From Muscat to Salalah, explore the most amazing places to visit in Oman in 2026 with tips for US travelers and families. Oman is a true celebration of what real travel is meant to be. Still refreshingly untouched by mass tourism (for now), this Middle Eastern gem offers experiences that feel genuine, raw, and unforgettable. It’s a destination where dramatic landscapes meet modern development, and centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with a fast-growing, welcoming nation.
From rugged mountains and golden deserts to turquoise wadis and historic forts, Oman feels like an unpolished diamond, beautiful precisely because it remains authentic. Harsh natural conditions have shaped not only the land but also the resilient spirit and rich culture of its people.
In this guide, we’re excited to share amazing places to visit in Oman, showcasing the country’s natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and hidden treasures that make it one of the most rewarding travel destinations in 2026 and beyond.
1. Jebel Akhdar, the Green Mountain
Al Jabal Al Akhdar, also known as Jebel Akhdar, is one of the most breathtaking mountain destinations in Oman. What makes it truly special is how the landscape turns vibrant green every spring, a rare and beautiful sight in a country best known for its deserts.
The main gateway to exploring Jebel Akhdar, Oman, is the village of Birkat Al Mouz, where travelers can hire a local driver with a 4×4 jeep. If you’ve already rented a suitable 4X4 vehicle, you’ll be allowed to pass the military checkpoint before beginning the steep, winding mountain climb.
The drive itself is an unforgettable experience, with numerous scenic viewpoints along the way offering panoramic desert and canyon views. The higher you go, the cooler and windier it becomes, so bringing a light jacket is highly recommended, especially if you plan to stop and enjoy the dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
Jebel Akhdar is a perfect blend of rugged beauty, fresh mountain air, and natural contrast, making it one of the most amazing places to visit in Oman for nature lovers and adventure travelers alike.
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2. Sayq plateau
As you climb higher into Oman’s Green Mountain (Jebel Akhdar), you’ll eventually arrive at the stunning Sayq Plateau. This high-altitude area offers some of the most unforgettable views in the country, overlooking beautifully terraced farms and centuries-old villages, some of which are still inhabited today.
Even during the winter months, the landscape remains surprisingly green. You’ll see layered terraces filled with rose gardens, fruit trees, and the iconic Omani date palms, creating a striking contrast against the rugged mountain backdrop. For outdoor lovers, the Sayq Plateau is also a fantastic place for hiking. There are several well-marked trails suitable for different fitness levels. Be sure to start your walk early in the day, before the sun becomes too intense, to enjoy the fresh mountain air and peaceful scenery fully.
With its cool climate, living heritage, and dramatic views, the Sayq Plateau stands out as one of the most scenic places to visit in Oman, especially for travelers seeking nature, culture, and adventure in one destination.
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3. Misfat al Abriyyin
Misfat Al Abriyyin (also spelled Abreyeen or Abriyeen) is one of Oman’s most charming traditional villages, famous for its beautifully preserved old quarter that is still actively lived in today. Unlike many abandoned settlements, this village remains part of everyday local life, which makes visiting it feel especially meaningful.
When exploring Misfat Al Abriyyin, it’s important to be respectful of the residents and their homes. Dress modestly, keep noise to a minimum, and walk carefully through the narrow stone alleyways. The paths twist and turn so much that it’s surprisingly easy to wander into someone’s private house by mistake. The village’s traditional homes are built from mud bricks, supported by solid stone foundations, a style perfectly adapted to the mountain climate. As you stroll through the quiet lanes, you’ll follow ancient falaj irrigation channels leading toward lush agricultural terraces.
These terraces are filled with banana trees, pomegranates, papayas, mangoes, citrus fruits, and towering date palms, creating a green oasis against the surrounding rocky mountains. It’s easy to spend hours here simply wandering, photographing the textures of old walls, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Misfat Al Abriyyin is one of the most authentic places to visit in Oman, offering a rare glimpse into traditional village life that has survived into the modern era.
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4. Jebel Shams, the Mountain of Sun
Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in Oman, was one of the absolute highlights of our journey. Often called the “Grand Canyon of Oman,” this dramatic mountain range rises to 3,009 meters above sea level, although the highest summit is occupied by a military base. Visitors can, however, hike to the second-highest peak at 2,997 meters, which still offers breathtaking panoramic views.
