Oman is blessed with golden sand, a beautiful coastline, and pristine mountains. One view of this Middle East country rejuvenates you to come back for more. Not only that, Oman is surrounded by a collection of Islands that contribute to its diversity. Book Muscat to Masirah travels in advance to have a fun-filled time at these exotic islands.

Masirah Island in Oman is located 10 km from the mainland. Located on the east coast, reaching Masirah Island is possible only by a short Masirah Island ferry ride. Let us tell you how you can explore Masirah Island and enjoy its beauty to the fullest.

Turtle watching

The place is home to 5 different species of Turtles. It has the largest gathering of Loggerhead turtles. The best time to see the turtles here is in July-September. You can snorkel to see the beauty of these creatures. Most turtles can be seen at night as they venture out when humans leave.

Kite Surfing

The Island is suitable for kite surfing due to the wind conditions. It sees extreme crowds from May-August. The temperature on the Island stays between 25-38 degrees. This is a relatively low temperature as compared to the mainland. You can find coaching schools for kite surfing that gets a decent number of students.

Hiking to Jabal Madrub

The height of the mountain is barely 274 meters, and even kids can visit. It takes 30 minutes to reach the top. You get breathtaking views of the island from the top. There is an operational real local military base located there. Also, a unique observational platform from where you can see some buildings.

Gravesite at Safaiq

There is a 300-year-old gravesite that attracts many tourists. It comprises unique tombstones, and each tombstone has a beautiful design. The tombstones are on top of a hill and have intricate headstones. If there are two rocks it means the grave is for a man, and three rocks imply the grave is for a woman.

Visit Hilf

This village is in the northern part of Masirah and has the  Royal Oman Air force base. Here you can get to see the working of a fish factory. It is considered a pitstop while going to Masirah. The village has all eateries and facilities as well.

Birds watching

The perfect place for nature lovers to explore the avian world. It gets many migratory birds from the Arabian Peninsula, India, Europe, and Serbia. You can have a look at herons, flamingos, gulls, barn swallows, etc. There are plenty of humpback whales at Masirah. However, there is no way you can get boat rides to see them.

Fishing

This is another activity that is part of the Masirah Island Tour package. October-March is the peak season, so choose that time. A large number of boats are seen on the Masirah coast. Have a meal at restaurants that cook scrumptious fish.

Visit the Wildlife Museum

The museum is located in the city of Marsais. It is dedicated to the local flora and fauna. The Museum is home to four species of rare turtles. Now gaze at 300 species of birds found in the area. Get enthralled by the unique collection of sea shells found there.

The textile industry business 

Masirah Island has a thriving textile business. You can have a look at the multiple textile factories on the island. The Local textiles are of very premium quality. The costs are cheap, so buy stuff as a souvenir. You will find many shops selling colorful textiles at reasonable prices.

Learn Diving

These are just the right waters to learn diving. You can get a diving license for the kids. The Diving license allows the kids to dive in shallow water. Enjoy stunning views of the underwater creatures.

Go Snorkelling

You should try snorkeling on the West coast of the Island. Beaches are well-equipped to provide an exhilarating experience. It has little bays where the kids can swim in shallow waters. There are multiple equipment rentals to make your time enjoyable.

A walk around the city center

Here you can gaze at the beautiful mosques located. The ancient central square gives old-times vibes. Go to the museum of Fish processing to understand local life. It has a separate hall that displays glimpses of local life and traditions. Visit the school of non-migrating humpback whales for some unique views. Get prepared to see loads of camels moving around freely.

Relish the food and drinks 

The place is home to all kinds of cuisines. Have a sip of local khawa, a coffee with a cardamom taste. Enjoy shahi tea with various combinations. Bread or khubz is used as a dessert or gravy spoon. Also, Taste different variations of bread like Arabic Khubz lebnani. Try Soup or Sakhana made from wheat, melissa, figs, and milk.

Camping

There are plenty of secluded lagoons to enjoy a night of camping. The temperatures in Masirah are pretty moderate. There are Lots of scenic locations, making it ideal for camping. Get enough provisions to last the duration of a camping trip. Except for the military and naval base areas, you can camp anywhere. You might just land up seeing the bones of a whale shark in front of people’s homes.

