Top 10 Places to Go

1. Mutrah Souk
Mutrah Souk is reputable for being the most interesting Souk in the Arab Gulf states. It features a perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, offering a choice to shoppers. Feast your eyes on the silverware, antiques, frankincense garments, toys, spices, gold etc. on display. Best of all, you can haggle the cost of these items.
2. Nizwa Fort
The Nizwa Fort stands as one of the Sultanate’s finest historical edifices. This unique, large earth-filled circular tower of Nizwa is built by Imam Sultan bin Saif al Yaarubi in 1668 AD. It mirrors the military engineering prowess of fort-builders of the olden times.

This formidable citadel stood strong and protected Nizwa’s abundant natural wealth from prowlers coveting it.
3. Nakhal Fort
The 17th Century Nakhal Fort in Oman, is majestically perched on a rocky site in the foothills of the Western Hajar. This fortress commands a fantastic 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside. Nakhal is famous for its mineral-laden hot springs flowing year round from the clefts in the mountain rock right around the fortress.
4. Ras Al Hadd
“The sun rises first on Ras Al Hadd in the Arab Peninsula”
A visit to Oman will not be complete without a visit to Ras Al Haad’s Turtle Reserve. Known as the “Green Turtle Habitat”, this area is located in the Wilayat of Sur in the Sharqiya region. It is the migration destination of around 6,000-13,000 turtles who make their annual journey here, from the Arabian Gulf, the Red Sea and the East African Coast. This area attracts the largest number of mating turtles in Oman.
5. Wadi Shab
The Wadi Shab is a must-see place to visit in Oman. ‘Wadi’ means ‘dry river bed’. This gully remains dry except during the rainy season where water quickly fills it up. If you’re thinking of driving in the wadis (wadi bashing), it is best to check first, for any developing thunderstorms before engaging in this activity. This is a good safety precaution to avoid the dangers of flash floods.

The Wadi Shab is located just between the capital Muscat and the town of Sur and lies exactly in Niyabat, Tiwi, wilayat (province) of Sur. What’s fascinating about this wadi is that, it merges the scenic appeal of the coastal areas with that of the inland wonders. It is interesting to note that you can find at least seven pools of emerald green water surrounded by marvelous boulders, here. Of these pools, one of it is actually found inside a cave where light beautifully streams in from above. Get fascinated with the sound of echoes as you swim in this pool.
6. Salalah
One of the things that people remember most about Salalah, the second largest town in the Sultanate of Oman, is its temperate climate. While the rest of Arabia experiences sweltering temperatures of up to 50°, Salalah averages 25°C in the locally known khareef season (from late June to early September). During this season, tourists flock to Salalah to enjoy its outstanding beauty and refreshing climate. Also with this climate, frankincense trees grow and flourish.

The use of frankincense is prevalent in Oman. It is used not only for its fragrant qualities but also for its therapeutic properties like its calming effect on the nervous system. The resin on the other hand, can be used as a medicine to cure toothaches and indigestion.
7. Wadi Bani Ouf
The Wadi Bani Ouf is found in Al Rostaq wilayat, just behind the intimidating façade of the Al Jabal al Akhdar mountains. This ancient wadi offers breathtaking vistas along its 26-kilometer trail. Mountain streams and pools plus green fields also spectacularly beset this valley making it an ideal place for 4WD drives, trekking or canyoning.

As you set out to the Wadi Bani Ouf, you’ll have the chance to explore side canyons like the famous Snake Canyon/ Snake Gorge with it cool springs, splashing streams and sharp rock faces.
8. Wahiba Sands
The Wahiba Sands is a vast desert of rolling sand dunes with colors varying from deep red to rich honey and stretching as far as the eye can see. These dunes are home to traditional Bedouins who can endure the harsh desert conditions. It also plays host to a diverse type of flora and fauna.

Contact local tour guides for a more fun-filled and safe experience. They’ll be on hand to take you out on a fantastic dune driving and allow you to visit or perhaps enjoy a hearty lunch with a Bedouin family who can give you an insight on their lifestyle..
9. Jabrin Castle
Jabrin Castle is truly one remarkable sight. This magnificent palace is located near the mountains of Jabal Akdhar or the Green mountains. The mountain is famous for rose cultivation and production of pure rose water. Situated in such a picturesque landscape, this castle was built in 1675 by Sultan Bila’rab bin Sultan al-Yaarubi as a summer residence. This magnificent castle is known for its artistry and majestic look.

Some of the notable attractions of this castle include painted ceilings and inscriptions of Koran verses on the walls and ceilings.

Jabrin Castle has been restored to its full glory to keep its historical and artistic values.
10. Jebel Shams
Located 280 km from Muscat, Jebel Shams is the highest mountain of the Al Hajar mountain range. Jebel Shams meaning Mountain of the Sun in Arabic is 9000 feet above the sea level. The mercury here dips to zero in winter and sometimes is followed with snowfall. Even the summers are pleasant with an average temperature of 25 degrees.

This climatic condition attracts the tourist for camping and trekking. Other than the climatic conditions, the major attraction of this place is the Canyon. The canyon at Jebel Shams is said to be the second biggest after the Grand Canyon in Arizona.