Oman

What are the most beautiful places in Oman?

The most beautiful places in Oman are a mix of desert, mountains, wadis, and cities. Here are some of the highlights of a road trip:

• Muscat: discover the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the Mutrah Souq, and the coast;
• Nizwa: for its impressive fortress and traditional souk;
• Wadi Shab: for turquoise pools nestled among spectacular rock faces;
• Jebel Shams: for impressive mountain scenery and the famous Balcony Walk;
• Jebel Akhdar: for green mountain terraces, villages, and views;
• Wahiba Sands: for golden desert dunes and a night under the stars;
• Ras Al Jinz: for spotting sea turtles along the coast.

Is Muscat worth a visit?

Absolutely! In Muscat, you’ll find stunning white buildings, impressive mosques, and traditional souks, all set against a backdrop of mountains. Be sure to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take a stroll through Mutrah, and take the time to explore the city and the coastline. Here are our tips on what to do in Muscat.

What is there to do in Nizwa?

Nizwa is one of Oman’s best-known historic cities, famous for its impressive Nizwa Fort and traditional souk. It’s also a great base for exploring more of Oman’s beautiful interior. There are our personal travel tips for Nizwa in Oman.

Can you stay overnight in the Wahiba Sands?

Absolutely! Spending a night in the Wahiba Sands is a special experience. You’ll stay in a desert camp surrounded by golden dunes, with nothing but silence, spectacular sunsets and a clear starry sky. It’s a wonderful way to experience the fairytale-like side of Oman. Two accommodation options we particularly like:

• Arabian Oryx Camp: Experience a taste of Bedouin life in traditional-style tents, complete with air conditioning. A welcome touch when temperatures climb above 40°C.
• Desert Nights Resort: reat yourself to an unforgettable night in a luxurious Bedouin-style tent. Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as the most sought-after camps can fill up quickly.

Read all our tips for unique stays in the Wahiba Sands desert in Oman.

What is the best time to visit Oman?

The months from October to April are generally the most pleasant for a road trip through Oman. Temperatures are more comfortable for exploring cities, deserts and mountains, while many parts of Oman can become extremely hot during the summer months.

Is Oman a safe destination?

Oman is generally considered a safe destination for travellers, but it’s still important to check the latest official travel advice before you go. During a road trip, pay particular attention to road safety, extreme heat and the risk of sudden flooding in wadis. If you’re heading into the desert or mountains, a suitable 4×4 and good preparation are essential. Given the current regional situation, we also recommend checking the latest travel advice from your country’s government shortly before departure.

Do you need a rental car in Oman?

A rental car gives you plenty of freedom to explore Oman at your own pace, especially if you want to combine Muscat with Nizwa, the Wahiba Sands and other places in the country’s interior. For a road trip, having your own car is therefore a practical choice. Keep in mind that you can’t simply drive a standard rental car into the Wahiba Sands. For a desert excursion, you’ll need to deflate the tyres at a designated point and continue only with a suitable 4×4.

Prefer to explore Oman without having to arrange everything yourself? We can create a personalised itinerary with transport, accommodation and special experiences all carefully matched to your trip.

Can you travel to Oman during Ramadan?

Yes, you can travel to Oman during Ramadan, although it’s worth preparing for a slightly different travel experience. Many restaurants and cafés are closed during daylight hours, and opening hours for attractions and shops may be adjusted. Hotels generally continue to serve food and drinks to travellers. If you travel during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. With a little extra preparation, travelling during Ramadan is certainly possible and can offer a unique insight into local culture.