If you plan to explore the beauties of Oman, then you must visit each of the towns and cities in Oman. Muscat is not the only beautiful part of this country. If you have visited Muscat but not other parts of Oman, then you should spend some of your time in Nizwa. This beautiful city is famous for its ancient ruins, the fort as well as the beautiful mountain. So, it is time for your Nizwa tours with your loved ones.

Beautiful and memorable places you should experience during Nizwa Jebel Akhdar Tour:

1. Nizwa Grand Mall

The weather in Nizwa is actually hot and if you wish to cool down, just go to the shopping mall in the city center. There you will get to see more than 65 retail outlets and visit those outlets to experience something new. Before you enter the mall, remember to take a few snapshots of the beautiful mall. The architecture of this mall is magnificent and very rare. 

Also, children can also have fun here because there are various areas in the mall where they can play and enjoy their time. For those who are hunting for souvenirs, this mall is worth checking out.

2. Jebel Akhdar

The most significant attraction in the city of Nizwa, Oman, is obviously the majestic Jebel Akhdar Mountain. You should not miss the excitement of excellent scenic views from the top of the mountain during your Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar tour. You should book a day tour of Green Mountain and enjoy the beauty. 

You should travel in a 4-wheeled vehicle to visit Jebel Akhdar. The alluring views of the villages below from the huge mountain will definitely take your breath away. Also, there are different villages across the Hajar Mountains, so you might take a look to learn about the daily lifestyle of those villagers. You will be happy to see that they plant different types of fruits and nuts in the surrounding area, as the moisture is perfect for agriculture.

3. Tanuf Ruins

You may have already known that historic and ancient ruins are very common in Oman. Thus, you will get to see many of those ruins in Nizwa as well. The ruins are mainly located between two famous cities, Nizwa and Bahla. However, it is not just an ordinary ruin because the entire place is actually a beautiful village. Many people used to stay there; however, after the Jebel Akhdar Wars in the 1950s, the entire village was completely destroyed. Later, it was abandoned by the villagers.

Also, you will be thrilled to know that this village is also well-known for its mineral water bottling plant that is located near the ruins. So, if you visit this place, you should definitely bring your camera. You should snap several pictures while visiting the historical ruins. Moreover, you can see excellent views of the majestic mountain from here.

4. Oman Trekking Guides

If you wish to trek or enjoy a trekking tour, then you need to book your trekking tour through Oman Trekking Guides. In this tour, you can enjoy different activities. Among them are cannoning, rock climbing, and also swimming. Select the guides you prefer if those are available.

There are even options for Western or local guides. Also, you can even choose French or English-speaking professional guides if required. If you need to enjoy these facilities, remember to book in advance. For more details, you may refer to the website.

5. Birkat Al Mouz Ruins

Another famous ruin you should check during your Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar Tour is Birkat Al Mouz Ruins. Besides the ruins, the nearby historical buildings are also worth experiencing. Though it is actually an ancient village, some locals are living there even now. Also, the longest Falaj system in the country is situated there. In the surrounding areas, you will get to see the date and banana plantations.

6. Desert Camels Adventure

Exploring the desert while riding on a camel is a must for every visitor in Nizwa. Just enjoy an exciting trip to the vast and beautiful desert land with your loved ones. In order to experience nomads living in this city, you can book “The Best of Oman” tour as well. As with this tour, you will get to explore more of the city of Nizwa, so just don’t miss this opportunity.

You can even bring your kids along because they will have a lot of fun with the camels and remember this trip for many years.

7. Al Masharef Turkish

If you are a kebab lover, then you must go to Al Masharef Turkish Restaurant. The half-roast chicken served there is delicious, and you can have some fresh juices there as well. Just come early if you plan to dine in this restaurant, as this place is usually full of diners due to its amazing popularity.

Therefore, if you plan to visit Oman and have some memorable experiences, you should include Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar Tour within your Oman tour. 

