Resting lavishly on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula and the Gulf of Oman on the northwest, the Sultanate of Oman is a land of surprises for those with an eye for nature. With its diverse range of majestic mountains, calm blue waters, sandy beaches, extensive dunes part of the glorious Empty Quarter and a handful of desert oasis, it’s fair to say there’s no shortage of exploring options.

From the sand to the seas and the wadis (valleys) in between the mountains; not to mention the Arabesque Architecture, let us give you 5 things you need to do in Muscat and the nearby vicinities.

 

1. Trekking in the Golden Sunshine

The best way to explore the Sultanate’s lavish mountains is to go exploring in them.

With the highest peak in Oman being Jebel Shams, the Green Mountain – Jebel Akhdar or the numerous Wadis (valleys) with green waters, one needs a lot more than just 5 days to cover just the Mountains around Muscat.

The Omani Grand Canyon – Jebel Shams

The Mountain of the Sun, located in the Northeastern Oman is part of the Al Hajar Mountain Range.

This popular sightseeing spot sees no more than 20°C in the summer and drops down to 0°C in the winters, which is a blessing in the hot country.

The South Summit of Jebel Shams is publicly accessible for Trekking, with the elevation of 2997 m (9832 ft).

 

Jebel Akhdar – The Green Mountain

Again, part of the Al Hajar Mountain Range, this is one of Oman’s most spectacular sights.

Like most of Oman, this range is mostly desert, however, the high points of Jebel Akhdar receive about 300mm precipitation per annum, making the soil good enough to support agriculture. Housing shrubs and trees, thus the name given to the mountain as Green.

 

2. Beneath the Deep Blue Waters

Water sports or not, just sitting by the calm shore of the beaches in Muscat is enough.

 

Beauty of the Underwater World at Damaniyat Islands

These nine small islands about 70km west of Muscat are another popular spot, especially for those with a passion of the sea. These waters are home to a large number of sea turtles, various other sea creatures and are rich with rare coral reefs.

Sunset Dhow Cruise

We would highly recommend going for a Sunset Cruise in a traditional Omani Dhow for breathtaking views of the sea and an epic Golden Sunset at Muttrah Corniche.

3. The Glorious Sand Dunes

Want to experience the thrill of a desert safari?

Head over to the Wahiba Sands which are Dunes in Oman that are part of the Glorious Empty Quarter.

 

Aching for calm, starry nights?

Choose your pick from the high rated resorts in the sands and camp with ease.

4. Fascinating Arabesque Architecture and Souqs

One simply cannot come to Muscat and not see the rich culture and enchanting architecture of the Masjids and Palaces.

 

Tour of the Grand Mosque 

Souq of Muttrah Corniche

With it’s narrow streets and colourful displays, this vibrant bazaar is a definite place to visit for tourists. The rich culture of the Sultanate can be seen from their traditional Stone and Silver Jewelry, beautiful Glass Lanterns, Carpets and Embroidered Clothing.

The perfect place to grab a souvenir to remember Oman by.

 

5. Go back in Time

Life in Muscat over 200 years ago

A village 1000m above sea level on the foothills of a mountain, Misfat Al Abriyeen dates back to over 200 years. Still a home to many locals, these stone and rock made houses are difficult to picture as a home in this modern age. The Sultanate has provided them with electricity, however, traditional means are used for water.

Most villagers depend wholly on agricultural terraces to support their living, which explains the abundant greenery and fruit trees found in the area. The terraces are watered through a falaj, in which water flows from a natural cold spring in the mountain.

Al-Hoota Cave

Located on the foot of the mountain Jabal Shams, these are dated to over 2 million years old, according to facts on the official website of the tourist attraction.  The cave goes as long as about 4.5 km, however, only 500 m are for public access.

There are four lakes and a number of animal species that call this cave a home. A rare blind fish inhabits in the lakes, as well as bats, snails, water beetles and others.

Al-Hoota Cave is made of stone, but was created by water. It was formed by the dissolution of limestone by acidic water. Exciting fact: water dissolves through 10mm of rock every 100 years! Can you imagine the slow process of the cave’s formation!

Anyone residing in or visiting Oman needs to put this hidden treasure on their list of places to explore. What a glorious sight!

 

These are just 5 options of Exploring Muscat and it’s nearby areas in 5 days. Oman is filled with beautiful sightseeing places for the outdoors lover.

Comment down below if you would be interested in more Tourism related posts from our end and we will happily do more!