Nestled in the South East of the Arabian Peninsula lies a land that whispers stories of ancient Arabic history and nature's beauty - from the shores of the Arabian Sea to vast desert lands and the serenity of the mountains, Oman 🇴🇲 has so much to offer. I enjoyed the beautiful cities like Muscat and Salalah as much as long hikes through the mountains and valleys of this diverse country.
Getting to Oman
✈️ Flights to Oman are available from major cities worldwide, landing at Muscat International Airport or Salalah International Airport.
🚙 A trip by car takes between 5-6 hours. It's actually convenient to get a rental or drive with your own car as Oman has many destinations like valleys, beaches, mountains and villages that are difficult to reach without a car. I got lucky and my host Ali took me to all the great spots
🚌 I personally took a bus from Dubai to Muscat. It's a longer journey of around 7-8 hours with a few short stops along the way, including one at the border. I really enjoyed my trip through the scenic landscape. I mean you can get relatively cheap flight tickets, but if you feel adventurous, take the bus. 🌄😎
What you need to know...
The only bus company currently operating between Dubai and Muscat is Al Khanjry Transport, which is based in Oman. You have to book it in person at the office in Dubai-Deira. There is no online option available at the moment.
The bus departed right in front of the office (March 2023), but it might have changed in the mean time, just ask at the office when booking your ticket, to make sure.
We arrived at their Al Khanjry Transport office in Muscat, where you can buy your return ticket if you didn't buy it in Dubai already. This was also the departure place for my trip back to Dubai.
The bus departs at 3 different times during the day (morning, noon and evening), which changes based on the season, they said. Check the available times at the office. I recommend to book a few days in advance because it's booked out fast.
The bus ride costs around AED 100 for a one way ticket, which is around 25€. Make sure you have your passport handy, you'll need it for the booking.
Take some cash with you for the exit fee at the border which is around AED 35/9€.
Visa Basics
📄 Check the visa requirements before your trip. Many nationalities can get a tourist visa online or upon arrival. Make sure to have the necessary documents handy. As an EU citizen you can enter Oman visa free for 14 days, if you plan to stay longer than that, you can get a visa on arrival at the Hatta border or airport for around 45€ (ca. 20 Omani Rials), which you can pay with your credit card. You can also obtain an eVisa before your trip. Get your eVisa here!.
Navigating Around
🚌 Public buses link main cities. For example if you plan on going from Muscat in the North all the way South to Salalah and don't mind sitting on a bus for over 12 hours+ then this is the cheapest option and costs around 20€.
Check out other destinantions around Oman and also the Emirates here.
✈️ Flights are of course much faster but still takes around 3 hours, with check-in and waiting time at the airport as well as waiting on luggage if you have checked bags, at least 6 hours. Thinking of my travels in Europe where I'm in another country after just 1 hour flight 😅 makes you realize Oman is not that small of a country.
🚕 Taxis are around, but negotiate fares before hopping in. They like to be a bit dishonest with foreigners.
🚗 Car rentals offer flexibility and again it's a good choice, even though much more expensive than a bus ride.
MUSCAT
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a hotspot of culture, history, and scenic beauty. It's right between the mountains and the sea, and literally invited me to immerse myself in its charm.
I had a whole list of things I wanted to explore and I personally think you shouldn't miss out on them as well.
One of the first places I visited was the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, it's an architectural marvel and a symbol of Oman's religious devotion. You can visit daily, except on Fridays. Entry is free, but respectful attire is a must, obviously.
As a woman it's advised to wear an abaya and men shoud also wear a long and wider outfit.
To dvelve into the heart of Muscat's culture I had to visit this traditional market. I loved to wander through the labyrinthine alleys adorned with colorful fabrics, spices, and trinkets.
The Souq in Muttrah is the perfect place to get some souveniers for yourself or loved ones. There's of course no entry fee, but bargaining skills are a plus! 😅
The Opera House is a beacon of art and culture and hosts various performances. It's not just impressive from the outside but also the inside. You can visit the opera for around 7,50€ when there is no event, like I did.