Exploring the beauty of Wadi Shab is one of the most vital things to do in Oman. So, if you are planning a vacation to Oman, you should plan to visit Wadi Shab because it will give you a fantastic and memorable experience. So, let us discuss a few important things and places that you can enjoy on your Wadi Shab day trip.

You can soak in Oman’s heavenly beauty on a full-day trip in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle from Muscat. You can explore the beauty of the beaches, mountains, and bays of Oman and enjoy some beautiful places on your Wadi Shab tours.

So, let us first discuss some places that you must see on your Wadi Shab day trip below.

Places you can enjoy in your Wadi Shab tour from Muscat

The beautiful Wadi Shab is a very famous outdoor destination for tourists and locals in Oman. The fantastic Wadi is packed during the months of November to March because it is surrounded by beautiful hills, date palms, and also the alluring waterfall inside one of the caves in the mountain.

However, in order to reach there, you just have to hike for around 40 minutes. The hiking procedure will take you through a fantastic but rugged path where you can see a few beautiful pools. You can even enjoy a dive into one of those pools from inside the cave or the mountain cliffs. Places you should see and do in Wadi Shab are:

1. Wadi Shab Hike

This hike will take you through the alluring Wadi to the fantastic hidden cave in the middle of your trek. Inside the cave, you will get to see a gorgeous waterfall ending in a marvelous turquoise pool. To reach the cave, you just have to swim a little bit, and then you can enjoy a perfect dip in the pool after your hard work. Just remember to wear sneakers and carry your swim gear.

2. Bimmah Sinkhole

During your Wadi Shab trip, you should visit the beautiful Bimmah Sinkhole. This fantastic sinkhole is a famous attraction among tourists because of its beautiful limestone and clear waters. There are spacious stairs made of concrete that will take tourists to the bottom of the sinkhole. This is an amazing destination for a quick and refreshing swim. The emerald-colored waters of the pool will take your breath away completely.

3. Wadi Tiwi

Wadi Tiwi is also a very beautiful place that you need to include in your Wadi Shab tours. In this beautiful place, you will get to see emerald-colored pools that are surrounded by date palms and banana plantations. If you are an adventure-loving person, you can choose to go on a two-day hiking trip to enjoy your trip to Wadi Shab completely.

4. Enjoy a boat ride

To get to the start of your Wadi Shab hike, you will have to take a very short boat ride across the beautiful and wide river. As the river is very wide and deep, you need to take a boat ride to reach the other side of the river. This boat ride will cost 1 Rial per person, and you need to pay this in cash.

Though this boat ride will take just around three minutes to take you to the other side of the river, it is an amazing experience that will become a memorable experience for you. When you need to come back, just stand at the place where the boat dropped you, and the boat operator will come to get you.

What is the perfect time to visit Wadi Shab?

The perfect time to visit Wadi Shab is during the winter months, which include months like November to March. During those days, hiking in the Wadi while enjoying the cool breezes will be an amazing experience. During those winter months, the water of the pools will be a bit colder than normal, and hence, you can enjoy swimming to a great extent.

It is best to visit Wadi Shab during the week because it full be very crowded during the weekends with locals. Also, if you wish to enjoy some quiet time and peace in Wadi Shab, you should go there in the early mornings.

Things you need to pack for your Wadi Shab trip

There are some that you should carry with you for your Wadi Shab day trip, such as:

• Water shoes or Flip Flops: You need to wear these shoes in the swimming area.

• Good hiking shoes: We need to wear hiking shoes with good grip for the hiking trip to Wadi Shab.

• Waterproof Phone case and waterproof dry bag.

• Goggles and a quick dry towel

Thus, whenever you plan to visit Oman, do not forget to plan a Wadi Shab day trip to make your vacation a completely memorable experience. 

The country Oman, located in the Middle East, is a fantastic destination that is best known for its centuries-old desert fortresses, warm hospitality, beautiful beaches, wadis, and also breathtaking natural scenery. 

Unfortunately, many people think that Oman is quite an expensive place to travel to, and hence, they miss all the natural beauties. However, just by following a few tips and affordable Oman tour packages, you can easily enjoy those beauties of Oman within your budget. So, let us discuss ten important tips that will help you to explore this beautiful country and its treasures on a budget.