If hiking to the summit isn’t your goal, staying at one of the mountain resorts located above 2,000 meters is an incredible experience on its own. From there, you can enjoy shorter scenic walks, peaceful sunsets, and some of the most impressive landscapes in the country. We drove up to the Jebel Shams Resort with our sedan rental car (booked through Rentalcars). Although the final 7 kilometers are unpaved, the road was manageable even without a 4×4, provided you drive slowly and carefully.
We stayed overnight in a tent surrounded by silence, cliffs, and endless sky. The area is perfect for relaxing, light hiking, and unforgettable stargazing, thanks to the crystal-clear mountain nights. Temperatures dropped to around 5°C (41°F) after sunset, but the campfire and electric heater kept us warm and comfortable.
With its cool climate, dramatic canyon views, and peaceful atmosphere, Jebel Shams offered our favorite taste of mountain-desert romance in Oman, a place that feels both wild and deeply calming at the same time.
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5. Wadi Ghul, the Grand Canyon of Arabia
One of the most breathtaking sights in Jebel Shams is the view over Wadi Ghul, often called the Grand Canyon of Arabia. This dramatic gorge plunges nearly 1,000 meters deep, creating one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Oman.
Standing at the edge, it’s impossible not to admire the mountain goats that effortlessly navigate the steep cliffs. They balance on narrow ledges, searching for the smallest patches of grass, climbing up and down the rocks as if there were no massive abyss beneath them. If you plan to camp near the canyon, remember that this fragile environment depends on responsible travel. Always collect your trash and leave the area exactly as you found it or even cleaner.
For those who want to experience the scenery up close, the famous Balcony Walk is a must. This roughly 6-kilometer hiking trail follows the canyon rim and rewards hikers with nonstop panoramic views of Wadi Ghul, abandoned villages, and sheer limestone cliffs. With its dramatic depth, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable viewpoints, Wadi Ghul is easily one of the most amazing places to visit in Oman and a highlight for nature lovers exploring Jebel Shams.
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6. Bahla Fort
Located at the base of the Jebel Akhdar highlands, Bahla Fort is one of Oman’s most important historical landmarks and the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage–listed fort. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries by the powerful Banu Nabhan tribe, the massive citadel still rises proudly from the desert, resembling a stone oasis surrounded by palm groves.
The Banu Nabhan once controlled the lucrative frankincense trade, and the design of the fortress reflects its strategic importance. Inside the fort, you can see how goods were stored, how passageways were protected, and how the area was guarded from the numerous watchtowers overlooking the town. Walking through the Bahla Fort today is like stepping back in time. You can wander through shaded corridors, explore former storage rooms that offer a welcome escape from the heat, and admire the impressive mud-brick architecture that has survived for centuries.
From the upper levels, take time to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding date palm plantations and the orderly streets of Bahla town, which add to the fort’s timeless atmosphere. If you plan to stay overnight in the area, Jibreen Hotel is a convenient and comfortable option, ideally located for visiting Bahla Fort and nearby historic sites.
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7. Jibreen Castle
Jibreen Castle, also spelled Jabreen or Jabrin Castle,e was built in the late 17th century and is often considered one of the most beautiful castles in Oman. Constructed under the rule of the then Imam, the fortress was designed not only for defense but also as a center of learning, culture, and daily life. Today, visitors can explore an impressive collection of reception halls, dining rooms, meeting chambers, a courtroom, a library, and even traditional classrooms that reveal how advanced the complex once was for its time.
The castle’s interior is especially captivating. Decorated windows allow soft light to filter through wooden balconies, while traditional pottery, elegant arches engraved with Arabic calligraphy, and beautifully painted ceilings showcase the finest Omani craftsmanship. Every room feels rich in detail and history. One of the most memorable touches is the colorful cushions placed across patterned carpets so inviting that you can easily imagine sitting down with a book, sipping Omani coffee or tea, and losing track of time.
While daydreaming is encouraged, visitors can still wander freely through the castle today. For a deeper understanding of its history, an audioguide is available, making the visit even more engaging and informative. Jibreen Castle is a must-see cultural landmark and one of the most rewarding historical places to visit in Oman, especially for travelers interested in architecture, art, and heritage.