Entry fees for performances vary based on events and seating categories, so check their schedule and book tickets in advance.
Perched on rocky outcrops overlooking the Arabian Sea, these forts offer panoramic views of Muscat and one of the 6 residences of the Sultan, the 📍Al Alam Palace. While visiting the forts requires special permission, capturing their majesty from outside is free.
We visited the 📍Muttrah Fort instead which is close by and gives also great views of the
📍Sultan Qaboos Port and the 📍Muttrah Corniche.
The explorer of ancient history in me had to learn about Oman's heritage by visiting the
📍National Museum of Oman, It's right to the South of the Al Alam Palace and the entry fee is approximately 12€. It's a great place to learn about the history and culture of Oman and it even features a small cinema.
🐬🐬🐬 Dolphin Cruise
Oman is a great place for snorkeling, diving and dolphin watching. We got up early to catch the boat that goes out in the Arabian Sea to watch the Dolphins. It was amazing, and my very first time to see dolphins out in nature, in their natural habitat.
The boat ride itself is smooth but very windy, would definitely do it again and can only recommend. You have to book in advance in order to be able to get on the boat, some providers also offer a package of dolphin watching and diving. Close to Jassa Beach at
📍Marina Bandar Al Rowdha you find many tour providers, just choose one, they offer mostly the same. Check some of them here! Prices ranges from 18 OMR/42€ for Dolphin Watching, and 23 OMR/54€ if you also want to snorkel. 🤿
WADI SHAB
Another early morning Ali took me on a trip West of Muscat. While I enjoyed the breathtaking landscapes we made a short stop at a the 📍Bimma Sinkhole before heading to our main destination 📍Wadi Shab 🏞.
How to Reach Wadi Shab
🚙 A trip to Wadi Shab takes approximately 1,5-2 hours from Muscat by car.
🚌 Public transport options are limited, making a rental car or organized tours the most convenient choice.
Again I got lucky as Ali took me around in his car, otherwise I'd probably would have booked a tour as I don't have a driving license. Don't judge me.
But everyone else out there who prefers a more private experience rather than a tour like I do, rent a car.
I must say I'm a little spoiled by Mexico's sinkholes (cenotes), so I had an image in my mind on how a sinkhole should look like and came to realize, the Bimma Sinkhole is nothing like the sinkholes in Mexico. Less spectacular but with its own charm. 😅
On a nice and hot day like I had this Spring there will definitely gonna be people there as you can see.
I was tempted to jump in the cool water because it was really hot but we were gonna have a swim later.
I gotta say that Wadi Shab is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Tucked away between rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, it boasts emerald green pools, dramatic caves, and cascading waterfalls, offering a picturesque setting straight out of a fairytale.
The Hike ⛰
The journey to Wadi Shab commences with a short boat ride across the fjords. Once ashore, a moderate hike through rocky terrain and date palm plantations awaits. The trail leads to a series of pools and rocky gorges, each more enchanting than the last.
All together the hike took us around 30-40min to reach the first pools - it feels longer in the heat.
But if you really wanna get the best experience you gotta hike further. Then you'll reach the deeper pools with the crystal clear water, and you just can't help but dive into it.
There have been quite a few people along the way, and it somewhat pushed me to get through this especially when I saw old folks not even breaking a sweat. 😂
Like if they can manage to climb those rocks, then I can do it! Come on!!!
Swimming and Exploration 🏊♀️
You can traverse the crystal-clear pools by swimming through the canyon and the marvel at the majestic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. The highlight to me was the water fall in the hidden cave which was accessible through a swim and a short hike. I took my phone with me but the videos didn't turn out all too well but honestly, in that moment, you don't really care about photos and videos, you just wanna enjoy. And that my friends, we did!
If you take a hike through Wadi Shab you gotta go the whole way. It's so worth it!
