Oman

Top destinations to visit in Oman

1. Muscat: The capital city of Oman, Muscat, is a vibrant and modern metropolis that beautifully blends contemporary architecture with traditional elements. Highlights include the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House, and the historic Mutrah Souk.
2. Nizwa: Known for its well-preserved fort and bustling souk, Nizwa is a historical city in Oman that provides a glimpse into the country's rich heritage and culture. The Nizwa Fort is a key attraction, as is the lively marketplace.
3. Salalah: Located in the southern part of Oman, Salalah is known for its lush greenery during the Khareef season (monsoon). It offers a unique, almost tropical experience with its coconut groves, banana plantations, and serene beaches.
4. Sur: This coastal town in Oman is famous for its traditional dhow boat-building industry. Sur is an authentic coastal destination with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
5. Sohar: Sohar is an ancient city with a rich history, known as the birthplace of legendary navigator and explorer, Sinbad the Sailor. The city has a rich maritime heritage and historical landmarks to explore.
6. Rustaq: Rustaq is renowned for its hot springs and the impressive Al Hazm Castle. The city offers a more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path experience.
7. Ibri: Ibri is a city in Oman's interior region and is known for its historic mud-brick fortresses, such as the iconic Ibri Castle.
8. Bahla: Bahla is another historical city famous for its UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort. It's a city steeped in tradition and culture.
9. Al Buraimi: Al Buraimi is known for its bustling souks and proximity to the UAE border. It offers a unique cultural experience and opportunities for shopping and exploration.

Best time to visit Oman

The best time to travel to Oman is between October and April when the weather is pleasantly warm, ranging from 63°F to 95°F. During this season, it is notably cooler compared to the scorching summer months spanning from June to August. If you plan to journey to Ras al Jinz during this timeframe, there's a chance you might encounter turtles.

Experiences you should not miss in Oman

1. Travel to Wadi Shab
Located between Muscat and Sur, the concealed allure of Wadi Shab frequently eludes the attention of tourists. This magnificent valley boasts a river coursing through its heart, flanked by towering cliffs adorned with caves and ridges. The most rewarding way to discover this valley is on foot, journeying through the russet sands of the gorge. Along the way, you'll encounter the crystal-clear green waters of the river, ideal for a refreshing swim on a scorching summer's day. Nestled beside the cliffs, small caves are known to conceal hidden waterfalls, which come to life during the rainy season.

2. Watch turtle hatching at Ras Al Jinz
Seeing sea turtles nest and hatch on Oman's remote beaches is a remarkable experience you should definitely try. Oman is home to five out of seven sea turtle species, and the endangered green turtle chooses Ras Al Jinz beaches for nesting. Located at the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Ras Al Jinz is one of the biggest sea turtle nesting sites in the entire Indian Ocean. Although you can spot turtles in Omani waters year-round, summer is the season when these majestic creatures come ashore to dig their nests in the sandy beaches. A few months later, the tiny hatchlings make their way back to the sea, starting the most challenging journey of their lives. Watching turtles at Ras Al Jinz is a fantastic family activity, and your experience is enhanced by staying at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

3. Walk around the Mutrah Corniche
Muscat, the capital of Oman, offers travelers a unique journey back in time on the Arabian Peninsula. In contrast to its glamorous neighbors, Dubai and Riyadh, renowned for their towering glass-and-chrome skyscrapers, Muscat adheres to strict regulations prohibiting tall buildings. Instead, the city boasts whitewashed, low-rise structures that provide uninterrupted vistas of the rugged Hajar Mountains that flank its southern border.
A leisurely stroll along the Mutrah Corniche, a broad promenade that runs parallel to the Gulf of Oman on the city's northern periphery, offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the city's picturesque waterfront. Along the way, travelers can explore the market stalls at the Mutrah Souq, savor cups of the sweet cardamom tea known as "karak chai," and admire the magnificent Masjid Al Rasool Al Adham, a 15th-century Shia mosque distinguished by its striking blue dome.

4. Go swimming in Bimmah Sinkhole
Referred to locally as Hawiyyat Najm, the Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural wonder located at nearly equal distances between Muscat and the coastal city of Sur. Created by the subsidence of the limestone bedrock beneath, the sinkhole is currently encircled by expansive golden hills and holds a captivating lake with emerald waters. The unique color of the water results from the interplay between saltwater and freshwater. A favorite spot for adventurous swimmers, the sinkhole is part of the broader Hawiyyat Najm Park, open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

5. Discover the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The most-visied Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is renowned for housing one of the world's largest chandeliers and the second-largest Persian carpet globally, with the largest one situated in the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This religious structure in Wilayat spans an impressive area of 416,000 square meters and has the capacity to host 20,000 individuals.

Things to know before traveling to Oman

1. Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your specific nationality. Most visitors will require a visa to enter Oman. You can obtain a tourist visa in advance or on arrival at the airport.
2. Dress Modestly: Oman is a conservative country, and it's important to dress modestly, especially in public places. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in public areas.
3. Respect Local Customs: Omanis are known for their warm hospitality, but it's essential to be respectful of their customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women.
4. Currency: The currency used in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote regions.
5. Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations.
6. Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Omani laws and regulations. For example, public drunkenness is illegal, and penalties for breaking the law can be severe.
7. Health Precautions: Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines and consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and B. Drink bottled water and take precautions to avoid foodborne illnesses.
8. Local Cuisine: Oman offers a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try Omani cuisine, including dishes like shuwa (marinated, slow-cooked lamb) and halwa (a sweet dessert).
9. Transportation: Oman has a well-developed road network, and renting a car is a popular way to explore the country. However, be prepared for winding mountain roads and driving on the right side. Public transportation is also available.

Why choose Acqua?

Acqua offers access to local expertise through carefully selected tour operators who possess excellent language skills, destination knowledge, and buying power. Customize your trip to Oman by choosing accommodation, transportation, activities, and pace. Directly booking with local operators ensures cost efficiency and supports local economies. Acqua partners with established operators for favorable rates, providing peace of mind with guarantees and insurance coverage. By choosing Acqua, you support responsible travel and contribute to community projects.