10 tips for traveling to Oman on a budget

1. Look for low-cost flights

While planning your Oman trip, you must check a flight comparison website to compare the rates of various flights. With these sites, you can choose your traveling day and flight according to your budget.

2. You may think about traveling out of season

The peak season for visiting this beautiful country is between the months of October and April. The reason is the temperature here may be really hot during the months of summer, so you should travel to Oman in winter, autumn, or spring if possible. 

However, no matter what time you choose to explore Oman, you won’t meet with big crowds of tourists, as Oman is still not a very common travel destination. However, just like any other country, prices in Oman also will be a lot higher in peak season than at any other time. So, if you can avoid the peak season, you can be able to save almost 50% on your flights, accommodation, and car rentals.

3. Try to find reasonable tour operator

Availing tour operators Oman can help you in exploring the country with ease. Choose the best tour package which include desert safari Oman etc, meet and interact with the local people and explore some new things on a budget.

4. Consider the entrance fees to historical sites

One of the most popular places to visit in Oman is the Nizwa fort. However, its entrance fee is really expensive, which is 5 OMR. So, to finish your tour on a budget, you must create a small note of these entrance fees and how much you can afford, and know that you don’t have to pay entry fees every place you go.

5. Rent a salon car instead of a large SUV

The perfect way to get around this fantastic country is to rent a car. This is true both visiting Muscat and some other popular cities of Oman, along with inter-city travel. 

Public transport around Muscat does not cover all the important parts of the city and also runs infrequently. So, you should hire an affordable saloon car instead of an expensive SUV to explore all important corners of Oman on a budget.

6. You may take buses between famous cities

If you want to visit only the popular cities in Oman, then you can just choose public transport. Though infrequent, a few buses run between Muscat and Nizwa and also between Salalah and Sur. Also, the bus tickets are very cheap, and all buses are air-conditioned.

7. You may eat out in Oman

Eating out in Oman is not very expensive. A lot of cafes and restaurants in Oman are operated and owned by migrant workers from the Indian subcontinent to Oman’s neighbor Yemen. There you can get small snacks and sandwiches for a couple of dollars. Moreover, you can taste simple Arabic dishes or even Indian curries for just 5 or 6 dollars. However, you must avoid eating out in Muttrah, as restaurants here are really expensive.

8. You can look for home-stays to save money

Previously accommodation in Oman was limited to luxury resorts and hotels. However, today this country is increasing its accommodation options which include Airbnb and home-stays. As the cost of renting rooms in Oman can be a little expensive, you can think about home-stay as a very good accommodation in Oman. In this way, you can spend your days in Oman both comfortably and on a budget.

9. Avoid currency conversion

Instead of changing your local currency, you must withdraw money from the local ATMs in Oman. Also, if you need to visit a currency exchange in this country, remember to avoid places like exchange offices in hotels, airports, etc., as they offer some terrible rates.

10. Shop at souks and local marketplaces, and don’t forget to haggle

Browsing and shopping must be done in the local marketplaces and souks in Oman. Also, you must haggle. Never accept the first price quoted in the shops of Oman, as it is always inflated.

So, to enjoy your Oman visit on a budget, you must remember and follow these ten vital tips, along with consulting a reliable tour operator in Oman.

Among the Middle east countries, one sparkling gem is the country of Oman. Its picturesque beaches and caves are a strong crowd-puller. The country proudly welcomes millions of tourists every year. All of them rave about the warm hospitality and exotic Oman Safari Tours they enjoyed. However, one beautiful aspect of Oman that is not so popularised is the forts that adorn its landscape. Not many people are aware that Oman is home to some of the best architectural marvels in that area. Here we will take you on a journey to some of Oman’s most majestic forts.

Nizwa Fort

Constructed in the 9th century, this ancient oman fort is the only one with a cylindrical tower. When there, don’t forget to have a look at their marvelous artifacts. This includes the various defense mechanisms that the fort was equipped with. Some interesting features you must not miss are the seven wells, multiple prisons, and huge grounds.

Adjacent to the fort is the Nizwa Souq, which is your market center in simple terms. The entire souq is divided into separate segments and is totally cut off from the rest of the city.

