Five Ideas for Guided Tours in Oman

• Muscat, a pearl of Oman

  Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a fascinating city that leaves no one indifferent. Located on the east coast of the country, it offers a mix of modernity and tradition. You will be seduced by its traditional white architecture, its fine sandy beaches and its surrounding mountains.
  Start your visit with the Great Mosque of Sultan Qaboos, one of the largest religious buildings in the world. This white marble mosque is an architectural marvel, decorated with golden mosaics and Swarovski crystal chandeliers. Next, head to the Mutrah district, where you will find the famous fish market. For a panoramic view of the city, head to Al Alam Palace Hill, the official residence of the Sultan of Oman. If you’re looking for tranquility and nature, head to Qurum Beach. This sandy beach is lined with palm trees and offers a view of the surrounding mountains. It is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the sun. Finally, don’t miss the Nakhl Fort, located about an hour’s drive from Muscat. This fort, dating from the 17th century, is one of the largest in the region.

• Fjords of Musandam

  The Musandam Fjords, located in northern Oman, are one of the country’s hidden gems. This region offers spectacular views of rugged mountains plunging into translucent waters. The fjords are surrounded by traditional villages, historic forts and refreshing waterfalls. For nature lovers, it is a true paradise on earth.
  The city of Khasab is the ideal starting point for exploring the fjords of Musandam. Visitors can rent a boat or take the famous traditional wooden dhow boats to explore the picturesque coves. Popular activities include snorkeling, swimming, fishing and kayaking. The Khasab Fortress, built in the 17th century, is one of the most remarkable historical sites in the region. Visitors can explore the exhibition halls and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea and mountains from the fort’s walls. Another place not to be missed is the fishing village of Kumzar, accessible only by boat. This small village is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering a glimpse of traditional Omani life.

• Wahiba Sands Desert

  The desert covers more than 12,500 square kilometers and is home to impressive sand dunes that constantly change shape and color depending on the sunlight. Visitors can enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including camping, trekking, dune surfing and experiencing the local Bedouin culture.
  Start your adventure by visiting the town of Bidiyah, which serves as the main gateway to the desert. From there, you can arrange 4×4 excursions to explore the surrounding sand dunes and oases. The tour will take you to the beautiful Wadi Bani Khalid, a lush and green oasis hidden in the heart of the desert. You can bathe in the clear waters of the Wadi or simply relax and enjoy the view.
  Another popular destination is the Al Wasil area, located about 50 km from Bidiyah. The area is home to breathtaking reddish sand dunes, which offer an incredible sight at sunset. You can also visit the local Bedouin village to learn more about their traditional lifestyle and unique culture.
  On your trip to the Wahiba Sands desert, be sure to spend a night under the stars. You can camp in the dunes or stay in one of the many Bedouin camps. Nights in the desert are magical and offer an unforgettable experience away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Wadi Ash Shab

  The Wadi Ash Shab valley is full of beautiful landscapes, crystal clear waterfalls, natural pools and mysterious caves. To discover the wonders of Wadi Ash Shab, here is a list of places to visit.
  •Wadi Ash Shab Waterfall: This majestic waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the valley. To reach it, you have to make a short 30-minute hike, followed by a boat ride and a walk in the water. But the effort is worth it to bathe in the crystal clear waters of the waterfall.
  •Muqal Cave: This impressive cave is located about 1 hour walk from the waterfall. It is filled with fresh water and offers a unique underground swimming experience. It is recommended to rent a headlamp to explore the cave’s nooks and crannies.
  •Wadi Ash Shab Natural Pools: This area is a series of natural pools of turquoise water. It is the perfect place to swim and relax after a hike in the valley. The pools are surrounded by palm trees and offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.
  •Wadi Ash Shab Hot Springs: Located a few kilometers from the valley, these hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties. The water is warm all year round and offers a relaxing moment after a busy day exploring the valley.

• The oasis of Misfah al Abriyyin

  Located in the mountainous region of Al Hajar, Misfah al Abriyyin is a small oasis that has retained its traditional and cultural charm. This oasis is surrounded by spectacular mountains and green fields. Visitors can discover restored stone houses and narrow cobblestone streets, as well as lush gardens and terraces. One of the most popular attractions is the old town of Misfah, where visitors can walk through the narrow streets and see the traditional stone houses. There is also a natural spring and a small waterfall that flows into the valley below. Visitors can also hike in the surrounding mountains to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the mountains and valley. Misfah al Abriyyin is also known for its terraced gardens, where locals grow fruits and vegetables such as pomegranates, mangoes, bananas and papayas. Visitors can walk through the gardens and see the different plants, as well as the traditional growing methods. The gardens are also a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic or a traditional Omani tea.
  For an authentic cultural experience, visitors can also join a guided tour of the old city and learn about the history and culture of Misfah al Abriyyin. Local guides share stories and legends about the city, as well as information about the daily life of the locals.