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8. Nizwa City
We chose to skip Nizwa Fort this time as we were heading toward another region of Oman, but we still managed a short drive through the historic center of Nizwa city. Even a quick visit made it clear why this place is considered one of the cultural hearts of the country.
By chance, we arrived on a Saturday market day, which turned out to be a highlight of our trip. The streets were alive with local vendors, and we were especially amazed by the massive, high-quality handwoven carpets displayed along the road, both in size and craftsmanship.
If you’re looking to experience authentic local life or do some traditional shopping, Nizwa Souq is one of the best places in Oman to visit. From textiles and pottery to silver jewelry and dates, it’s the perfect spot to buy genuine Omani souvenirs and support local artisans. For travelers interested in culture, markets, and everyday traditions, Nizwa is easily one of the best cities to visit in Oman, even if you only have a few hours to explore.
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9. Wahiba Sands
It was finally time to head into Oman’s iconic sandy desert, Sharqiya Sands, better known as the Wahiba Sands. Wanting the full desert experience without overspending, we chose to stay near the edge of the dunes at Al Reem Desert Camp, located in the semi-desert border area. This turned out to be the perfect balance. We enjoyed all the highlights of a true desert stay, thrilling dune bashing, a guided visit to nearby Bedouin villages, breathtaking sunsets over rolling sand dunes, and quiet evenings sipping tea around the campfire, all at a surprisingly affordable price.
The dune bashing alone was unforgettable, filled with adrenaline and laughter. Along the way, we encountered racing camels and playful baby camels, learned how desert wells provide water in such harsh conditions, and gained insight into traditional Bedouin life. As the sun dipped below the horizon, our guides paused for a beautiful sunset prayer before we returned to camp, sharing stories beneath a sky slowly filling with stars. The night that followed was calm, cool, and deeply peaceful.
Whether you choose an easily accessible desert camp or a remote luxury retreat deep in the dunes, budget-friendly or high-end Wahiba Sands is guaranteed to impress. Having experienced deserts around the world, from Lompoul in Senegal and the Atacama Desert in Chile to Wadi Rum in Jordan, we can confidently say that Wahiba Sands ranks among the very best desert experiences anywhere.
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10. Al Reem Desert Camp
From the moment we arrived and received a warm Bedouin-style welcome with traditional Omani coffee, tea, and dates, we knew our desert stay was going to be something special. We spent our afternoons relaxing in the shared lounge areas, reading quietly, and chatting on the terrace of our desert hut. Evenings were filled with the comforting rhythm of camp life, enjoying hearty, freshly prepared meals followed by the soft glow of the campfire flickering beneath the open sky.
The next morning, breakfast exceeded all expectations, generous, flavorful, and surprisingly elaborate for such a remote location. Honestly, we couldn’t have asked for more. One important note if you plan to stay in the desert: Be mindful of water usage. Water is the most limited resource in this environment, and most desert camps provide printed tips on how to conserve it. Following these guidelines isn’t just helpful, it’s a meaningful way to support sustainable tourism in Oman and preserve the desert for future travelers.
With genuine hospitality, peaceful surroundings, and unforgettable nights under the stars, staying in the Wahiba Sands desert camps is truly one of the most rewarding experiences in Oman.
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11. Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the most popular and easily accessible wadis in the Sultanate of Oman, and for good reason. Even though we visited on a weekend, it never truly felt overcrowded, thanks to the wide open spaces and multiple swimming areas. Unlike many seasonal wadis, Wadi Bani Khalid has a year-round flow of fresh water, making it one of the best places in Oman for swimming at any time of the year. You can relax in the natural turquoise pools, let the tiny fish gently nibble at your feet, or stretch out in the sun along the smooth rock edges.
For more adventurous travelers, a scenic hike over boulders and stone pathways leads deeper into the canyon toward the Mukal Cave and additional pools, offering quieter spots and dramatic views. Whether you’re looking to unwind, sunbathe, swim, or enjoy a light outdoor adventure, Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the best natural places to visit in Oman, perfectly blending relaxation with exploration.
