the majestic Jebel Shams Canyon, the serene Bimmah Sinkhole, and the expansive Wahiba Sands desert. Each of these locations boasts the Oman scenery at its finest.

Is Oman worth going to?

Absolutely, Oman is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical depth. This makes the country well worth a visit. Here are some compelling reasons why Oman should be on your travel bucket list:

• Stunning Landscapes: From the majestic mountains of Jebel Akhdar to the golden dunes of the Wahiba Sands, Oman offers a variety of breathtaking natural settings.
• Rich History: With ancient forts like Nizwa and Bahla, and archaeological sites like Bat, Oman provides a fascinating glimpse into the Arabian Peninsula’s history.
• Cultural Heritage: Oman has a rich cultural tapestry, evident in its music, dance, and traditional crafts. The country is also known for its hospitality and the unique Omani coffee.
• Adventure Opportunities: Whether it’s dune bashing in the desert, snorkeling in the Daymaniyat Islands, or hiking in the Hajar Mountains, Oman offers a plethora of activities for adventure enthusiasts.
• Unique Wildlife: The country is home to a variety of unique species, including Arabian leopards and green turtles, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Authentic Experience: Unlike some of its neighbors, Oman offers a more authentic Arabian experience, with less focus on glitz and glamour and more on tradition and natural beauty.
• Safety: Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, making it a comfortable destination for travelers.
• Luxury and Comfort: While it offers an authentic experience, Oman doesn’t skimp on luxury. High-end resorts and world-class amenities ensure a comfortable stay.
• Marine Beauty: The Omani coastline

Which destinations in Oman are ideal for adventure enthusiasts?

For those seeking adventure, Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid offer thrilling treks and swims. Additionally, the dunes of Wahiba Sands are perfect for dune bashing, while the waters around the Daymaniyat Islands are ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Oman

Oman, a land of contrasts and harmonies, beckons travelers with its tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture. From the majestic peaks of Al Jebel Al Akhdar to the serene shores of Ras Al Jinz, every corner of this nation tells a story. As you traverse its vast deserts, explore its ancient forts, or simply bask in the hospitality of its people, you’ll discover the soul of Oman – a blend of tradition and modernity.

The most beautiful places in Oman are not just destinations; they are experiences that linger in memory, urging you to return. Each site, be it a busy souk or a tranquil wadi, offers a unique perspective on Omani life and its rich heritage. As you embark on your Omani adventure, remember that the true beauty of this nation lies in its landscapes and also in the stories, traditions, and warmth of its people.

So, pack your bags, set forth on a journey of discovery, and let the magic of Oman captivate your heart and soul.