Tips for your Trip
Bring Suitable Gear: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and waterproof bags for your belongings are definitely essential. If you don't have any or don't know where to get them or just simply forgot them, you'll get the chance to buy some gear like waterproof bags and phone cases before the fjord ride. Might even meet some friendly goats along the way. 🐐🐐🐐 😄
Mind the Environment: Respect the natural beauty by avoiding littering and preserving the ecosystem. Just simply take your garbage with you. 🗑♻️
Stay Hydrated: Carry ample water and snacks for the hike, ensuring a comfortable journey. You really gonna need it. Otherwise the heat is gonna have a toll on you. 💦
Entry Fees and Opening Hours
The entry fee for Wadi Shab is minimal, typically around OMR 1 to OMR 2 (approx. 💶2,50€ to 5,00€). The site is open from early morning until sunset. Which is important because the boat only operates until sunset and you don't wanna be stuck in the Wadi...or you gotta have to swim. 🏊♂️
Some tours I found on Trip Advisor and of course many others, but luckily didn't have to book any.
I can certainly say it was a daytrip to remember. We got on our way around 9am and came back around 7pm, in time for dinner. 😊
NIZWA
Amid the rugged beauty of Oman's mountains stands 📍Nizwa, an ancient city just a couple hours South of Muscat.
How to get there:
🚙 By car - Nizwa is only about 1,5 - 2 hours away. An easy ride with a scenic drive through the undulating landscapes of Oman.
🚌 By bus - you can book a roundtrip via Mwasalat, the ride takes around 3 hours, which would cost you approx. 3.4 OMR/💶 8€ per ride.
🚐 Booking a tour - there are plenty of tour operators available with online booking options. They often offer bigger tours to multiple locations for a daytrip. The most common ones are Tripadvisor, Viator and GetYourGuide.
Rental cars or organized tours are usually the most convenient options for visitors.
But if you are adventurous and try to get out of your comfort zone like me you just book a bus ride yourself, and off you go. 😉
It's super easy and definitely your best option, if you are on a budget. I also gotta say that Nizwa alone was already worth a daytrip and it took quite some time to explore it but there sure is time to explore other locations close by as well like the castle in Jabreen or the Bahla Fort just half an hour drive from Nizwá.
At the heart of the city stands the majestic 📍Nizwa Fort, an architectural marvel boasting a history dating back centuries. I wandered through its sturdy walls, climbed its ancient towers to then absorb the panoramic views of the city from the top. Entry fee for adults is 5 OMR/12€.
🛍 Nizwa Souq
The bustling 📍Nizwa Souq, adjacent to the fort, has been a sensory delight. I lost myself for a moment in the labyrinth of alleys adorned with colorful stalls selling handicrafts, silverware, pottery, and traditional Omani goods. And the Friday goat market is an authentic local experience you shouldn't miss.
Nizwa used to be the capital of Oman back in the 6th and 7th century, so there are a lot of historical places to visit, many beautiful mosques and markets.
It felt like it's embracing the essence of Omani culture and definitely left me captivated on that day.
Cultural Etiquette and Tips
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Keep in mind that Oman is more conservative than Dubai.
Engage with locals respectfully and seek their permission before taking photographs. A lot of tourists are pretty ignorant and unfortunately treat locals like a tourist attraction.
Plan your visit on a Friday to witness the vibrant goat market and experience the authentic local culture.
WAHIBA SANDS
Stretching over more than 12.000 square km across Oman's horizon lies 📍Wahiba Sands, it's named after the Bani Wahiba tribe of the region, a great place to experience the desert life in Oman. You can ride a 4 wheeler up and down the gigantic sand dunes or climb them yourself. You can spot Bedouins (nomadic tribes) who manage to live in the harsh desert conditions even though most of them are not real nomads anymore, they settled in villages near by, but they have some camps where they sometimes stay and also for tourists who wanna experience a day in the life of a Bedouin.
Getting to Wahiba Sands
🛻 By car: It took us around 2,5 hours from Muscat. Reaching Wahiba Sands alone is already an adventurous journey. We threw on the AC and drove along the prestine highway in the desert, singing along to our favorite songs and sipping on some refreshing smoothies we got on one of the little cafes along the road, because even though it was only March we already had over 30°C. If you get yourself a rental for your trip make sure to get a four-wheeler truck for navigating the desert terrain. Otherwise you most likely get stuck in the sand a few minutes after leaving the road.
