Discovering Oman: A Journey Through the Jewel of the Arabian Peninsula

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When you think of your next travel destination, does Oman come to mind? For many, this lesser-known gem on the Arabian Peninsula remains a mystery. 

I spent 7 days in Oman recently, and here are some fun facts I learned during my time there:

🌙 its main industry is oil, with a growing emphasis on tourism

🌙 its currency is one of the most valuable in the world

🌙 it ranks very well on the Global Peace Index — which measures crime, violence, and discord, and is considered very safe

🌙 Oman is famous for its frankincense production and trade — yes, THAT stuff from the Bible? — a resin made from native trees

🌙 Oman is a monarchy with a Sultan, and women can vote and hold public office

And after exploring some of its vast deserts, rugged mountains, crystal-clear wadis, and ancient cities, I can confidently say Oman should be on every traveler’s radar — and yes, I felt perfectly safe.

Here’s a detailed 7-day itinerary in Oman to inspire your adventure, featuring unforgettable highlights, cultural treasures, and natural wonders.

Day 1: Muscat – a blend of heritage and modernity

Then, partake in some traditional Omani cuisine at Bait Al Luban Omani Restaurant – Mutrah.

Tip: Like other Arab countries, alcohol is not widely available or produced in Oman. Restaurants don’t carry or sell alcohol, wine or beer — the only place you can get it is at certain hotels and the rare “liquor store” — both must be owned or operated by foreigners in order to offer alcoholic beverages. Be aware, there is a heavy liquor tax — or, if you must drink, pick up booze at duty free before you arrive!

Where to stay in Muscat: W Hotel Muscat or JW Marriott Hotel Muscat 

Day 2: Ad Dimaniyat Islands – an unexpected paradise on the Gulf of Oman

Escape to the pristine Ad Dimaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve just a boat ride off the coast of Muscat. These islands are renowned for their turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundant marine life, making them a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Discovering Oman includes experiencing unique treasures like this, where natural beauty and marine wonders converge.

You’ll find the proximity to and volume of sea turtles at this diving paradise unparalleled (and completely surprising, unless you’ve read this blog)!

The best time to go snorkeling and diving at Daymaniyat Islands is from August to May, when the water is calmer and warmer. Between July and September, whalesharks will be visiting — so time your visit accordingly if they’re on your list!

Where to stay in Muscat: W Hotel Muscat or JW Marriott Hotel Muscat 

Day 3: Jabal Al Akhdar – the Green Mountain

Take a reprieve from the heat of Muscat by venturing into the cool, serene heights of Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman’s “Green Mountain.” Discovering Oman wouldn’t be complete without this road trip, a few hours from Muscat, which takes you a little more than 6,000 feet above sea level to fresher air (about 15 degrees cooler)!

There, set out on the Three Villages Hike, a must for history and nature enthusiasts. This steep walk winds through terraced rose farms, ancient irrigation systems (falaj), and quaint villages. Along the way, you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the dramatic cliffs and valleys — and burning thighs, of course. (The calorie burn is pretty welcome after feasting on all that Arabic food!)

Plus, take a moment to enjoy the hospitality of the locals — Omani coffee and dates are often left out for passing trekkers. Discovering Oman’s unique culture and traditions shines through in moments like these. Don’t forget to pick up rosewater, a specialty of the region, as a fragrant souvenir.

Where to stay in Jabal Al Akhdar: dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Alila Jabal Akhdar or Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Tip: dusitD2 has an obstacle course, zip line, and climbing wall, perfect for kids and teens (or childish adults, like me). I took a few hours to complete their 3-level obstacle course, which takes participants higher and higher, becoming progressively difficult, a hundred feet in the air. Family and friends can cheer you on (and take video) from their hotel balconies overlooking the course. This was great fun!

Day 4: Nizwa – the ancient city

The next stop on our tour of Oman is Nizwa, one of Oman’s oldest cities, with roots dating back to pre-Islamic times. Discovering Oman’s rich history comes alive as you explore the town by tour in a motorized cart (because, in some of the alleyways, cars can’t fit!).

The Nizwa Fort, with its massive circular tower, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding date plantations. Enter the fort, and explore its hidden passages and defensive traps.

At the Nizwa Souq, shop for handcrafted silver jewelry and pottery. Discovering Oman’s culinary traditions is a must here, so don’t miss the food market, where you can try a sample of halwa — you only need a bite of this sugary dessert staple; it’s diabetes-inducing!