Join us on a journey through the historic city of Nizwa through this video: Nizwa Fort and Souq – Day 5 | Oman Day Trips | Oman Safari Tours 

Bahla Fort

One of the oldest forts of Oman, it stuns with its massive size and defense mechanisms used. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the fort has walls and towers constructed on a sandstone base. Multiple rulers took over the fort and kept on adding to its features.

The entire Bahla Fort is divided into three areas. One is the Al Qasabah which is the oldest, the second Bait-Al-Hadith, constructed in the 1600s; the third is Bait-Al-Jabal which means Mountain house and was constructed in the 1700s.

Muttrah Fort

The Muttrah Fort is constructed on the top of a mountain, but its view is simply breathtaking. Dating back to the 16th century, this is also one of the oldest oman fort in Muttrah. Initially, the fort was constructed to stop any invasions from the Mountain area. Oman tour operators ensure that a visit to the fort is added to your list. With a huge visitor count, the fort is a perfect example of a place withstanding the forces of time to protect its city.

One place you absolutely cannot miss is the Mutrah Souq: Mutrah Souq, Oman Tour | Oman Day Trips | Oman Safari Tours

Jabreen Fort

The Jabreen Fort was constructed in 1873 and is probably the most well-kept fort here. Over the years, the fort remained an important center for education and fighting. The defense is three storied and has two towers along with numerous beautifully designed rooms and halls. The interiors of the fort are very artfully done. In fact, the fort interiors reflect the charm of ancient Oman with colorful calligraphy and design adorning the walls.

Ar Rustaq Fort

The Ar Rustaq fort is located at a distance of two hours from Muscat. Its picturesque architecture will transport you to the era gone by. The fort was constructed in pre-Islamic times. It has four towers, gorgeous architectural features, and a mosque. There is wood used in the construction, and the carving designs are a pleasure to watch.

An ancient falaj flows beneath the fort, whereas the tombs of Imam Nasir and his family are a part of the central courtyard. Surrounded by lush date trees, wadis, and splendid historical sites, make this a place you should not miss on your Muscat trip.

Mirani and Al Jalali Fort

Both the Mirani and Al Jalali forts are rather ancient and are now closed for the public’s viewing. However, you can have a look at their marvelous structure from the outside. Constructed by the Portuguese, Mirani and Al Jalali Fort were actually defense fortresses. The best time to view them is in the evening when the area offers splendid sights.

Fort of Sohar

The Fort of Sohar is around 200 kilometers north of Muscat and is popular because of the history of Sohar City. The place has archeological history associated with it which dates its origins to the 14th century. A major port city Sohar was a significant trading point for countries like China and India etc. Sohar Fort has freshwater wells and is enclosed by a wall.

In 1643 the fort was conquered by Imam Nasir Bin Murshid, who promptly banished the Portuguese from that area. Post that also, the fortress witnessed many wars, sieges, and battles. At present, the fort has been closed for renovations, but once it opens, people can delve into its magical history.

Al Hazm Castle

The Al Hazm castle is located 15 minutes from the Ar Rustaq fort. Its cannon galleries, gates, and dungeons are a sight to behold. Imam Sultan Bin Saif ordered the construction of this oman fort in 1711. Apart from the imposing features, the viewers are left spellbound by the massive wooden gate.

Authentically carved, the gate was built in Surat and brought to Oman with great difficulties. Once inside the fort, you will be stunned by the vast dungeons, wall inscriptions, and falaj. It is said that Imam Sultan Bin Saif and his successors were later buried in the fort.

Summing Up

Oman overall is a complete dream destination. However, the forts hold the key to its mystical past. When you look for Oman packages, ensure that you incorporate some or all of them. Each one of them reflects a unique culture and heritage that the region boasts of. Not to mention the architectural history and carvings that take you back to the years gone by. Being there, you would realize that one visit is not enough to explore the intriguing past of Oman.

The Sultanate of Oman boasts of being in a very quaint and beautiful location. It is home to some of the most stunning landscapes. This, combined with adventure sports and Oman desert safari, makes this place a tourist delight. 

