Travel Guide: Oman’s natural beauty spots
When you first think of the Arabian Peninsula, you might be forgiven for thinking that this region is mostly characterised by hot desert sands. However, a visit to Oman’s natural beauty spots leaves visitors marvelling at the scenery this country has to offer. White beaches hug the coastline while the craggy rocks of the East Hajar mountains provide sweeping views over the land, and the inland desert sand & jade-green oases await exploration. Although smaller than its neighbouring countries of Yemen and Saudi Arabia, Oman boasts a variety of contrasting landscapes. With its valleys, mountains, desert and ocean, Oman leaves its visitors admiring the scenic spots it has to offer.
Here are our top five recommendations for exploring Oman’s natural beauty spots:
1. Daymaniyat Islands: paradise-like waters
Daymaniyat islands Photo: Humaid and Nafeesa Hafiji
Just off the coast of Oman lies an island so reminiscent of the Maldives, you’d think you were actually there. With shades of blue water you could only dream of seeing, visiting the Daymaniyat Islands is a must do when travelling to Oman. There are a range of tours which can be booked to the islands, with many of them including snorkelling with turtles. As a protected nature reserve, you can be sure that your trip will not harm these special turtles who come to the islands to lay their eggs. It’s easy to spend hours enjoying the crystal clear and warm waters of the islands…what’s not to love?!
2. Bimmah Sinkhole – a natural wonder by the coast
Bimmah Sinkhole. Photo: Humaid and Nafeesa Hafiji
Roughly 120km outside of Muscat lies another one of the most beautiful natural spots in Oman; Bimmah Sinkhole. A mini lake with stunning turquoise waters, Bimmah Sinkhole is a beautiful natural outdoor swimming spot. It ranges in depth, being quite shallow at the entrance and much deeper the further you go. Bimmah Sinkhole is perfect for taking a quick dip to get some cool relief from the Omani heat, whilst also being able to admire the surrounding colourful waters and view.
3. Wadi Shab – an oasis in the desert
Wadi Shab. Photo: Humaid and Nafeesa Hafiji
Situated 15 minutes away from Bimmah Sinkhole lies a beautiful Wadi (valley); Wadi Shab. Here you can trek through the lush greenery and rustic mountains whilst appreciating the view of the aqua blue stream running in between the canyons. Towards the end of the trek, there is a short swim which once complete, takes you to a hidden cave. With just enough space to squeeze your head through the entrance to the cave, you’re greeted inside by a beautiful waterfall. A real unique experience only to be witnessed in Oman.
4. Wadi Tiwi – a hidden utopia
Wadi Tiwi. Photo: Humaid and Nafeesa Hafiji
Much less known than Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi is equally, if not more appealing to the human eye. Driving to Mibam Village and asking one of the locals to take you to the waterfall is just the beginning of the adventure, as you climb your way to what seems like a paradise on earth. Seeing the grand waterfall surrounded by pools of water amongst the canyons is an unforgettable experience. As you swim through the Wadi, the views seem endless. The calm blue waters provide a unique sense of serenity and peace. It truly is a remarkable place which you won’t want to leave.
5. Turtle watching at Ras al Hadd beach
Long stretches of white sand on Ras al Hadd beach make it a peaceful spot for a contemplative walk. Photo: Cosminlebada/Instagram
At over 10km long, Ras al Hadd beach makes the ideal spot for a long and peaceful walk by the sea. Although we didn’t have time to stop by here, Ras al Hadd is rumoured to be less touristic than the popular Ras al Jinz turtle beach, and is another important nesting ground for green turtles in the Indian Ocean. The turtles’ natural environment is protected by a prohibition on tourists entering the eastern section of the beach. Arrive at sunrise to enjoy the beach at its most peaceful, and if you’re lucky you may witness some turtles coming to lay their eggs.
Perhaps one of the best things about Oman is that whilst it possesses such a vast array of natural attractions, the landscape of the country is truly mesmerising. With stunning coastal roads where you can stop at any point and see huge turtles, to the mountains that hover over the roads, visiting Oman is an experience not to be missed.
About the authors
Humaid and Nafeesa are a young and recently married couple who set up their Instagram page @halaltravelblog___ as a way to document their journeys around the world, with the hopes that they would be able to advise, excite and inspire others with their experiences. They post regular reviews of places they have travelled to, exploring flights, accommodations, excursions, food, halal friendly facilities and much more.
From the beginning, their aim has been to be completely transparent; from the important aspects like how much the holidays actually cost, to the unfiltered pictures & handy tips that only someone who has travelled there can provide.