Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

Most trips to Oman begin in the capital Muscat and high on everyone’s list is a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It’s a stunning modern mosque that lives up to its name with space for 20,000 worshippers.

Mutrah Corniche, Muscat

Before sunset head to the other side of Muscat to the Mutrah Corniche. Join the locals for a stroll along the lovely seafront where white buildings and mosques are backed by rocky mountains and forts that glow golden in the late afternoon light. Nearby you can shop in the narrow lanes of the Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in Oman and a top Muscat tourist attraction.

Jabrin Fort (Jibreen Castle)

From Muscat we recommend taking a trip inland to the Nizwa area where you can explore forts, mountains, and ancient villages. Jabrin Fort (also known as Jabreen or Jibreen Castle) dates back to 1675 and looks like a sand castle amidst an oasis of date palms. 

Nizwa Fort

The 17th-century Nizwa Fort is one of the most popular places to visit in Oman. It features a massive circular tower which you can climb for views of the mosque, souq, distant rocky mountains, and the date palms that surround this oasis city. Nizwa Fort has been refurbished and there are now historical items on display like jewellery, tools, and a timeline of the area’s history.

Wahiba Sands

For the true desert experience head to Wahiba Sands for rolling sand dunes, camel rides, and 4WD adventures. Spend a night in a rustic goat-hair Bedouin tent at the foot of a huge dune to be climbed for sunset and sunrise. You can watch camels wandering past, drink tea by the fire, and gaze at the sky lit up with stars. It is wonderfully peaceful.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is a stunning oasis in the desert with crystal clear green water surrounded by date palms and rugged mountains. The pools are huge and swimming in them is so refreshing in the desert heat. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.