14 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman in 2025 - with map
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Planning a trip to Oman in 2025 and wondering about the most beautiful places to visit? I’ve lived in Oman for over four years and spent a lot of time travelling all across the country – exploring on weekends and holidays, and following the advice of local friends. This list includes the 14 most beautiful places in Oman that I’ve personally visited, and most of them I’ve returned to more than once.
You’ll find a mix of landscapes and experiences: old forts, mountain villages, wadis, and beaches. Each one offers something different, whether you’re into hiking, history, or just want to take in the views. If you’re looking for must-see destinations in Oman, this guide will help you plan a meaningful trip – not just a pretty one.
At a Glance: The14 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman (2025)
Wadi Shab: Hike and swim through emerald pools and hidden caves.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: Oman’s most iconic mosque, known for its scale and elegant design.
Nizwa Fort: Climb the tower for sweeping views and discover the fort’s rich history.
Muttrah Souq: One of the oldest markets in the Arab world, full of silver, spices, and souvenirs.
Bahla Fort: A UNESCO site with an eerie charm and legends of jinn.
Jebel Akhdar: Terraced farms, pomegranate trees, and spring rose gardens high in the mountains.
Ras Al Jinz: Watch sea turtles nest on the beach at night with a guided tour.
Musandam Peninsula: Cruise through rocky fjords and spot dolphins in calm turquoise waters.
Misfat Al Abriyeen: A traditional mud-brick village surrounded by palm groves and mountain paths.
Birkat Al Mouz: Explore ruins and a working UNESCO falaj system at the foot of the mountains.
Jebel Shams: Hike the Balcony Walk along Oman’s “Grand Canyon.”
Wahiba Sands: Ride camels, drive over dunes, and sleep under the stars in a desert camp.
Mughsail Beach: A white-sand beach with natural blowholes near Salalah.
The Daymaniyat islands: snorkel in crystal clear waters near Muscat
1. Wadi Shab – A Hidden Oasis of Emerald Pools
The first time I went to Wadi Shab, I was struck by the colour of its pools (a rich emerald green), its dramatic cliffs, and hidden caves. Located just a two-hour drive from Muscat, this natural wonder of Oman offers you an adventure that combines hiking, swimming, and exploration.
The journey begins with a short 2-minute-boat ride across the river (for 1 OMR both ways). This is followed by an easy yet scenic trek through date palm groves and rocky terrain. As you keep going, the path becomes more challenging and includes wading through crystal-clear waters. You’ll find yourself immersed in a tranquil oasis. It culminates in a hidden cave with a small waterfall—one of Oman’s best-kept secrets. Wadi Shab is a must-visit.
Practical information:
Location: Near Tiwi, about a two-hour drive from Muscat
Getting There: Best reached by self-drive; guided tours are also available
Time Needed: Four to five hours, including hiking and swimming
Cost: Free, but a short boat ride (1 OMR) is required to start the hike
Tips:
- Wear water shoes for the rocky terrain and bring a waterproof bag for valuables.
- Be prepared for a mix of hiking and swimming to reach the waterfall cave. This is one of the scenic places in Oman that’s best enjoyed slowly.
2. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – Oman’s Most Iconic Landmark
One of the most cultural landmarks in Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat is an outstanding blend of Islamic architecture and modern design. It includes an enormous prayer hall with intricate tilework, a massive chandelier, and one of the world’s largest handwoven carpets.
Visits are allowed in the mornings (from 8.30 a.m). So you can discover its peaceful courtyards and the serene beauty of its gardens.
Practical information
Location: Muscat
Getting There: Taxi or rental car; free parking available
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Sunday to Thursday
Cost: Free entry
Dress Code:
- Women must cover their arms, legs, and hair.
- Men should wear long pants and cover their shoulders.
This is one of the top places to see in Oman even if you only have a short time in Muscat.
3) Nizwa Fort – A Powerful Symbol of Omani History
Oman seems to have forts and crenellations at every turn! Nizwa Fort is no doubt one of the best kept and most impressive Oman attractions for tourists. I have often wandered up and down its many corridors and staircases and I can guarantee it will give you a sense of strength and mystery. It features thick walls, hidden traps, and a massive circular tower.
On my first visit, I heard a most striking story. To defend themselves in the past, Omani soldiers would pour boiling date syrup over attackers! The guide added sardonically, ‘I suppose that’s what one could call a sweet death!’