🚐 Booking a tour: There are of course plenty of tour operators as well. I found some at Viator and GetYourGuide but also privat ones like Sunshine Tours Oman. They provide pick up and drop of in Muscat as well as knowledgable and experienced drivers who help you prepare for your desert journey. A tour will cost you between 200-350€ when you book them online.
🐪 The Experience: There are some free activities especially when you have your own car, like riding the dunes, chilling in one of the camps or your truck at night, stargazing, engage in conversations with Bedouins, sip traditional Omani coffee, sharing a shisha, interacting with camels (if they are not too shy and run away), and a whole bunch of paid experiences which are usually inclusive in a tour, but if you arrive with your own vehicle you gotta pay everything extra like a sunrise dune trip, camel riding, quad tours, dinner or breakfast buffets and more.
🛖🛖🛖 If you check Google Maps you will find quite a number of desert camps in
Wahiba Sands. We checked out the glamping option as well as the nomadic more authentic option which I would recommend also if you have a smaller budget. This way you also get the chance to chill with some Bedouins, listen to their stories about the simplicity of life.
🌌 We finished our day in the desert with stargazing the Milky Way. There are just soooo many stars which you never see when in or close to the city, it's breathtakingly beautiful, I almost cried. Late at night we drove back to Muscat. (I already stayed in desert camps in Jordan and UAE, they are very similar).
I would love to give you some recommendations about where to stay in for an overnight experience in Wahiba Sands but there are so many and most of them have great reviews. You can book in advance or try to strike a good deal at one of the camps if you are great in bargaining. 😁
Cultural Etiquette and Tips
Even if this is actual common sense...respect the desert environment by avoiding littering and preserving its pristine beauty.
Pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, and protective clothing for the desert's challenging conditions as well as everything you need for an overnight stay.
Embrace the simplicity and serenity of the desert - let its silence and vastness soothe your soul, like literally. It's so calm there, so peaceful, so beautiful...best case scenario, no phone service. 😎 cut of from the rest of the world for a day.
Stay away from the desert in Summer! It's toooo damn hot and they barely offer tours during that time anyway. Winter or early Spring is probably the best time to visit Oman in general.
SALALAH
📍Salalah stands as a captivating oasis in Oman's southern region with calm beaches, green mountains and air that smells like rain even when it's not wet. I enjoyed walking through old markets filled with the smells of different spices and Frankincense, walking along the beach while sipping on some cool coconut water, feeling the sea breeze in my face, and watch the sun dip into the ocean. I couldn't help but relax unwind and relax.
How to get there: ✈️ By plane: You could take a direct flight from Muscat to Salalah, of course, but that wouldn't be all too much fun, wouldn't it?
🚙 By car: A scenic drive with a rental car from Muscat on the other hand takes around 9-10 hours, but offers stunning views en route and you can make short stops along the way in some of the beautiful villages or even 📍Nizwa.
🚌 By bus: I like taking the bus and getting to know other travellers and locals along the way, to exchange stories and maybe even find travel companions. Mwasalat offers trips from Muscat to Salalah, a one way trip costs around 8 OMR/19€ and for a roundtrip 13 OMR/31€.
🚐 Booking a tour: There are no convenient tours from Muscat to Salalah, but plenty of tour operators on site. One of the best is Beautiful Salalah, they are providing great tours in and around Salalah. I would recommend to take a rental car or bus and book tours to Salalah's sites online.
🏝 Al Mughsail Beach & Al Marneef Cave: 📍Al Mughsail Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand and clear turquoise sea water. It's really beautiful. There is something about the sea that calms me down and gives me peace. Right next to the beach, there's the 📍Al Marneef Cave. It's not a deep cave, but more like a cozy spot under the rocks where you can sit and watch the sea.
