Day trips from muscat It is not only the largest metropolitan city in Oman but also the seat of government extending to about 3,500 km2 (1,400 sq mi). Muscat was ruled by various tribes and external powers such as the Persians, the Portuguese Empire, and the Ottoman Empire at different times in its history.
The regional military power dates back to the 18th century, expanding Muscat’s influence in East Africa, and with so many highlights, it can be hard to know what to do in Oman, especially when you have day trips from muscat in your itinerary, and here’s why 10 best day trips from Muscat that you can take while visiting Oman will be mentioned.
How to get to Muscat for day trips from Muscat?
Muscat can be reached by land and air.
1- How to arrive by air:
- There are daily direct flights with Oman Air throughout the year to take day trips from Muscat.
- Muscat International Airport is the main gateway to enter Muscat from outside Oman.
- There is a good link between the city of Muscat with the rest of the cities, and there are many airlines that offer direct flights to and from the city.
- Oman Air offers regular flights from Muscat to European, African, and Asian cities.
- Passengers traveling to the US and Canada may need to make several stops to reach Muscat.
- Muscat Airport is located 25 kilometers from the city. The city has a daily bus service between Muscat, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
2- How to reach by land:
- The city of Muscat provides a regular bus service that operates daily between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates for day trips from Muscat.
- some buses connect Muscat to the rest of the Omani cities.
- You can enter Muscat through the United Arab Emirates by car, during a journey that takes about five hours.
10 best day trips from Muscat
1- Touring day trips from Muscat
- Walking around downtown Muscat gives you a great introduction to the Middle East.
- This safe and beautiful city is easy to get to on day trips from Muscat to better understand the local culture.
- You can enjoy typical Omani food, visit the gates of the Sultan’s palace, wander around Muttrah (the old city of Muscat), and visit Muttrah Souq and the old fort.
2- Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- During day trips from Muscat, you can visit the Grand Mosque in Muscat, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is a must-visit for everyone who visits Muscat.
- Stunning carpets and detailed masonry artwork make this one of the most beautiful mosques in Oman or even the Middle East.
- The educational center next to the mosque allows you to learn about the mosque and the Islamic religion.
3- Eastern Desert Sands (Wahiba Sands)
- The most beautiful desert of Oman is undoubtedly the Wahiba Sands.
- During day trips from Muscat, you can visit the Wahiba Sands which is only about three hours’ drive from Muscat. The desert is ideal for a two-day trip from Muscat, or as a stop on a longer itinerary.
- Endless dunes look like a sea of sand, with waves rolling in around you.
- Stargazing here at night while camping with your tent.
4- Swimming in Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole
- While doing day trips from Muscat you should go to Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole as they are considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Oman.
- Located in the Al Sharqiyah region in Oman, just 2 hours drive from Muscat.
- It is a very popular place for locals and ex-pats, so don’t expect to be the only one visiting it.
- Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole have around 3 natural pools on cliffs and lush greenery, making for a truly stunning sight.
5- Go on an excursion around Oman
- It is a must during day trips from Muscat in Oman to witness the rugged landscape so four-wheel drive vehicles must be used while visiting many of the most beautiful off-road locations.
- You will be able to drive through the desert, also on steep mountain tracks, camp on the beach, pitch your tent on the roof under the stars, and enjoy dinner around the campfire.
6- Hiking in Wadi Guhl: Grand Canyon
- Near Jebel Shams, the highest mountain peak in Oman, the Grand Canyon is located in Arabia.
- From the viewpoints at the top of the mountain plateau, you will be treated to stunning views down the strait.
- You shouldn’t take this hike lightly: the heat and steep descents can be a challenge.
- Make sure you stock up on plenty of water and food and make sure you are fit! This way you will enjoy an amazing outing during day trips from Muscat!
7- Day trips from muscat to green mountain
- Explore the fruit gardens of Oman in one of the most picturesque villages, nestled on the slopes of Jabal Al Akhdar.
- The village of Wakan is one of the most stunning places you will see in Oman, with terraced farms, local homes, and majestic views of the mountains around you.
- The steps will take you along the village streets to the lush fruit garden and view the beautiful scenery, explore the local lifestyle, and interact with a few of the locals.
8- Smell the green mountain roses
- Al Jabal Al Akhdar lands have been cultivated for at least 1000 years due to their mild climate.
- The mountain is particularly famous for its damask roses, which grow on terraces hanging over the cliff.
- Rose petals are used to make some of the best Omani rose water.
- By strolling through the rose gardens during day trips from Muscat, you will learn about the ancient irrigation system used in the mountains and explore the narrow streets of an old Omani village.
9- Balcony walk
- Day trips from muscat You can do a very easy hike with limited height on the Balcony Walk, but it offers amazing views of the Grand Canyon in Oman.
- You will hike along the edge of the Grand Canyon to the abandoned village of As Sab.
- To get to the start of this hike, you have to drive all the way up Jebel Shams towards Jebel Shams Resort.
- After that, you can follow the path and drive to the small village of Al Kheitim, the starting point for the excursion.
10- Visit Salalah in the summer during day trips from Muscat
- Salalah, about 1,000 km south of Muscat, is the only destination in the Middle East that is suitable for visiting during the hot summer months.
- Due to Salalah’s unique microclimate, it is much cooler (and greener) here compared to other destinations in the region.