Today, the fort houses a museum showcasing Omani history, weaponry, and traditional crafts. It also has a beautiful garden at the back.
Also, visit the nearby souq for traditional crafts and dates. This area is perfect if you’re looking for historical places to visit in Oman.
Practical information
Location: Nizwa, about 1.5 hours from Muscat
Getting There: Self-drive or guided tour
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday; 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM on Friday
Cost: 5 OMR for adults, 3 OMR for students, free for children under six
Tips:
- Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the heat.
- Visit the nearby souq for traditional crafts and fresh dates.
4) Muttrah Souq – Oman’s Oldest Marketplace
To be honest with you, I’m not sure if this is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. But I’ve included it because I believe you should definitely visit it. If anything, you can try to uncover the real heritage and history that remain hidden beneath the ‘overly touristy’ top layer that now covers a lot of the market.
Here, you will enter one of the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world. It is located along Muscat’s splendid Corniche.
Its maze of alleyways always feels chaotic as local people, tourists and merchants mingle. The smell of luban adds to the whole experience as it offers a fascinating mix of stalls selling silverware, textiles, perfumes, and souvenirs. You will no doubt find a wide range of gifts and souvenirs to take home.
To delve deeper, read my ‘Step by step Guide to Mutrah Souq’ by clicking here.
Practical information
Location: Muttrah Corniche, Muscat
Getting There: Taxi or public bus from central Muscat
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (some shops close in the afternoon)
Cost: Free entry
Shopping Tips:
- Bargaining is expected in some shops. Start at half the quoted price and negotiate from there.
- Popular products include frankincense, spices, clothes, silver jewellery, and Omani daggers – great souvenirs from the oldest marketplace in Oman.
5) Bahla Fort – A UNESCO Site with a Mysterious Past
Bahla stands out in Omani culture as a ‘magical place’ – both in terms of aesthetics and ‘magic.’ Surrounded by a palm oasis, it’s one of the most unique historical attractions in Oman, with legends of jinn adding to its mystique.
When working as a teacher in Nizwa, my students told me very quickly about a ‘Bahla speciality.’ In Bahla, people can draw a line on the ground, cross the line, and fly to anywhere in the world! They also told me that, according to ‘hear-say’, when they started building the fort, the workers would find their work had all been brought down during the night. Mysterious powers were at work. And this meant they had to build parts of the walls over and over again…
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bahla Fort is one of the most significant historical sites in Oman. Visitors can explore its courtyards, staircases, and hidden rooms, gaining insight into the fort’s role in Oman’s defensive history.
If you’re interested in hidden gems in Oman, this is one of them. It’s quiet, atmospheric, and full of stories – especially if you take the time to talk to a local guide or wander on your own.
Practical information
Location: Bahla, near Nizwa (40-minute drive)
Getting There: Best reached by self-drive or guided tour
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday; 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM on Friday
Cost: 3 OMR for adults, free for children under six
Must-See:
- Climb to the top for panoramic views of the oasis.
- Visit local potteries to see Bahla’s famous handcrafted ceramics.
6) Jebel Akhdar – Terraced Farms and Rose Gardens
Unlike the dry landscapes that define much of Oman, Jebel Akhdar – meaning “Green Mountain”- is a lush, high-altitude region in the Al Hajar Mountains.
It’s one of the natural wonders of Oman, with terraced farms, pomegranate orchards, and rose gardens spread across the slopes. The area is ideal for hiking and cultural exploration. The mountain’s cooler climate (actually cold in winter!) makes it a perfect retreat from the heat. I recommend you visit during the annual rose harvest in spring. During this time, locals extract fragrant rose water using traditional distillation methods.
If you’re interested in knowing more about the local production methods of rose water, see my blogpost on ‘9 ancient Arabic Beauty Rituals.’
Practical information
Location: Al Hajar Mountains, about two hours from Muscat
Getting There: A 4WD is required; a checkpoint enforces this rule
Time Needed: A full day or an overnight stay
Best Time to Visit: March to May for the rose harvest, or October to April for pleasant weather
Things to Do:
- Hike through terraced farms and ancient villages.
- Visit Diana’s Point for stunning mountain views – definitely one of the most scenic places in Oman.
7) Ras Al Jinz – Watch Turtles Nest Under the Stars
Visiting Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve under the moonlight is a unique experience. If you’re creating a 2025 Oman travel itinerary that includes wildlife, this should be on your list.