Then, try authentic Omani dishes at a local restaurant — I enjoyed the mutton, called shuwa, at Al Aqur Traditional Restaurant. A staple during the festival of Eid, the mutton is wrapped in banana leaves or palm fronds, buried in an underground sand oven called a tanour, and is slow-cooked over hot coals for 1-2 days.

Plus, peek inside a boutique mud-house hotel, for a slice of luxury steeped in history!

Where to stay in Nizwa: IntercityHotel Nizwa or Damask Resort

Tip: There are no 5-star hotels in Nizwa. Some travelers will stay in Jabal Al Akhdar and do Nizwa as a day trip.

Day 5: An oasis in the Desert, sand dunes, and starry nights

This was one of the most special days (and nights) of my time in Oman — because no trip to Oman is complete without a visit to the Biddiyah Desert, where rolling sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see!

After my fish pedicure, we started to make our way into the desert. Our driver stopped at an auto mechanic shop to take some air out of our tires — and I should’ve known that things were about to get real! We then off-roaded for miles towards our overnight desert camp — not because our driver had a need for speed, but because there were no established roads out there. What a trip!

Stopping for Omani tea and a camel ride at a Bedouin camp (my first ever!), we arrived at our camp just before dinner, just in time to see an incredible sunset over the sand dunes. Prepare to see the brightest stars of your life!

Where to stay in the Omani desert: Arabian Nights Resort & Spa

Tip: For a real athletic challenge (and a great way to embarrass yourself!), try sand-boarding, like I did! Sandboards are available to rent at the front desk.

Day 6: Turtle Beach, a wildlife wonder

At the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula lies Turtle Beach, where nature’s miracles come alive. Discovering Oman’s wildlife is a truly unforgettable experience — by day, enjoy a swim where the Gulf of Oman meets the Arabian Sea. As night sets in, prepare for an extraordinary sight: giant green turtles laying eggs under the moonlight!

Nearly every night, almost without fail, after dark, one or more turtles arrive on the beach. Under the guidance of local conservationists (carrying a red light, to protect turtle eyes), visitors can quietly observe this natural phenomenon — a process which takes turtles several hours, between washing up on the beach, finding the perfect spot, laying and burying all the eggs, and disappearing back into the water!

The Ras al Hadd Turtle Reserve is one of the world’s few remaining undisturbed populations of green turtle, which are endangered — and an estimated 20,000 turtles visit Oman’s east coast each year to lay their eggs. 

It’s a humbling reminder of the delicate balance of nature, and probably one of the coolest wildlife moments of my life… seeing a humongous mama green turtle up close, laying a pile of perfectly round ping pong ball-shaped eggs.

Where to stay near Turtle Beach, Oman: Sama Ras Al Jinz Ecolodge

Day 7: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole – our scenic finale

Finally, your adventure in Oman wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the oasis of Wadi Shab, frequently cited as one of the most beautiful wadis in Oman, and a rite of passage for visitors and nature enthusiasts to Oman.

To begin your hike, you’ll take a short boat ride across a narrow inlet. The boat operators charge a small fee (around 1 OMR per person). The hike is 1.5 to 2 miles each way; while the trail isn’t overly challenging, it involves uneven terrain, some rock scrambling, and water crossings.

The hike culminates in a series of pools where you’ll need to swim to continue. Bring waterproof bags for valuables, as you’ll need to swim/travel across 100 feet of water and through a narrow crevice to reach the hidden cave pool. 

Be wowed by this geological wonder: a small waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear chamber. Sunlight filtering through openings in the rocks creates a magical, almost ethereal glow. It’s a must-see!

Conclude your day at the Bimmah Sinkhole, a spectacular geological formation located in Hawiyat Najm Park. Discovering Oman’s natural wonders includes visiting this sinkhole, believed by locals to have been created by a meteorite. It features crystal-clear, emerald-green waters that are perfect for a swim or simply dipping your feet. And it’s highly Instagrammable — the sinkhole is one of Oman’s most photographed natural attractions, reminding me of a Mexican cenote.

Why Oman Should Be Your Next Destination

Oman offers a lovely blend of tradition, natural beauty, warm hospitality, and something different for the well-traveled adventurer. 

The people of Oman will welcome you with open arms, sharing their pride, culture, and stories — and offer you more food than you can eat (with your hands, of course, in the Omani tradition!). Discovering Oman is not just about the landscapes; it’s a reminder that, while the landscapes may vary, humanity remains universal.

So, are you ready to explore Oman? Reach out to Julie Rose, BTA Travel Coach to help you plan your perfect itinerary.

For more inspiration, Check out our previous blog on a 7-10 day luxurious getaway to Oman and Dubai. 

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