What to Do
Stark majestic mountains, a varied coastline of 1600 km and vast, colorful deserts make Oman an outdoor enthusiasts dream. From world-class diving, to challenging rock climbing, to nature photography, Oman's diverse landscape offers a huge range of activities. History of this proud sultanate is revered and preserved in its forts, museums, nature reserves, and heritage festivals. Shopping opportunities abound in the capital of Muscat, but the souks of the city and the country villages offer chances to browse, haggle for a good bargain, and buy Bedouin handcrafts, exotic fragrances, intricate patterned carpets and silver. Oman offers such a wide variety of activities there is something to suit the taste of any traveler.
Scuba Diving - Diving in Oman is something adventurous, experienced divers dream of. The wealth of underwater flora, marine life and diving thrills calls the world's divers to come to the protected coral reefs at Daymaniyat Islands, or Bandar Jussa for night diving, or the wall at Ras Abu Daoud, or Bandar Khairan with deserted beaches, and stunning underwater scenery of magnificent rock falls, and walls and reefs decorated with colorful arrays of coral and tropical fish.
Sailing and Boating - You can take your pick of a jet-ski, a sporty sloop, cruise on a stately dhow or impressive yacht. You can captain a catamaran, or join a crew and boat for game fishing, or dolphin and whale watching.
Photography - There is no end to the opportunities to catch that once-in-a-lifetime frame. You have rustic villages; sleek, sandy beaches; wildlife; ancient, majestic forts; diverse nature, colorful natives...there's inspiration everywhere you turn. Photography is welcomed throughout the sultanate, but there are some restrictions and etiquette to be aware of...no pictures of government or military installations, and ALWAYS get permission before you take a picture of someone by saying "Mumkin sura, min fadlak?" (May I take your picture please?)
Rock Climbing - Every mountain face presents an enigma for rock climbers, and the rugged mountains of Oman, with wadi cuts, deep canyons and towering cliffs presents challenges for climbers of all levels.
Shopping - Modernization has brought contemporary shopping malls and towers to Oman, but the souqs are by far the most interesting shopping experiences. You'll find the best-known and oldest souq in Muscat. The Muttrah Souq retains much of it's old world charm with row upon row of matchbox size shops set in winding lanes under a palm frond canopy. You won't want to bypass Al Qala'a Souq in Suhar, known for its exquisite handcrafts. The Nizwa Souq, outside the renovated fort has a selection of antiquities, pottery, and silver crafts considered to be the best in Oman. While in Salalah be sure to visit the perfumeries where you can buy the famous frankincense to take home. You'll find a souq bustling with trade and wares in every village in Oman, and will enjoy the bargaining that goes along with finding your perfect purchase, but be careful, you might just find yourself going home with a newly purchased racing camel!
Museums - Oman has a rich history, and takes great pride and pleasure in preserving and presenting their heritage in a number of interesting and well-planned museums.
o The Aquarium and Marine Science & Fisheries Centre's aquarium showcases the wealth of the unique marine life found in Omani water. A study of marine life, with an emphasis on conservation of ecosystems and endangered species in an ongoing project in conjunction with Sultan Qaboos University.
o The Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre takes you through an interactive journey of discovery, extraction and use of fossil fuels in Oman.
o Bait al Zubair has a vast collection of ancient household equipment, costumes and weapons. Outside is a falaj running through a full-scale Omani village and souq.
o The Natural History Museum showcases displays of Oman's indigenous species of mammals, insects, and birds along with the botanical gardens that are designed for strolling. The National Museum contains silver ornaments, copper crafts and samples of Omani ships. You'll also see a letter from the 8th century letter sent by the prophet Mohammed to the rulers of Oman inviting the people of Oman to Islam.
o The Museum of Omani Heritage contains detailed archaeological artifacts displays along with information about agriculture, minerals, trade routes, architecture, dhows, firearms and arts & crafts of Oman.
Camel Racing - Crowd enthusiasm is high and contagious on Camel Race day. Races are held at tracks around the country. Much like horses, camels are bred for the track and are highly prized possessions. A good racing camel can bring a price of $75,000+ USD.
Game Fishing - The world's anglers have "discovered" Oman. They come to test their skills game fishing in Oman, with hopes of bagging the big one in the abundant waters, especially off Sur and Masirah. Species such as marlin and tuna are highly sought.
Turtle Watching - Ras Al Had, Ras Al Junayz and Masirah Island are just some of the places several species of marine turtles come to lay there eggs. Leatherbacks, Loggerheads, Hawksbill and Green turtles live to ages over 100 years. Each year they swim long distances in the Indian Ocean, and return, some to the same sites, year after year to lay their eggs. The hatching areas are highly protected to safeguard the endangered species, but access and watching can be provided as part of your tour.