The best time to visit is between June and September, when visitors can witness turtles nesting. Guided night tours offer a chance to observe this remarkable natural phenomenon without disturbing the turtles.
The reserve also has a visitor centre with exhibits on marine conservation, making it an educational as well as a fascinating experience.
Practical information
Location: Near Sur, about a three-hour drive from Muscat
Getting There: Self-drive or guided tour
Best Visiting Time: June to September during the turtle nesting season
Cost: 8 OMR for adults, 3 OMR for children for night tours.
Tour Information:
- Night and early morning tours are available.
- Flash photography is not allowed to protect the turtles.
This is one of the most unique places to visit in Oman, especially if you’re travelling with children or enjoy quiet, nature-based trips.
8) Musandam Peninsula – Fjords, Dolphins, and Calm Waters
Nicknamed the “Norway of Arabia,” the Musandam Peninsula offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. With its fjord-like inlets and calm turquoise waters, it’s one of the best hidden gems in Oman—remote, scenic, and still largely untouched.
A dhow cruise through the Musandam fjords is one of the best ways to take in the spectacular scenery, often accompanied by dolphins swimming alongside the boats. The area is also a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, with rich marine life and coral reefs.
Due to its isolated location, Musandam remains one of Oman’s most untouched and tranquil natural wonders. This may change in the future but for the moment it is still an amazingly calm and serene place.
Practical information
Location: Northern Oman, bordering the UAE
Getting There: Fly to Khasab from Muscat or drive from the UAE
Time Needed: A full day or an overnight stay
Must-Do Activity: A dhow cruise here is one of the top things to do in Oman, especially if you’re after peace, nature, and a bit of dolphin spotting.
Border Information: If driving from the UAE, check visa requirements for re-entry.
9) Misfat Al Abriyeen – A Traditional Mountain Village
Misfat is one of my favourite places in Oman. It’s not just beautiful – it also feels real, lived-in, and local. If you’re looking for authentic Omani experiences, this mountain village is a great place to start. Known for its traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleyways, and lush terraced gardens, this mountain village thrives thanks to the ancient falaj irrigation system.
As you walk through the village, you can admire the date palms, banana trees, and plant life that contrast with the surrounding brown mountains.
Practical information
Location: Al Hajar Mountains, near Al Hamra
Getting There: Self-drive; a 4WD is not required
Time Needed: Two to three hours or an overnight stay in a guesthouse
Things to Do:
- Walk through the palm groves and explore the ancient irrigation system.
- Stay in a guesthouse and soak in the slow travel vibe – perfect if you want a break from busier tourist routes.
10) Birkat Al MOUZ – Falaj System, Palm trees and Banana Groves
Birkat Al Mouz tells a story of Oman’s past. The name translates to “Pool of Bananas,” reflecting the region’s once-thriving plantations.
With its mud-brick ruins and UNESCO-listed falaj, it’s ideal if you’re exploring Oman’s cultural heritage or want to photograph off-the-beaten-path places.The village is also home to one of Oman’s UNESCO-listed falaj irrigation systems, Falaj Al Khatmeen, which continues to bring water to nearby farms.
The surrounding date palm groves and the stunning backdrop of Jebel Akhdar make this a magical place for photography and quiet exploration.
Practical information
Location: Near Nizwa, at the base of Jebel Akhdar
Getting There: Self-drive or guided tour
Time Needed: One to two hours
Must-See:
- Explore the abandoned mud-brick village.
- Visit Falaj Al Khatmeen, a UNESCO-listed irrigation system.
11) Jebel Shams – Oman’s Highest Peak and Grand Canyon Views
This is the highest mountain in Oman, and home to one of the most popular hikes: the Balcony Walk. It’s a must if you’re into outdoor adventures in Oman. It is famous for its dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views of Wadi Ghul, often called the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.”
Jebel Shams is a paradise for hikers and climbers, with the Balcony Walk offering an unforgettable trek along the canyon’s edge. Traditional villages, such as Al Khitaym, provide a glimpse into rural Omani life.
Practical information
Location: Al Hajar Mountains, near Nizwa
Getting There: A 4WD is recommended but not required
Time Needed: A full day or an overnight stay
Cost: Free entry
Best Hike: The Balcony Walk, a three- to four-hour hike offering breathtaking canyon views.