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12. Qalhat beach
Almost on a whim, we decided to spend the night at a newly opened guesthouse in the coastal town of Qalhat, a decision we were instantly grateful for. Once again, Oman surprised us with unforgettable views: the rugged, stony Qalhat Beach, soft drifting clouds, and cups of strong, bitter Omani tea enjoyed in a small gazebo overlooking it all. Staying in local guesthouses is something we truly recommend. Interacting with Omani hosts offers a deeper travel experience. Their hospitality comes naturally, and they’re often happy to share insider tips about hidden gems and lesser-known spots nearby.
The beach itself became our introduction to the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman. Families gathered for relaxed picnics, birds played along the shoreline, and the atmosphere felt peaceful and welcoming. Just steps away, a small takeaway restaurant served what turned out to be one of our favorite meals in the country, simple, fresh, and enjoyed with a perfect sea view. Qalhat is a wonderful stop for travelers looking to slow down, connect with locals, and experience Oman beyond the main tourist route, as a quiet coastal escape filled with authenticity and charm.
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13. Wadi Shab
Wadi Shab easily became our favorite wadi in Oman, a place that perfectly blends adventure, nature, and pure wow moments. The experience begins with a short boat ride across the main pool, costing just 1 OMR round-trip. The ride only lasts a minute or two, but it’s a fun start to the journey and a great chance to chat with the friendly Omani boatmen who operate the crossings.
Once on the other side, the hike begins. The trail isn’t as steep as the route to Mukal Cave, making it manageable for most travelers. As you follow the winding gorge, you’ll pass crystal-clear pools of varying sizes, walk alongside banana plantations and date palms, and enjoy constant views of towering canyon walls. Toward the end, the adventure ramps up. You’ll climb over boulders and eventually need to swim through narrow canyon passages, passing small caves before reaching a hidden waterfall tucked deep inside the gorge, one of the most rewarding sights in Oman.
For the best experience, arrive early, ideally before 9 a.m., when the wadi is quieter and the morning light makes the water shimmer. Visit at the right time, and Wadi Shab will almost certainly steal your heart.
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14. Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)
Located just a short drive from Muscat, Bimmah Sinkhole is one of the most popular natural swimming spots in Oman. Known officially as Hawiyat Najm Park, the sinkhole is famous for its striking turquoise-blue water and easy accessibility, which also explains why it attracts many visitors, especially on weekends. We actually got a little lost on the way, as the location appears under different names on navigation apps, so it’s worth double-checking your route before heading out.
Because we visited on a weekend, the area around the sinkhole was fairly busy. While swimming is allowed, there are clear signs requesting visitors to dress modestly. Unfortunately, not everyone follows these guidelines, which can create uncomfortable situations. Oman is a Muslim country with strong cultural values, and as guests, the least we can do is respect local customs. Wearing appropriate swimwear and covering up outside the water helps ensure a positive experience for both travelers and locals and reflects the thoughtful, respectful travel style Oman is known for.
Despite the crowds, Bimmah Sinkhole remains one of the most beautiful places to visit near Muscat, especially if you arrive early in the morning when the light is soft and the atmosphere is calmer.
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15. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Widely considered the most majestic mosque in Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat is an absolute must-visit. The mosque welcomes non-Muslim visitors during morning visiting hours, but a strict dress code is enforced, especially for women. Visitors must cover their wrists, shoulders, knees, ankles, and all hair. For me, this marked the beginning of an unexpected souvenir: my very first abaya, purchased specifically for the visit.
Words hardly do justice to the experience. From the scale of the architecture to the calm atmosphere of the courtyards and prayer halls, the emotions you feel while walking through the complex are something you truly have to experience in person. There are a few well-known viewpoints outside the mosque where travelers attempt to photograph the entire complex, particularly around sunset when the light is magical. Some of these spots are unofficial roadside pull-offs, so it’s important to be cautious, avoid blocking traffic, and follow local laws at all times.
In this guide, we share the best-known public viewpoint for photographing the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque at sunset, but always prioritize safety, respect signage, and park only where it’s permitted. With its breathtaking design, cultural importance, and peaceful presence, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque remains one of the most iconic places to visit in Oman, offering a powerful introduction to the country’s heritage and spiritual beauty.
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