What to do in Nizwa? These are 6 tips for the authentic city in Oman
September 10, 2024
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Oman, it is a destination that not many people think of for a tour, but secretly there is an awful lot to see and experience! Ancient traditions meet vast nature here. So you'll feast your eyes on the immense mountain ranges, tropical wadis and peaceful desert. And then there is also a magnificent underwater world! Discover why a round trip through Oman should be on your bucket list (to then be able to cross off very quickly, of course).
1. On a tour of Oman, immerse yourself in Middle Eastern culture
If I had to mention one thing that makes travel so special, it is getting to know other cultures. And let Oman be a country where you can fully immerse yourself in other traditions and customs.
Characteristic in Oman is the exceptionally friendly population with its authentic Arab culture. Life is mainly determined by Islam, the main religion in the country. This is actually reflected in everything. For example, traditional clothing reflects the rich history and local lifestyle. Men often wear a dishdasha, a white robe, while women wear the stylish abaya. And Oman's religious buildings, such as its mosques, are true architectural masterpieces.
A tour of Oman often begins in Muscat. As you stroll through the streets of the historic part, you truly imagine yourself in another world. Marvel at the splendor of Oman's largest mosque - the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of the Sultan of Oman. But don't forget to take a look at the Mutrah Souq, where the scents of spices and aromas waft at you and you can buy the most beautiful souvenirs.
One place where you will feel like you are stepping into a Middle Eastern fairy tale is Nizwa. Today in this former trading town, you will find cozy, photogenic streets, important historical and religious buildings and the goat market.
2. The landscapes in Oman are insane
The Middle East one big desert? Nothing could be further from the truth. Oman is actually quite diverse in terms of nature! You will indeed find beautiful, vast desert landscapes, but also tropical wadis and an underwater world rich in colorful fish, sea turtles and dolphins.
The country's diverse and rich nature is mainly due to the humid summer months due to the monsoons, the mountains, and Oman's clever irrigation systems. The oldest of these systems, called "Falaj" (plural: "Aflaj"), dates back to 500 AD, but there is archaeological evidence that irrigation systems existed as early as 2500 BC. They have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2006.
A fine and reliable local tour operator to discover several highlights in Oman with is Al Maamari Tours. Would you rather go on a fully (well) organized trip from the Netherlands to Oman? Then take a look at Oman round trips & vacations offerings from middle easttravel.com.
Hiking through the mountains of Oman
Oman is a true paradise for hikers and walkers, especially in the mountains. Two of the most famous mountains in the desert can be found in the Hadji Mountains: the Jebel Akhdar, also called the "Green Mountain" and the Jabal Shams. The highest point in the country is on this second mountain. The summit reaches a height of a whopping 3,075 meters, and the mountain has been called the "Grand Canyon" of the Middle East.
The mountains are traversed by an extensive network of hiking trails along imposing rock formations, picturesque villages and breathtaking views. In the Jebel Akhdar mountain range, for example, you can hike the "3 villages walk. The route of about 4 kilometers gives you a glimpse of local life in the villages.
The village of Al Ayn is known as the rose village. The Jebel-Akhdar rose is traditionally harvested here in April. In addition, on some parts of the route you literally walk over the irrigation systems, enjoying beautiful views of the terraces of roses and the impressive mountain area.
Oman's coastline and rich underwater world
In contrast to the epic mountain ranges is Oman's coast. The coastline stretches for some 1,700 kilometers. In some places, you look out over fjords that even have a slightly Norwegian feel to them. But the Omani coast also offers many expansive sandy beaches.
An absolute highlight of my tour of Oman was the boat trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, Oman's snorkeling paradise. Do you have an underwater camera? Then you should take it with you, because you will spot an awful lot of brightly colored fish and sea turtles in the watery nature reserve.
The tropical wadis
When you talk about Oman, you say tropical, turquoise wadis. You may have heard of them, but what exactly is a wadi?
