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by Iffat Nawaz

Top Travel Spots In Oman For the Curious Explorer

8 Jun 2025

Photo: Lena Balk

Beyond Oman's ornate Islamic architecture and gold-domed mosques, this Sultanate boasts a diverse terrain that promises a travel experience deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage. Whether you want to see the postcard-like beauty, the rolling green mountains, or the rustic charm, the best travel spots in Oman cater to every traveller's tastes and interests. 

From the serene turtle sanctuary at Ras al Jinz and the coastal town in Al Batinah to the Teeq cave adventures, Oman's tourist attractions are abundant. Prepare to discover a country where adventure travel in Oman seamlessly blends with heritage sightseeing and where every turn reveals a must-visit place begging to be witnessed.

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Photo: Hongbin

As Suwayq: One of the top travel spots in Oman

For the curious explorer seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences among the top places to visit in Oman, As Suwayq offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. Once a bustling trading hub, this quiet coastal town in Al Batinah has blossomed into one of the best travel spots in Oman for a weekend escape. Embracing both the coast and the mountains, its scenic countryside is an undeniable draw, giving a soothing escape from the ordinary.

Exceeding its natural allure, As Suwayq invites you to delve into its past through magnificent forts like Al Sawaiq, Al Hilal, and Al Tharmad. Trek through ancient trails and enjoy a refreshing swim along the clear Omani coast. As Suwayq vows an enriching journey.

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Photo: Ajay Suresh

The mystical beauty of Bimmah Sinkhole

Among the top places to visit in Oman to end your curiosity, the Bimmah Sinkhole, or Hawiyat Najm Park, stands out as a genuine geological marvel. This awe-inspiring swimming hole, though often attributed to a meteorite, is a naturally formed wonder with dazzling turquoise waters that invite you to take a refreshing dip. Located just off the road between Dibab and Bimmah, this 65-foot deep pool, a unique blend of fresh and salt water, is surrounded by rugged cliffs, offering a resplendent contrast to the surrounding landscape.

More than just a swimming spot, Bimmah Sinkhole is one of the best travel spots in Oman for nature lovers and adventurers. The well-maintained park offers picnic areas and various possibilities for activities ranging from a relaxing swim and fish pedicures to exhilarating cliff diving for the more daring.

Witness nature's miracle at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

For wildlife encounters, the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve stands as one of the top places to visit in Oman. This expansive reserve, boasting untouched shorelines and unspoilt waters, is a crucial nesting site for four distinct species of turtles, making it a cornerstone of eco-tourism in the Sultanate. 

As one of the best travel spots in Oman for nature lovers, it offers an exceptional opportunity to witness turtles hatching in their natural habitat, guided by knowledgeable experts who ensure minimal disturbance to these incredible creatures.

The reserve's visitor centre, with its interactive museum and advanced displays, provides fascinating insights into the life cycle of sea turtles and the archaeological significance of the area. With controlled, guided tours and on-site accommodation, Ras Al Jinz offers an intimate and responsible way to experience this remarkable natural phenomenon, solidifying its place as a must-see destination for anyone exploring Oman's diverse wonders.

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Photo: David Surý

Ascend to serenity at Jebel Akhdar: Oman's green jewel

A journey to Jebel Akhdar, the "Green Mountain," is an essential addition to any list of top places to visit in Oman. Being a prominent peak in the Al Hajar Mountain Ranges, this soaring over 2,900 metres offers more than just fantastic panoramic views. It is a verdant oasis renowned for its stunning terraced orchards brimming with pomegranates, apricots, and roses. 

Among the best travel spots in Oman for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity, Jebel Akhdar provides endless opportunities for invigorating hikes through picturesque wadis, thrilling caving expeditions, and exploration of historical gems like the Tanuf castle ruins. You can experience the fragrant rose harvest in spring, trek the Three Villages Walk, or admire the views from Diana's Viewpoint. Jebel Akhdar offers an enticing escape into Oman's astonishing natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. 

Remember to prepare for rugged terrain and consider a 4x4 for the ascent.

Teeq Cave: A Subterranean adventure

To delve more into the top places to visit in Oman, the recently discovered Teeq Cave offers an awe-inspiring subterranean adventure. A colossal limestone cave system with an impressive capacity of 170,000 cubic meters, this is an amazing geological marvel, showcasing a striking array of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones sculpted over millennia. 

With no less than six entrances, including a grand western entrance visible from the accompanying Teeq Sinkhole, visitors can explore its intricate chambers on guided tours, marvelling at the illuminated formations. Beyond its geological splendour, Teeq Cave also holds cultural significance, with ancient inscriptions hinting at Oman's rich heritage. 

Prepare to be surprised by this hidden gem, where the wonders of nature's craftsmanship and the planet's ancient geological processes are magnificently displayed.