The Best Travel Destinations For 2022: Oman

(Or The Seven Wonders Of The World, Part 5)

Image: Andries Oudshoorn, Wikimedia

On the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula lies the oldest independent state in the Arab world, Oman. Plan a trip to this unique place, and you’ll experience some of the most incredible sights the world has to offer. Here are just some of the places you should visit:

1. The Cities

• Muscat. Spread along the turquoise Arabian Sea and squeezed in between two towering mountain ranges lies the historic, walled city of Muscat - framed by two 16th-century Portuguese forts which have been converted into museums and bulging with incredible Islamic architecture. But if you think its landscape eclipses this elegant city, think again. Filled with museums, mosques and markets (think fish, Indian textiles, spices, henna and jewelry) - not to mention an abundance of picturesque palaces and relaxing spots near the sea - Muscat boasts a je ne sais quoi that will make you want to spend at least a couple of days here. Highlights include the world-renowned Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque - home to an enormous crystal chandelier and the world’s second-largest Persian carpet - and a traditional Dhow cruise where you can tick off the main sights of the city.
  
• Nizwa. A much-loved fort city in Oman, you won’t be short of things to do here. From wandering the markets to visiting castles - marveling at the massive fort with the enormous cylindrical tower to soaking up the picturesque views - there’s a reason it’s earned the nickname ‘The Pearl of Islam.’
  
• Salalah. A city of plenty - and the antithesis to the desert - Salalah is famed amongst travelers for its unique climate, picturesque views and range of activities. Sunbathe on the sandy beaches, dive into the turquoise waters, taste the fine delicacies, admire the incredible architecture and get lost in the bustling markets - particularly if you want to buy frankincense! The best time to visit is between June to August, thanks to the monsoon clouds from India that transform Salalah into a green oasis with streams and waterfalls.
  
• Sur. A small port city with a laid-back vibe, stroll along the coast and admire the mosques, castles, forts and lighthouses on view, as well as the wooden Dhows that Oman is famed for, studded in the water.
  
• Bahla. An oasis in the desert that’s served as a stopping point for many a traveler, its stand-out feature is the well-preserved, well-protected, historic fortress, dating back to the 13th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also an impressive selection of silver and pottery to buy here.

2. Musandam fjords

The Musandam Peninsula, aptly nicknamed the ‘Norway of Arabia,’ is the most northern part of Oman. Offering jaw-dropping views and rippling fjords, you can explore the serene Omani coast via boat, scuba dive in the clear waters, watch dolphins from a traditional Dhow and appreciate the modern architecture. With more wildlife than people, this remote-yet-rich piece of paradise is a must-visit for any nature lover.

3. The Wadis

Summing up the beauty of Oman in a single snapshot is this natural phenomenon - a long, narrow ravine that is a literal oasis in the desert. Our three favorites include:

• Wadi Bani Khalid. Arguably the most picturesque of all the wadis in the country, acting as a popular swimming and picnic spot for locals, its series of emerald pools, frothy cascading waterfalls and dark caves are framed by date palms.
  
• Wadi Shab. A more remote option that’s not as easy to get to but definitely worth the 40-minute hike! Natural pools abound, with a particular highlight being the hidden cascade of the Wadi Shab Waterfall.
  
• Wadi Darbat. A lush green valley surrounded by wondrous waterfalls and small caves, this amazingly scenic spot also offers fun street food, such as shawarma, popcorn and ice cream!

4. The Islands

• Masirah Island. If you like your getaways desolate and deserted, you will absolutely love this hidden gem in the heart of the Indian Ocean - Oman’s largest island. Shipwreck-studded beaches, home to more than 30,000 turtles, are the offering on this off-the-beaten-track secluded spot.  
  
• Telegraph Island. A small piece of land in the middle of the ocean that used to boost the British telegraph messages - hence its name. There’s not much left in the way of remains, but it’s another great spot to go snorkeling.

5. Al Hajar Mountains

A mountainous region like no other, Al Hajar comprises Jebel Akhdar - also known as the Green Mountain due to the lush, emerald forest that you can hike through and containing the highest point in the whole country - the Jebel Shams mountain.  

6. The Towns and Villages

• Ras al Jinz. Lying at the most eastern tip of the country is this small fishing village with a turtle reserve that you can watch along the world-famous beaches.
  
• Misfat al Abriyyin. If you’ve ever wondered what a traditional mud village looks like, you’ve come to the right place. With so much to explore in this offbeat, captivating little village, such as elevated dams, outdoor baths, banana trees and lush green groves of date palms, you can do so safely in the knowledge that this is a car-free zone as there is simply not enough room! And that should tell you all you need to know.
  
• Mirbat. A lesser-known but equally notable place to visit in Oman is this deserted fishing town, filled with historical remains. With fantastic coral reefs to boot, it’s gained popularity as a top snorkeling spot, too, not to mention an impressive range of fine dining establishments.
  
• Sohar. As well as the usual markets, monuments and magnificent beaches that makeup Oman, Sohar also lays claim to the mythical sailor, Sinbad, which attracts many tourists.
  
• Bald Sayt. Nestled deep in the Al Hajar mountains lies this picturesque village - arguably one of the most breathtaking places in the whole of the Middle East. Dense greenery punctuated with fruit trees makes up the landscape of this remote spot, which is reserved only for the most adventurous traveler owing to its requiring an experienced driver and long hike to reach it!

7. Wahiba Sands

Rolling, golden, desert dunes that stretch for miles in the center of Oman make for a highly popular travel spot - especially for those who want to feel the pulse of an authentic Omani experience. You can join a tour that allows you to ride a camel, take part in a range of sand sports, watch an unparalleled sunset and camp under the stars.

8. Bimmah Sinkhole

From the hot sands of the desert to the quenching cooling spot of this natural swimming spot, jump right into one of the darlings of Oman tourism.

9. The Castles

• Samail Castle. While there are many breathtaking castles in the country, not all are as impressive as this oasis in the desert, framed by mountains and palm trees.
  
• Jabrin Castle. For a fascinating look at military architecture, check out this huge castle - built in 1670.

10. Mughsail

If you like your beach experience with a side of flamingos walking among frankincense trees, you’ve come to the right place.

… so, there you have it! Ready to book? You know where we are!