While planning a trip to Oman, it was hard to even imagine what interesting attractions, this desert country could offer. We were quite surprised to find how much liveliness can be hidden in a place as bare and parched as a desert. We were captivated by Oman’s traditionalism and the cordiality with which the locals approached us. There are almost no seaside resorts, discos, or places overcrowded with tourists, which makes it a perfect place for learning about Arabic culture and its uncommon natural beauty. If you like to travel on your own, it will not be hard to fall for Oman.
1. Wadi
Wadi refers to dry riverbeds among cliffs, which are flooded only after it rains, or during more humid parts of the year. Then we can find temporary ponds overflowing with life, even in the driest places there. For me, Wadis are the most beautiful places where you can swim among rocks and navigate into the caves.
2. Deserts
The majority of the Oman area is occupied by deserts, but this doesn’t mean that the landscape is completely lifeless. Various species of animals that have adapted to these harsh conditions live there. For example, the sand cat, the pale fox, or the government-protected gazelle and leopard. The beautiful sandy deserts are extremely photogenic, especially during sunrise and sunset.
3. Canyons
The Oman landscape is, apart from the deserts, characterized by huge canyons, cliffs, and indented mountain ranges. The largest canyon in the country, Wadi Ghul, is more than one kilometre deep, which is why it got a nickname “The Grand Canyon of Arabia.” The cliffs of Jebel Samhan are especially breath-taking, and you feel like you could literally take off from there.
Do you know there are almost NO Coca-Cola Company products in Oman? Check out why and other Oman Interesting Facts.
4. Castles and mosques
Sultan Quaboos Grand Mosque has two unique features. Its chandelier is the second largest in the world, and its prayer carpet is also the second largest (the first place in both categories is held by Sheikh Zayed Mosque in the United Arab Emirates). In Oman, there are many forts and castles of unique design. Bahla Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Beaches
Oman can boast having beautiful sandy beaches with no beach umbrellas, towels, or deckchairs. There is a rich variety of sea life, which is already apparent from the shore. Swimming there is perfect for fans of big waves.
6. Omanis
Omanis are one of the most hospitable and friendly nationalities I have come across during my travels. They are really proud of their country and culture and are very strict when it comes to keeping traditions. It is so admirable how peaceably they manage to coexist with a large community of Indian Hindu minority and Christians too.
7. Frankincense plantations
The cultivation of Boswellia in the southernmost part of Oman dates back to the Middle Ages. The frankincense trade has accompanied Oman throughout its history because frankincense was more valuable than gold in the past. Frankincense is an aromatic resin obtained from the tree by slashing the bark, which causes bleeding out of the sap whose task is to protect the tree. The sap is left to harden and is collected into baskets after three weeks.
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Wonderful photos!
I agree with you 100% Oman is the easiest place to fall in love with.
Eva, we are heading there in a couple of weeks and I am trying to decide what to book ahead of time versus what to book/coordinate once we get there. We will have one full week in Oman. Suggestion? Did you guys drive your own car, take public transpo, taxi, car and driver, guided tour? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Deah, traveling in Oman is almost impossible without a car. The public transport nearly doesn’t exist there. So rent the car, for sure. As in Oman aren’t many hotels, we were camping there – we built tent anywhere we wanted 😉 We stayed in hotels only in Muscat and Salalah. If you want to stay in hotels, book it in advance and plan your visit according to the accommodation, or book some tour.