The Sultanate of Oman, located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is a treasure trove of history, landscapes, and culture. Bordered by Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and with over 1,700 km of pristine coastline, Oman offers everything from desert adventures and mountain ranges to lush wadis and serene beaches.

Once known for its isolation, Oman has now opened its doors to global travelers and is ranked among the safest countries in the world. In this guide, we explore the best things to do in Oman in 2026, covering forts, deserts, wadis, islands, and authentic cultural experiences.

👉 Before planning your trip, make sure to apply Oman visa online for a seamless travel experience.

1. Visit Nakhal Fort – Pre-Islamic Marvel

Located near Oman’s north coast, Nakhal Fort is one of the most fascinating historical landmarks.

Built around an oddly shaped rock at the base of Mount Nakhal.
Expanded in the 9th, 17th centuries, and restored in 1834.
Features a mosque, private quarters, banquet halls, and intricate Islamic calligraphy.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding palm groves.

👉 Related: [Visit Visa for Oman – How to Apply Online]

2. Adventure at Snake Canyon, Wadi Bani Awf

Nestled in the Hajjar Mountains between Nizwa and Rustaq, Snake Canyon is often called Oman’s largest natural water park.

Swim through natural pools and waterfalls.
Try cliff-jumping and explore natural water slides.
A paradise for hikers and adventure seekers.

⚠️ Best visited with a guide for safety.

3. Desert Camping in Wahiba Sands

A trip to Oman isn’t complete without a desert adventure in Wahiba Sands.

Stretching 180 km from north to south.
Famous for its golden sand dunes ideal for dune-bashing.
Visitors can camp under the stars or stay at luxury desert camps.
Located just 3 hours from Muscat.

Pro tip: A 4WD vehicle is required for self-driving on the dunes.

👉 Related: [Oman Multiple Entry Visa Guide]

4. Swim to the Hidden Cave in Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab, only 1.5 hours from Muscat, is one of Oman’s most popular wadis.

Requires a scenic 1-hour hike through cliffs.
Includes sections where you must swim through pools.
Leads to a secret cave with a small waterfall inside.

This mix of hiking and swimming makes it one of the most epic experiences in Oman.

5. Snorkeling at Daymaniyat Islands

Just 30 minutes from Muscat, the Daymaniyat Islands are a UNESCO-protected marine reserve.

Home to colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles.
Popular for diving and snorkeling.
Closed to visitors between May and October for conservation.

Boat trips can be booked from Muscat’s marinas.

6. Explore the Salmah Plateau & Majlis Al Jinn Cave

For adventurous travelers, the Salmah Plateau offers a glimpse into Oman’s ancient nomadic history.

Requires a steep 4WD climb.
Features the Majlis Al Jinn Cave, one of the largest underground chambers in the world.
Visit 4,000-year-old beehive tombs built by nomadic tribes.

The dramatic landscape makes this site both historic and thrilling.

7. Step Back in Time at Nizwa Fort

One of Oman’s most iconic forts, Nizwa Fort is a must-visit.

Built in the 17th century and well-preserved.
Entry Fee: 5 OMR (~11 USD).
Climb to the round tower for stunning views over Nizwa’s palm oasis.
Inside, visitors can find shaded courtyards, a museum, and a café.

👉 Related: [How to Check If Oman Visa Is Original or Fake]

8. Stay in Misfat Al Abriyeen – Traditional Omani Village

For an authentic experience, stay in the ancient mud village of Misfat Al Abriyeen in the Al Hamra region.

Houses built into the mountainside with rooftop terraces.
Overlooks terraced farms where locals grow bananas, dates, and papayas.
Offers traditional guesthouses for a true cultural immersion.

This is one of the best ways to connect with Omani traditions.

Conclusion

From forts and deserts to wadis and islands, Oman is a country of endless adventures. Whether you’re hiking Snake Canyon, snorkeling in the Daymaniyat Islands, or relaxing in Misfat Al Abriyeen, you’ll find epic things to do in Oman in 2026.

✈️ Don’t forget — to enjoy your journey stress-free, apply Oman eVisa online before traveling.