The coolest part? When the waves hit just right, water shoots up through holes in the ground like mini geysers, as you can see on the picture. It's a fun, splashy show by the sea.
Al Mughsail Beach and Al Marneef Cave are great places to relax, have a picnic, and just watch the water and sky do their thing. It's simple, beautiful, calming and a great way to spend a day.
🏛 Al Baleed Archaeological Park:
Here you can step into history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring ruins of the ancient city of Zafar, which was really important for trading spices like frankincense a long time ago. It's like walking back in time.
There are old walls, the remains of houses, and even a big mosque that's not standing anymore, but you can still see where it used to be. Walking around, you get to imagine how people lived there ages ago. The park is next to the sea, so the view is pretty nice too.
There's also a museum in the park, the Museum of Frankincense Land.
If you're curious about history or just want to see something different visiting 📍Al Baleed Archaeological Park is a nice way to spend a few hours.
The entrance fee is only 2 OMR/5€.
⚱️ The Museum of the Frankincense Land:
If you don't know me by now I'm going to tell you again, I love visiting museums. 📍The Museum of the Frankincense Land in Salalah is not big but it's a great place to learn about Oman's history and culture, how people used to trade and travel and how frankincense got harvested and processed to be used for example for perfume and medicine. The history of frankincense is an integral part of Oman's heritage. Since it's part of the Al Baleed Archaeological Park you don't have to pay extra.
🏞 Wadi Darbat: I was told that it's a verdant valley during Khareef (monsoon) season, from late June until early September, adorned with waterfalls, lush greenery, and serene lakes. But that didn't keep me from visiting regardless. As you can see on the picture, even in March it's definitely worth a visit and perfect for a day out in nature. It's a big valley with a stream that turns into a waterfall in the rainy season. The water is clear and cool, and if you dare you can jump in for a swim or walk around and explore. I watched a lot of birds and even some camels and goats resting by the water.
My local guide mentioned that in the warmer months, you can rent a small boat and paddle around the lake that forms in the valley for around 2-5 OMR/5-12€, unfortunately it was a bit too shallow in March for that but it's really peaceful and pretty.
📍Wadi Darbat is not too crowded, not many people find their way here which leaves it look untouched and the fresh air and scenic views are a nice break from the city.
🏛 Sumhuram Old City/Khor Rori:
The ruins of 📍Sumhuram Old City now known as Khor Rori, near Salalah, Oman, was once a bustling center of trade and famous for its frankincense.
Walking through the remnants of Sumhuram, I could almost hear the echoes of the past. The walls, some still standing tall, told stories of a thriving city. I wandered around the old houses and marketplaces, imagining the lives of those who walked these paths centuries ago.
One of the highlights was seeing the old port area, where traders from far lands would have anchored their ships. The view of the sea from here was breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection.
Visiting Sumhuram Old City was like being a part of a living history book. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the ancient world or just looking for a unique place to explore. The blend of history, culture, and stunning sea views make for a memorable visit.
They charge you 2 OMR/5€ per car entry fee, irrespective of the number of people in the car.
🛍 Gun Souq & Al Hafah Souq:
When I visited Salalah, I made sure to check out the local markets, especially the Gun Souq and 📍Al Hafah Souq. These places are like treasure troves for anyone who loves shopping and seeing local culture.
The Gun Souq is pretty unique. Sultan Qaboos Street close to the Al Hafah Souq It's an informal open-air market setting near Sultan Qaboos Street mainly for traditional Omani daggers called 'Khanjars.' These are not just weapons but a big part of Omani culture and history. The daggers are beautifully decorated, and it's fascinating to see the craftsmanship. Obviously you can't bring them to your country just like that since it's a weapon even if they are antique, but there are ways. The vendors are friendly and often share stories about the daggers and their significance.
The Al Hafah Souq is a more typical market but no less interesting. It's full of different stalls selling everything from frankincense to clothes, jewelry, and local snacks. The smells, colors, and sounds make it a lively place to explore. I loved trying out some local food and just wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds.
