Top 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Oman

An enigmatic land of breathtaking landscapes, a mesmerizing culture and lots of things hidden beyond the sight for an explorer to find. While most travellers travel to visit the city's famous forts and souks, the world of extraordinary experience for the traveller in Oman goes beyond the usual tourist trails. From the mystical caves to the swimming in the sinkhole, to the witnessing of nature’s rarest wonder, there are lots of Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Oman that you will get a whiff of in awe.

Oman has a lot to offer for people who love adventure, history and nature’s marvels. In this country there is a surprise in every corner like pink lakes, abandoned villages, shining beaches and more. This list of the Top 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Oman will make your journey unforgettable and is something you need to be ready to get into.

Here are the Top 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Oman:

1. Swim in the Bimmah Sinkhole

The Bimmah Sinkhole is a beautiful natural pool located between the rough mountains and the coast. The turquoise waters of it give it a look that is simply out of a fantasy novel. A true sinkhole with refreshing mineral water is a must visit for those wanting to take a plunge into the cool water. The sinkhole is beautifully landscaped, making it a perfect picnic spot, as well. This is one of Oman’s most fascinating attractions, be you swimming, taking photographs or soaking in the natural beauty.

2. Visit the Pink Lake of Oman

Oman’s Pink Lake is an amazing natural wonder, a rare and mesmerizing sight. This lake, which is located near Al Suwaih, turns pink because of the kind of algae and high salt content present in it. Depending on the time of day and season, the pink colour can be very intense and each visit is a different experience. This one is not widely known, unlike regular lakes so you will get to enjoy that beauty without the crowds. It is a great place for photography and nature lovers who would like to see one of Oman’s most surprising natural wonders.

3. Explore the Salalah Waterfalls

Salalah is an oasis of waterfalls, mist covered hills, flowing rivers and lush greenery during the monsoon (Khareef) season. Ayn Athum, Ayn Khor and Ayn Razat are all great to view from away from the desert heat. These waterfalls are surrounded with the green landscapes, you will forget you are in the Arabian Peninsula. The cool misty weather just makes it more charming and the place is a wonderful place for trekking, photography or just relaxing in the arms of the nature.

4. Sandboarding in the Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands is a gigantic desert of southeast Arabia, filled with golden rolling dunes seen as far as the eye can see. Sandboarding is a thrilling way of how to experience the desert landscape without getting in a camel or 4x4 dune bashing. This version of the same activity is similar to snowboarding, except only this time you are gliding on sand at mind boggling speeds. The best time to try sandboarding is when the sands are in shades of gold and orange, but in cooler hours of sunrise or sunset. Then, you can enjoy a Bedouin camp with some Omani food and stargazing at the peaceful desert night.

5. Find the Lost City of Ubar

The Lost City of Ubar is one of Oman’s most mysterious historical sites, also known as the ‘Atlantis of the Sands’. Once a flourishing trade hub along the ancient Frankincense Route, Ubar had been buried under the sand for centuries. Until it collapsed into a sinkhole, archaeologists believe it was an important settlement. Today, its ruins are open to visitors who can imagine the grandeur it once had. A fascinating insight into Oman’s history is to walk through the remains of this lost civilization. The site is in the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) and, with that, the site is remote and adventurous.

6. Wadi Shab’s Hidden Pool

Wadi Shab is a paradise for all adventure seekers as it is a place where you can find a perfect mixture between hiking, swimming, and the stunning scenery. First, you’ll have to climb through an unbelievable canyon of date palms and gigantic rock formations before your reward Pool is the reward. You can pull yourself aboard a short ride on a boat, then a stunning hike to a crystal-clear pool enveloped by cliffs. You swim a short way through a narrow gap in the rocks to a waterfall inside a cave. Wadi Shab is one of the most unforgettable natural attractions in Oman because the journey itself is just as rewarding as the destination.

7. Witness Bioluminescent Beaches at Night

Oman’s magical bioluminescent beaches are along the coastline. The phenomenon is because when small marine organisms known as phytoplankton are disturbed, they emit a blue light. The bioluminescence is not predictable and the best places to see it are the Salalah and Masirah Island beaches. As you step down the shore, you step down in a reflection with each step you take and a shine into the waves. I don’t know how I am here, it’s like a dream experience type of thing. The best time to see the glow is on a moonless night and is the best chance to see this natural wonder.

8. Explore the Al Hoota Cave

Al Hoota Cave is one of Oman’s most fascinating underground wonders and believed to be over two million years old. The cave system is 5 kilometres long, but only part of it is open to visitors. There are impressive rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites and even an underground lake with rare blind fish inside. You are taken deep into the cave’s chambers where you can hear its history and geology. The cool, dark atmosphere inside gives the sitting a distinctive feel to Oman’s desert landscapes, which is a special experience.

9. Visit the Abandoned Village of Wadi Bani Habib

Wadi Bani Habib, the abandoned village of Jebel Akhdar mountains is a hauntingly beautiful place, which takes us to the past. The village was once a thriving village but due to the people moving into more accessible areas, the village became a deserted place. Now its stone houses, fallen walls and narrow paths are monuments to an age gone by. The hike into the village itself (The hike is very scenic, with great views of terraced farms and of mountain valleys) is as well. No other place is as exciting as its ruins, walking through it with echoes of the lives which have been lived here, a must visit to all history and adventure lovers.

10. Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve Camp

Ras al Jinz is a site for wildlife enthusiasts to see sea turtles nesting and hatching. Every year thousands of green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the soft sands. Even if you are lucky, you will see baby turtles trying to make it to the ocean from their nests once they have crawled out of their tiny hole. Guided night tours are offered through the reserve to limit disturbance to the turtles during this incredible natural event. A wonderful thing about camping here amidst nature under the stars is the sound of waves crashing nearby.

Conclusion

Oman is a land where ancient history meets natural wonders, both dating back thousands of years. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or a break from the ordinary, the country offers extraordinary experiences. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Bimmah Sinkhole, hike through hidden canyons, witness the magical glow of bioluminescent beaches, or explore lesser-known gems beyond the usual tourist trails. These unique destinations will make your journey unforgettable, offering a glimpse into a side of Oman that many travelers miss.

When you plan the trip in advance, the trip will be hassle free and don’t forget to check the Oman Visa from Oman requirements before you go. If you are planning to visit Oman, then it is better to book Oman tour packages from Oman that would include guided trips to these offbeat destinations. Oman holiday packages from Oman will provide you with best itinerary to have a thrilling, serene and cultural immersion vacation. The magic of Oman and wonders of Oman are ready to be experienced never before by you.