A wadi is a fertile oasis in a desert-like area sandwiched between rocks. Wadis are filled with crystal clear water. Because of their fertility, the wadis are surrounded by palm trees, shrubs and fruit trees that include mangoes, bananas and papaya. Near the water holes, colorful nesting birds nest.
The wadis are not only popular places to admire nature and relax. At some you can also take a dip in the water. Do you really want to seek adventure? Then you can also hike, climb and abseil (canyoning). The most famous wadis of Oman are Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid and Wadi Nakhr (Wadi Ghul).
The vast desert landscape
The desert in Oman is simply magical. The endless vistas, curious dromedaries and breathtaking starry skies provide the backdrop for an unforgettable stay.
Fairytale-like it is anyway, but adventurous it can certainly be too. Cross with a 4×4 through the Wahiba Sands desert, because here you will find sand dunes hundreds of meters high. Make sure you are on top of a dune before sunset, because you don't want to miss this spectacle! Another unique activity is to take a hot air balloon ride.
3. Oman is incredibly clean and safe
The Sultanate of Oman is a stable and peaceful country and has very little crime. Despite unrest in some neighboring countries, Oman is a safe vacation destination. However, travel to border areas with Yemen is not recommended.
Besides being very safe, Oman is also incredibly modern and clean. For example, you see virtually no trash on the streets. The country exudes ultimate peace and cleanliness, but perhaps that is because Oman is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Only 5.2 million people live there, while the country is more than 7 times the size of the Netherlands.
Are you getting more and more excited to explore Oman, but do you think it would be exciting to travel alone? Then consider a group tour of Oman.
Respect for local religion and culture
When traveling to Oman, it is important to show respect for the culture. In Oman, most people are Muslim and therefore specific norms and values apply. Although locals understand that as a tourist you have different norms and values, it is essential to strike a good balance and show respect for the religion. For example, as a woman, do not wear clothes that are too tight and short. In mosques and other religious places, you should wear clothing from your ankles to your wrists and, as a woman, also wear a hijab. My personal experience is that showing understanding and respect just adds to an enriching travel experience in Oman.
The country has also been called the most women-friendly country in the Middle East. We would also definitely recommend traveling with children in Oman.
4. In Oman, you really experience the vacation feeling
For the real vacation feeling, Oman is the place to be. Although the range of hotels is not very large, there are plenty of nice places to stay. There are also unique addresses to be found. For example, you can sleep in a Bedouin tent in the middle of the desert. There are also more than enough luxury resorts where you are provided with all comforts. Some places I recommend based on my personal experience:
- The Radisson Collection Hotel Hormuz Grand in Muscat
- The Mövenpick Hotel and Apartments Ghala Muscat in Muscat
- The dusitD2 Naseem Resort in the mountains of Jebel Akhdar
- The Desert Nights Resort in the desert Wahiba Sands
5. The country is still very authentic
Oman has not yet been discovered by mass tourism, which makes the destination very authentic. Therefore, do not expect the high-rise buildings and luxurious appearance as in Dubai. By the way, the opulence can certainly be found in Oman, but pure nature is still the focus.
A fun fact is that you will find almost no high-rise buildings at all in Oman. In fact, tall buildings are not allowed. Nothing is allowed to be higher than the tallest minaret of the largest mosque.
Taking a tour of Oman
Many of the above highlights are reflected in the trip 'The Best of Oman' from middle-east-travel.com. A beautiful round trip where in 10 days you get to know the Arab life and hospitality and discover the natural beauty such as the fertile wadis, the Wahiba Sands desert and the rich underwater world.
Want to get even more inspiration for a round trip through Oman? Then get inspired by our blogs with travel tips for Oman. We inspire you with our personal tips and experience in the fairytale country. In addition, be sure to take a look at the website of the Oman Tourist Board: Experience Oman.
Carefree travel to Oman
Would you like a hand in planning your tour of Oman? As a personal travel consultant, we are happy to do so! We help you on your way in a 1-on-1 video interview, but we can also organize the entire trip for you according to your wishes. Have a carefree trip and request a customized travel proposal for your vacation to Oman.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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