Both souqs give a glimpse into the local life and traditions of Oman. They're great for picking up unique souvenirs and just experiencing a bit of everyday life in Salalah.
DAYMANIYAT ISLANDS
Visiting the 📍Daymaniat Islands in Oman, was an experience I'll never forget. These tropical islands are a group of 9 small, uninhabited islands, a protected nature reserve and a real hidden gem for nature lovers.
The boat ride to the islands was exciting and only takes around 40min from Muscat. There are a wide range of marine tours and dive charters operating from 📍Al Mouj Marina, close to Muscat International airport. GetYourGuide, or TripAdvisor offer great all inclusive options and daytrips, which cost roughly around 100€. I recommend to book the one with the best ranking and reviews, like I did.
As we approached, the clear blue water and the sight of the rugged, untouched islands were breathtaking. The islands are known for their amazing snorkeling and diving spots. The underwater world here is incredible - the water is super clear, and it's full of colorful coral and fish. I even saw a few groups of sea turtles, which was amazing!
The beaches on the Daymaniat Islands are perfect for relaxing. They're quiet and pristine, with soft white sand. It's like having your own private piece of paradise. I spent some time just soaking up the sun and listening to the sound of the waves.
It's amazing to see how untouched the Daymaniat Islands are. There are no big hotels or crowds, so it feels like a real escape from the busy world. It's a place where you can connect with nature and just enjoy the simple beauty around you.
Visiting the Daymaniat Islands was definitely a highlight of my trip to Oman. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves the ocean, wildlife, or just wants a peaceful spot to unwind. The beauty of these islands is something I'll always remember.
Some words of advise:
Visiting the Daymaniat Islands in Oman was an eye-opener for me as a traveler. These beautiful islands are not just a great place to have fun, but they're also home to amazing wildlife and nature. It's important we do our part to keep them that way. Here are some simple things you can do to help protect the Daymaniat Islands when you visit:
Don't Leave Anything Behind: This is super important. Whatever you bring to the islands, like food wrappers or water bottles, make sure you take it back with you. Litter can harm the wildlife and spoil the natural beauty.
Be Careful in the Water: When you're snorkeling or swimming, try not to touch the coral or disturb the sea life. Coral is really delicate and can be damaged easily.
Use Eco-friendly Sunscreen: Regular sunscreen can harm the ocean and the creatures that live there. Using sunscreen that's safe for the environment can make a big difference. Or simply wear long sleeve diving clothes.
Respect Wildlife: If you see turtles or other animals, enjoy watching them but give them space. It's important not to disturb them or their natural habitats.
Follow Local Guidelines: The authorities in Oman have rules to protect the islands. Things like where you can go and what you can do are set to keep the islands safe. Following these rules helps a lot.
By doing these simple things, we can all help keep the Daymaniat Islands beautiful and safe for everyone to enjoy, now and in the future. It's all about respecting nature and being a responsible visitor. I was really bothered by how carefree and irresponsible some people behave. I saw people who didn't know how to properly swim on the surface and kept kicking the turtles and destroying the corals with their feet. Unfortunately there are no proper instructions so I hope whoever reads this before visiting the Islands is going to be careful.
After my journey through Oman, I'm left with a deep appreciation for this stunning country. Oman is a place of diverse beauty, from the rolling dunes of the desert to the lush greenery of Salalah, and the crystal-clear waters of the Daymaniat Islands. Each place I visited had its own unique charm and story.
The warmth and hospitality of the Omani people made my trip even more special. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with smiles and kindness. Trying the local food, like dates and Omani coffee, was a treat, and I loved learning about the rich culture and history.
One thing that stands out about Oman is its unspoiled natural beauty. Whether it was watching the sunset over the mountains or snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, I was constantly amazed by the sights around me.
Looking back on my time here, I know that Oman has left a lasting impression on me. It's a place that offers both adventure and relaxation, and I can't wait to come back and explore more. For anyone looking for their next travel destination, I highly recommend Oman - it's a journey you won't forget.
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