However, not much has been discussed about the scenic beauty of Oman. In fact, many tourists are astonished by the variety of landscapes that add charm to the country. Here we will share with you some hidden gems of Oman’s beauty that you must not miss.

Stunning Mountain Ranges

The country has surprisingly high mountain ranges surrounding it. These ranges are based on the outskirts and naturally bestow calm, peaceful, and cooler climates. When you visit there, the ideal feeling is of being on a naturally blessed island. Also, you can discuss the hiking packages when you book your trip. 

Al Hamra nestles south of Jebel Shams and echoes the history of the time gone by. It is partially inhabited, which lends an eerie feel to the place. Wadi Nakr is your largest Gorge and is often known as the “Grand Canyon of Oman.” The valley there is witness to eroded boulders, date palms, and shrubs. There are also hiking trails here that you would not want to skip.

The Mystical Sands

The sands of Oman are a visual delight. As far as you can see, only pristine brown sand is waiting to enthrall you. The safari Oman is another adventure that is worth experiencing once in a while. You can choose between Wahiba Sands or Sharqiya desert as they are both marvelous.

Over there, you could also join a desert camp or enjoy talking to the Bedouin tribes. There is a lot that they have to share with you. Plus, you can indulge in other adventure activities like Fat Bike rides, Sandboarding, etc.

Alluring Coastline

The country has nearly 3000 km of coastline to boast of. Yet many tourists are surprised to see such beautiful beaches that it is home to. Probably this is because a lot of the physical gifts of Oman are not popularised much. Surrounded by alluring mountains, the beaches provide a perfect getaway. 

The beaches remain pristine and, with some awesome lagoons, offer a chance to go fishing too. Combine this with a sighting of flamingos and other birds, and you will surely have an enjoyable time. 

A visit to Masirah Island is also recommended if you want to laze out in the soft white sands. The beaches feel untouched and virgin, and spending some time there is always a great idea. Along with the beaches at Dhofar and Salalah showcase caves and rock formations that are sure to impress. 

Gorgeous Wadis

The wadis are amazing small pools of water nestled surrounded by caves or trees. The country is blessed with loads of them, and you will surely be surprised when you reach there. A place which you must not miss is Wadi al Arbeieen. 

This wadi gets a steady flow of water from the Hajar mountains nearby. You can also hike there as the place is too beautiful not to spend some time there. Plus, you can also swim in the deep waters making this an entire day excursion.

Astounding Caves 

When there is a mountain range, how can caves not be there? Not only that, these caves are fully open for the public to spend some time and enjoy the calm. The Al Hoota caves are a delight to explore, and you won’t want to come back. These caves are believed to be 2 million years old, and their enigma is unmissable. 

Over there, you will find four lakes which are an ecosystem in themselves. These are inhabited by a variety of organisms. This includes bats, anthropoids, water beetles, and mollusks. Not to miss are the species of blind fish that are only found in Al Hoota. 

The Seascapes 

Apart from the landscapes, the sea beauty is also worth commenting on. When you book Oman tours, this is one part no one tells you about. The country is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman on both sides. You can also plan a trip to the Dimaniyat islands. There, have a peek at the underwater sea life. You can also do your share of dolphin and whale spotting here. If nothing, opt for Dhow tours and just enjoy the seascape of Oman.

Seasonal Waterfalls of Salalah

If you have planned your trip in the monsoon time, don’t miss the Salalah region. That place is buzzing with action, and the stunning greenery is a delight to watch. The Wadi Darbat waterfalls there offer a respite to your tired soul. Go roam around and have a look. It is totally unexpected to have a place of such beauty in a Middle Eastern country, yet Oman has been truly blessed.

Summing Up

If there is one place whose physical beauty has been undermined, it must surely be the Sultanate of Oman. With gorgeous beaches, wadis, mountains, and stunning caves, the place beckons you to pamper yourself. Choose your Oman packages with care, though. Ensure that they include all the above features and offer you a trip of a lifetime.

Do your bit of research and tell your agent or guide to assist you. Check their credentials and online reviews to ensure you get the best deal. The country of Oman is waiting to welcome you and go there with a desire to experience beauty like nowhere else.