5 BREATHTAKING PLACES TO VISIT IN OMAN – Ladies Who Online

Oman may not have high-rise buildings and over-the-top man-made structures compared to its neighboring GCC countries, but that’s what makes Oman special. I lived in Muscat for two years, and honestly, this place has so much to offer when it comes to its nature and outdoor adventure. And that’s the second thing I miss the most living in Oman, next to the lovely people I met and became friends with.

Oman is a peaceful and beautiful country that offers picturesque natural beauty – beaches, mountains, wadis, and natural swimming pools.

Here, I’ll share with you my favorite places to visit in Oman that are not far from Muscat. I’ll focus on the outdoor travel adventure and the nature side because that’s what makes Oman unique. For this reason, it will make you appreciate this country more and perhaps visit one day.

1. Bimmah Sinkhole

Bimmah Sinkhole is a water-filled swimming hole in the ground. It is called “Hawaiyat Najm” in Arabic, which translates “the falling star” as the locals believed a meteorite caused it.

The sinkhole is in the middle of Hawaiyat Najm Park, where you can bring food and enjoy a picnic if the weather permits. Tourists and residents go there to admire the beauty of the picturesque natural landscape and capture breath-taking photos. Some dip their feet to get a free foot-spa from the small fish that nibble the dead skin on their toes and feet, while others go for a swim in the refreshing brackish water (mixed of salty and freshwater). And for the brave and adrenaline junkies, jumping off the cliff might sound interesting (not for the faint-hearted as it looks dangerous).

It is an excellent place for a stopover. So it is better to combine this visit to nearby places like Fins Beach and/or Wadi Shab.

From Muscat International Airport, it’s about an hour and a half drive.

2. Fins Beach

Fins beach is one of our favorite beaches in Oman. The white pebbled sand, clear turquoise water, and lovely landscape are extraordinary. It’s an excellent place to spend the day by the beach while having a BBQ and admiring the scenic view. Fins Beach is getting more popular for night campers. Hence, you might find it a bit crowded, especially in the areas where there is fine sand.

4WD is not necessary. But you have to be mindful not to drive on the sand as your car might get stuck. If there are other people in the area, they will be willing to help, so a tow rope in the car might come in handy (just in case).

You might find areas with sharp corals when you go in the water, so it’s good to wear water shoes when you go for a swim.

From Muscat International Airport, it’s less than two hours drive.

3. Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is a valley between mountains with rugged walls and river beds. It includes a series of natural swimming pools along the trail towards the cave that has a waterfall inside.

There is a quick boat ride right at the parking, just across the river to the beginning of the trail. It costs OMR 1 (equivalent to AED 10) per person for a return crossing. The hike to the cave is about an hour. But it will still depend if you stop for a dip in the natural swimming pools. It is advisable to wear a life jacket or bring a floaty if you don’t know how to swim as you will need to paddle going into the cave.

There are areas that other people might find challenging as you have to walk in high places (while looking down the cliff and climbing through boulders). But it’s doable.

From Muscat International Airport, it’s about two hours drive.

4. Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is a charming oasis with transparent blue-green water and palm trees in between rocky mountains. A restaurant at the beginning made this wadi more commercial. It is a more accessible and relaxing wadi to visit since the first pool is just a couple of minutes away from the parking. But it is the most crowded pool. You can stay there or continue hiking and discover a series of connecting pools going towards a cave.

The natural pools have clear, refreshing, and cold water. If you fancy a free foot spa, some small fish will nibble the dead skin on your feet. Bear in mind that you will be walking on a glossy and slippery surface. So it is advisable to wear non-slip shoes.

From Muscat International Airport, it’s about three hours drive.

5. Jabal Akhdar

Jabal Akdar (Green Mountain), part of the Hajar mountain range, is at 2000 meters above sea level. It’s 15 degrees cooler than Muscat and Dubai, and for this reason, it is an excellent place to visit even during the summer. It is an extraordinary place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city – an ideal place to unwind and relax in a serene environment.

You’ll need a 4WD to drive up to the steep and winding road. It is a must as per government regulation (there’s a checkpoint at the base of the mountain).

You can hike, do a village walk, camp, or even stay in a 5-star hotel. 

From Muscat International Airport, it’s about two hours drive.

Note:

All these places don’t require entrance fees. The only place where you’ll spend very little money is for the boat crossing in Wadi Shab.

Getting a guide is not necessary. You can easily find these places through google maps. Hence, it’s more cost-effective to rent a car and go on your own.

Be prepared. Bring food, water, towel, change of clothes, non-slip shoes or water shoes, waterproof camera, waterproof bag, floaty or life jacket, sunscreen, and a hat or cap.