12) Wahiba Sands – Camp Under the Stars in Golden Dunes
This desert stretches out like an ocean of golden dunes. The Wahiba Sands (also known as the Sharqiya Sands) is one of Oman’s most iconic desert landscapes.
Home to Bedouins, this region offers a chance to experience traditional desert life, from camel trekking to dune bashing in 4WD vehicles. At night, the combination of stargazing and listening to stories around a campfire is a magical experience. It’s one of the top places to see in Oman for travellers looking for something immersive and adventurous.
Practical information
Location: Sharqiya Sands, about a three-hour drive from Muscat
Getting There: A 4WD is required, or visitors can join a guided tour
Best Time to Visit: October to April when temperatures are cooler
Desert Activities:
- Camel trekking and dune bashing with Bedouin guides.
- Overnight camping with opportunities for stargazing and traditional Omani hospitality. This is one of the top things to do in Oman in winter when the weather is cooler.
13) Mughsail Beach – White Sand and Natural Blowholes
Near Salalah, this wide stretch of white sand is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in Oman. The turquoise waters of the sea and the surrounding cliffs make it outstanding.
One of the main attractions here is the Al Marneef blowholes, where seawater shoots into the air through natural rock openings, creating a spectacular display.
Practical information
Location: Near Salalah in the Dhofar region
Getting There: A 30-minute drive from Salalah
Best Time to Visit: June to September during the Khareef monsoon season
Must-See:
- The Al Marneef Blowholes, where seawater shoots into the air.
- A pristine white beach ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
14) Daymaniyat Islands – Snorkel in a Marine Paradise
It is unbelievable how close these islands are to Muscat — and how untouched they feel. Just 40 minutes by boat from the coast, this protected group of islets is home to some of the clearest waters in Oman. Think white-sand coves, coral reefs, and sea turtles gliding past your fins.
Most people visit on a day trip by boat, which usually includes snorkelling at two or three different sites. The visibility is incredible.
There are no shops or cafes here — just sea, sky, and snorkelling.
Practical information
Location: Off the coast between Seeb and Barka (nearest departure is from Al Mouj or Marina Bandar).
Getting There: Accessible only by boat; book a tour in Muscat, Seeb, or Barka.
Time Needed: Half-day or full-day trip (most tours are 4–6 hours
Cost: Around 25–40 OMR per person depending on the operator
Best Time to Visit: Between late September and early May
Must-See: Dolphin Sightings (seasonal): During the boat ride, keep an eye out for spinner and bottlenose dolphins.
- Vibrant coral reefs
This blogpost was all about the 14 places that I consider to be exceptionally beautiful. Have you visited any of these stunning locations, or do you have a favorite spot in Oman? Share your experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear about your journey!
WELCOME to JOUSSOUR to OMAN!
Hi! I’m Christine, a Franco-British writer and watercolourist living in Oman for the past four years. I share my first-hand experiences to help independent travellers plan an immersive and authentic trip to Oman.
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Author: Christine van den Hogen
Hi, I’m Christine. I’ve lived in Oman for over four years and spent that time travelling across the country - from desert camps to remote mountain villages. Joussour to Oman is where I share practical guides and honest tips for experiencing Omani culture, nature, and daily life. This list is based entirely on places I’ve visited myself - often more than once.
10 responses
Hello
Is there an app or a map showing the speed radars of Oman?
Estarei em Omã no final de setembro e suas informações me ajudaram muito na escolha do Hotel!
Obrigada Christine
Merci Christine pour ce temps passé à nous décrire comment se sentir comme chez toi, chez nous !
J’ ai voyagé encore !
À bientôt ✈️
C’est un plaisir, Anne. Vraiment!
Wow❤️
Thanks. If you need more information about accommodation in Muscat or other aspects of travelling in Oman, don’t hesitate to ask.
Hi Christine, thank you so much for the restaurant recommendation. I loved the food, the atmosphere and the place in general. I also talked to Khaled, the supervisor. He says hi. Thank you again. Tomorrow is my last day in Muscat. Any last minute must- see places?
Saliha from Algeria
Hello Saliha, Glad to hear you enjoyed the restaurant. In terms of Muscat, there are many options but some must-sees are Muttrah (the Corniche, Souq and Fort), Al Qurum (Shatti Al Qurum with its beach, the Opera building), and Old Muscat (the Royal Palace and gardens around, the Bait Al Zubair museum). I hope you get to see some of these. Have a great day!